Upright umbrella with connecting device for detachably fixing electric appliance

By using a plug-in connector for coaxial alignment and rotation switching, the problem of rapid and reliable installation and stable power supply of heat radiators in upright umbrellas is solved, enabling tool-free quick disassembly and stable outdoor connection.

CN224140310UActive Publication Date: 2026-04-21GLATZ AG
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Utility models(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
GLATZ AG
Filing Date
2025-03-11
Publication Date
2026-04-21

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

In existing upright umbrellas, the mechanical fixing methods and power connection methods of the heat radiators are not fast or reliable enough, especially in outdoor environments where it is difficult to maintain a stable connection and power supply.

Method used

The device employs a plug-in connection, which forms a plug-in position by coaxial alignment of the first and second coupling components. The electrical and mechanical connection is achieved by rotating to switch the axial locking or releasing. The stable connection is ensured by the rotation angle and engagement mechanism of the plug-in component.

Benefits of technology

It enables quick and reliable installation and removal of thermal radiators on upright umbrellas, ensuring stable power supply in outdoor environments, eliminating the need for tools, and improving the reliability and safety of connections.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The utility model relates to a vertical umbrella, which is provided with a connecting device (2) used for detachably fixing an electric appliance (4) on an umbrella component (6) of the vertical umbrella (1), the connecting device (2) comprises a first coupling component (8) and a second coupling component (10), the first coupling component (8) can be electrically and mechanically connected with the electric appliance (4), and the second coupling component (10) can be electrically and mechanically connected with the umbrella component (6). By pushing the first and the second plug part (12, 14), a push-in plug position with an electrically operative connection can be formed between the first coupling part (8) and the second coupling part (10). By rotating the first coupling part (8) relative to the second coupling part (10), switching between an axially released plug-in position and an axially locked plug-in position of the connecting device (2) is achieved.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to a standing umbrella with a connecting device for detachably fixing an electrical appliance to an umbrella component of the standing umbrella. The connecting device includes a first coupling component capable of electrical and mechanical connection with the electrical appliance and a second coupling component capable of electrical and mechanical connection with the umbrella component. Background Technology

[0002] Upright umbrellas in the form of sunshades are primarily used to protect against excessive sunlight and high temperatures. However, in temperate climates, these umbrellas can also be used for cold protection, such as in the evening or during chilly weather. In addition to passive protection through reducing heat radiation and, when necessary, rain protection, various heat sources are often used as active protection measures. In particular, by installing one or more heat radiators in the umbrella area, people under outdoor sunshades can be protected from unwanted hypothermia.

[0003] For example, DE 102008027408 A1 describes a modularly designed thermal radiator with multiple heat sources, particularly suitable for upright umbrellas. As a thermal radiator, a powered infrared radiator is specifically mentioned, which can be fixed to the support elements of the umbrella in various ways. However, the mechanical fixing method of the thermal radiator and its connection to the power source are not described in detail.

[0004] DE 102008019473 A1 describes a folding umbrella with a heat radiator. The umbrella includes a central stand with at least one electrically powered heat radiator fixed in its upper region, which radiates heat to the sides.

[0005] Especially in large standing umbrellas used in hotels, restaurants, and rest or living areas outside commercial buildings, there is a need for quick and reliable installation and removal of radiant heat emitters or other electrical appliances. Ideally, this should be done without the need for tools such as screwdrivers or electrician's pliers. Utility Model Content

[0006] The purpose of this invention is to provide an improved standing umbrella with a connecting device for detachably fixing electrical appliances to umbrella components, which overcomes the shortcomings of the prior art.

[0007] This objective is achieved by the vertical umbrella according to the present invention.

[0008] The stand-up umbrella according to this utility model is equipped with a connecting device for detachably fixing an electrical appliance to an umbrella component. The connecting device includes a first coupling member capable of electrical and mechanical connection with the electrical appliance, and a second coupling member capable of electrical and mechanical connection with the umbrella component. The first coupling member has a first insertion member with a first insertion axis A', and the second coupling member has a second insertion member with a second insertion axis A"". The connecting device is configured such that by pushing the first and second insertion members together when the first and second insertion axes A', A" are coaxially aligned, a push-in insertion position (or insertion state) with electrical connection can be formed between the first and second coupling members. The connection device can switch between an axially released insertion position and an axially locked insertion position by rotating the first coupling member relative to the second coupling member about the coaxially aligned (or coaxially oriented) first and second insertion axes A', A".

[0009] This approach can at least avoid the drawbacks mentioned at the beginning.

[0010] The term “standschirm” should be interpreted broadly, but in particular includes all types of mast-supported parasols used outdoors, especially parasols with ribs.

[0011] The term "functional connection" or "capable of functional connection" is understood herein to mean the existence, formation, or generation of mechanical and electrical connections that, within the scope of the specified use, ensure reliable mechanical engagement and safe electrical coupling insulated from the environment. Therefore, in applications involving upright umbrellas with heat radiators, the components involved should be connected to each other without wobbling and stably, even under wind conditions, and the heat radiators should be powered, for example, by a 230V power supply, even in outdoor areas.

[0012] Geometric terms such as “coaxial,” “horizontal,” or “vertical” should not be understood in a strict geometric sense, but rather within the scope of general technical tolerances.

[0013] Advantageous implementation methods are defined in the following technical solutions.

[0014] According to an advantageous embodiment, the first and second connectors are configured such that, in an axially locked plug position, the coaxial parts are prevented from separating from each other by mutually abutting protrusions, while in an axially released plug position, the coaxial parts are allowed to separate from each other by a predetermined outlet.

[0015] In this application field, it is particularly advantageous that the axially released insertion position is located at a preset release rotation angle α0 about the coaxially aligned first and second insertion axes A', A" and the axially locked insertion position is located at a locking rotation angle range α1 to α2 about the coaxially aligned first and second insertion axes A', A" and the release rotation angle α0 is outside the locking rotation angle range α1 to α2.

[0016] In other words, the engagement or disengagement of the first and second connectors can only be achieved by rotating them about the connector axis to a specific alignment, defined by the release rotation angle α0. Needless to say, for practical reasons, the release position exists within a tolerance of a few degrees. This also facilitates the engagement of the two coupling components. Conversely, the axially locked connector position can be used throughout the entire range of rotation angle α1 to α2. Without limiting versatility, the release rotation angle can be defined as 0°.

[0017] In some embodiments, the locking rotation angle range covers a value range of 45º to 135º relative to the release rotation angle α0.

[0018] When practically defining the rotation angle α, it is appropriate to assign a longitudinal axis L1 or L2 to each of the two connectors, with each longitudinal axis orthogonal to its respective connector axis A' or A'. Therefore, the rotation angle α can be defined as the angle between the longitudinal axes L1 and L2. In connectors with slender constructions, the direction of the longitudinal axes is mandatory, but essentially free to choose. However, it is understood that when comparing and discussing rotational positions or rotation angles, it is always assumed that the same longitudinal axes L1 and L2 are chosen.

[0019] Furthermore, it is advantageous to prevent or allow transition from an axially locked engagement position to an axially released engagement position via a removable rotary locking device. In particular, this can be achieved by a suitable snap-fit ​​or engagement mechanism (or latching mechanism), for example, comprising a spring-loaded actuator.

[0020] In some embodiments, a first cable connection is provided between the first connector and the electrical appliance. It is understood that the appropriately configured cable is used precisely because it is intended for use in outdoor areas.

[0021] Furthermore, in some embodiments, a second cable connection is provided between the second connector and the umbrella component. This can be, in particular, a cable connection within a structural element, such as a hollow umbrella rib that leads to a connection socket.

[0022] According to a further embodiment, the first coupling component is equipped with a mounting element for the electrical appliance, the mounting element being rotatable between a base position and an inclined rest position about a rotation axis B substantially orthogonal to the first insertion axis A', wherein the base position and the rest position (or stationary position) are held by a detachable retaining device. In this way, the electrical appliance can be tilted in the rest position, thereby better resisting external influences.

[0023] According to an advantageous embodiment, the umbrella component is the umbrella rib.

[0024] A particular advantage is that when the stand-up umbrella is closed, the ribs are oriented approximately vertically, and when the stand-up umbrella is open, the ribs are oriented at an angle φ of 45º to 90º relative to the vertical. This will be described in detail below with reference to the embodiments depicted in the accompanying drawings.

[0025] According to a preferred embodiment, the electrical appliance is a thermal radiator. In some designs, the electrical appliance is a thermal radiator driven by a 230V power supply.

[0026] The elements claimed above and those described in the following embodiments are not subject to any special exceptions in terms of their size, shape, material use, and technical conception, and therefore selection criteria known in their respective fields of application can be applied without limitation. Attached Figure Description

[0027] Further details, advantages, and features of the technical solution of this utility model will become apparent from the following description of the accompanying drawings, in which the connection system of this utility model is illustrated by example. The following are shown in the accompanying drawings:

[0028] Figure 1 A perspective view shows a standing umbrella with a connecting device for detachably securing electrical appliances to the umbrella components.

[0029] Figure 2 : Shown in exploded view Figure 1 The second coupling component of the connecting device in the middle;

[0030] Figure 3 Shown in top view Figure 1 The connecting device is in the first rotational position;

[0031] Figure 4 Shown in top view Figure 1 The connecting device is in the second rotational position;

[0032] Figure 5 Shown in top view Figure 1 The connecting device is in the third rotational position;

[0033] Figure 6 : Shown in perspective view according to Figure 1 The connection device and its associated thermal radiator are in a decoupled and separated state;

[0034] Figure 7 : Shown in exploded view Figure 6 The first coupling component of the connecting device includes a thermal radiator;

[0035] Figure 8 Shown in perspective Figure 6 The connecting device in the middle, which includes a heat radiator and umbrella ribs, is in a separate state from each other;

[0036] Figure 9 Shown in perspective Figure 8 The connecting device in the middle, with a heat radiator and umbrella ribs, is in the push-close (closed) state, and is in the axial release insertion position at the preset release rotation angle;

[0037] Figure 10 Shown in perspective Figure 9 The connecting device in the middle, with a heat radiator and umbrella ribs, is in the push-fit state, in the axial locked insertion position, and in the first rotation position within the locked rotation angle range.

[0038] Figure 11 Shown in perspective Figure 10 The connecting device in the middle, with a heat radiator and umbrella ribs, the heat radiator tilted in the resting position;

[0039] Figure 12 Shown in perspective Figure 10 The connecting device, which includes a heat radiator and umbrella ribs, is in the second rotation position within the locked rotation angle range, with the umbrella ribs tilted. Detailed Implementation

[0040] Figure 1 The standing umbrella 1, schematically shown, is equipped with a connecting device generally designated 2. This provides a detachable attachment of an electrical appliance 4 to the umbrella component 6 of the standing umbrella 1. The connecting device 2 includes a first coupling member 8 capable of electrical and mechanical connection with the electrical appliance 4, and a second coupling member 10 capable of electrical and mechanical connection with the umbrella component 6. The first coupling member 8 has a first plug-in member 12 with a first plug-in axis A', and the second coupling member 10 has a second plug-in member 14 with a second plug-in axis A"". The connecting device 2 is configured such that, when the first and second plug-in axes A' and A" are coaxially aligned—and are therefore collectively referred to as plug-in axes A—it can form a connection between the first plug-in member 12 and the second plug-in member 14 by pushing them together. Figure 1 The push-fit insertion position is not shown in the diagram.

[0041] from Figure 1 It can also be seen that the first connector 8 has a first longitudinal axis L1, and the second connector 10 has a second longitudinal axis L2.

[0042] In the push-fit position, an electrical connection is established between the first and second coupling components 8 and 10 through corresponding interacting contact surfaces.

[0043] In the example shown, a first cable connection 16 is provided between the first connector 12 and the electrical appliance 4. In addition, a second cable connection 18 is provided between the second connector 14 and the umbrella component 6.

[0044] In addition, the first coupling component 8 has a mounting boss 20 for fixing the electrical appliance 4 on the side away from the first plug 12.

[0045] at last, Figure 1 A protective cap 22 is also shown, which can be installed on the second connector 14 in place of the first connector 12. In this way, especially after the first coupling member 8 is removed, the exposed second coupling member 10 left on the upright umbrella 1 can be prevented from being unwantedly contaminated.

[0046] from Figure 1 and Figure 6 As can be seen, the second connector 14 includes a bolt-shaped inner part 24 with a central contact socket 26, while the first connector 12 includes a sleeve-shaped inner part 28 that mates with it and has a central contact pin 30. A similar connector is used, for example, in a household kettle.

[0047] Figure 2 The exploded view shows the basic structure of the second coupling member 10. The second connector 14 is housed between a base member 32 and a cover plate 34 threadedly connected thereto. The cover plate 34 has a generally circular outlet 36, which leaves an annular region 38 around the plug-like inner member 24. Further details of the second coupling member 10 will be described below.

[0048] Figures 3 to 5 The relative rotatability of two coupled components is illustrated, where a given rotation angle between the first longitudinal axis L1 and the second longitudinal axis L2 is denoted as α. In the exemplary embodiment shown here, according to... Figure 3 The axially released mating position occurs at a rotation angle α = -45º. In this case, the two coupling parts 8 and 10 can be axially engaged or disengaged from each other. A transition to the axially locked mating position can occur by clockwise rotation, where a 45º rotation achieves... Figure 4 The rotational position shown is such that the first and second longitudinal axes L1 and L2 are aligned parallel to each other. This is achieved by continuing to rotate clockwise 90º. Figure 5 The rotational positions shown are where the first and second longitudinal axes L1 and L2 are vertically oriented. Axially locked insertion positions exist at least within the locking rotation angle range of α = 0º to α = 90º. For convenience, corresponding engagement mechanisms are typically provided for the positions α = 0º and α = 90º. In this example, this is achieved by the annular flange 40 of the first insertion member 12, which has a first protrusion 42 and a second protrusion 44. The positions at α = 0º and α = 90º are held in a removable manner by engaging one of the protrusions 42, 44 into the corresponding protrusion of the second coupling member 10.

[0049] Especially from Figure 2 As can be seen, transitioning from the axially locked insertion position to the axially released insertion position, i.e., returning from the locking rotation angle range α = 0º to α = 90º to the release rotation angle α = -45º, requires operating a detachable rotary locking device 46. In this example, the rotary locking device 46 includes a yoke-shaped rotary bow 48, a return spring 50, and an operating lever 52.

[0050] Figure 6 and Figure 7 An exemplary embodiment of an appliance 4, which is configured as a heat radiator, is shown. Specifically, from... Figure 7 As can be seen, the first coupling component 8 can be connected to a mounting element, integrally designated 54, for the appliance 4 via the mounting boss 20. In this example, the mounting element 54 includes a bracket 56 screwable onto the heat radiator 4 and a hinged rotating plate 58, which can be threadedly connected to the mounting boss 20. In the assembled state, the bracket 56 can rotate relative to the rotating plate 58 and, consequently, relative to the first insertion axis A' about a substantially orthogonal rotation axis B. Thus, the heat radiator 4 can be in a basic position (e.g., Figure 7 The device rotates between a base position (shown) and a tilted rest position to protect the heat radiator when not in use. For convenience, the base position and rest position are held in place by a removable retaining device. In this example, this is achieved by the axial movement of the rotating plate 58 along the axis of rotation B between the retaining position and the release position. In the respective retaining position, the rotating plate 58 is engaged in a corresponding groove in the bracket 56 and held there by the action of the pressure spring 60 until it is pushed out of the groove by axial force and then pushed into the release position.

[0051] Figures 8 to 12 The actual operation of a standing umbrella with ribs 6 and heat radiator 4 is shown.

[0052] List of reference numerals

[0053] 1. Standing umbrella

[0054] 2. Connecting device

[0055] 4 electrical appliances

[0056] 6. Umbrella components (ribs)

[0057] 8 First coupling component

[0058] 10 Second coupling component

[0059] 12 First connector

[0060] 14 Second connector

[0061] 16 First cable connection

[0062] 18 Second cable connection

[0063] 20 Mounting boss for 4

[0064] 22 Protective cap

[0065] 24 14 plug-like internal parts

[0066] 26 14 contact socket

[0067] 28 12 sleeve-shaped inner parts

[0068] 30 12 contact pin

[0069] 32 10 base components

[0070] 34 10 cover plate

[0071] 36. Exit (or notch)

[0072] 38. Circular area

[0073] 40 12 annular flange

[0074] 42 First protrusion

[0075] 44 Second protrusion

[0076] 46. ​​Detachable rotary locking device

[0077] 48 Rotating bow

[0078] 50 Return spring

[0079] 52 control lever

[0080] 54 Mounting elements for 4

[0081] 56 54 bracket

[0082] Rotating plate of 58 54

[0083] 60 Compression Spring

[0084] A' First insertion axis

[0085] A"Second insertion axis

[0086] B Rotation axis

[0087] Longitudinal axis of L18

[0088] Longitudinal axis of L210

Claims

1. An umbrella stand (1) having a connection device (2) for detachably fastening an electrical consumer (4) to an umbrella part (6) of the umbrella stand (1), wherein The connecting device (2) includes a first coupling member (8) capable of electrical and mechanical connection with an electrical appliance (4) and a second coupling member (10) capable of electrical and mechanical connection with an umbrella component (6). The first coupling member (8) has a first plug-in (12) with a first plug axis (A'), and the second coupling member (10) has a second plug-in (14) with a second plug axis (A"), wherein the connecting device (2) is configured to form a push-in plug position with electrical connection between the first coupling member (8) and the second coupling member (10) by pushing the first and second plug-in members (12, 14) together when the first and second plug axes (A', A") are coaxially aligned. The connecting device (2) is switched between an axially released plug position and an axially locked plug position by rotating the first coupling member (8) relative to the second coupling member (10) about the coaxially aligned first and second plug axes (A', A").

2. The stand umbrella according to claim 1, wherein The first and second connectors (12, 14) are configured such that, in an axially locked plug position, the coaxial parts prevent separation from each other by abutting protrusions, while in an axially released plug position, the coaxial parts allow separation from each other by a predetermined outlet.

3. The upright umbrella according to claim 2, characterized in that, The axially released insertion position is located at a preset release rotation angle (α0) about the coaxially aligned first and second insertion axes (A', A"), while the axially locked insertion position is located at a locking rotation angle range (α1 to α2) about the coaxially aligned first and second insertion axes (A', A"), wherein the release rotation angle (α0) is outside the locking rotation angle range (α1 to α2).

4. The stand umbrella of claim 3, wherein, The locked rotation angle range (α1 to α2) covers a value range of 45º to 135º relative to the release rotation angle (α0).

5. The stand umbrella according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein A detachable rotary locking device prevents or allows transition from an axially locked mating position to an axially released mating position.

6. The stand umbrella of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, A first cable connection (16) is provided between the first connector (12) and the electrical appliance (4).

7. The stand umbrella of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, A second cable connection (18) is provided between the second connector (14) and the umbrella component (6).

8. The stand umbrella of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The first coupling component (8) is equipped with a mounting element (20) for an electrical appliance (4), the mounting element being rotatable between a basic position and an inclined rest position about a rotation axis (B) substantially orthogonal to the first insertion axis (A'), wherein the basic position and the rest position are held by a detachable retaining device.

9. The stand umbrella of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The umbrella component (6) is the umbrella rib.

10. The stand umbrella of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, When the stand-up umbrella is closed, the ribs are oriented approximately vertically, and when the stand-up umbrella is open, the ribs are oriented at an angle (φ) of 45º to 90º relative to the vertical line (V).

11. The stand umbrella of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The electrical appliance (4) is constructed as a thermal radiator.

12. The stand umbrella of claim 5, wherein, The first coupling component (8) is equipped with a mounting element (20) for an electrical appliance (4), the mounting element being rotatable between a basic position and an inclined rest position about a rotation axis (B) substantially orthogonal to the first insertion axis (A'), wherein the basic position and the rest position are held by a detachable retaining device.

13. The stand umbrella of claim 5, wherein, The umbrella part (6) is a rib.

14. The stand umbrella of claim 5, wherein, When the vertical umbrella is closed, the ribs are oriented approximately vertically, and when the vertical umbrella is open, the ribs are oriented at an inclination angle (φ) of 45° to 90° with respect to the vertical (V).

15. The stand umbrella of claim 5, wherein, The electric appliance (4) is configured as a heat radiator.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

  • Folding umbrella for use in restaurant, has spokes pivotably hinged at holder, and radiant heater supplied with electricity and fastened at stand pipe below support ring, where heat of radiant heater is laterally radiated

    DE102008019473A1

  • Heat radiator i.e. mobile multi-face radiator, for use in e.g. restaurant, has heat sources formed from radiation heaters and floor heaters, which are variably arranged on working region and effective region

    DE102008027408A1