Portable canopies having support poles and tethers and related methods and kits

Abstract

Portable canopies having support poles and tethers and related methods and kits are disclosed. According to an aspect, a canopy includes a covering including rear portion, a first front side portion, and a second front side portion. The portable canopy also includes a first support pole including a first end and a second end. The first end of the first support pole is attached to the first front side portion. The second end of the first support pole is configured for attachment to the structure. The first end of the second support pole is attached to the second front side portion. The second end of the second support pole is configured for attachment to the structure. The portable canopy includes tethers for attachment to the structure.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 666,772, filed Jul. 2, 2024, and titled “Cantilevered portable shade canopy”, the content of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.BACKGROUND

[0002] Canopies are structures and coverings that provide shade, shelter, or decoration. Typically, canopies are made of lightweight materials, such as fabric, metal, wood, or fiberglass. Some canopies are supported by a framework or attached to a building for support.

[0003] Some canopies extend from buildings, often over windows, doors, or patios to provide shade or shelter from adverse weather, such as rain. These canopies are typically permanently affixed to the building. Some of these canopies have the ability to be retracted in the case sun exposure is desired or in the case of high wind conditions so that damage to the canopy can be avoided.

[0004] During outdoor recreation, it is often desired to have available the shade or shelter that a canopy can provide. For example, many sports, such as pickleball or tennis, are played in areas that are fully exposed to the sun. In these cases, it is desired to provide a canopy that is portable, easy to use, and can provide shade in a convenient location to sports play or other activity.

[0005] In many cases, it is desired for a canopy to not impeded motion underneath by avoiding having supporting members touch the ground or otherwise be within an area of movement.SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0006] The presently disclosed subject matter relates to portable canopies having support poles and tethers and related methods and kits. According to an aspect, a canopy includes a covering including rear portion, a first front side portion, and a second front side portion. The first front side portion and the second front side portion are on opposing sides of the covering. The rear portion is configured for attachment to a structure. The portable canopy also includes a first support pole including a first end and a second end. The first end of the first support pole is attached to the first front side portion. The second end of the first support pole is configured for attachment to the structure. The portable canopy also includes a second support pole including a first end and a second end. The first end of the second support pole is attached to the second front side portion. The second end of the second support pole is configured for attachment to the structure. Further, the portable canopy includes a first tether attached to the first end of the first support pole and configured to attach to the structure. Further, the portable canopy includes a second tether attached to the first end of the second support pole and configured to attach to the structure.

[0007] According to an aspect, a method is provided for attaching a portable canopy to a structure. The method includes providing a portable canopy. The portable canopy includes a covering including a rear portion, a first front side portion, and a second front side portion. The first front side portion and the second front side portion are on opposing sides of the covering. The rear portion is configured for attachment to a structure. The portable canopy also includes a first support pole including a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the first support pole is attached to the first front side portion. The second end of the first support pole is configured for attachment to the structure. Further, the portable canopy includes a second support pole including a first end and a second end. The first end of the second support pole is attached to the second front side portion. The second end of the second support pole is configured for attachment to the structure. The portable canopy also includes a first tether attached to the first end of the first pole and configured to attach to the structure. Further, the portable canopy includes a second tether attached to the first end of the second pole and configured to attach to the structure. The method also includes attaching the second end of the first support pole to the structure at a first location on the structure. Further, the method includes attaching the second end of the second support pole to the structure at a second location on the structure different than the first location. The method also includes attaching the first tether to the structure at a third location on the structure different than the first location and the second location. Further, the method includes attaching the second tether to the structure at a fourth location on the structure different than the first location, the second location, and the third location.

[0008] According to another aspect, a portable canopy kit includes a covering including a rear portion, a first front side portion, and a second front side portion. The first front side portion and the second front side portion are on opposing sides of the covering. The rear portion is configured for attachment to a structure. The portable canopy kit further includes a first support pole including a first end and a second end. The first end of the first support pole is configured for attachment to the first front side portion. The second end of the first support pole is configured for attachment to the structure. The portable canopy kit also includes a second support pole including a first end and a second end. The first end of the second support pole is configured for attachment to the second front side portion. The second end of the second support pole is configured for attachment to the structure. Further, the portable canopy kit includes a first tether configured for attachment to the first end of the first pole and configured to attach to the structure. The portable canopy kit also includes a second tether configured for attachment to the first end of the second pole and configured to attach to the structure.

[0009] According to another aspect, a portable canopy includes a covering including a rear portion, a front portion, and wherein the rear portion is configured for attachment to a structure. The portable canopy also includes a support pole including a first end and a second end. The first end of the first support pole is attached to the front portion. The second end of the support pole is configured for attachment to the structure. The portable canopy also includes a first tether attached to the first end of the support pole and configured to attach to the structure. Further, the portable canopy includes a second tether attached to the first end of the support pole and configured to attach to the structure.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0010] Having thus described the presently disclosed subject matter in general terms, reference will now be made to the accompanying Drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and wherein:

[0011] FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a portable canopy having support poles and tethers in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0012] FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view of the portable canopy shown in FIG. 1;

[0013] FIG. 3 is a top perspective view of the portable canopy shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 as attached to a fence in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0014] FIG. 4 is a close-up, perspective view of a hook attaching the covering 106 of the portable canopy shown in FIGS. 1-3 to a wire of a fence in accordance with embodiments;

[0015] FIG. 5 is a close-up, perspective view of the forward end of support pole as attached to a tether in accordance with embodiments;

[0016] FIG. 6 is a close-up, perspective view of the hook of a tether attached to the ring shown in FIG. 5;

[0017] FIG. 7 is a close-up, perspective view of the rearward end of support pole and a tether as attached to fence in accordance with embodiments;

[0018] FIG. 8 illustrates a close-up, perspective view of the hook shape of the rearward end of the support pole for grabbing to wires of the fence as shown in FIG. 7;

[0019] FIG. 9 is a front perspective view of the portable canopy.

[0020] FIG. 10 is a close-up, underside perspective view of the portable canopy;

[0021] FIG. 11 is a close-up, perspective view of the tether attached to fence;

[0022] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing example dimensions of a portable canopy in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0023] FIG. 13 is a side perspective view of another portable canopy in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0024] FIG. 14 is a close-up, perspective view of the hook along with the covering;

[0025] FIG. 15 is a side perspective view of the portable canopy attached to a fence in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0026] FIG. 16 is a front, perspective view of the portable canopy shown in FIG. 13 as attached at an interior corner of a chainlink fence in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0027] FIG. 17 is a flowchart of a method of attaching a portable canopy to a structure in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0028] FIG. 18 is a top perspective view of another portable canopy having support poles that grip to a covering by frictional force in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0029] FIG. 19 is a bottom view of the portable canopy shown in FIG. 18;

[0030] FIG. 20 is a bottom, perspective view of the portable canopy 1800 shown in FIGS. 18 and 19.

[0031] FIG. 21 is a top, perspective view of the portable canopy shown in FIGS. 18-21 attached to a support structure;

[0032] FIG. 22 is a close-up, perspective view of one of the support poles and the front portion of the covering of the portable canopy shown in FIGS. 18-21;

[0033] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of another portable canopy having a single support pole and tethers in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0034] FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the portable canopy of FIG. 23 attached to a structure;

[0035] FIG. 25 is a bottom, perspective view of the portable canopy shown in FIGS. 23 and 24; and

[0036] FIG. 26 is a close-up, perspective view of ends of the support pole and tethers of the portable canopy shown in FIGS. 23-25 at the point of attachment.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0037] The following detailed description is made with reference to the figures. Exemplary embodiments are described to illustrate the disclosure, not to limit its scope, which is defined by the claims. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize a number of equivalent variations in the description that follows.

[0038] Articles “a” and “an” are used herein to refer to one or to more than one (i.e. at least one) of the grammatical object of the article. By way of example, “an element” means at least one element and can include more than one element.

[0039] “About” is used to provide flexibility to a numerical endpoint by providing that a given value may be “slightly above” or “slightly below” the endpoint without affecting the desired result.

[0040] The use herein of the terms “including,”“comprising,” or “having,” and variations thereof is meant to encompass the elements listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional elements. Embodiments recited as “including,”“comprising,” or “having” certain elements are also contemplated as “consisting essentially of” and “consisting” of those certain elements.

[0041] Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. For example, if a range is stated as between 1%-50%, it is intended that values such as between 2%-40%, 10%-30%, or 1%-3%, etc. are expressly enumerated in this specification. These are only examples of what is specifically intended, and all possible combinations of numerical values between and including the lowest value and the highest value enumerated are to be considered to be expressly stated in this disclosure.

[0042] Unless otherwise defined, all technical terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs.

[0043] FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate a top perspective view and a bottom perspective view, respectively, of a portable canopy 100 having support poles 102A and 102B and tethers 104A and 104B in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. The view shown in FIG. 1 is from a frontward position, and the view shown in FIG. 2 is from a rearward position. Also, it is noted that the portable canopy 100 is depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2 as it may be arranged when attached to a structure (not shown), such as a fence, so as to show its operational configuration of components (e.g., support poles 102A, 102B, tethers 104A, 104B, and a covering 106). Although, it should be noted that the portable canopy 100 may be arranged differently in other use cases when attached to a structure. Support poles 102A and 102B are extendible.

[0044] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the covering 106 includes a rear portion 108, a front side portion 110A, and another front side portion 110B. The front side portion 110A and the front side portion 110B are on opposing sides of the covering 106. As shown in this operational configuration of FIGS. 1 and 2, the tethers 104A, 104B pull the side portions 110A, 110B tightly apart from one another such that the covering 106 is open. As shown in this example, the covering 106 is substantially rectangular in shape, but it should be appreciated that the covering 106 can be any other suitable shape. Materials for the covering 106 can include shade cloth made from linen, cotton, High-density polyethylene (HDPE), or other opaque or semi opaque materials that can block or partially block the sun. Elastic, or stretchy, fabrics made from polyester, polyamide or viscose, can stretch around foam or rubber balls at the end of poles without tearing, and can be useful for containing pole-ends in position, and can adapt to varying tension and wind effects. Tethers 104A, 104B can provide tension to side portions 110A, 110B and at least some of main portion 114.

[0045] The rear portion 108 is configured for attachment to a structure (e.g., fence). In this example, the portable canopy 100 includes multiple hooks 112 attached to the rear portion 108 of the covering 106 for attaching the rear portion of the covering to the structure. Although 3 hooks 112 are shown in this example, it should be understood that there may be any suitable number of hooks 112 for attaching the rear portion 108 to the structure. Also, the hooks may be of any suitable type and position. Materials for the hooks 112 can include, but are not limited to, steel, aluminum, plastic and any durable material that can provide tensile strength and anchorage for the canopy. Attachment methods other than hooks can include carabiners, snap-together closures, hook & loop closures, Velcro, bungee-cord variants and button-straps.

[0046] In this example, the covering 106 includes a main portion 114, a second portion 116, and a third portion 118. The main portion 114 is substantially rectangular in shape and defines a first side 120 and a second side 122. The first side 120 opposes the second side 122. Portions 116 and 118 are each substantially triangular in shape and attached to the side portions 120 and 122, respectively. It is noted that the covering 106 may include any suitable number, sizes, and shapes of portions of any suitable arrangement.

[0047] The covering 106 also includes a rearward portion 124. The rearward portion 124 is substantially rectangular in shape and attached to portions 114, 120, and 122. It is noted that the rearward portion 124 may be of any suitable shape and size.

[0048] Support poles 102A and 102B are sufficiently rigid for supporting the covering 106 and other components of the portable canopy 100. Materials for the support poles 102A and 102B can include, but is not limited to, aluminum, fiberglass, steel, plastic, metal-matrix composites, and any rigid material that can withstand buckling, compression, torsion and tension associated with anchorage for the canopy. Each support pole 102A, 102B includes a forward end 126 and a rearward end 128. The forward end 126 and the rearward end 128 oppose each other. Ends 128 of the support poles 102A, 102B define hooks for attachment to a structure. As a result, the support poles 102A, 102B provide tension between the rear portion of the covering 106 and a front portion of the covering 106 when the support poles 102A, 102B are attached to the structure.

[0049] Forward ends 126 are attached to respective end of the tether 104A, 104B and forward edge of main portion 114. The other ends of the tethers 104A, 104B are configured to attach to the structure such that the ends 126 of the support poles 102A, 102B are biased in opposing directions provide tension across a front portion of the covering 106 when the tethers 104A, 104B are attached to the structure. As a result, the covering 106 can be maintained in an open position as shown. Tethers 104A, 104B each include hooks 130 for attachment to a structure. In an example, the tethers 104A, 104B are bungee cords. A bungee cord is a strong, elastic rope made of rubber or other similar materials, which may be covered in a woven sheath. Example materials for the tethers 104A, 104B include, but are not limited to, polyurethane, polypropylene, polyester, nylon, rubber, metal wire in the form of webbing, straps, strips, ropes or cords with tensioners or springs. In another example, tethers can be metal chains with adjustable hook positions.

[0050] FIG. 3 illustrates a top perspective view of the portable canopy 100 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 as attached to a fence 300 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 3, the fence 300 is a chainlink fence in this example. The chainlink fence includes woven wires with some spacing between the wires such that the portable canopy 100 can be attached in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. In this example, hooks 112 can attached the covering 106 directly to wires of the fence 300. Also, hooks 130 of tethers 104A, 104B can be hooked to wires of the fence 300. Further, the hooks defined at the rearward ends 128 of support poles 102A, 102B can be hooked to wires of the fence 300.

[0051] FIG. 4 illustrates a close-up, perspective view of a hook 112 attaching the covering 106 of the portable canopy 100 shown in FIGS. 1-3 to a wire 400 of a fence 402 in accordance with embodiments. Referring to FIG. 4, the covering 106 defines an aperture 404 for attachment to the hook 112. A fabric strap with a hook may be sewn into or otherwise integral to the material of the covering 106 to thereby remove the need for aperture 404.

[0052] FIG. 5 illustrates a close-up, perspective view of the forward end 126 of support pole 102B as attached to tether 104B in accordance with embodiments. Referring to FIG. 5, the shown forward end of support pole 102B includes a ring 500 attached thereto. The tether 104B defines a hook 502 for attachment to the ring 500 as shown. The support pole 102A and tester 104A shown in FIG. 3 can be similarly configured. A ring can be attached to covering 106 for tether attachment. The pole end can be secured to covering 106 by any suitable technique.

[0053] FIG. 6 illustrates a close-up, perspective view of the hook 130 of tether 104B attached to the ring 500 shown in FIG. 5. Hook 502 may be closed or otherwise permanently attached to ring 500.

[0054] FIG. 7 illustrates a close-up, perspective view of the rearward end 128 of support pole 102B and the tether 104B as attached to fence 300 in accordance with embodiments. Referring to FIG. 7, the hook 130 of tether 104B is attached to a wire of the fence 300. Further, the end 128 of the support pole 102B forms a substantially hook shape for grabbing to one or more wires of the fence 300. As shown, the hook shape of the end 128 is deep so that it cannot easily be accidentally removed from the fence 300.

[0055] FIG. 8 illustrates a close-up, perspective view of the hook shape of the rearward end 128 of the support pole 102B for grabbing to wires of the fence 300 as shown in FIG. 7.

[0056] FIG. 9 illustrates a front perspective view of the portable canopy 100.

[0057] FIG. 10 illustrates a close-up, underside perspective view of the portable canopy 100.

[0058] FIG. 11 illustrates a close-up, perspective view of the tether 104A attached to fence 300.

[0059] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing example dimensions of a portable canopy in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. The dimensions are designated in inches.

[0060] FIG. 13 illustrates a side perspective view of another portable canopy 1300 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 13, the portable canopy 1300 is similar to the portable canopy shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 except for its mechanisms for attaching a rear portion of a covering 1302 of the canopy 1300 to a structure. In this example, hooks 1304A 1304B are affixed to the rear portion of the covering 1302 for attaching to a structure, such as a fence (not shown). In this example, there are 2 hooks 1304A, 1304B, but it should be appreciated that any suitable number of hooks of any suitable shape and size may be used. It is noted that the hooks 1304A, 1304B are riveted to the covering 1302, but it should be appreciated that they may be otherwise suitably attached. Elongated / rigid hooks 1304A, 1304B can enable attaching hooks to a fence at a higher position, thereby creating more space underneath.

[0061] It is also noted that the covering 1302 is shaped differently than the covering 106 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. In the example of FIG. 13, the covering 1302 is substantially rectangular in shape.

[0062] FIG. 14 illustrates a close-up, perspective view of the hook 1304A along with the covering 1302.

[0063] FIG. 15 illustrates a side perspective view of the portable canopy 1300 attached to a fence 1500 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0064] FIG. 16 illustrates a front, perspective view of the portable canopy 1300 shown in FIG. 13 as attached at an interior corner 1600 of a chainlink fence 1602 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 16, the fence 1602 has 2 portions 1604A and 1604B that meet at corner 1500. Hook 1604A is attached to portion 1604A, and hook 1304B is attached to portion 1604B. In this way, the portable canopy 1300 can provide shelter or shade to the interior corner area of the fence 1602.

[0065] In accordance with embodiments, FIG. 17 illustrates a flowchart of a method of attaching a portable canopy to a structure. Referring to 17, the method includes providing 1600 a portable canopy. For example, the portable canopy 100 of FIGS. 1 and 2 can be provided and placed near a structure, such as fence 300 shown in FIG. 3, for attachment to.

[0066] The method of FIG. 17 includes attaching 1702 hooks of a covering of the portable canopy to the structure. Continuing the aforementioned example, hooks 112 of the portable canopy 100 can be attached to a structure as shown in FIG. 3.

[0067] The method of FIG. 17 includes attaching 1704 an end of a support pole of the portable canopy to the structure at a first location on the structure. Continuing the aforementioned example, an end 128 of support pole 102A can be attached to the fence 300 as shown in FIG. 3.

[0068] The method of FIG. 17 includes attaching 1706 an end of the other support pole of the portable canopy to the structure at a second location on the structure different than the first location. Continuing the aforementioned example, an end 128 of support pole 102B can be attached to the fence 300 as shown in FIG. 3.

[0069] The method of FIG. 17 includes attaching 1708 a tether to the structure at a third location on the structure different than the first location and the second location. Continuing the aforementioned example, the tether 104A can be attached to the fence 300 as shown in FIG. 3.

[0070] The method of FIG. 17 includes attaching 1710 the second tether to the structure at a fourth location on the structure different than the first location, the second location, and the third location. Continuing the aforementioned example, the tether 104B can be attached to the fence 300 as shown in FIG. 3.

[0071] In other embodiments, a portable canopy kit can be provided. The kit may include the components of the portable canopy 100 shown in FIG. 1. After being provided with the kit, the user may assemble the components of the portable canopy 100 for travel and attachment to a structure.

[0072] FIG. 18 illustrates a top perspective view of another portable canopy 1800 having support poles 1804 that grip to a covering 1802 by frictional force in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 18, the portable canopy 1800 includes tethers 1806 for holding the covering 1802 to a structure in accordance with examples provided herein. A forward portion 1808 of the covering 1802 wraps forward and over ends of the support poles 1804 such that the forward portion 1808 of the covering 1802 grips to ends of the support poles 1804 by frictional force. In other words, the covering 1802 is at least partially secured to friction-induced resistance at the touching surfaces of the support poles 1804 and the covering 1802.

[0073] FIG. 19 illustrates a bottom view of the portable canopy 1800 shown in FIG. 18. Referring to FIG. 19, the support poles 1804 each include a gripper end 1900 for engaging the front portion 1808 of the covering 1802. The gripper ends 1900 can have a rough outer surface for providing friction-induced resistance at the touching surfaces of the support poles 1804 and the covering 1802.

[0074] FIG. 20 illustrates a bottom, perspective view of the portable canopy 1800 shown in FIGS. 18 and 19.

[0075] FIG. 21 illustrates a top, perspective view of the portable canopy 1800 shown in FIGS. 18-21 attached to a support structure 2100. The support structure 2100 in this example is a chainlink fence.

[0076] FIG. 22 illustrates a close-up, perspective view of one of the support poles 1804 and the front portion 1808 of the covering 1802 of the portable canopy 1800 shown in FIGS. 18-21. Referring to FIG. 22, the gripper end 1900 is shown in close-up.

[0077] FIG. 23 illustrates a perspective view of another portable canopy 2300 having a single support pole 2302 and tethers 2304 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 23, the portable canopy 2300 includes a covering 2306 that is supported and held in place by the support pole 2302 and tethers 2304 similar to examples described herein. The covering can be attached to a structure by multiple hooks 2308. Tethers 2304 can be attached to the structure by hooks 2310.

[0078] With continuing reference to FIG. 23, the support pole 2302 and tethers 2304 are attached to a front portion 2312 of the covering 2306. As a result, the covering 2306 is held in an open position.

[0079] FIG. 24 illustrates a perspective view of the portable canopy 2300 of FIG. 23 attached to a structure 2400.

[0080] FIG. 25 illustrates a bottom, perspective view of the portable canopy 2300 shown in FIGS. 23 and 24.

[0081] FIG. 26 illustrates a close-up, perspective view of ends of the support pole 2302 and tethers 2304 of the portable canopy 2300 shown in FIGS. 23-25 at the point of attachment. Referring to FIG. 26, the tethers 2304 includes hooks 2600 for attachment to a ring 2602 at the end of the support pole 2302 for attaching the ends together.

[0082] While the embodiments have been described in connection with the various embodiments of the various figures, it is to be understood that other similar embodiments may be used, or modifications and additions may be made to the described embodiment for performing the same function without deviating therefrom. Therefore, the disclosed embodiments should not be limited to any single embodiment, but rather should be construed in breadth and scope in accordance with the appended claims.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0037]The following detailed description is made with reference to the figures. Exemplary embodiments are described to illustrate the disclosure, not to limit its scope, which is defined by the claims. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize a number of equivalent variations in the description that follows.

[0038]Articles “a” and “an” are used herein to refer to one or to more than one (i.e. at least one) of the grammatical object of the article. By way of example, “an element” means at least one element and can include more than one element.

[0039]“About” is used to provide flexibility to a numerical endpoint by providing that a given value may be “slightly above” or “slightly below” the endpoint without affecting the desired result.

[0040]The use herein of the terms “including,”“comprising,” or “having,” and variations thereof is meant to encompass the elements listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional elements. Embodiments recited as “including,”“comp...

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 666,772, filed Jul. 2, 2024, and titled “Cantilevered portable shade canopy”, the content of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.BACKGROUND

[0002] Canopies are structures and coverings that provide shade, shelter, or decoration. Typically, canopies are made of lightweight materials, such as fabric, metal, wood, or fiberglass. Some canopies are supported by a framework or attached to a building for support.

[0003] Some canopies extend from buildings, often over windows, doors, or patios to provide shade or shelter from adverse weather, such as rain. These canopies are typically permanently affixed to the building. Some of these canopies have the ability to be retracted in the case sun exposure is desired or in the case of high wind conditions so that damage to the canopy can be avoided.

[0004] During outdoor recreation, it is often desired to have available the shade or shelter that a canopy can provide. For example, many sports, such as pickleball or tennis, are played in areas that are fully exposed to the sun. In these cases, it is desired to provide a canopy that is portable, easy to use, and can provide shade in a convenient location to sports play or other activity.

[0005] In many cases, it is desired for a canopy to not impeded motion underneath by avoiding having supporting members touch the ground or otherwise be within an area of movement.SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0006] The presently disclosed subject matter relates to portable canopies having support poles and tethers and related methods and kits. According to an aspect, a canopy includes a covering including rear portion, a first front side portion, and a second front side portion. The first front side portion and the second front side portion are on opposing sides of the covering. The rear portion is configured for attachment to a structure. The portable canopy also includes a first support pole including a first end and a second end. The first end of the first support pole is attached to the first front side portion. The second end of the first support pole is configured for attachment to the structure. The portable canopy also includes a second support pole including a first end and a second end. The first end of the second support pole is attached to the second front side portion. The second end of the second support pole is configured for attachment to the structure. Further, the portable canopy includes a first tether attached to the first end of the first support pole and configured to attach to the structure. Further, the portable canopy includes a second tether attached to the first end of the second support pole and configured to attach to the structure.

[0007] According to an aspect, a method is provided for attaching a portable canopy to a structure. The method includes providing a portable canopy. The portable canopy includes a covering including a rear portion, a first front side portion, and a second front side portion. The first front side portion and the second front side portion are on opposing sides of the covering. The rear portion is configured for attachment to a structure. The portable canopy also includes a first support pole including a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the first support pole is attached to the first front side portion. The second end of the first support pole is configured for attachment to the structure. Further, the portable canopy includes a second support pole including a first end and a second end. The first end of the second support pole is attached to the second front side portion. The second end of the second support pole is configured for attachment to the structure. The portable canopy also includes a first tether attached to the first end of the first pole and configured to attach to the structure. Further, the portable canopy includes a second tether attached to the first end of the second pole and configured to attach to the structure. The method also includes attaching the second end of the first support pole to the structure at a first location on the structure. Further, the method includes attaching the second end of the second support pole to the structure at a second location on the structure different than the first location. The method also includes attaching the first tether to the structure at a third location on the structure different than the first location and the second location. Further, the method includes attaching the second tether to the structure at a fourth location on the structure different than the first location, the second location, and the third location.

[0008] According to another aspect, a portable canopy kit includes a covering including a rear portion, a first front side portion, and a second front side portion. The first front side portion and the second front side portion are on opposing sides of the covering. The rear portion is configured for attachment to a structure. The portable canopy kit further includes a first support pole including a first end and a second end. The first end of the first support pole is configured for attachment to the first front side portion. The second end of the first support pole is configured for attachment to the structure. The portable canopy kit also includes a second support pole including a first end and a second end. The first end of the second support pole is configured for attachment to the second front side portion. The second end of the second support pole is configured for attachment to the structure. Further, the portable canopy kit includes a first tether configured for attachment to the first end of the first pole and configured to attach to the structure. The portable canopy kit also includes a second tether configured for attachment to the first end of the second pole and configured to attach to the structure.

[0009] According to another aspect, a portable canopy includes a covering including a rear portion, a front portion, and wherein the rear portion is configured for attachment to a structure. The portable canopy also includes a support pole including a first end and a second end. The first end of the first support pole is attached to the front portion. The second end of the support pole is configured for attachment to the structure. The portable canopy also includes a first tether attached to the first end of the support pole and configured to attach to the structure. Further, the portable canopy includes a second tether attached to the first end of the support pole and configured to attach to the structure.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0010] Having thus described the presently disclosed subject matter in general terms, reference will now be made to the accompanying Drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and wherein:

[0011] FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a portable canopy having support poles and tethers in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0012] FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view of the portable canopy shown in FIG. 1;

[0013] FIG. 3 is a top perspective view of the portable canopy shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 as attached to a fence in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0014] FIG. 4 is a close-up, perspective view of a hook attaching the covering 106 of the portable canopy shown in FIGS. 1-3 to a wire of a fence in accordance with embodiments;

[0015] FIG. 5 is a close-up, perspective view of the forward end of support pole as attached to a tether in accordance with embodiments;

[0016] FIG. 6 is a close-up, perspective view of the hook of a tether attached to the ring shown in FIG. 5;

[0017] FIG. 7 is a close-up, perspective view of the rearward end of support pole and a tether as attached to fence in accordance with embodiments;

[0018] FIG. 8 illustrates a close-up, perspective view of the hook shape of the rearward end of the support pole for grabbing to wires of the fence as shown in FIG. 7;

[0019] FIG. 9 is a front perspective view of the portable canopy.

[0020] FIG. 10 is a close-up, underside perspective view of the portable canopy;

[0021] FIG. 11 is a close-up, perspective view of the tether attached to fence;

[0022] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing example dimensions of a portable canopy in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0023] FIG. 13 is a side perspective view of another portable canopy in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0024] FIG. 14 is a close-up, perspective view of the hook along with the covering;

[0025] FIG. 15 is a side perspective view of the portable canopy attached to a fence in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0026] FIG. 16 is a front, perspective view of the portable canopy shown in FIG. 13 as attached at an interior corner of a chainlink fence in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0027] FIG. 17 is a flowchart of a method of attaching a portable canopy to a structure in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0028] FIG. 18 is a top perspective view of another portable canopy having support poles that grip to a covering by frictional force in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0029] FIG. 19 is a bottom view of the portable canopy shown in FIG. 18;

[0030] FIG. 20 is a bottom, perspective view of the portable canopy 1800 shown in FIGS. 18 and 19.

[0031] FIG. 21 is a top, perspective view of the portable canopy shown in FIGS. 18-21 attached to a support structure;

[0032] FIG. 22 is a close-up, perspective view of one of the support poles and the front portion of the covering of the portable canopy shown in FIGS. 18-21;

[0033] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of another portable canopy having a single support pole and tethers in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0034] FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the portable canopy of FIG. 23 attached to a structure;

[0035] FIG. 25 is a bottom, perspective view of the portable canopy shown in FIGS. 23 and 24; and

[0036] FIG. 26 is a close-up, perspective view of ends of the support pole and tethers of the portable canopy shown in FIGS. 23-25 at the point of attachment.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0037] The following detailed description is made with reference to the figures. Exemplary embodiments are described to illustrate the disclosure, not to limit its scope, which is defined by the claims. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize a number of equivalent variations in the description that follows.

[0038] Articles “a” and “an” are used herein to refer to one or to more than one (i.e. at least one) of the grammatical object of the article. By way of example, “an element” means at least one element and can include more than one element.

[0039] “About” is used to provide flexibility to a numerical endpoint by providing that a given value may be “slightly above” or “slightly below” the endpoint without affecting the desired result.

[0040] The use herein of the terms “including,”“comprising,” or “having,” and variations thereof is meant to encompass the elements listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional elements. Embodiments recited as “including,”“comprising,” or “having” certain elements are also contemplated as “consisting essentially of” and “consisting” of those certain elements.

[0041] Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. For example, if a range is stated as between 1%-50%, it is intended that values such as between 2%-40%, 10%-30%, or 1%-3%, etc. are expressly enumerated in this specification. These are only examples of what is specifically intended, and all possible combinations of numerical values between and including the lowest value and the highest value enumerated are to be considered to be expressly stated in this disclosure.

[0042] Unless otherwise defined, all technical terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs.

[0043] FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate a top perspective view and a bottom perspective view, respectively, of a portable canopy 100 having support poles 102A and 102B and tethers 104A and 104B in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. The view shown in FIG. 1 is from a frontward position, and the view shown in FIG. 2 is from a rearward position. Also, it is noted that the portable canopy 100 is depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2 as it may be arranged when attached to a structure (not shown), such as a fence, so as to show its operational configuration of components (e.g., support poles 102A, 102B, tethers 104A, 104B, and a covering 106). Although, it should be noted that the portable canopy 100 may be arranged differently in other use cases when attached to a structure. Support poles 102A and 102B are extendible.

[0044] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the covering 106 includes a rear portion 108, a front side portion 110A, and another front side portion 110B. The front side portion 110A and the front side portion 110B are on opposing sides of the covering 106. As shown in this operational configuration of FIGS. 1 and 2, the tethers 104A, 104B pull the side portions 110A, 110B tightly apart from one another such that the covering 106 is open. As shown in this example, the covering 106 is substantially rectangular in shape, but it should be appreciated that the covering 106 can be any other suitable shape. Materials for the covering 106 can include shade cloth made from linen, cotton, High-density polyethylene (HDPE), or other opaque or semi opaque materials that can block or partially block the sun. Elastic, or stretchy, fabrics made from polyester, polyamide or viscose, can stretch around foam or rubber balls at the end of poles without tearing, and can be useful for containing pole-ends in position, and can adapt to varying tension and wind effects. Tethers 104A, 104B can provide tension to side portions 110A, 110B and at least some of main portion 114.

[0045] The rear portion 108 is configured for attachment to a structure (e.g., fence). In this example, the portable canopy 100 includes multiple hooks 112 attached to the rear portion 108 of the covering 106 for attaching the rear portion of the covering to the structure. Although 3 hooks 112 are shown in this example, it should be understood that there may be any suitable number of hooks 112 for attaching the rear portion 108 to the structure. Also, the hooks may be of any suitable type and position. Materials for the hooks 112 can include, but are not limited to, steel, aluminum, plastic and any durable material that can provide tensile strength and anchorage for the canopy. Attachment methods other than hooks can include carabiners, snap-together closures, hook & loop closures, Velcro, bungee-cord variants and button-straps.

[0046] In this example, the covering 106 includes a main portion 114, a second portion 116, and a third portion 118. The main portion 114 is substantially rectangular in shape and defines a first side 120 and a second side 122. The first side 120 opposes the second side 122. Portions 116 and 118 are each substantially triangular in shape and attached to the side portions 120 and 122, respectively. It is noted that the covering 106 may include any suitable number, sizes, and shapes of portions of any suitable arrangement.

[0047] The covering 106 also includes a rearward portion 124. The rearward portion 124 is substantially rectangular in shape and attached to portions 114, 120, and 122. It is noted that the rearward portion 124 may be of any suitable shape and size.

[0048] Support poles 102A and 102B are sufficiently rigid for supporting the covering 106 and other components of the portable canopy 100. Materials for the support poles 102A and 102B can include, but is not limited to, aluminum, fiberglass, steel, plastic, metal-matrix composites, and any rigid material that can withstand buckling, compression, torsion and tension associated with anchorage for the canopy. Each support pole 102A, 102B includes a forward end 126 and a rearward end 128. The forward end 126 and the rearward end 128 oppose each other. Ends 128 of the support poles 102A, 102B define hooks for attachment to a structure. As a result, the support poles 102A, 102B provide tension between the rear portion of the covering 106 and a front portion of the covering 106 when the support poles 102A, 102B are attached to the structure.

[0049] Forward ends 126 are attached to respective end of the tether 104A, 104B and forward edge of main portion 114. The other ends of the tethers 104A, 104B are configured to attach to the structure such that the ends 126 of the support poles 102A, 102B are biased in opposing directions provide tension across a front portion of the covering 106 when the tethers 104A, 104B are attached to the structure. As a result, the covering 106 can be maintained in an open position as shown. Tethers 104A, 104B each include hooks 130 for attachment to a structure. In an example, the tethers 104A, 104B are bungee cords. A bungee cord is a strong, elastic rope made of rubber or other similar materials, which may be covered in a woven sheath. Example materials for the tethers 104A, 104B include, but are not limited to, polyurethane, polypropylene, polyester, nylon, rubber, metal wire in the form of webbing, straps, strips, ropes or cords with tensioners or springs. In another example, tethers can be metal chains with adjustable hook positions.

[0050] FIG. 3 illustrates a top perspective view of the portable canopy 100 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 as attached to a fence 300 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 3, the fence 300 is a chainlink fence in this example. The chainlink fence includes woven wires with some spacing between the wires such that the portable canopy 100 can be attached in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. In this example, hooks 112 can attached the covering 106 directly to wires of the fence 300. Also, hooks 130 of tethers 104A, 104B can be hooked to wires of the fence 300. Further, the hooks defined at the rearward ends 128 of support poles 102A, 102B can be hooked to wires of the fence 300.

[0051] FIG. 4 illustrates a close-up, perspective view of a hook 112 attaching the covering 106 of the portable canopy 100 shown in FIGS. 1-3 to a wire 400 of a fence 402 in accordance with embodiments. Referring to FIG. 4, the covering 106 defines an aperture 404 for attachment to the hook 112. A fabric strap with a hook may be sewn into or otherwise integral to the material of the covering 106 to thereby remove the need for aperture 404.

[0052] FIG. 5 illustrates a close-up, perspective view of the forward end 126 of support pole 102B as attached to tether 104B in accordance with embodiments. Referring to FIG. 5, the shown forward end of support pole 102B includes a ring 500 attached thereto. The tether 104B defines a hook 502 for attachment to the ring 500 as shown. The support pole 102A and tester 104A shown in FIG. 3 can be similarly configured. A ring can be attached to covering 106 for tether attachment. The pole end can be secured to covering 106 by any suitable technique.

[0053] FIG. 6 illustrates a close-up, perspective view of the hook 130 of tether 104B attached to the ring 500 shown in FIG. 5. Hook 502 may be closed or otherwise permanently attached to ring 500.

[0054] FIG. 7 illustrates a close-up, perspective view of the rearward end 128 of support pole 102B and the tether 104B as attached to fence 300 in accordance with embodiments. Referring to FIG. 7, the hook 130 of tether 104B is attached to a wire of the fence 300. Further, the end 128 of the support pole 102B forms a substantially hook shape for grabbing to one or more wires of the fence 300. As shown, the hook shape of the end 128 is deep so that it cannot easily be accidentally removed from the fence 300.

[0055] FIG. 8 illustrates a close-up, perspective view of the hook shape of the rearward end 128 of the support pole 102B for grabbing to wires of the fence 300 as shown in FIG. 7.

[0056] FIG. 9 illustrates a front perspective view of the portable canopy 100.

[0057] FIG. 10 illustrates a close-up, underside perspective view of the portable canopy 100.

[0058] FIG. 11 illustrates a close-up, perspective view of the tether 104A attached to fence 300.

[0059] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing example dimensions of a portable canopy in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. The dimensions are designated in inches.

[0060] FIG. 13 illustrates a side perspective view of another portable canopy 1300 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 13, the portable canopy 1300 is similar to the portable canopy shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 except for its mechanisms for attaching a rear portion of a covering 1302 of the canopy 1300 to a structure. In this example, hooks 1304A 1304B are affixed to the rear portion of the covering 1302 for attaching to a structure, such as a fence (not shown). In this example, there are 2 hooks 1304A, 1304B, but it should be appreciated that any suitable number of hooks of any suitable shape and size may be used. It is noted that the hooks 1304A, 1304B are riveted to the covering 1302, but it should be appreciated that they may be otherwise suitably attached. Elongated / rigid hooks 1304A, 1304B can enable attaching hooks to a fence at a higher position, thereby creating more space underneath.

[0061] It is also noted that the covering 1302 is shaped differently than the covering 106 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. In the example of FIG. 13, the covering 1302 is substantially rectangular in shape.

[0062] FIG. 14 illustrates a close-up, perspective view of the hook 1304A along with the covering 1302.

[0063] FIG. 15 illustrates a side perspective view of the portable canopy 1300 attached to a fence 1500 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0064] FIG. 16 illustrates a front, perspective view of the portable canopy 1300 shown in FIG. 13 as attached at an interior corner 1600 of a chainlink fence 1602 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 16, the fence 1602 has 2 portions 1604A and 1604B that meet at corner 1500. Hook 1604A is attached to portion 1604A, and hook 1304B is attached to portion 1604B. In this way, the portable canopy 1300 can provide shelter or shade to the interior corner area of the fence 1602.

[0065] In accordance with embodiments, FIG. 17 illustrates a flowchart of a method of attaching a portable canopy to a structure. Referring to 17, the method includes providing 1600 a portable canopy. For example, the portable canopy 100 of FIGS. 1 and 2 can be provided and placed near a structure, such as fence 300 shown in FIG. 3, for attachment to.

[0066] The method of FIG. 17 includes attaching 1702 hooks of a covering of the portable canopy to the structure. Continuing the aforementioned example, hooks 112 of the portable canopy 100 can be attached to a structure as shown in FIG. 3.

[0067] The method of FIG. 17 includes attaching 1704 an end of a support pole of the portable canopy to the structure at a first location on the structure. Continuing the aforementioned example, an end 128 of support pole 102A can be attached to the fence 300 as shown in FIG. 3.

[0068] The method of FIG. 17 includes attaching 1706 an end of the other support pole of the portable canopy to the structure at a second location on the structure different than the first location. Continuing the aforementioned example, an end 128 of support pole 102B can be attached to the fence 300 as shown in FIG. 3.

[0069] The method of FIG. 17 includes attaching 1708 a tether to the structure at a third location on the structure different than the first location and the second location. Continuing the aforementioned example, the tether 104A can be attached to the fence 300 as shown in FIG. 3.

[0070] The method of FIG. 17 includes attaching 1710 the second tether to the structure at a fourth location on the structure different than the first location, the second location, and the third location. Continuing the aforementioned example, the tether 104B can be attached to the fence 300 as shown in FIG. 3.

[0071] In other embodiments, a portable canopy kit can be provided. The kit may include the components of the portable canopy 100 shown in FIG. 1. After being provided with the kit, the user may assemble the components of the portable canopy 100 for travel and attachment to a structure.

[0072] FIG. 18 illustrates a top perspective view of another portable canopy 1800 having support poles 1804 that grip to a covering 1802 by frictional force in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 18, the portable canopy 1800 includes tethers 1806 for holding the covering 1802 to a structure in accordance with examples provided herein. A forward portion 1808 of the covering 1802 wraps forward and over ends of the support poles 1804 such that the forward portion 1808 of the covering 1802 grips to ends of the support poles 1804 by frictional force. In other words, the covering 1802 is at least partially secured to friction-induced resistance at the touching surfaces of the support poles 1804 and the covering 1802.

[0073] FIG. 19 illustrates a bottom view of the portable canopy 1800 shown in FIG. 18. Referring to FIG. 19, the support poles 1804 each include a gripper end 1900 for engaging the front portion 1808 of the covering 1802. The gripper ends 1900 can have a rough outer surface for providing friction-induced resistance at the touching surfaces of the support poles 1804 and the covering 1802.

[0074] FIG. 20 illustrates a bottom, perspective view of the portable canopy 1800 shown in FIGS. 18 and 19.

[0075] FIG. 21 illustrates a top, perspective view of the portable canopy 1800 shown in FIGS. 18-21 attached to a support structure 2100. The support structure 2100 in this example is a chainlink fence.

[0076] FIG. 22 illustrates a close-up, perspective view of one of the support poles 1804 and the front portion 1808 of the covering 1802 of the portable canopy 1800 shown in FIGS. 18-21. Referring to FIG. 22, the gripper end 1900 is shown in close-up.

[0077] FIG. 23 illustrates a perspective view of another portable canopy 2300 having a single support pole 2302 and tethers 2304 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 23, the portable canopy 2300 includes a covering 2306 that is supported and held in place by the support pole 2302 and tethers 2304 similar to examples described herein. The covering can be attached to a structure by multiple hooks 2308. Tethers 2304 can be attached to the structure by hooks 2310.

[0078] With continuing reference to FIG. 23, the support pole 2302 and tethers 2304 are attached to a front portion 2312 of the covering 2306. As a result, the covering 2306 is held in an open position.

[0079] FIG. 24 illustrates a perspective view of the portable canopy 2300 of FIG. 23 attached to a structure 2400.

[0080] FIG. 25 illustrates a bottom, perspective view of the portable canopy 2300 shown in FIGS. 23 and 24.

[0081] FIG. 26 illustrates a close-up, perspective view of ends of the support pole 2302 and tethers 2304 of the portable canopy 2300 shown in FIGS. 23-25 at the point of attachment. Referring to FIG. 26, the tethers 2304 includes hooks 2600 for attachment to a ring 2602 at the end of the support pole 2302 for attaching the ends together.

[0082] While the embodiments have been described in connection with the various embodiments of the various figures, it is to be understood that other similar embodiments may be used, or modifications and additions may be made to the described embodiment for performing the same function without deviating therefrom. Therefore, the disclosed embodiments should not be limited to any single embodiment, but rather should be construed in breadth and scope in accordance with the appended claims.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0037]The following detailed description is made with reference to the figures. Exemplary embodiments are described to illustrate the disclosure, not to limit its scope, which is defined by the claims. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize a number of equivalent variations in the description that follows.

[0038]Articles “a” and “an” are used herein to refer to one or to more than one (i.e. at least one) of the grammatical object of the article. By way of example, “an element” means at least one element and can include more than one element.

[0039]“About” is used to provide flexibility to a numerical endpoint by providing that a given value may be “slightly above” or “slightly below” the endpoint without affecting the desired result.

[0040]The use herein of the terms “including,”“comprising,” or “having,” and variations thereof is meant to encompass the elements listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional elements. Embodiments recited as “including,”“comp...

Claims

1. A portable canopy comprising:a covering including a rear portion, a first front side portion, and a second front side portion, wherein the first front side portion and the second front side portion are on opposing sides of the covering, and wherein the rear portion is configured for attachment to a structure;a first support pole including a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the first support pole is attached to the first front side portion, and wherein the second end of the first support pole is configured for attachment to the structure;a second support pole including a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the second support pole is attached to the second front side portion, and wherein the second end of the second support pole is configured for attachment to the structure;a first tether attached to the first end of the first support pole and configured to attach to the structure; anda second tether attached to the first end of the second support pole and configured to attach to the structure.

2. The portable canopy of claim 1, wherein the covering is substantially rectangular in shape.

3. The portable canopy of claim 1, wherein the covering defines a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion,wherein the first portion is substantially rectangular in shape and defines a first side and a second side, wherein the first side opposed the second side,wherein the second portion is substantially triangular in shape and attached to the first side of the first portion, andwherein the third portion is substantially triangular in shape and attached to the second side of the first portion.

4. The portable canopy of claim 3, wherein the covering includes a fourth portion attached to at least one of the first, second, and third portions of the covering.

5. The portable canopy of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of hooks attached to the rear portion of the covering for attaching the rear portion of the covering to the structure.

6. The portable canopy of claim 1, wherein the second end of the first support pole defines a hook for attaching the first support pole to the structure, andwherein the second end of the second support pole defines a hook for attaching the second support pole to the structure.

7. The portable canopy of claim 1, wherein the first tether and the second tether are configured to provide tension across a front portion of the covering when the first tether and the second tether are attached to the structure.

8. The portable canopy of claim 1, wherein first support pole and the second support pole are configured to provide tension between the rear portion of the covering and a front portion of the covering when the first support pole and the second support pole are attached to the structure.

9. The portable canopy of claim 1, wherein the first support pole and the second support pole are each extendible.

10. The portable canopy of claim 1, wherein the first end of the first support pole grips to the first front side portion of the covering by frictional force, andwherein the first end of the second support pole grips to the second front side portion of the covering by frictional force.

11. A method of attaching a portable canopy to a structure, the method comprising:providing a portable canopy comprising:a covering including a rear portion, a first front side portion, and a second front side portion, wherein the first front side portion and the second front side portion are on opposing sides of the covering, and wherein the rear portion is configured for attachment to a structure;a first support pole including a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the first support pole is attached to the first front side portion, and wherein the second end of the first support pole is configured for attachment to the structure;a second support pole including a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the second support pole is attached to the second front side portion, and wherein the second end of the second support pole is configured for attachment to the structure;a first tether attached to the first end of the first pole and configured to attach to the structure; anda second tether attached to the first end of the second pole and configured to attach to the structure;attaching the second end of the first support pole to the structure at a first location on the structure;attaching the second end of the second support pole to the structure at a second location on the structure different than the first location;attaching the first tether to the structure at a third location on the structure different than the first location and the second location; andattaching the second tether to the structure at a fourth location on the structure different than the first location, the second location, and the third location.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein the covering is substantially rectangular in shape.

13. The method of claim 11, wherein the covering defines a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion,wherein the first portion is substantially rectangular in shape and defines a first side and a second side, wherein the first side opposed the second side,wherein the second portion is substantially triangular in shape and attached to the first side of the first portion, andwherein the third portion is substantially triangular in shape and attached to the second side of the first portion.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein the covering includes a fourth portion attached to at least one of the first, second, and third portions of the covering.

15. The method of claim 11, further comprising a plurality of hooks attached to the rear portion of the covering for attaching the rear portion of the covering to the structure.

16. The method of claim 11, wherein the portable canopy comprises a plurality of elongated, rigid hooks attached to the rear sides portions of the covering for attaching the rear portion of the covering to higher points on the structure.

17. The method of claim 11, wherein the second end of the first support pole defines a hook for attaching the first support pole to the structure, andwherein the second end of the second support pole defines a hook for attaching the second support pole to the structure.

18. The method of claim 11, wherein the first tether and the second tether are configured to provide tension across a front portion of the covering when the first tether and the second tether are attached to the structure.

19. The method of claim 11, wherein first support pole and the second support pole are configured to provide tension between the rear portion of the covering and a front portion of the covering when the first support pole and the second support pole are attached to the structure.

20. The method of claim 11, wherein the first end of the first support pole grips to the first front side portion of the covering by frictional force, andwherein the first end of the second support pole grips to the second front side portion of the covering by frictional force.

21. A portable canopy kit comprising:a covering including a rear portion, a first front side portion, and a second front side portion, wherein the first front side portion and the second front side portion are on opposing sides of the covering, and wherein the rear portion is configured for attachment to a structure;a first support pole including a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the first support pole is configured for attachment to the first front side portion, and wherein the second end of the first support pole is configured for attachment to the structure;a second support pole including a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the second support pole is configured for attachment to the second front side portion, and wherein the second end of the second support pole is configured for attachment to the structure;a first tether configured for attachment to the first end of the first support pole and configured to attach to the structure; anda second tether configured for attachment to the first end of the second support pole and configured to attach to the structure.

22. A portable canopy comprising:a covering including a rear portion, a front portion, and wherein the rear portion is configured for attachment to a structure;a support pole including a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the first support pole is attached to the front portion, and wherein the second end of the support pole is configured for attachment to the structure;a first tether attached to the first end of the support pole and configured to attach to the structure; anda second tether attached to the first end of the support pole and configured to attach to the structure.

Images