Umbrella with anti-inversion mechanism

Abstract

The umbrella includes 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 coupled to the first rib and the second rib, a first elongated member coupled to the first rib joint, and a second elongated member coupled to the first elongated member and the distal rib. The first rib joint includes an internal groove, and the first elongated member includes a wire having a bent clip portion at a first end of the wire, the bent clip portion being received in the internal groove and attaching the wire to the first rib joint when biased against a floor of the internal groove.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] Cross-reference to related patent applications This application is based on and claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 110,722, filed November 6, 2020, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference as if expressly set forth in their respective entireties.

[0002] The present invention relates to umbrellas, and more particularly to an umbrella rib assembly having anti-inversion features. [Background technology]

[0003] As is well known, an umbrella is a device that protects the user from storms, especially liquid and freezing precipitation, or even sunlight. A traditional umbrella includes the following components: a pole, a fabric, ribs, a spring, and a base. The pole is a metal or wooden shaft that extends between the umbrella handle at the bottom (or the base stand in the case of patio models) and the fabric at the top. The fabric is the fabric part of the umbrella that catches rain, wind, and sunlight. The ribs determine the structure and shape of the umbrella. The outer ribs support the fabric, while the inner ribs (sometimes called ribs) act as supports and connect the outer ribs to the pole of the umbrella. The base is connected to the ribs / ribs and slides up and down the pole, allowing the umbrella fabric to open and close. Many umbrella designs include an upper cap to hold the lower rod up when the umbrella fabric is open, a lower cap to hold the lower rod down when the umbrella fabric is closed, and sometimes a ball-spring inner cap to extend the length of the shaft in telescoping models. Technically, the decorative foot (also called a ferrule) is found at the very top of the umbrella, above the umbrella fabric.

[0004] The ribs of an umbrella function as a folding structure that supports the umbrella's fabric. Under normal operating conditions, forces acting on the fabric increase toward a peak value when the fabric becomes fully deployed and when gusts of wind tend to tip the fabric over. These forces are transferred from the fabric to the ribs and can act on the ribs in opposing directions depending on the wind direction. Therefore, the ribs must be strong enough to resist forces that can act on the ribs from either of two main opposing directions.

[0005] In addition to these strength requirements, the shape of the umbrella ribs must vary between a substantially straight profile when the umbrella is folded and a curved profile when the umbrella fabric is fully unfolded. The straight design is intended to allow the folded ribs to be parallel to the umbrella rod when the umbrella is folded, while the curved design provides the classic mushroom-like shape (also known as a bell shape). Summary of the Invention

[0006] In one aspect of the present disclosure, the umbrella includes an anti-inversion mechanism configured to apply a force to each rib assembly to counter an inversion force applied to the umbrella. The anti-inversion mechanism includes a first rib joint coupled to the first rib and the second rib, a first elongated member coupled to the first rib joint, and a second elongated member coupled to the first elongated member and the distal rib. The first rib joint includes an internal groove, and the first elongated member includes a wire having a bent clip portion at a first end of the wire, the bent clip portion being received in the internal groove and attaching the wire to the first rib joint when biased against a floor of the internal groove. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] 1 is a top view of an exemplary double umbrella fabric umbrella according to the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 10 is a side view of the center pole, runner, and rib assembly with anti-inversion mechanism shown in the extended position, with the umbrella fabric not shown. [Figure 3]FIG. 10 is a side view showing the runner and rib assembly in a partially closed position. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is an enlarged view showing the runner and rib assembly in a partially closed position. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a side view of the anti-inversion mechanism. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of a portion of the anti-inversion mechanism. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a side view of a pole, runner, and rib assembly with an anti-inversion mechanism according to another embodiment, shown in a partially folded position, with the umbrella fabric not shown. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a side view showing the runner and rib assembly in an extended position. [Figure 9] FIG. 1 is a top side perspective view of an umbrella in a fully extended position. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of a tip connector system that is part of the anti-inversion mechanism. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of a tip connector system that is part of the anti-inversion mechanism. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of a tip connector system that is part of the anti-inversion mechanism. [Figure 13] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the tip connector system in an assembled state. [Figure 14] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the tip connector system in an assembled state. [Figure 15] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the tip connector system in an assembled state. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a side view of a pole, runner, and rib assembly with an anti-inversion mechanism according to yet another embodiment, shown in a fully open position, with the umbrella fabric not shown. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a close-up view of the anti-inversion mechanism. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a close-up view of the clip end of the anti-inversion mechanism. [Figure 19] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the umbrella part of FIG. 16. [Figure 20] FIG. 10 is a bottom perspective view of the rib joint and clip end of the anti-inversion mechanism. [Figure 21]FIG. 10 is a top perspective view of the rib joint and clip end of the anti-inversion mechanism. [Figure 22] FIG. 10 is a side view of a pole, runner, and rib assembly with an anti-inversion mechanism according to yet another embodiment, shown in a fully open position, with the umbrella fabric not shown. [Figure 23] FIG. 10 is a close-up view of the parent bone joint and clip end of the anti-inversion mechanism including the insert. [Figure 24] FIG. 10 is a side view of the parent bone joint and clip end of the anti-inversion mechanism including the insert. [Figure 25] FIG. 16 is a top perspective view of the parent bone joint and clip end of the anti-inversion mechanism including the insert. [Figure 26] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the parent bone joint and clip end of the anti-inversion mechanism including the insert. [Figure 27] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the parent bone joint and clip end of the anti-inversion mechanism including the insert. [Figure 28] FIG. 10 is a side view of a pole, runner, and rib assembly with an anti-inversion mechanism according to yet another embodiment, shown in a partially open position, with the umbrella fabric not shown. [Figure 29] FIG. 10 is a close-up view of the parent bone joint and clip end of the anti-inversion mechanism including the insert. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] As described herein, the present invention is directed to improvements regarding numerous components of an umbrella, including, but not limited to, its pole structure and rib assembly. As discussed herein, features of the present invention can be implemented in both manual and automatic umbrellas. Furthermore, other features can be implemented by other types of umbrellas. Accordingly, the following description and drawings describe exemplary embodiments that implement the teachings of the present invention.

[0009] FIG. 1 shows a top view of an umbrella 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, illustrating multiple rib assemblies. FIG. 2 shows a side view of the umbrella 100 without the umbrella fabric. The umbrella 100 includes a pole 130 having a first (top) end and an opposite second (bottom) end. The pole 130 itself can be formed from any number of different components that cooperate to provide the pole 130, and the pole 130 shown in FIG. 2 is part of a manual umbrella assembly that allows a user to manually open and close the umbrella. The first end of the pole can include a top roller 141 that tightens the pole 130, and the second end includes a handle 105 that is gripped by the user. A movable bottom roller 140 is provided along the pole 130.

[0010] The umbrella 100 can be of a double-weave design, with a first weave 110 functioning as the primary weave and a second weave 120 functioning as the secondary weave. Both the first weave 110 and the second weave 120 are anchored to the wheel at the top of the center rod along their innermost portions, and the second weave 120 is also attached to the first weave 110 at selected locations near its periphery, as described herein. It will be understood that the illustrated shapes and sizes of the weaves are merely illustrative and not limiting. Thus, FIG. 1 illustrates only one example of a double-weave design, and is not limiting. The periphery of the second weave 120 can be positioned along the bottom surface of the first weave 110, so that the first weave can have a central opening that is covered by the second weave, as is known in the art. However, the double-weave design functions as a vent, since the seams between the two weaves are open at selected locations to allow for ventilation.

[0011] The first umbrella fabric 110 has a large central opening, and the second umbrella fabric 120 is positioned above the central opening to define a vent between the two umbrella fabrics, with the outer edge of the second umbrella fabric 120 overlapping the first umbrella fabric 110.

[0012] The umbrella 100 includes multiple rib assemblies coupled to both the upper and lower rungs 140 such that the rib assemblies 200 and attached umbrella fabric (not shown) open and close based on the direction of movement of the lower rung 140. As described herein, each rib assembly is defined by several rib pieces that, when pivotally attached to one another, allow the rib assembly to collapse and extend in response to the lower rung 140 opening and closing the umbrella fabric.

[0013] The connection between the rib assembly and the runner 140 is made by a first support rib 210. The support rib 210 is an elongated structure having a first end 212 and an opposite second end 214, where the second end 214 is pivotally attached to the rib assembly as discussed herein and the first end 212 is pivotally attached to the runner 140. The pivotal connections between the first support rib 210 and the runner 140, and between the first support rib 210 and the rib assembly, can be achieved by fasteners such as rivets or pins. More specifically, a first support joint (first connection point / pivot) 225 is formed between the first support rib 210 and the rib assembly at the second end 214, and a similar support joint can be formed between the first support rib 210 and the runner 140 at the first end 212.

[0014] The first rib 210 can be formed from any number of different materials, including metals (eg, zinc alloys).

[0015] 2-6, the rib assembly can be formed from several elongated rib components (pieces) that are connected to each other and to other components of the umbrella to provide a rib assembly that opens and closes. In the illustrated embodiment, each rib assembly includes multiple rib parts, and more particularly, the rib assembly includes three separate rib parts: a first rib part 220, a second rib part 400, and a third rib part 600.

[0016] The first rib part 220 includes a first end 222 and an opposite second end 224. The second rib part 400 includes a first end 410 and an opposite second end 413. The third rib part 600 includes a first end 602 and an opposite second end 604.

[0017] The attachments between the rib parts 220, 400, 600 are pivotal, allowing the rib assembly 200 to be opened or closed. More specifically, as described herein, pivotal joints or the like can be provided between the respective parts to allow the desired rib movement when the rib assembly is opened (extended) or closed (collapsed).

[0018] A first end 222 of the first rib piece 220 is pivotally connected to the upper rung, and a second end 224 is connected to a first end 410 of the second rib piece 400 at a pivot joint 414. This pivot joint allows the first rib piece 220 and the second rib piece 400 to pivot between a fully closed position and a fully open position.

[0019] A second rib 230 is also provided and extends between the first rib 210 and the second rib member 400. More specifically, the second rib 230 has a first end 232 and an opposite second end 234. The first end 232 is pivotally attached to the second end 214 of the first rib 210 at a pivot 215. The second end 234 is pivotally attached to the first end 410 of the second rib member 400 at a pivot 412. Along the top surface of the second rib 230 at or near the first end 232, the second rib 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.

[0020] The biasing member 240 is biasingly attached between the second rib 230 and the first rib piece 220. The biasing member 240 may comprise an elongated spring, with a first end attached to a hook 242 and a second end attached to the first rib piece 220 at a connection point 244. The first rib piece 220 may have a C-shaped cross-section, so that a center channel is present that can receive the biasing member 240, as shown in FIGS. 2-6. Thus, the biasing member 240 applies a biasing force to the second rib 230 and the first rib piece 220. In particular, when the umbrella 100 is closed, the biasing member 240 may function to draw the second rib 230 toward the first rib piece 220.

[0021] Along the top surface of the first rib piece 220 is a connecting member 247. The connecting member 247 can be in the form of an eyelet.

[0022] As mentioned above, the first end 410 of the second rib part 400 is pivotally attached to both the first rib part 220 and the second rib 230, and the second end 413 is pivotally attached to the main rib connection member 500, as will be described in more detail below. The second rib part 400 can also have a C-shaped cross-section and thus a center channel formed therein.

[0023] The parent bone connection member 500 has a first end 502 and a second end 504. The parent bone connection member 500 has two defined pivot attachment regions, more particularly, at the first end 502, a first attachment region is defined, and at the second attachment region, the second end 413 is pivotally attached to the second attachment region of the parent bone connection member 500. The second end 504 of the parent bone connection member 500 can have a tubular structure that allows for the reception of the third parent rib part 600. The third parent rib part 600 can have a cylindrical shape and can be in the form of a flexible metal rod. The first end 602 of the third parent rib part 600 is attached to the second end 504 so as to be received within an opening in the second end 504, and then fixedly attached thereto using any number of conventional techniques, including bonding, etc.

[0024] While both the first rib piece 220 and the second rib piece 400 have a C-shaped cross section and can be made of metal, the third rib piece 600 is more flexible and has a solid structure like a cylindrical rod. The second end 604 of the third rib piece 600 is provided with a rib tip 610. The rib tip 610 can be a metal part to which the periphery of the main first umbrella material 110 is attached. For example, a hole can be formed through the rib tip 610, through which a portion of the first umbrella material 110 can extend. The rib tip 610 also includes a protrusion 612 extending along a section of the underside of the rib tip 610. Because the protrusion 612 is integrally formed and has a hollow structure, it is preferably made of the same material as the rib tip 610.

[0025] The anti-inversion mechanism of the present invention includes a first wire member having a first wire portion 300 (wire bonding member for the inner umbrella fabric), a second wire portion 310, a second wire member 700, and a third wire member 800.

[0026] The first wire member has a bent wire structure that bends to form a first wire portion 300 and a second wire portion 310, and as the first wire member bends on itself, the first wire portion and the second wire portion extend along each other, bringing the two free ends of the first wire member close to each other. The first wire member is threaded through a connecting member 247 (eyelet) to secure the first wire member to the first rib member 220.

[0027] The second wire portion 310 is coupled to the second rib member 400 by coupling members 415 located along the top surface of the second rib member 400. The coupling members 415 may be in the form of clips or grommets that attach the second wire portion 310 (i.e., the second wire portion 310 extends through holes in the coupling members 415).

[0028] The free end of the first wire portion 300 includes a tip member 302, such as a metal tip member, and the free end of the second wire portion 310 is attached to the main rib connection member 500 at a pivot 312 at the first end 502. As will be explained below, the first end 300 is coupled to the secondary umbrella fabric 120 in a manner that provides a means for preventing the secondary umbrella fabric 120 from inverting.

[0029] The second wire member 700 is an elongated wire (e.g., a metal rod) having a first end 702 and an opposite second end. The first end 702 can be a bent end that is anchored to the second rib member 400 so that it passes through the bottom of the second rib member 400 and enters a center channel defined therein, and then fixedly attached thereto, such as with a rivet. Because the second wire member 700 is anchored only at its first end 702, it represents a flexible structure fashioned like a cantilever that flexes under an applied force, as described herein. The second wire member 700 can be a metallic wire (e.g., a metallic rod), which is rigid and maintains its shape under normal operating conditions. As described herein, the third wire member 800 has a significantly different form in that it represents a thinner wire or metallic string that can easily bend and assume non-linear shapes during normal use. The third wire member 800 is much less stiff than the second wire member 700 and, under normal use, maintains its elongated, straight configuration except for the intentionally bent ends 702. The third wire member 800 can also be formed from a synthetic (polymeric) material, such as a polymeric wire, cable, or string.

[0030] A connector 710 is provided at the free end of the second wire member 700 and can be pivotally attached to the free end of the second wire member 700, such as with a rivet. The connector 710 can be a hollow plastic structure that receives the free end of the second wire member 700. The connector 710 is also attached to a third wire member 800, which is much more flexible and thinner than the rigid metal second wire member 700, and can therefore bend freely. The third wire member 800 can be a nylon-coated stainless steel wire. Element 711 can represent a means for attaching the connector 710 to the second wire member 700.

[0031] A first end 802 of the third wire member 800 is attached to the connector 720, thereby connecting the third wire member 800 to the second wire member 700. A second end 804 of the third wire member 800 is attached to the protrusion 612 of the rib tip 610. In this manner, the third wire member 800 is attached to the main first umbrella fabric 110. It will be appreciated that the third wire member 800 can be a colored wire for colored nylon, and in one embodiment, the third wire member 800 has a red color to distinguish it from an otherwise colored stainless steel or black rib mechanism.

[0032] The rib assemblies can be attached to the first and second umbrella fabrics 110, 120 in the following manner.

[0033] The auxiliary umbrella fabric 120 is attached to the first rib member 220 by passing the attached thread through the through-hole 241, thereby anchoring the auxiliary umbrella fabric 120 to the first rib member 220. At the inner edge of the first umbrella fabric 110 forming the central opening, the second umbrella fabric 120 can be anchored to the first umbrella fabric 110 like a stitch (thread) that also captures the wire portion 300. This attachment point is located inside the free end 302 of the wire portion 300; conversely, this wire portion is once anchored to the outer edge of the second umbrella fabric 120 using the rib tip at the end 302. Therefore, the length of the wire portion 300 from the attachment point to the two umbrella fabrics 110, 120 to the end 302 is not attached to the first umbrella fabric 110, but extends above it and is freely flexible to resist inversion forces.

[0034] The main rib connection member 500 has a hole 315, and the first umbrella fabric 110 is attached to this hole using a thread, with the thread passing through the hole 315 and anchoring the first umbrella fabric 110 while the thread is attached to the first umbrella fabric 110.

[0035] Furthermore, the third rib member 600 can be attached to the first umbrella fabric 110 using thread or stitches to anchor the third rib member 600 to the first umbrella fabric 110.

[0036] According to one aspect of the present invention, an anti-inversion mechanism defined by wire members 300, 310, 700, and 800 is provided and configured to resist inversion forces applied to an umbrella during selected operating conditions, and particularly during windy or other adverse conditions. As umbrella users are familiar with, when a gust of wind rises toward the inside of an umbrella, the pressure exerted by the wind causes the umbrella fabric to invert, causing the ribs to act to push the fabric outward with a counterproductive force. Typically, umbrella fabric assumes a concave shape when inverted, which in turn can cause the ribs to pivot in an unintended direction due to the force, potentially breaking one or more ribs. This renders the umbrella unusable. The umbrella of the present invention has an anti-inversion mechanism made up of several components, each of which is individually discussed above.

[0037] Thus, wire / cable 800 can be considered an anti-inversion wire that attaches the anti-inversion mechanism to umbrella fabric tip 610, as disclosed herein. Cable 800 can be, and preferably is, in the form of a nylon-coated stainless steel wire, although other constructions such as Kevlar fiber or other types of high-strength fiber may also be suitable.

[0038] Thus, the wire 700 can be configured to function as an anti-reverse spring that applies a counteracting force that resists inversion of the umbrella as a result of a force (e.g., pressure) applied to the underside of the umbrella fabric. The anti-reverse spring (wire 700) therefore applies a biasing force to maintain the rib assembly, particularly the third rib piece 600, in its normal operating position. This biasing force therefore counteracts upward movement of the third rib piece 600 as a result of an applied reversing force (e.g., a gust of wind directed upward). The strength of the wire 800 prevents the outer perimeter pieces of the umbrella fabric from lifting upward and thus inverting (which would stress the pieces and make them more susceptible to breakage).

[0039] It will be appreciated that the rib pieces 220, 400, 600 can be formed from any number of different materials, and that according to the present invention the ribs 220, 400, 600 can be formed from two or more different materials. For example, the rib pieces 220, 400 can be formed from a metal such as aluminum, while according to one aspect of the present invention the rib piece 600 can be formed from a carbon material (e.g., grooved carbon).

[0040] 5, in the folded state, the second wire member 700 is positioned close to (extending adjacent and parallel to) the second rib part 400. However, in the fully open position, the free end of the second wire member 700 is deflected downward and away from the second rib part 400, and due to its downward deflection and cantilever structure, can function as a spring element that stores energy. Similarly, in the closed state, the third wire member 800 is adjacent to and extends parallel to the third rib part 600 as shown, but in the open position, the wire 800 is under tension as it is pulled away from the third rib part 600 by the deflected wire member 700.

[0041] Although elements 300, 700, 800 are described as wire members, it will be understood that these elements are not limited to wire construction, but can be formed from many types of inelastic materials and can take a variety of forms including string, wire, ribbon, etc. These elements are bendable but do not stretch under force (inelastic).

[0042] Figures 7-9 illustrate one exemplary umbrella 1000 that can implement anti-inversion mechanism or system 1100. As with the embodiment of Figures 1-6, it will be understood that the embodiment of Figures 7-9 is just one type of umbrella that can implement system 1100, and that system 1100 can be implemented in many different types of umbrellas.

[0043] Umbrella 1000 may be a single-ply umbrella fabric type umbrella or may be a double-ply umbrella fabric design as shown in Figures 1-6. Because umbrella 1000 is similar to umbrella 100, similar elements are numbered the same. In particular, because umbrella 1000 may include many of the same components as umbrella 100, the same figure legends are used to represent the same components common to both umbrella 1000 and umbrella 100.

[0044] The umbrella 1000 includes multiple rib assemblies 1010 coupled to both the upper and lower rungs 140 such that the rib assemblies 1010 and attached umbrella fabric (not shown) open and close based on the direction of movement of the lower rung 140. As described herein, each rib assembly is defined by several rib pieces that, when pivotally attached to one another, allow the rib assembly to collapse and extend in response to the lower rung 140 opening and closing the umbrella fabric.

[0045] Each rib assembly 1010 can be very similar in structure to the rib assembly 200, with one difference being that the first wire member has a different structure to accommodate the single-ply umbrella fabric of Figures 7-9 versus the double-ply umbrella fabric design of Figures 1-6. In particular, the first wire portion 300 is removed, but the second wire portion 310 is maintained. The second wire portion 310 terminates at the connecting member 247, as opposed to being bent over to form the first wire portion 300 as in the first embodiment (Figures 1-6).

[0046] Furthermore, while umbrella 1000 is a three-rib umbrella, it will be understood that anti-inversion system 1100 is not limited to being implemented in three-rib umbrellas. Instead, anti-inversion system 1100 can be implemented in rib structures having ribs other than a total of three ribs. In the illustrated three-rib umbrella, anti-inversion system 1100 is incorporated between the second and third ribs as shown and described herein.

[0047] The anti-inversion system 1100 includes a first elongated member having a second wire portion (first elongated member) 310, a second elongated member, and a third elongated member. It will be understood that the second elongated member may be the same as or similar to the second wire member 700, and the third elongated member may be the same as or similar to the third wire member 800. As discussed herein, each of these elements 310, 700, 800 is not limited to being a wire, but instead can take many different forms, such as a wire, string, ribbon, etc. This is particularly the case for the first elongated member 310 and the third elongated member 800.

[0048] One major difference between the umbrella 1000 and the umbrella 100 is the manner in which the elongated third member 800 is coupled to the third rib part 600. Again, the coupling technique described below is not limited to coupling the elongated third member 800 to the third rib part 600, but is generally a method for coupling the elongated third member 800 to any distal rib (e.g., in a bi-fold rib umbrella, the distal rib is the second rib). It will be understood that the attachment method described below can be implemented in the umbrella structures shown in Figures 1-6.

[0049] It will be appreciated that the second rib piece 400 can be in the form of a stamped metal rib, but is not limited to metal ribs, as it can take other forms, such as injection molded plastic or other materials. A second elongated member 700, which can be a flexible metal wire or rod, is attached at a first end to the second rib piece 400.

[0050] As shown, second elongate member 700 is attached at each end to third elongate member 800. In many embodiments, second elongate member 700 and third elongate member 800 are formed of different materials. For example, second elongate member 700 may be in the form of a rigid, flexible metallic rod or wire, and third elongate member 800 may be in the form of a thinner string, wire, or cable.

[0051] In particular, as shown in Figure 8, a connector 1009 may be used to connect the second elongate member 700 and the third elongate member 800. In one embodiment, the third elongate member 800 (the string) may be overmolded onto the connector 1009 to provide a fixed connection between the third elongate member 800 and the connector 1009. A second end of the second elongate member 700 is attached to the connector 1009, and a first end of the third elongate member 800 is attached to the connector 1009. Thus, the connector 1009 may provide a means for joining two different structures that are formed from two different materials.

[0052] The method of attaching the elongated third member 800 (e.g., wire, string, or ribbon) to the third rib part 600 is best shown in Figures 10-15. More specifically, the umbrella 1000 includes a tip connection system 1001 that allows the elongated third member 800 to be easily attached to the third rib part 600.

[0053] Generally, a first connector 1200 (first coupling part) associated with the third elongated member 800 is mated with a second connector 1300 (second coupling part) associated with the third rib part 600 to attach the third elongated member 800 to the third rib part 600. As described herein, the attachment mechanism can be mechanical, capable of forming a snap fit or the like between the third elongated member 800 and the third rib part 600.

[0054] More specifically, the first connector 1200 is provided for attachment to the distal end of the third rib part 600. Thus, the first connector 1200 is fixedly attached to the end of the third rib part 600, and similarly, the second connector 1300 is provided for attachment to the distal end of the third elongate member 800. The first coupling part 1200 can be considered an inner tip, and the second connector 1300 can be considered an outer tip. As described herein, the inner tip is configured to be received within the outer tip. Thus, the first connector 1200 can be considered a male part, and the second connector 1300 can be considered a female part.

[0055] Therefore, the first connector 1200 is located at the distal end 604 of the third rib part 600. The first connector 1200 may be a substantially cylindrical part that fits over the distal end 604 of the third rib part 600 as a cap. The first connector 1200 includes a pair of locking tabs (first locking elements) 1210 that protrude outward along the side of the first connector 1200. For example, the locking tabs 1210 may be located opposite each other (180 degrees apart) along the side of the first connecting part 1200. In the illustrated embodiment, the first connector 1200 has a pair of flat portions 1209 formed along the side of the first connector 1200, and the two locking tabs 1210 are formed along these two flat portions 1209. Each of the locking tabs 1210 may have a rounded structure.

[0056] One end 1203 (proximal end) of the first connector 1200 can be enlarged relative to another section of the first connector 1200, and more specifically, the end 1203 can be an annular-shaped flange that also functions as a stop as described herein. More specifically, when the first connector 1200 is received in the second connector 1300, the first connector 1200 is inserted until the flange 1203 seats against the open end of the second connector 1300.

[0057] As shown, the first connector 1200 can fit completely over the distal end 604 of the third rib part 600 as a cap.

[0058] In one embodiment, the first connector 1200 may be attached to the distal end 604 using any number of conventional techniques, including but not limited to overmolding the first connector 1200 onto the distal end 604, or the first coupling component 1200 may be a previously manufactured component that is attached to the distal end 604 by a bonding agent (adhesive) or other technique.

[0059] Therefore, the first connector 1200 can be considered a male part because it has a cap configuration at the end of the distal end 604 .

[0060] The second connector 1300 is disposed at the distal end of the elongate third member 800, as shown. The second connector 1300 has a main portion 1302 in the form of a hollow cylindrical piece having a hollow interior 1304 accessed at an open first end 1303 of the second connector 1300. The opposite second end 1305 is a closed end of the second connector 1300. A pair of openings or windows (second locking elements) 1310 are formed in the main portion 1302. In particular, the spacing and positioning of the windows 1310 are complementary to the positioning and spacing of the locking tabs 1210, such that when the locking tabs 1210 are slidably received within the windows 1310, a fixed coupling is established between the two connectors 1200, 1300. Thus, the axial length of the hollow interior 1304 is selected taking into account 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 abuts the distal end of the hollow interior 1304. At the same time, the locking tab 1210 enters the window 1310, effectively coupling 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 of a snap-fit ​​type coupling, and more particularly, a one-way, irreversible type coupling in that it is not intended to disengage the first connector 1200 from the second connector 1300. The mating between the two connectors 1200, 1300 can be considered a clip-type action.

[0061] Second connector 1300 also includes an extension 1350 integral with and extending outwardly from main portion 1302. Extension 1350 extends longitudinally along a section (length) of main portion 1302. Extension 1350 functions as an anchor for elongate third member 800 in that a distal end of elongate third member 800 is fixedly attached to extension 1350. After elongate third member 800 has been effectively positioned and positioned away from hollow interior 1304, extension 1350 is spaced from hollow interior 1304 such that elongate third member 800 cannot interfere with receiving first coupling component 1200 into second coupling component 1300.

[0062] The distal end of elongate third member 800 is secured to extension 1350 using any number of suitable techniques. For example, the distal end can be anchored by an overmolding process, where extension 1350 (and the entire second connector 1300 for that matter) is formed around elongate third member 800 by the overmolding process. Extension 1350 can be considered to be along the underside of second connector 1300.

[0063] Other techniques may be used to anchor the third elongate member 800 to the extension 1350, such as using a bonding agent.

[0064] 13-15 show the first and second connectors (inner / outer ends) 1200, 1300 in an assembled state, with the first mating part (inner end) 1200 fully received within the hollow interior 1304 of the second connector 1300. As mentioned above, locking between the two connectors 1200, 1300 occurs by the locking tabs being received in the windows.

[0065] The front edge of locking tab 1210 may be a beveled edge to allow locking tab 1210 to be received in window 1310. The beveled edge allows second connector 1300 to flex through first connector 1200 and into hollow interior 1304, and because tab 1210 defines the widest part of first connector 1200, any flexing is relieved when tab 1210 is received in window 1310.

[0066] Thus, the tip connection system 1001 of the present invention is configured to provide a means for coupling the elongated third member 800 (string, wire, ribbon) to the distal end of the rib, in this case the third rib part 600. By using two connector parts, a simple yet effective connection can be established between the elongated third member 800 and the third rib part 600. In this way, an anti-inversion mechanism can be easily incorporated into the umbrella design, and the attachment between the anti-inversion mechanism and the rib assembly can be achieved by the tip connection system 1001.

[0067] It will also be appreciated that tip connection system 1001 can be constructed such that first connector 1200 is associated with elongated third member 800 and second connector 1300 is associated with rib 600 .

[0068] 16-22 illustrate one exemplary umbrella 2000 in which the anti-inversion mechanism or system 2100 may be implemented. As with the previous embodiments described herein, it will be understood that the embodiment of FIGS. 16-22 is just one type of umbrella in which the system 2100 may be implemented, and that the system 2100 may be implemented in many different types of umbrellas.

[0069] Umbrella 2000 can be a single-ply fabric umbrella with a three-fold rib design. Because umbrella 2000 is similar to umbrellas 100 and 1000, similar elements are numbered the same. In particular, because umbrella 2000 can include many of the same components as umbrellas 100 and 1000, the same diagram legends are used to represent the same components common to both umbrella 2000 and umbrellas 100 and 1000.

[0070] The umbrella 2000 includes a rod 130 having a first (top) end and an opposite second (bottom) end. The rod 130 itself can be formed from any number of different components that cooperate to provide the rod 130, and the rod 130 shown in FIG. 2 is part of a manual umbrella assembly that allows a user to manually open and close the umbrella. The first end of the rod can be provided with a top roller 141 that tightens the rod 130, and the second end is provided with a handle that is gripped by the user. A movable bottom roller 140 is provided along the rod 130.

[0071] The umbrella 2000 includes multiple rib assemblies 2200 coupled to both the upper rung 141 and the lower rung 140 such that the rib assemblies 2200 and attached umbrella fabric (not shown) open and close based on the direction of movement of the lower rung 140. As described herein, each rib assembly 2200 is defined by several rib pieces that, when pivotally attached to one another, allow the rib assembly to collapse and extend in response to the lower rung 140 opening and closing the umbrella fabric.

[0072] The rib assembly 2200 is of a three-stage folding rib design, and 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 attached to the upper wheel 141 at a first end.

[0073] The connection between the rib assembly 2200 and the runner 140 is made by a first support rib 210. The support rib 210 is an elongated structure having a first end and an opposite second end, the second end being pivotally attached to the rib assembly 2200 as discussed herein, and the first end being pivotally attached to the runner 140. The pivotal connections between the first support rib 210 and the runner 140, and between the first support rib 210 and the rib assembly 2200, can be achieved by fasteners such as rivets or pins. More specifically, a first support joint (first connection point / pivot) 225 is formed between the first support rib 210 and the rib assembly at the second end, and a similar support joint can be formed between the first support rib 210 and the runner 140 at the first end. The first support joint 225 is connected to the first rib 2300 at a location between the ends of the first rib 2300.

[0074] The first rib 210 can be formed from any number of different materials, including metals (eg, zinc alloys).

[0075] The first rib 2300 can have a C-shaped structure that receives the first bone support 225 between its walls and allows for a pivotal attachment between the first bone support 225 and the first rib 2300.

[0076] A first rib joint 2400 is provided and serves to pivotally connect the first rib 2300 and the second rib 2310. The first rib joint 2400 has a first end 2402 and an opposite 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 can be a tubular structure to which one end of the second rib 2310 is anchored.

[0077] The first rib joint 2400 has a top surface 2401 and an opposite back surface 2403 .

[0078] 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 located along the top surface 2401. Each of the fingers 2410, 2412 and fins 2410, 2412 has openings formed therein that receive fasteners for connecting different components together, as described below.

[0079] The first rib joint 2400 includes an elongated internal channel 2430 that opens along the top surface 2401 and extends toward the second end 2404. The first rib joint 2400 includes a bottom opening 2440 that leads directly into the elongated internal channel 2430. The bottom opening 2440 has a rectangular shape. The elongated internal channel 2430 extends from the opening 2440 to a closed end 2421. The floor of the elongated internal channel 2430 is not flat, but instead is contoured; more specifically, the floor has a first section 2432 that slopes downward toward the bottom surface 2403 and a second section 2434 that slopes upward from the first section 2432 toward the top surface 2401. The first section 2432 and the second section 2434 are continuous with each other. As shown, the length of the first section 2432 is greater than the length of the second section 2434 .

[0080] The bottom opening 2440 defines an inner wall 2445, which in turn defines one end of the elongated inner groove 2430. For reasons explained herein, the top and / or bottom edges of the inner wall 2445 can be rounded. In other words, one end of the first section 2432 of the elongated inner groove 2430 can be rounded (chamfered). Similarly, the bottom of the inner wall 2445 can be similarly rounded to define another chamfered edge.

[0081] As shown, the first support 210 is coupled to the first support joint 2400 by a wire 2450 or other rigid, elongated structure having a first end 2452 (e.g., a curled end) attached to the first support joint 225 and a second end 2454 (e.g., a curled end) attached to the first support joint 2400. As shown in FIG. 23, the second end 2454 is attached by a coupler received in and between the first finger 2410 and the second finger 2412.

[0082] The second rib joint 2500 pivotally attaches the second rib 2310 to the third rib 2320. The second rib joint 2500 has a first end and a second end. The main rib joint 2500 has two defined attachment areas, more particularly, at the first end, a first attachment area 2502 is defined, and at the second attachment area 2504, the second rib joint 2500 is pivotable relative to the end coupler 2315 of the second rib 2310, thereby allowing the second and third ribs 2310, 2320 to pivot relative to each other during opening and closing of the umbrella. The end coupler 2315 may have a hollow interior space into which the end of the second rib 2310 is received and secured using conventional techniques such as bonding, fasteners, etc. The second end of the main rib joint 2500 may have a tubular structure that allows for the reception of the third rib 2320.

[0083] The third rib 2320 can have a cylindrical shape and can be in the form of a flexible metal rod or a rigid plastic rod. A first end of the third rib 2320 is attached to the second end of the second rib joint 2500 so as to be received within an opening in the second end, and then fixedly attached thereto using any number of conventional techniques, including bonding, etc.

[0084] The anti-inversion mechanism of the present disclosure includes a first wire 2600, a second wire 2610, and a cable 2620.

[0085] The first wire 2600 has a first end attached to the first rib 2300 by a connecting member 2301 attached along the top of the first rib 2300. The connecting member 2301 can be a catch-like structure with a central opening that receives the first end of the first rib 2300. Thus, the first end of the first rib 2300 can be hook-shaped. An intermediate section of the first wire 2600 can be connected to the second rib 2310 by a connecting member 2303 located along the top surface of the second rib 2310. The connecting member 2303 can be in the form of a clip or eyelet to which the first wire 2600 is connected (e.g., the first wire 2600 can extend through a hole in the connecting member 2301). A second end of the first wire 2600 is attached to a first attachment region 2502 of the second rib joint 2500.

[0086] Thus, the first wire 2600 may be in the form of a metallic 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 .

[0087] The second wire 2610 can be considered to be 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.

[0088] The first end 2612 is in the form of a clip designed to matingly engage with the elongated inner groove 2430. As shown in FIG. 27 , the first end 2612 of the second wire 2610 is a curved end that is bent back on itself. The curved first end 2612 is defined by a curved section 2613 that transitions from the main section 2615 of the second wire 2610 to a first angled section 2616. A second transition is defined by the first angled section 2616 and a second angled section 2617 that defines the free end of the second wire 2610. The curved section 2613 extends through the bottom opening 2440 such that the first angled section 2616 is positioned against the first section 2432 of the floor of the elongated inner groove 2430 and the second angled section 2617 is positioned against the second section 2434 of the floor of the elongated inner groove 2430.

[0089] Because the second wire 2610 has spring properties and acts as a clip, the first end 2612, when acting as a clip, is biased against the floor of the elongated internal groove 2430. In other words, the first end 2612 is clipped onto the first rib joint 2400, thereby anchoring it securely to the first end.

[0090] To couple and engage the second wire 2610 to the first rib joint 2400, the second angled section 2617 is first routed through the bottom opening 2440 and snakes its way into the elongated internal groove 2430. The chamfered edges of the inner wall 2445 facilitate the entry of the clip end into the elongated internal groove 2430. Due to the springiness of the clip end, as it is fed into the elongated internal groove 2430, the chamfered edges at the top of the inner wall 2445 facilitate the separation of the angled sections 2615, 2617 relative to the main section 2615, creating a spring force that clamps the clip end to the first rib joint 2400, holding the clip end in place.

[0091] By inserting the clip end in this manner and engaging the elongated internal groove 2430 , the main section 2615 of the second wire 2600 is positioned along the bottom of the second rib 2310 .

[0092] The second end of the second wire 2610 is coupled to a cable 2620. While the element 2620 is described as being a cable, it will be understood that it can take the form of a cord, string, or rope, or a thin wire or other flexible structure that can be easily bent and deformed. The second wire 2610 and the cable 2620 can be coupled to one another by a swivel joint 2640. For example, a first end of the cable 2620 is fixedly secured to one end of the swivel joint 2640, and the second end of the second wire 2610 is pivotally attached to the other end of the swivel joint 2640. For example, the swivel joint 2640 can be a plastic part, and the cable 2620 can be overmolded into the swivel joint 2640. The second end of the second wire 2610 can be a curled end that pivots about a fixed structure formed at one end of the swivel joint 2640. In this manner, the second wire 2610 is pivotally attached to the cable 2620 .

[0093] The method of attaching the cable 2620 to the third rib 2320 is the same as best shown in Figures 10-15. More specifically, the umbrella 2000 includes a tip connection system 1001 that allows for easy attachment of the cable 2620 to the third rib 2320. As described herein, the tip connection system 1001 provides a snap fit for attaching the cable 2620 to the third rib 2320 as a result of the connection between the two connectors 1200, 1300.

[0094] The distal end of the cable 2620 is anchored to the extension 1350 using any number of suitable techniques. For example, the distal end can be anchored by an overmolding process, where the extension 1350 (and the entire second connector 1300 for that matter) is formed around the cable 2620 by the overmolding process. The extension 1350 can be considered to be along the underside of the second connector 1300.

[0095] It will be appreciated that cable 2620 can be a colored wire due to colored nylon, and in one embodiment, cable 2620 has a red color to distinguish it from what would otherwise be a colored stainless steel or black rib mechanism.

[0096] 26-29 illustrate another feature of the present disclosure. More specifically, an insert or plug 2700 can be inserted into the bottom opening 2440 to prevent the clip end of the wire 2610 from sliding. As shown, the curved section 2613 at a first end 2612 resides within the bottom opening 2440 and seats against the inner wall 2445, while 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 has a rectangular shape with one end being a convex curved end while the other end can be a concave curved end to accommodate the curved section 2613. This design mirrors the shape of this open end of the bottom opening 2440. Alternatively, the insert 2700 can have other shapes, such as a flat end, so long as it serves to block the open end of the bottom opening 2440 and prevent unwanted sliding of the clip end of the wire 2610.

[0097] The insert 2700 can have an enlarged head 2702 that limits the extent of insertion 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 can include a locking member, such as a locking tab 2705. The locking tab 2705 engages a wall structure of the first parent rib joint 2400 to lock and retain the insert 2700 within the bottom opening 2440. For example, the insert 2700 can be attached to the first parent rib joint 2400 by a snap fit. Thus, the insert 2700 ensures that the clip end of the wire 2610 does not inadvertently disengage from the first parent rib joint 2400.

[0098] Although the present invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments thereof, the present invention may be embodied in other forms and using other materials and structures. Accordingly, the present invention is defined by the claims appended hereto and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An umbrella, an elongated rod having a first end and an opposite second end; a wheel slidably disposed around the elongated center rod; a plurality of rib assemblies, each rib assembly including a plurality of ribs having a distal rib, the rib assemblies attached to the runner by a bridge that moves between an open position and a closed position, in which the ribs are in an open, extended position, and in which the ribs are in a closed, folded position; an anti-inversion mechanism configured to apply a force to each rib assembly against an inversion force applied to the umbrella, the anti-inversion mechanism including: a first rib joint connected to a first rib and a second rib of the plurality of ribs; a first elongated member connected to the first rib joint; and a second elongated member connected to the first elongated member and the distal rib; An umbrella, including the first rib joint includes an internal groove, the first elongated member includes a wire having a bent clip portion at a first end of the wire, the bent clip portion being received within the internal groove and biased against a floor of the internal groove to couple the wire to the first rib joint; The umbrella has a base defined by a first sloped section and an adjacent second sloped section, the first sloped section sloped in a first direction and the second sloped section sloped in an opposite second direction, and the bent clip portion rests against the first sloped section and the second sloped section.

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

3. 3. The umbrella of claim 2, wherein the interior groove is defined by a first end wall that also defines the bottom opening, the first end wall having a curved bottom edge and a curved top edge that terminates in a floor of the interior groove.

4. The umbrella according to claim 1 , wherein the first direction is a direction toward a bottom surface of the first rib joint, and the second direction is a direction toward a top surface of the first rib joint.

5. 3. The umbrella of claim 2, wherein the bottom opening is a closed opening.

6. 3. The umbrella of claim 2, wherein the bent clip portion is configured to pass through the bottom opening and enter and seat within a floor of the interior channel.

7. 3. The umbrella of claim 2, wherein the first rib joint includes a pair of spaced apart first and second fingers defining one end of the first rib joint and adjacent the bottom opening.

8. 2. The umbrella of claim 1, wherein the wire comprises a metal wire, the second elongated member comprises a string connecting one end of the metal wire with a swivel joint, the string being overmolded within the swivel joint.

9. The umbrella according to claim 1, wherein the inner groove is an elongated groove that opens along the upper surface of the first rib joint.

10. 2. The umbrella of claim 1, wherein the bent clip portion includes a curved end, a first angled portion joined to the curved end, and a second angled portion joined to the first angled portion, the first angled portion and the second angled portion defining a V-shaped structure, and a length of the first angled portion is greater than a length of the second angled portion.

11. 11. The umbrella of claim 10, wherein the wire includes a main portion that sits directly against and extends outwardly along a bottom surface of the first rib joint.

12. 10. The umbrella of claim 1, wherein the wire comprises a metal wire and the bent clip portion comprises a biased spring clip.

13. An umbrella, an elongated rod having a first end and an opposite second end; a wheel slidably disposed around the elongated center rod; a plurality of rib assemblies, each rib assembly including a plurality of ribs having a distal rib, the rib assemblies attached to the runner by a bridge that moves between an open position and a closed position, in which the ribs are in an open, extended position, and in which the ribs are in a closed, folded position; an anti-inversion mechanism configured to apply a force to each rib assembly against an inversion force applied to the umbrella, the anti-inversion mechanism including: a first rib joint connected to a first rib and a second rib of the plurality of ribs; a first elongated member connected to the first rib joint; and a second elongated member connected to the first elongated member and the distal rib; An umbrella, including the first rib joint includes an internal groove, the first elongated member includes a wire having a bent clip portion at a first end of the wire, the bent clip portion being received within the internal groove and biased against a floor of the internal groove to couple the wire to the first rib joint; The bent clip portion includes a curved end, a first angled portion joined to the curved end, and a second angled portion joined to the first angled portion.

14. 14. The umbrella of claim 13, wherein the first sloped portion slopes in a first direction and the second sloped portion slopes in a second direction opposite the first direction.

15. 14. The umbrella of claim 13, wherein the first and second angled portions define a V-shaped configuration, the first and second angled portions of the bent clip portion seat directly against an angled section of the floor of the inner groove, and a straight main portion of the wire extends along an outer surface of the first rib joint.

16. An umbrella as described in claim 13, wherein the inner groove is accessible through a bottom opening formed along the bottom surface of the first rib joint, the curved end rests against a first end wall of the first rib joint, the first end wall defines both the inner groove and the bottom opening, and the first end wall has a curved bottom edge and a curved top edge that extends to the floor of the inner groove.

17. 14. The umbrella of claim 13, wherein the bent clip portion is bent such that the first angled portion and the second angled portion can bend outward from the main portion of the wire, thereby storing energy.

18. An umbrella, an elongated rod having a first end and an opposite second end; a wheel slidably disposed around the elongated center rod; a plurality of rib assemblies, each rib assembly including a plurality of ribs having a distal rib, the rib assemblies attached to the runner by a bridge that moves between an open position and a closed position, in which the ribs are in an open, extended position, and in which the ribs are in a closed, folded position; an anti-inversion mechanism configured to apply a force to each rib assembly against an inversion force applied to the umbrella, the anti-inversion mechanism including: a first rib joint connected to a first rib and a second rib of the plurality of ribs; a first elongated member connected to the first rib joint; and a second elongated member connected to the first elongated member and the distal rib; An umbrella, including the first rib joint includes an internal groove, the first elongated member includes a wire having a bent clip portion at a first end of the wire, the bent clip portion being received within the internal groove and biased against a floor of the internal groove to couple the wire to the first rib joint; the internal groove is accessible through a bottom opening formed along a bottom surface of the first rib joint; the umbrella further includes an insert received within the bottom opening adjacent the curved end of the wire to close the bottom opening; The insert includes a rectangular body having a convex first side and a concave second side opposite the first side, the concave second side receiving the curved end of the wire.

19. 19. The umbrella of claim 18, wherein the rectangular body has a head that expands relative to the rectangular body, the head having a locking tab that interlocks with the first rib joint to attach the insert to the first rib joint.

20. An umbrella, an elongated rod having a first end and an opposite second end; a wheel slidably disposed around the elongated center rod; a plurality of rib assemblies, each rib assembly including a plurality of ribs having a distal rib, the rib assemblies attached to the runner by a bridge that moves between an open position and a closed position, in which the ribs are in an open, extended position, and in which the ribs are in a closed, folded position; an anti-inversion mechanism configured to apply a force to each rib assembly against an inversion force applied to the umbrella, the anti-inversion mechanism including: a first rib joint connected to a first rib and a second rib of the plurality of ribs; a first elongated member connected to the first rib joint; and a second elongated member connected to the first elongated member and the distal rib; An umbrella, including the first rib joint includes an internal groove, the first elongated member includes a wire having a bent clip portion at a first end of the wire, the bent clip portion being received within the internal groove and biased against a floor of the internal groove to couple the wire to the first rib joint; the internal groove is accessible through a bottom opening formed along a bottom surface of the first rib joint; the umbrella further includes an insert received within the bottom opening adjacent the curved end of the wire to close the bottom opening; The inner groove is an elongated groove that opens along an upper surface of the first rib joint portion, The length of the elongated groove is located between a pair of parallel upright walls of the first rib joint.

21. An umbrella, an elongated rod having a first end and an opposite second end; a plurality of rib assemblies, each rib assembly including a plurality of ribs having a first rib, a second rib, and a third rib; an anti-inversion mechanism configured to apply a force to each rib assembly against an inversion force applied to the umbrella, the anti-inversion mechanism including: a first rib joint connected to a first rib and a second rib of the plurality of ribs; a flexible elongated first member connected to the first rib joint; and a flexible elongated second member connected to the first elongated member and the third rib; An umbrella, including the first rib joint includes an internal groove, the internal groove being open along a top surface of the first rib joint and accessible through a bottom opening formed along a bottom surface of the first rib joint; the first elongated member includes a wire having a bent clip portion at a first end of the wire, the bent clip portion being received within the internal groove and biased against a floor of the internal groove to releasably couple the wire to the first rib joint; The umbrella wherein the floor and the bent clip portion each have a plurality of angled sections that seat against each other when the bent clip portion seats within the inner groove.

Images