Umbrella with anti-reverse mechanism

Abstract

An umbrella including an anti-inversion mechanism configured to apply a force to each rib assembly that counteracts an inversion force applied to the umbrella. The anti-inversion mechanism includes a first rib joint connecting a first rib and a second rib, a first elongate member connected to the first rib joint, and a second elongate member connected to the first elongate member and a distal rib. The first rib joint includes an inner slot, and the first elongate member includes a wire having a bent gripping portion at a first end of the wire, the bent gripping portion received within the inner slot and biased toward a bottom of the inner slot, causing the wire to connect the first rib joint.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application is based on and claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application 63 / 110,722, filed November 6, 2020, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference as if their respective entire contents were expressly and completely set forth herein. Technical Field

[0003] This invention relates to umbrellas, and more particularly to an umbrella rib assembly with anti-reverse features. Background Technology

[0004] As is well known, an umbrella is a device that protects the user from natural disasters (especially from liquid and freezing rain, or even sunlight). A traditional umbrella consists of the following parts: the shaft, the canopy, the ribs, the handle, the springs, and the cover. The shaft is a metal or wooden axle located between the bottom of the handle (or the base in the case of a canopy model) and the top of the canopy. The canopy is the fabric part of the umbrella that is exposed to rain, wind, and sunlight. The ribs determine the structure and shape of the umbrella. The outer ribs support the canopy, while the inner ribs (sometimes called extensions) provide support, connecting the outer ribs to the shaft. The slider slides up and down on the shaft when connected to the ribs / extensions and is responsible for opening and closing the canopy. Many umbrella designs include a top spring that holds the slider up when the canopy is open; a bottom spring that holds the slider down when the canopy is closed; and in telescopic models, sometimes a center spring is included to extend the length of the shaft. Strictly decorative, the umbrella top (also called the cover) is located at the very top of the umbrella, above the canopy.

[0005] The function of the umbrella ribs is as a constricting structure that supports the canopy fabric. Under normal operating conditions, when the canopy is fully deployed, the forces acting on the canopy fabric increase to their peak when gusts tend to overturn it. These forces are transmitted from the canopy to the canopy ribs and can act in the opposite direction depending on the wind direction. Therefore, the ribs must be strong enough to withstand forces from either of the two main opposing directions.

[0006] In addition to strength requirements, the shape of the umbrella ribs should vary between a basic straight profile when the umbrella is closed and a curved profile when the canopy is fully open. The straight design is to ensure that the closed ribs are parallel to the umbrella axis, while the curved design is to present a typical mushroom shape (also known as a bell shape). Summary of the Invention

[0007] In one aspect of the invention, the umbrella includes an anti-reverse mechanism configured to apply a force to each rib assembly that counteracts a reversing force applied to the umbrella. The anti-reverse mechanism includes a first rib connector connected to a first rib and a second rib, a first elongated member connected to the first rib connector, and a second elongated member connected to the first elongated member and a distal rib. The first rib connector includes an inner groove, and the first elongated member includes a wire having a bent clamping portion at a first end, the bent clamping portion being received within the inner groove and biased towards the bottom of the inner groove such that the wire connects to the first rib connector. Attached Figure Description

[0008] Figure 1 This is a top view of an exemplary double-canopy umbrella according to the present invention;

[0009] Figure 2 It is a side-view of the shaft, slider and rib assembly with anti-reverse mechanism, but the canopy in the extended position is not shown;

[0010] Figure 3 It is a side-view showing the slider and rib assembly in a partially closed position;

[0011] Figure 4 This is a close-up view of the slider and rib assembly in the partially closed position;

[0012] Figure 5 This is a side view of the anti-reverse mechanism;

[0013] Figure 6 A close-up view of part of the anti-reverse mechanism;

[0014] Figure 7 This is a side view of the shaft, slider, and rib assembly with an anti-reverse mechanism according to another embodiment, without showing the canopy in the partially retracted position.

[0015] Figure 8 It is a side-view view showing the slider and rib assembly in the unfolded position;

[0016] Figure 9 This is a perspective view of the umbrella from the top and side when it is fully open.

[0017] Figure 10-12 This is an exploded perspective view of the tip connector system, which is part of the anti-reverse mechanism;

[0018] Figure 13-15 A perspective view of the tip connector system in its assembled state;

[0019] Figure 16 This is a side-view view of the shaft, slider, and rib assembly with an anti-reverse mechanism according to another embodiment, without showing the canopy in the fully open position.

[0020] Figure 17 This is an enlarged view of the anti-reverse mechanism;

[0021] Figure 18 A close-up view of the clamping end of the anti-reverse mechanism;

[0022] Figure 19 yes Figure 16 A cross-sectional view of the umbrella section;

[0023] Figure 20 Bottom perspective view of the rib joint and clamping end of the anti-reverse mechanism;

[0024] Figure 21 A top view of the rib joint and clamping end of the anti-reverse mechanism;

[0025] Figure 22 This is a side-view view of the shaft, slider, and rib assembly with an anti-reverse mechanism according to another embodiment, without showing the canopy in the fully open position.

[0026] Figure 23 A close-up view of the ribbed joint and clamping end of the anti-reverse mechanism with insert;

[0027] Figure 24 A side view of the rib joint and clamping end of the anti-reverse mechanism with insert;

[0028] Figure 25 A top view of the ribbed joint and clamping end of the anti-reverse mechanism with insert;

[0029] Figure 26 A perspective view of the ribbed joint and clamping end of the anti-reverse mechanism with insert;

[0030] Figure 27 Cross-sectional view of the rib joint and clamping end of the anti-reverse mechanism with insert;

[0031] Figure 28 This is a side-view view of the shaft, slider, and rib assembly with an anti-reverse mechanism according to another embodiment, without showing the canopy in the partially open position; and

[0032] Figure 29 A close-up view of the ribbed joint and clamping end of the anti-reverse mechanism with insert. Detailed Implementation

[0033] As discussed herein, the present invention relates to improvements to several components of an umbrella, including but not limited to the umbrella's shaft structure and its rib assembly. As discussed herein, the features of the present invention can be implemented in both manual and automatic umbrellas. Furthermore, other features can be implemented in conjunction with other types of umbrellas. Therefore, the following discussion and figures describe exemplary embodiments for implementing the teachings of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 1 A top view of an umbrella 100 having multiple rib components according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown, and Figure 2 This is a side-view view showing an umbrella 100 without its canopy. The umbrella 100 includes a shaft 130 having a first (upper) end and an opposing second (lower) end. The shaft 130 itself can be composed of any number of different components to provide the shaft 130, and... Figure 2 The shaft 130 shown is part of a manual umbrella assembly, in which the user manually opens and closes the umbrella. A cover 141 is provided at a first end of the shaft to close the shaft 130, and a handle 105 is provided at a second end for the user to grip. A movable slider 140 is provided along the shaft 130.

[0035] Umbrella 100 can be a double-canopy design, wherein a first canopy 110 serves as the main canopy and a second canopy 120 serves as the secondary canopy. Both the first and second canopies 110 are anchored along their innermost portions to a cover at the top of the shaft, and the second canopy 120 is also connected to the first canopy 110 at selected locations around its periphery, as described herein. It should be understood that the shape and dimensions of the canopies shown are merely exemplary and not limitations of the invention. Therefore, Figure 1 Only one exemplary double-canopy design is shown, and there are no limitations. The outer periphery of the second canopy 120 may be disposed along the bottom surface of the first canopy 110, and as is known in the art, the first canopy may therefore have a central opening covered by the second canopy, but the double-canopy design acts as a vent because the seam between the two canopies opens at a selected location to allow ventilation.

[0036] The first canopy 110 has a large central opening, and the second canopy 120 is disposed above the central opening to define a vent between the two canopies, and the outer periphery of the second canopy 120 covers the first canopy 110.

[0037] Umbrella 100 includes a plurality of rib assemblies connected to a canopy and a slider 140, which causes the rib assemblies 200 and the connected canopy (not shown) to open and close based on the direction of movement of the slider 140. As described herein, each rib assembly is defined by a plurality of rib members pivotally connected to another rib member to allow the rib assembly to retract and expand in response to the slider 140 opening and closing the canopy.

[0038] The connection between the rib assembly and the slider 140 is accomplished by a first strut 210. The strut 210 is an elongated structure having a first end 212 and an opposing second end 214, the second end 214 being pivotally connected to the rib assembly as described herein, and the first end 212 being pivotally connected to the slider 140. The pivotal connections between the first strut 210 and the slider 140, and between the first strut 210 and the rib assembly, can be accomplished using fasteners, such as rivets or pins. More specifically, a first strut joint (first connection point / pivot) 225 is formed between the first strut 210 and the rib assembly located at the second end 214, and a similar strut joint can be formed between the first strut 210 and the slider 140 located at the first end 212.

[0039] The first pillar 210 can be made of any number of different materials, including metals (such as zinc alloys).

[0040] like Figure 2-6 As shown, the rib assembly may consist of a plurality of elongated rib members (parts) connected to each other and to other parts of the umbrella to provide an opening and closing rib assembly. In the illustrated embodiment, each rib assembly includes multiple rib members, and more specifically, the rib assembly includes three distinct rib members, namely a first rib member 220, a second rib member 400, and a third rib member 600.

[0041] The first rib member 220 includes a first end 222 and an opposite second end 224; the second rib member 400 includes a first end 410 and an opposite second end 413; the third rib member 600 includes a first end 602 and an opposite second end 604.

[0042] The connections between rib members 220, 400, and 600 are pivotal in nature to allow rib assembly 200 to open and close. More specifically, as described herein, pivot joints or the like may be provided between the members to allow the desired rib movement when the rib assembly opens (unfolds) and closes (retracts).

[0043] The first end 222 of the first rib 220 is pivotally connected to the top cover, and the second end 224 is connected to the first end 410 of the second rib 400 at a pivot joint (pivot point) 414. This pivot joint allows the first rib 220 and the second rib 400 to pivot between a fully closed position and a fully open position.

[0044] A second support post 230 is also provided, extending between the first support post 210 and the second rib member 400. More specifically, the second support post 230 has a first end 232 and an opposing second end 234. The first end 232 is pivotally connected to the second end 214 of the first support post 210 on a pivot 215. The second end 234 is pivotally connected to the first end 410 of the second rib member 400 on a pivot 412. Along the second support post 230 at or near the top surface of the first end 232, the second support post 230 has a connecting member 242, which may be in the form of a hook or the like. The hook 242 faces the first rib member 220.

[0045] A biasing member 240 is biasedly connected between the second support 230 and the first rib 220. The biasing member 240 may include an extension spring, the extension spring having a first end connected to a hook 242 and a second end connected to a connection point 244 of the first rib 220. Figure 2-6 As shown, the first rib 220 may have a C-shaped cross-section, thus having a central channel in which a biasing member 240 can be received. The biasing member 240 thus applies a biasing force to the second support 230 and the first rib 220. In particular, when the umbrella 100 is closed, the biasing member 240 may act to pull the second support 230 toward the first rib 220.

[0046] A connecting member 247 is provided along the top surface of the first rib member 220. The connecting member 247 may be in the form of a metal ring.

[0047] As described above, the first end 410 of the second rib member 400 is pivotally connected to the first rib member 220 and the second support 230, and the second end 413 is pivotally connected to the rib joint member 500, as described in detail below. The second rib member 400 may also have a C-shaped cross-section, thus having a central channel formed therein.

[0048] The rib joint member 500 has a first end 502 and a second end 504. The rib joint member 500 has two defined pivot connection regions, and more specifically, a first connection region is defined on the first end 502, while a second end 413 is pivotally connected to the second connection region of the rib joint member 500. The second end 504 of the rib joint member 500 may have a tubular structure to allow reception of a third rib member 600. The third rib member 600 may be cylindrical and may be in the form of a flexible metal rod. The first end 602 of the third rib member 600 is connected to the second end 504 by receiving it within an opening in the second end 504, and then securely connected to the second end 504 using any number of conventional techniques, including adhesives, etc.

[0049] Unlike the first rib 220 and the second rib 400, which both have C-shaped cross-sections and can be formed of metal, the third rib 600 is more flexible and has a robust structure, such as a cylindrical rod. A rib tip 610 is provided at the second end 604 of the third rib 600. The rib tip 610 can be a metal component to which the outer periphery of the main first canopy 110 is attached. For example, a hole can be formed through the rib tip 610 through which a portion of the first canopy 110 extends. The rib tip 610 also includes a protrusion 612 extending along a section of its lower surface. The protrusion 612 is preferably formed of the same material as the rib tip 610 because it is integrally formed and has a hollow structure.

[0050] The anti-reverse mechanism of the present invention includes a first line member (a line connecting member for an inner umbrella cover) having a first line portion 300 and a second line portion 310, a second line member 700, and a third line member 800.

[0051] The first line member includes a curved line structure that is bent to form a first line portion 300 and a second line portion 310, the first line portion and the second line portion extending along each other such that the two free ends of the first line member are brought close to each other due to the bending of the line member against itself. The first line member passes through a connecting member 247 (metal disc) to secure the first line member to the first rib member 220.

[0052] The second line portion 310 is connected to the second rib member 400 via a connecting member 415 along the upper surface of the second rib member 400. The connecting member 415 may be in the form of a clamp or a metal disc to which the second line portion 310 is attached (i.e., the second line portion 310 extends through a hole in the connecting member 415).

[0053] The free end of the first line portion 300 includes a tip member 302, such as a metal tip component, while the free end of the second line portion 310 is connected to the rib joint member 500 at a pivot 312 of the first end 502. As described below, the first end portion 300 is connected to the second umbrella cover 120, providing a means for preventing the second umbrella cover 120 from reversing.

[0054] The second wire member 700 is an elongated wire (e.g., a metal rod) having a first end 702 and an opposing second end. The first end 702 may be a bent end, which enters through the bottom of the second rib 400 and is anchored to the second rib 400 via a central channel defined within the second rib 400, and is then secured therein by a rivet or the like. The second wire member 700 is anchored only at its first end 702, thus representing a cantilevered flexible structure that bends under applied force, as described herein. The second wire member 700 may be a rigid metal wire (e.g., a metal rod) that retains its shape under normal operating conditions. As discussed herein, the third wire member 800 has a very different form, as it more often represents a wire or metal string that can be easily bent and whose non-linear shape can be easily assumed during normal use. The third wire member 800 has much less rigidity than the second wire member 700, which retains its elongated linear form under normal use, except for the intentionally bent end 702. The third wire member 800 may also be made of synthetic (polymer) materials, such as polymer wire, cable, or cord.

[0055] A connector 710 is provided at the free end of the second wire member 700, and can be pivotally connected to the free end of the second wire member 700 by means of a rivet or the like. The connector 710 may be a hollow plastic structure into which the free end of the second wire member 700 is received. The connector 710 is also connected to a third wire member 800, which is more flexible and thinner than the rigid metal second wire member 700, and therefore can be bent freely, etc. The third wire member 800 may be a nylon-coated stainless steel wire. Element 711 may represent a means for connecting the connector 710 to the second wire member 700.

[0056] The first end 802 of the third thread member 800 is connected to the connector 720, which in turn connects the third thread member 800 to the second thread member 700. The second end 804 of the third thread member 800 is connected to the protrusion 612 of the tip rib 610. In this way, the third thread member 800 is connected to the first main canopy 110. It should be understood that the third thread member 800 may be colored due to colored nylon, and in one embodiment, the third thread member 800 is red to distinguish it from other tip mechanisms that are stainless steel, colored, or black.

[0057] The rib assembly can be connected to the first and second canopies 110 and 120 in the following manner.

[0058] The second umbrella cover 120 is attached to the first rib member 220 by passing the connecting thread through the hole 241. At the inner edge of the first umbrella cover 110, which forms a central opening, the second umbrella cover 120 can be anchored to the first umbrella cover 110 by a needle (thread) that similarly captures the line portion 300. Once the line portion 300 is anchored relative to the outer periphery of the second umbrella cover 120 using the rib tip located at end 302, the connection point is located inside the free end 302 of the line portion 300. Therefore, the length of the line portion 300 from the connection point to the two umbrella covers 110, 120, and end 302 is not attached to the first umbrella cover 110, but extends therein and has free flexibility to counteract reverse forces.

[0059] The rib joint member 500 has a hole 315, which is used to connect to the first umbrella cover 110 by threading through the hole 315, thereby anchoring the first umbrella cover 110.

[0060] In addition, the third rib 600 can be connected to the first canopy 110 by threads or pins in order to anchor the third rib 600 to the first canopy 110.

[0061] According to one aspect of the invention, an anti-reverse mechanism defined by line members 300, 310, 700, and 800 is provided, configured to counteract the reversing force applied to the umbrella under selected operating conditions, particularly in windy or other adverse conditions. As umbrella users know, if a sudden upward gust of wind blows into the umbrella, the pressure exerted by the wind can cause the canopy to flip, resulting in the ribs acting in a counter-force, forcing the umbrella outwards. When this reversal occurs, the canopy is typically concave, and similarly, the ribs are forced to rotate in unexpected directions, which can lead to the breakage of one or more ribs. This renders the umbrella unusable. The umbrella of the present invention has an anti-reverse mechanism consisting of the several components discussed separately above.

[0062] Therefore, the wire / cable 800 can be considered as an anti-reverse line connecting the anti-reverse mechanism to the umbrella tip 610 disclosed herein. The cable 800 can and preferably is in the form of nylon-coated stainless steel wire. However, other structures may also be suitable, such as Kevlar fiber or other types of high-strength fibers.

[0063] Therefore, line 700 can be configured to act as an anti-reverse spring, which applies a reaction force to resist the umbrella's reversal caused by a force (e.g., pressure) applied to the bottom of the canopy. Thus, the anti-reverse spring (line 700) applies a biasing force to keep the rib assemblies, particularly the third rib 600, in their normal operating position. Therefore, due to the applied reversing force (e.g., a sudden upwind), this biasing force counteracts the upward movement of the third rib 600. The strength of line 800 prevents the outer portion of the canopy from inverting due to upward lifting (which would stress the components and potentially cause breakage).

[0064] Ribs 220, 400, and 600 can be made of any number of different materials, and it is understood that, according to the invention, ribs 220, 400, and 600 can be made of two or more different materials. For example, ribs 220 and 400 can be formed of metals, such as aluminum; however, according to one aspect of the invention, rib 600 can be formed of a carbon material (e.g., flutter carbon).

[0065] like Figure 5 As shown, in the contracted state, the second line member 700 is positioned close to (adjacent to and parallel to) the second rib member 400. However, in the fully open position, the free end of the second line member 700 bends downward from the second rib member 400 and is spaced apart therefrom, and can act as a spring element for storing energy due to its downward deflection and its cantilever structure. Similarly, in the closed state, the third line 800 moves adjacent to and parallel to the third rib member 600, as shown; however, in the open position, line 800 is pulled away from the third rib member 600 by the deflected line member 700, and is therefore under tension.

[0066] Similarly, it is understandable that when components 300, 700, and 800 are described as wire components, these components are not limited to wire structures, but can be made of many types of inelastic materials and can take various forms, including strings, wires, strips, etc. These components can be bent, but will not stretch under force (inelastic).

[0067] Figure 7-9 An exemplary umbrella 1000 is shown, in which an anti-reverse mechanism or system 1100 can be implemented. Figure 1-6 As with the previous implementation, it is understood that Figure 7-9 The embodiment described is just one umbrella in which system 1100 can be implemented, while system 1100 can be implemented in many different types of umbrellas.

[0068] The Umbrella 1000 can be a single-canopy umbrella or a double-canopy design, such as... Figure 1-6As shown. Because umbrella 1000 and umbrella 100 are very similar, the numbering of similar components is also similar. In particular, umbrella 1000 may contain many of the same parts as umbrella 100; therefore, the same graphic symbols are used to describe the common parts shared by umbrella 1000 and umbrella 100.

[0069] Umbrella 1000 includes a plurality of rib assemblies 1010 connected to a canopy and a slider 140, causing the rib assemblies 1010 and the attached canopy (not shown) to open and close according to the direction of movement of the slider 140. As described herein, each rib assembly is defined by a number of rib members pivotally connected to another rib member to allow the rib assembly to retract and extend in response to the slider 140 opening and closing the canopy.

[0070] Each rib assembly 1010 can be very similar in structure to rib assembly 200, the only difference being that the first line member has a different structure to accommodate... Figure 7-9 A single umbrella canopy and Figure 1-6 The design features a double canopy. Specifically, the first line portion 300 is eliminated, while the second line portion 310 is retained. The second line portion 310 terminates on the connecting member 247, instead of bending backward to form the first line portion 300 as in the first embodiment. Figure 1-6 ).

[0071] Furthermore, although umbrella 1000 is a three-rib umbrella, it should be noted that the anti-reversal system 1100 is not limited to implementation in a three-rib umbrella. Instead, the anti-reversal system 1100 can be implemented in a rib structure other than the three main ribs. In the illustrated three-rib umbrella, as shown and described, the anti-reversal system 1100 is incorporated between the second and third ribs.

[0072] The anti-reverse system 1100 includes a first elongated member, which comprises a second line portion (first elongated member) 310, a second elongated member, and a third elongated member. It should be understood that the second elongated member may be the same as or similar to the second line member 700, and the third elongated member may be the same as or similar to the third line member 800. As discussed herein, each of these elements 310, 700, and 800 is not limited to a line but may take many different forms, such as a thread, string, or band. This is particularly true for the first and third elongated members 310 and 800.

[0073] A key difference between umbrella 1000 and umbrella 100 is the manner in which the third extension member 800 is connected to the third rib member 600. Similarly, the connection technique described below is not limited to connecting the third extension member 800 to the third part 600, but is generally a way of connecting the third extension member 800 to any distal rib (e.g., in a double-rib umbrella, the distal rib is the second rib). It should be understood that the connection method described below can be... Figure 1-6 This is implemented in the umbrella structure shown.

[0074] It should be understood that while the second rib 400 may be in the form of a stamped metal rib, it may also take other forms, such as injection-molded plastic or other materials, and is therefore not limited to a metal rib. The second elongated member 700 may be a flexible metal wire or rod, connected at its first end to the second rib 400.

[0075] As shown in the figure, the second elongated member 700 is connected to the third elongated member 800 at both ends. In many embodiments, the second elongated member 700 and the third elongated member 800 may be formed of different materials. For example, the second elongated member 700 may be in the form of a rigid or flexible metal rod or wire, while the third elongated member 800 may be in the form of a finer string, filament, or cable.

[0076] In particular, such as Figure 8 As shown, connector 1009 can be used to connect the second elongated member 700 and the third elongated member 800. In one embodiment, the third elongated member 800 (chord) can be molded into connector 1009 to provide a secure connection between the third elongated member 800 and connector 1009. A second end of the second elongated member 700 is connected to connector 1009, and a first end of the third elongated member 800 is connected to connector 1009. Therefore, connector 1009 can provide a means for connecting two different structures formed of two different materials.

[0077] The third elongated member 800 (e.g., a line, string, or band) is preferably connected to the third rib member 600 in the following manner: Figure 10-15 As shown. More specifically, the umbrella 1000 includes a tip connection system 1001 that allows the third extension member 800 to be easily connected to the third rib member 600.

[0078] Typically, a first connector 1200 (first connecting member) associated with the third elongated member 800 mates with a second connector 1300 (second connecting member) associated with the third rib member 600 to connect the third elongated member 800 to the third rib member 600. As described herein, the connecting mechanism can be mechanical, wherein a snap-fit ​​or similar engagement can be formed between the third elongated member 800 and the third rib member 600.

[0079] More specifically, the first connector 1200 is used to connect to the distal end of the third rib member 600. The first connector 1200 is thus securely connected to the end of the third rib member 600, and similarly, the second connector 1300 is used to connect to the distal end of the third elongated member 800. The first connector member 1200 can be considered as an inner tip, while the second connector 1300 can be considered as an outer tip. As described herein, the inner tip is configured to receive within the outer tip. Therefore, the first connector 1200 can be considered as a male component, and the second connector 1300 can be considered as a female component.

[0080] The first connector 1200 is therefore located at the distal end 604 of the third rib portion 600. The first connector 1200 can generally be a cylindrical component covering the distal end 604 of the third rib portion 600. The first connector 1200 includes a pair of locking tabs (first locking elements) 1210 that project outwardly along both sides of the first connector 1200. For example, the locking tabs 1210 may be opposite each other (180 degrees apart) along both sides of the first connector 1200. In the illustrated embodiment, the first connector 1200 has a pair of planes 1209 formed along the sides of the first connector 1200, and two locking tabs 1210 are formed along these two planes 1209. Each locking tab 1210 may have a circular structure.

[0081] One end 1203 (proximal end) of the first connector 1200 may be enlarged relative to the rest of the first connector 1200. More specifically, end 1203 may be an annular flange, also serving as a stop as described herein. More specifically, once the first connector 1200 is received into the second connector 1300, the first connector 1200 is inserted until the flange 1203 is secured against the open end of the second connector 1300.

[0082] As shown in the figure, the first connector 1200 can completely cover the distal end 604 of the third rib portion 600.

[0083] In one embodiment, the first connector 1200 may be connected to the distal end 604 using any number of conventional techniques, including but not limited to covering the distal end 604 with a molded first connector 1200, or the first connecting component 1200 may be a previously manufactured component that is connected to the distal end 604 by an adhesive (gluoride) or by other techniques.

[0084] Therefore, the first connector 1200 can be considered a male component because it has a cap-like shape at the end of the distal end 604.

[0085] The second connector 1300 is disposed at the distal end of the third elongated member 800, as shown. The second connector 1300 has a main portion 1302, which is in the form of a hollow cylindrical component, the hollow interior 1304 of which can be accessed at the opening first end 1303 of the second connector 1300. The opposite second end 1305 is the closed end of the second connector 1300. Within the main portion 1302, a pair of openings or windows (second locking elements) 1310 are formed. In particular, the spacing and position of the windows 1310 are complementary to the position and spacing of the locking tabs 1210, as the locking tabs 1210 are slidably received within the windows 1310 to result in a secure connection between the two connectors 1200, 1300. Therefore, the axial length of the hollow interior 1304 is selected according to the axial (longitudinal) length of the first connector 1200 so that when the first connector 1200 is received within the hollow interior 1304, the distal end of the first connector 1200 is adjacent to the distal end of the hollow interior 1304. Simultaneously, the locking tab 1210 enters the window 1310 to effectively connect the first connector 1200 to the second connector 1300. In other words, the reception of the locking tab 1210 into the window 1310 can be a snap-fit ​​coupling, more specifically, a unidirectional, irreversible connection, as it is not intended to separate the first connector 1200 from the second connector 1300. The engagement between the two connectors 1200 and 1300 can be considered a clamping action.

[0086] The second connector 1300 also includes an extension 1350 integrated with and extending outward from the main portion 1302. The extension 1350 extends longitudinally along a segment (a segment length) of the main portion 1302. The extension 1350 serves as an anchor for a third extension member 800, the distal end of which is securely attached to the extension 1350. The extension 1350 is spaced from the hollow interior 1304 to effectively position and accommodate the third extension member 800 away from the hollow interior 1304, because the third extension member 800 does not interfere with the reception of the first connecting member 1200 into the second connecting member 1300.

[0087] The distal end of the third elongation member 800 is secured to the extension member 1350 using any number of suitable techniques. For example, the distal end can be anchored by a molding process, wherein the extension member 1350 (and the entire second connector 1300 for this purpose) is formed around the third elongation member 800 by a molding process. The extension member 1350 can be considered to be along the bottom surface of the second connector 1300.

[0088] Other techniques, such as the use of adhesives, can be used to anchor the third elongation member 800 to the extension member 1350.

[0089] Figure 13-15The first and second connectors (inner / outer tips) 1200 and 1300 in their assembled state are described, wherein the first connecting part (inner tip) 1200 is fully received in the hollow interior 1304 of the second connector 1300. As previously described, the locking between the two connectors 1200 and 1300 occurs due to the locking tab being received in the window.

[0090] The leading edge of the locking tab 1210 may be beveled to allow the locking tab 1210 to be received into the window 1310. The beveled edge allows the second connector 1300 to bend to allow the first connector 1200 to enter the channel of the hollow interior 1304, and since the tab 1210 defines the widest portion of the first connector 1200, any bending is released once the tab 1210 is received into the window 1310.

[0091] Therefore, this tip connection system 1001 is configured to provide a way to connect the third extension member 800 (string, line, strap) to the distal end of the rib (in this example, the third rib member 600). By using two connecting devices, a simple and efficient connection can be established between the third extension member 800 and the third rib member 600. This allows for easy integration of an anti-reverse mechanism into the umbrella design, and the connection between the anti-reverse mechanism and the rib assembly is achieved through the tip connection system 1001.

[0092] It should also be understood that a tip connection system 1001 can be constructed such that the first connector 1200 is associated with the third elongated member 800, and the second connector 1300 is associated with the rib 600.

[0093] Figure 16-22 An exemplary umbrella 2000 is shown that can implement the anti-reverse mechanism or system 2100. As with the previous embodiments described herein, it should be understood that... Figure 16-22 The insert is just one type of umbrella in which system 2100 can be implemented, and system 2100 can be implemented in many different types of umbrellas.

[0094] Umbrella 2000 can be a single-canopy umbrella with a three-rib design. Since Umbrella 2000 is similar to Umbrella 100 and 1000, the numbering of similar components is similar. In particular, Umbrella 2000 may contain many of the same parts as Umbrella 100 and 1000, therefore, the same numerical symbols are used to describe the same parts of Umbrella 2000 and Umbrella 100 and 1000.

[0095] The umbrella 2000 includes a shaft 130 having a first (upper) end and an opposing second (lower) end. The shaft 130 itself can be composed of any number of different components to accommodate the provision of the shaft 130, and... Figure 2The shaft 130 shown is part of a manual umbrella assembly, in which the user manually opens and closes the umbrella. A cover 141 is provided at a first end of the shaft to close the shaft 130, and a handle is provided at a second end for the user to grip. A movable slider 140 is provided along the shaft 130.

[0096] Umbrella 2000 includes a plurality of rib assemblies 2200 connected to a canopy 141 and a slider 140, which causes the rib assemblies 2200 and the attached canopy (not shown) to open and close based on the direction of movement of the slider 140. As described herein, each rib assembly 2200 is defined by a number of rib members that are pivotally connected to another rib member to allow the rib assembly to contract and expand in response to the opening and closing of the canopy by the slider 140.

[0097] The rib assembly 2200 has a three-rib design; more specifically, the rib assembly 2200 includes a first rib 2300, a second rib 2310, and a third rib 2320. The first rib 2300 is connected to the first end of the cover 141.

[0098] The connection between the rib assembly 2200 and the slider 140 is accomplished by a first strut 210. The strut 210 is an elongated structure having a first end and an opposing second end, the second end being pivotally connected to the rib assembly 2200 as described herein, and the first end being pivotally connected to the slider 140. The critical connections between the first strut 210 and the slider 140, and between the first strut 210 and the rib assembly 2200, can be accomplished using fasteners such as rivets or pins. More specifically, a first strut joint (first connection point / pivot) 225 is formed between the first strut 210 and the second end of the rib assembly, and a similar strut joint can be formed between the first strut 210 and the first end of the slider 140. The first strut joint 225 is connected to the first rib 2300 at a location between its two ends.

[0099] The first pillar 210 can be made of any number of different materials, including metals (e.g., zinc alloys).

[0100] The first rib 2300 may have a C-shaped structure to receive the first strut joint 225 between its walls and allow a pivot connection between the first strut joint 225 and the first rib 2300.

[0101] A first rib joint 2400 is provided for pivotally connecting a first rib 2300 and a second rib 2310. The first rib joint 2400 has a first end 2402 and an opposing second end 2404. The first end 2402 has a split finger design, defined by a first finger 2410 and a second finger 2412 spaced apart from the first finger 2410. The second end 2404 may be a tubular structure in which one end of the second rib 2310 is anchored.

[0102] The first rib joint 2400 has a top surface 2401 and an opposite bottom surface 2403.

[0103] The first rib joint 2400 also includes first and second connecting fins 2420, 2422 located between the fingers 2410, 2412 and the second end 2404. The fins 2420, 2422 are positioned along the top surface 2401. Each of the fingers 2410, 2412 and the fins 2410, 2412 has an opening formed therein to receive fasteners for connecting different components together as described below.

[0104] The first rib joint 2400 includes an elongated inner groove 2430 that opens along a top surface 2401 and extends toward a second end 2404. The first rib joint 2400 includes a bottom opening 2440 that opens directly into the elongated inner groove 2430. The bottom opening 2440 is elliptical. The elongated inner groove 2430 extends from the opening 2440 to a closed end 2421. The bottom of the elongated inner groove 2430 is not flat but profiled; more specifically, the bottom has a first segment 2432 sloping downward toward a bottom surface 2403 and a second segment 2434 sloping upward toward a top surface 2401 from the first segment 2432. The first segment 2432 and the second segment 2434 are continuous with each other. As shown, the length of the first segment 2432 is greater than the length of the second segment 2434.

[0105] The bottom opening 2440 is defined to also define the inner wall 2445 at one end of the elongated inner groove 2430. For the reasons discussed herein, the top and / or bottom edges of the inner wall 2445 may be rounded. In other words, one end of the first segment 2432 of the elongated inner groove 2430 may be rounded (beveled edge). Similarly, the bottom of the inner wall 2445 may also be rounded to define another beveled edge.

[0106] As shown in the figure, the first support 210 is connected to the first rib joint 2400 via a line 2450 or other rigid elongated structure having a first end 2452 (e.g., a bent end) connected to the first support joint 225 and a second end 2454 (e.g., a bent end) connected to the first rib joint 2400. Figure 23 As shown, the second end 2454 is connected by a connector received inside and between the first finger 2410 and the second finger 2412.

[0107] The second rib connector 2500 pivotally connects the second rib 2310 to the third rib 2320. The second rib connector 2500 has a first end and a second end. The rib connector member 2500 has two defined connection regions; more specifically, at the first end, a first connection region 2502 is defined, while at the second connection region 2504, the second rib connector 2500 pivots to the end connector 2315 of the second rib 2310 to allow the second rib 2310 and the third rib 2320 to pivot relative to each other during the opening and closing of the umbrella. The end connector 2315 may have a hollow internal space in which the end of the second rib 2310 is received and secured using conventional techniques such as adhesives or fasteners. The second end of the rib connector member 2500 may have a tubular structure to allow reception of the third rib 2320.

[0108] The third rib 2320 can be cylindrical and can be in the form of a flexible metal rod or a rigid plastic rod. The first end of the third rib 2320 is received and connected to the second end of the second rib joint 2500 through an opening at the second end, and then fixed to the second rib joint 2500 using any number of conventional techniques, including adhesives, etc.

[0109] The anti-reverse mechanism of the present invention includes a first line 2600, a second line 2610, and a line 2620.

[0110] The first wire 2600 has a first end connected to a first rib 2300 on a connecting member 2301, which is connected along the top of the first rib 2300. The connecting member 2301 may be a snap-like structure having a central opening receiving the first end of the first rib 2300. The first end of the first rib 2300 may therefore be hook-shaped. A middle section of the first wire 2600 may be connected to the second rib 2310 via a connecting element 2303 located on the upper surface of the second rib 2310. The connecting element 2303 may be in the form of a clamp or a metal disc connected to the first wire 2600 (e.g., the first wire 2600 may extend through a hole in the connecting element 2301). A second end of the first wire 2600 is connected to a first connection area 2502 of the second rib connector 2500.

[0111] The first line 2600 can therefore be in the form of a metal wire or the like, such as a rigid cable or other elongated structure, anchored between the first rib 2300 and the second rib joint 2500.

[0112] The second wire 2610 can be considered as an anti-reverse spring element having a first end 2612 and an opposite second end 2614. The second wire 2610 can be formed of a metal, such as spring steel.

[0113] The first end 2612 is a clamp type, designed to mate and engage with the elongated inner groove 2430. For example... Figure 27As shown, the first end 2612 of the second line 2610 is a curved end that bends backward at its own top. The curved first end 2612 is defined by a curved segment 2613 that transitions from the main segment 2615 of the second line 2610 to a first inclined segment 2616. A second transition is defined by the first inclined segment 2616 and a second inclined segment 2617, which defines the free end of the second line 2610. The curved segment 2613 extends through a bottom opening 2440 to position the first inclined segment 2616 at a first segment 2432 at the bottom of the elongated inner groove 2430, while the second inclined segment 2617 is positioned at a second segment 2434 at the bottom of the elongated inner groove 2430.

[0114] Since the second wire 2610 has spring properties and acts as a clamping element, the first end 2612, which acts as the clamping element, is biased towards the bottom of the elongated inner groove 2430. In other words, the first end 2612 is clamped onto the first rib joint 2400 and is thus fixedly anchored to its first end.

[0115] To connect and engage the second line 2610 to the first rib joint 2400, the second inclined section 2617 first passes through the bottom opening 2440 and meanders forward, entering the elongated inner groove 2430. The chamfered edge of the inner wall 2445 facilitates the entry of the clamping member into the elongated inner groove 2430. Due to the spring-like nature of the clamping end, as the clamping end is fed into the elongated inner groove 2430, the chamfered edge at the top of the inner wall 2445 facilitates the separation of the inclined sections 2615, 2617 relative to the main section 2615, thereby generating a spring force. Once the clamping member enters the elongated inner groove 2430, the spring force causes the clamping member to be clamped (tightened) to the first rib joint 2400, thereby securing the clamping member in place.

[0116] When the clamping end is inserted into and engages with the elongated inner groove 2430, the main segment 2615 of the second line 2600 is disposed along the bottom of the second rib 2310.

[0117] The second end of the second wire 2610 is connected to the wire 2620. Although element 2620 is described as a wire, it should be noted that it can take the form of a rope, string, cord, or other flexible structure that is easily bent and deformed. The second wire 2610 and the wire 2620 can be connected to each other via a rotary joint 2640. For example, the first end of the wire 2620 is fixedly attached to one end of the rotary joint 2640, while the second end of the second wire 2610 is pivotally connected to the other end of the rotary joint 2640. For example, the rotary joint 2640 can be a plastic component, and the wire 2620 can be molded into the rotary joint 2640. The second end of the second wire 2610 can be a bent end that rotates about a fixed structure formed at one end of the rotary joint 2640. In this way, the second wire 2610 is pivotally connected to the wire 2620.

[0118] The connection method between line 2620 and the third rib 2320 and Figure 10-15 The best approach shown is the same. More specifically, umbrella 2000 includes a tip connection system 1001 that allows line 2620 to be easily connected to third rib 2320. As described herein, tip connection system 1001 provides a snap-fit ​​that connects line 2620 to third rib 2320 via a connection between two connectors 1200, 1300.

[0119] The distal end of line 2620 is secured to extension 1350 using any number of suitable techniques. For example, the distal end can be anchored by a die-casting process, in which extension 1350 (and the entire second connector 1300 for this purpose) is formed around line 2620 by a die-casting process. Extension 1350 can be considered as being along the bottom surface of the second connector 1300.

[0120] It should be understood that the wire 2620 may be a colored wire produced by colored nylon, and in one embodiment, the cable 2620 has red to distinguish it from the otherwise stainless steel colored or black rib structure.

[0121] Figure 26-29 Another feature of the invention is described. More specifically, an insert or plug 2700 can be inserted into the bottom opening 2440 to prevent slippage of the clamping end of the wire 2610. As disclosed, the bent segment 2613 at the first end 2612 is located within the bottom opening 2440 and is fixed against the inner wall 2445; however, the other end of the bottom opening 2440 remains open. The insert 2700 has a shape complementary to this open end of the bottom opening 2440. Thus, the insert 2700 is elliptical, with one end being a convex bent end and the other end potentially a concave bent end accommodating the bent segment 2613. This design reflects the shape of this opening in the bottom opening 2440. Alternatively, the insert 2700 can have other shapes, such as a flat end, as long as it blocks the open end of the bottom opening 2440 and serves to prevent unnecessary slippage of the clamping end of the wire 2610.

[0122] The insert 2700 may have an enlarged head 2702 that limits the insertion depth of the insert 2700 and prevents the insert 2700 from being pushed completely through the bottom opening 2440. The end of the insert 2700 opposite the enlarged head 2702 may include a locking element, such as a locking tab 2705. This locking tab 2705 engages with the wall structure of the first rib connector 2400 to lock and secure the insert 2700 within the bottom opening 2440. For example, the insert 2700 may be snap-fitted to the first rib connector 2400. The insert 2700 thus ensures that the clamping end of the wire 2610 does not accidentally detach from the first rib connector 2400.

[0123] While the invention has been described with respect to certain embodiments thereof, it can be practiced in other forms and using other materials and structures. Therefore, the invention is defined by the statements in the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An umbrella, comprising: An elongation shaft having a first end and an opposing second end; A sliding member, which is slidably disposed on the extension shaft; Multiple rib assemblies, each rib assembly including multiple ribs, a rib joint connecting two of the multiple ribs, the rib assembly being connected to the slider via a strut that moves between an open and a closed position, wherein the multiple ribs are in an open, extended position in the open position and in a closed, retracted position in the closed position; as well as An anti-reverse mechanism is configured to apply a force to each rib assembly to counteract the reversing force acting on the umbrella. The anti-reverse mechanism includes a first extension member and a second extension member, the first extension member being connected to the rib joint, and the second extension member being connected to the first extension member and to one of the plurality of ribs. The rib joint includes an inner groove, and the first elongated member includes a wire having a bent clamping portion at a first end. The bent clamping portion has a bent end segment and an inclined end segment extending from the bent end segment. The inclined end segment has a bend along its length and is located above another segment of the wire, extending toward the second elongated member in a direction away from the bent end segment. The bent clamping portion is received within the inner groove and biased such that the inclined end segment is biased and abuts against the bottom of the inner groove, causing the wire to connect to the rib joint.

2. The umbrella according to claim 1, wherein the inner groove is accessible through a bottom opening formed along the bottom surface of the rib joint.

3. The umbrella of claim 2, wherein the inner groove is defined by a first end wall, the first end wall further defining the bottom opening, the first end wall having a curved bottom edge and a curved top edge, the curved top edge extending to the bottom of the inner groove.

4. The umbrella according to claim 1, wherein the bottom is defined by a first inclined segment and an adjacent second inclined segment, the first inclined segment being inclined in a first direction and the second inclined segment being inclined in the opposite second direction, and the inclined end segment of the curved clamping portion being fixed close to the first inclined segment and the second inclined segment.

5. The umbrella according to claim 4, wherein the first direction is toward the bottom surface of the rib joint, and the second direction is toward the top surface of the rib joint.

6. The umbrella according to claim 2, wherein the bottom opening is a closed opening.

7. The umbrella according to claim 1, wherein the inclined end segment includes a first inclined portion connected to the curved end segment and a second inclined portion connected to the first inclined portion.

8. The umbrella of claim 7, wherein the first tilting portion is tilted in a first direction, and the second tilting portion is tilted in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

9. The umbrella of claim 7, wherein the first and second inclined portions define a V-shaped structure, and the first and second inclined portions of the curved clamping portion are flush with the bottom inclined portion of the inner groove, and the linear principal portion of the line extends along the outer surface of the rib joint.

10. The umbrella of claim 2, wherein the bending clamping portion is configured to pass through the bottom opening and enter the bottom of the inner groove and be fixed within the bottom of the inner groove.

11. The umbrella of claim 7, wherein the curved end segment is fixed abutting against a first end wall of the rib joint, the first end wall defining the inner groove and the bottom opening, the first end wall having a curved bottom edge and a curved top edge extending to the bottom of the inner groove.

12. The umbrella of claim 7, wherein the bending clamping portion is flexible such that the first inclined portion and the second inclined portion can be deflected outward from the main portion of the line, thereby the bending clamping portion stores energy.

13. The umbrella of claim 2, further comprising an insert received within the bottom opening, the insert being adjacent to the curved end portion of the line used to block the bottom opening.

14. The umbrella of claim 13, wherein the insert comprises an elliptical body having a protruding first side and a second side recessed relative to the first side, the recessed second side receiving the curved end portion of the line.

15. The umbrella of claim 14, wherein the elliptical body has a head that is enlarged relative to the elliptical body, the head having a locking tab that interlocks with the rib joint to connect the insert to the rib joint.

16. The umbrella of claim 2, wherein the rib joint comprises a pair of spaced first and second fingers defining one end of the rib joint and adjacent to the bottom opening.

17. The umbrella of claim 1, wherein the line comprises a metal wire, and the second elongation member comprises a string connected to one end of the metal wire via a rotary joint, the string being press-molded into the rotary joint.

18. The umbrella according to claim 1, wherein the inner groove is an elongated groove opening along the top surface of the rib joint.

19. The umbrella of claim 18, wherein the length of the elongation groove is located between a pair of parallel upright walls of the rib joint.

20. The umbrella of claim 1, wherein the bending clamping portion comprises a bending end portion, a first inclined portion connected to the bending end portion, and a second inclined portion connected to the first inclined portion, wherein the first and second inclined portions define a V-shaped structure, and the length of the first inclined portion is greater than the length of the second inclined portion.

21. The umbrella of claim 20, wherein the line includes a main portion that is flush with the bottom surface of the rib joint and extends outward along the bottom surface of the rib joint.

22. The umbrella of claim 1, wherein the wire comprises a metal wire, and the bending clamping portion comprises a biasing spring clip.

23. An umbrella, comprising: An elongation shaft having a first end and an opposing second end; Multiple rib assemblies, each rib assembly including multiple ribs, the multiple ribs including a first rib, a second rib and a third rib; as well as An anti-reverse mechanism is configured to apply a force to each rib assembly to counteract the reversing force acting on the umbrella. The anti-reverse mechanism includes a first rib joint, a flexible first extension member, and a flexible second extension member. The first rib joint is connected to a first rib and a second rib among the plurality of ribs. The flexible first extension member is connected to the first rib joint. The second extension member is connected to the first extension member and to the third rib. The first rib joint includes an inner groove that opens along the top surface of the first rib joint and can be accessed through a bottom opening formed along the bottom surface of the first rib joint. The first elongated member includes a wire having a bent clamping portion at a first end, the bent clamping portion being received within the inner groove and biased toward the bottom of the inner groove, causing the wire to be detachably connected to the first rib joint. Each of the bottom and the curved clamping portion has a plurality of inclined segments that are opposite to each other when the curved clamping portion is fixed in the inner groove.

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