A mat

Abstract

A mat for a sunshade with a central pole, the mat having an elongate opening, and a closure system associated with the opening, wherein the closure system is selectively closable to close at least a portion of the elongate opening.

Description

[0001] A MAT

[0002] FIELD OF INVENTION

[0003] The present invention relates to a mat. The present invention has particular but not exclusive application for a beach mat for use with a sun shade. The patent specification describes this use but it is by way of example only and the invention is not limited to this use.

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] Going to the beach is a cherished pastime globally, offering relaxation and socialization opportunities. However, sun protection is crucial due to the health risks associated with excessive sun exposure, such as sunburn and an increased risk of skin cancer. To mitigate these risks, beachgoers often use sunshades like beach umbrellas or gazebo-type sunshades with a central pole. Gazebo-style sunshades typically feature a leg at each corner, often weighted to prevent the structure from being carried away by wind, enhancing stability and safety.

[0006] An essential beach accessory is the beach mat, which provides a comfortable surface for lounging. Integrating a beach mat with a central-pole sunshade can be challenging. Commonly, mats are either wrapped around the pole or placed to one side, both of which have drawbacks. Wrapping the mat around the pole can be cumbersome, and placing it to one side often results in partial sunlight exposure as the sun moves.

[0007] Beach mats with a central aperture for the sunshade pole aim to align the mat with the shaded area. However, this design often fails to cover the entire shaded area throughout the day due to the sun's movement, leading to uneven sun exposure.

[0008] Solutions include using oversized mats for greater coverage, though they can be bulky and inconvenient, or multiple large beach towels, which can create gaps and reduce the shaded area's effectiveness.

[0009] Pivoting umbrellas offer an adjustable solution to maintain shade over the mat, but they are more prone to being dislodged by wind, particularly at certain angles, posing safety concerns.

[0010] Gazebo-style sunshades, with their corner legs and weights, provide a more stable alternative to umbrellas, significantly reducing the risk of being upended by wind. However, the issue of the beach mat not fully utilizing the shaded area, especially as the sun changes position, remains a challenge.

[0011] OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

[0012] It is an object of the present invention to overcome or at least alleviate one or more of the above mentioned problems with beach mats for both umbrella and gazebo-style sunshades and / or provide the consumer with a useful or commercial choice.

[0013] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0014] In one aspect, the present invention broadly resides in a mat for a sunshade with a central pole, the mat having an elongate opening; and a closure system associated with the opening, wherein the closure system is selectively closable to close at least a portion of the elongate opening.

[0015] Preferably, the mat is substantially circular in shape. In another embodiment, the mat is substantially rectangular in shape. Preferably the mat is substantially square. In another embodiment, the mat is in the shape of a regular convex polygon. Preferably the polygon shaped mat has between 3 to 10 edges. More preferably the polygon shaped mat has between 4 to 8 edges. Preferably the polygon shaped mat is equiangular. Preferably the polygon shaped mat is equilateral. In a further embodiment, the mat is substantially oval in shape.

[0016] Preferably the elongate opening extends inwardly. In one embodiment the elongate opening extends inwardly from adjacent an edge of the mat. In another embodiment the elongate opening extends from an edge of the mat. In one embodiment, the elongate opening is openable to an edge of the mat. Preferably the elongate opening extends to the edge of the mat and can open to the edge such that the mat can be located after a central pole of the sunshade has been secured to the ground. In one embodiment, the elongate opening is closed to an edge of the mat. Preferably the elongate opening extends towards a central portion of the mat. In one embodiment, the elongate opening extends toward the centre of the mat. In another embodiment the elongate opening extends past the centre of the mat. Preferably if the mat is polygon shaped, the elongate opening extends from a corner portion of the mat towards a central portion of the mat. In another embodiment, if the mat is polygon shaped, the elongate opening extends from a corner portion of the mat past a central portion of the mat. Preferably a length of the elongate opening is between 20% to 90% of a diameter or a width of the mat. More preferably the length of the elongate opening is between 40% to 60% of a diameter or a width of the mat. Preferably the elongate opening is adapted to receive the central pole of the sunshade.

[0017] Preferably the mat is predominantly made from a natural fabric. More preferably, the mat is predominantly made from a cotton fabric. Preferably the cotton fabric is treated with a waterproofing agent to enhance its durability and resistance to moisture. In another embodiment, the mat is made predominantly from a synthetic material. Preferably, the mat is constructed from polypropylene. In a further embodiment, the mat is manufactured predominantly from polyester. In another embodiment the mat includes a nylon material. In another embodiment, the mat is fabricated from acrylic materials. In a further embodiment, the mat is made predominantly from canvas. In another embodiment the mat is made predominantly from a bamboo based material. Preferably the mat is made predominantly from a bamboo based fabric. In another embodiment, the mat is constructed predominantly from a microfiber fabric. In a further embodiment, the mat includes a neoprene material. Preferably the neoprene material provides a cushioning effect. Other embodiments of the mat may include the use of mesh fabrics, recycled plastics, natural rubber or latex, EVA foam, jute, PVC, silicone-coated fabrics, olefin, or suede.

[0018] Preferably the closure system is adapted to selectively close at least a portion of the elongate opening. Preferably, in use when a central pole of a sunshade is located within the elongate opening, the closure system is adapted to selectively close a portion of the elongate opening from a first end of the elongate opening to a portion adjacent the central pole. Preferably, when the central pole is not located adjacent a second end of the elongate opening, the closure system is adapted to selectively close a portion of the elongate opening from the second end of the elongate opening to a portion adjacent the central pole. Preferably in use the closure system is adapted to substantially close the elongate opening apart from a portion associated with a central pole of a sunshade.

[0019] Preferably the closure system is a toggle and loop type closure system. Preferably the closure system includes a plurality of toggles and a plurality of loops. Preferably the plurality of toggles are associated with a first side of the elongate opening and the loops are associated with a second side of the elongate opening. Preferably in use, the toggles in a closed position are located underneath the loops. Preferably the toggles are made of wood, horn or plastics. Preferably the loops are made of cord or fabric. In another embodiment, the closure system includes a hook and loop closure system. Preferably the hook and loop closure system includes at least one hook portion associated with a first side of the elongate opening and a loop portion associated with a second side of the elongate opening. In another embodiment the closure system is a zipper closure system. Preferably the zipper closure system includes two sliders. Preferably a first slider is associated with a first end of the elongate opening. Preferably a second slider is associated with a second end of the elongate opening. Preferably in use when a central pole of a sunshade is located in the elongate opening, the first slider is adapted to be moved from the first end of the elongate opening towards the central pole to selectively close that portion of the elongate opening, and the second slider is adapted to be moved from the second end of the elongate opening towards the central pole to selectively close that portion of the elongate opening. Preferably each slider includes a pull tab. In another embodiment, the closure system includes a plurality of buttons and button holes. Preferably the plurality of buttons are associated with a first side of the elongate opening. Preferably the plurality of button holes are associated with a second side of the elongate opening. In another embodiment, the closure system includes a plurality of snap fasteners. It will be appreciated that snap fasteners may also be referred to as press studs or pop buttons. Preferably each snap fastener includes a male part with a protruding portion and a female part with a recess. Preferably the male part is associated with one side of the elongate opening and the female part is associated with the other side of the elongate opening. In another embodiment, the closure system includes a hook and eye closure system. Preferably the hook and eye closure system includes a plurality of hooks and a plurality of eyes. Preferably the plurality of hooks are associated with a first side of the elongate opening and the plurality of eyes are associated with a second side of the elongate opening. Preferably the hooks are made of a metal. Preferably the eyes are made of a metal. In another embodiment, the hooks are made of plastic. Preferably the eyes are made of plastic in this embodiment. In another embodiment, the closure system includes a magnetic closure system. Preferably magnetic material is associated with each side of the elongate opening, such that magnetic material on a first side of the elongate opening can be attracted to magnetic material on a second side of the elongate opening. In another embodiment, the closure system includes a press to seal closure system. The press to seal closure system preferably includes two flexible plastic ridges or tracks that run along each side of the elongate opening. Preferably the two sides of the elongate opening are adapted to be pressed together such that the ridges or tracks can interlock.

[0020] In one embodiment, the elongate opening includes at least one flap member adapted to at least partially cover the closure system. Preferably the at least one flap member is associated with a first side of the elongate opening.

[0021] Preferably the mat has a diameter or width of between 1 ,5m and 3.5m.

[0022] Preferably the mat is a beach mat.

[0023] Preferably the mat further includes one or more securing members. Preferably the one or more securing members are adapted to secure the mat to itself in a rolled up or folded up condition. Preferably the one or more securing members include at least one strap and buckle. Preferably the one or more securing members are integrated into the mat. In another embodiment, the mat includes a bag into which the mat can be placed. Preferably the bag is integrated with the mat.

[0024] In one embodiment, the mat includes one or more hardened corners. Preferably each hardened corner can be inserted into a ground surface to anchor the mat to the ground. In another embodiment, the mat includes one or more pockets. Preferably each pocket can be filled with soil or sand or the like to weigh the mat down. In another embodiment the mat includes one or more closable pockets. Preferably the one or more closable pockets are adapted to retain valuables, keys or the like. Preferably in use, the one or more closable pockets are located on a lower side of the mat.

[0025] In another aspect, the present invention broadly resides in a mat and sunshade assembly, the assembly having a sunshade with a substantially centrally located pole; and a mat having an elongate opening adapted to receive the pole; and a closure system associated with the opening, wherein the closure system is selectively closable to close at least a portion of the elongate opening.

[0026] Preferably the mat is a mat as described in this specification. It will be noted that the pole may also be referred to as a central pole. Preferably the sunshade is a gazebo-style sunshade. Preferably the gazebostyle sunshade has a central pole. Preferably the gazebo-style sunshade has a dangling pocket in each corner adapted to weigh the sunshade down when filled with sand or soil. It will be noted that a gazebo-style sunshade may also be referred to as a cabana type sunshade. In another embodiment the sunshade is an umbrella.

[0027] In a further aspect, the present invention broadly resides in a method of aligning a mat with a sunshade, including the steps of

[0028] Locating a central pole of the sunshade within an elongate opening of the mat; and selectively closing at least a portion of the elongate opening with a closure system.

[0029] Preferably the method further includes the step of at least partially opening the closure system, moving the mat relative to the sunshade and selectively closing the open portion of the elongate opening.

[0030] In another aspect, the present invention broadly resides in a mat for a sunshade with a central pole, the mat having an elongate opening.

[0031] Preferably, the mat is substantially circular in shape. In another embodiment, the mat is substantially rectangular in shape. Preferably the mat is substantially square. In another embodiment, the mat is in the shape of a regular convex polygon. Preferably the polygon shaped mat has between 3 to 10 edges. More preferably the polygon shaped mat has between 4 to 8 edges. Preferably the polygon shaped mat is equiangular. Preferably the polygon shaped mat is equilateral. In a further embodiment, the mat is substantially oval in shape.

[0032] Preferably the elongate opening extends inwardly. In one embodiment the elongate opening extends inwardly from adjacent an edge of the mat. In another embodiment the elongate opening extends from an edge of the mat. In one embodiment, the elongate opening is openable to an edge of the mat. Preferably the elongate opening extends to the edge of the mat and can open to the edge such that the mat can be located after a central pole of the sunshade has been secured to the ground. In one embodiment, the elongate opening is open to an edge of the mat. In one embodiment, the elongate opening is closed to an edge of the mat. Preferably the elongate opening extends towards a central portion of the mat. In one embodiment, the elongate opening extends toward the centre of the mat. In another embodiment the elongate opening extends past the centre of the mat. Preferably if the mat is polygon shaped, the elongate opening extends from a corner portion of the mat towards a central portion of the mat. In another embodiment, if the mat is polygon shaped, the elongate opening extends from a corner portion of the mat past a central portion of the mat. Preferably a length of the elongate opening is between 20% to 90% of a diameter or a width of the mat. More preferably the length of the elongate opening is between 40% to 60% of a diameter or a width of the mat. Preferably the elongate opening is adapted to receive the central pole of the sunshade.

[0033] Preferably the mat is predominantly made from a natural fabric. More preferably, the mat is predominantly made from a cotton fabric. Preferably the cotton fabric is treated with a waterproofing agent to enhance its durability and resistance to moisture. In another embodiment, the mat is made predominantly from a synthetic material. Preferably, the mat is constructed from polypropylene. In a further embodiment, the mat is manufactured predominantly from polyester. In another embodiment the mat includes a nylon material. In another embodiment, the mat is fabricated from acrylic materials. In a further embodiment, the mat is made predominantly from canvas. In another embodiment the mat is made predominantly from a bamboo based material. Preferably the mat is made predominantly from a bamboo based fabric. In another embodiment, the mat is constructed predominantly from a microfiber fabric. In a further embodiment, the mat includes a neoprene material. Preferably the neoprene material provides a cushioning effect. Other embodiments of the mat may include the use of mesh fabrics, recycled plastics, natural rubber or latex, EVA foam, jute, PVC, silicone-coated fabrics, olefin, or suede.

[0034] In one embodiment, the elongate opening includes at least one flap member adapted to at least partially cover the elongate opening. Preferably the at least one flap member is associated with a first side of the elongate opening.

[0035] Preferably the mat has a diameter or width of between 1 ,5m and 3m.

[0036] Preferably the mat is a beach mat.

[0037] Preferably the mat further includes one or more securing members. Preferably the one or more securing members are adapted to secure the mat to itself in a rolled up or folded up condition. Preferably the one or more securing members include at least one strap and buckle. Preferably the one or more securing members are integrated into the mat. In another embodiment, the mat includes a bag into which the mat can be placed. Preferably the bag is integrated with the mat.

[0038] In one embodiment, the mat includes one or more hardened corners. Preferably each hardened corner can be inserted into a ground surface to anchor the mat to the ground. In another embodiment, the mat includes one or more pockets. Preferably each pocket can be filled with soil or sand or the like to weigh the mat down. In another embodiment the mat includes one or more closable pockets. Preferably the one or more closable pockets are adapted to retain valuables, keys or the like. Preferably in use, the one or more closable pockets are located on a lower side of the mat.

[0039] The features described with respect to one aspect also apply where applicable to all other aspects of the invention. Furthermore, different combinations of described features are herein described and claimed even when not expressly stated.

[0040] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0041] In order that the present invention can be more readily understood reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings which illustrate a preferred embodiment of the invention and wherein:

[0042] Figure 1 is a schematic top view of a mat according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 2 is a schematic view of the mat of Figure 1 in use with an umbrella type sunshade;

[0044] Figure 3 is a schematic view of the mat of Figure 1 in use with an umbrella type sunshade;

[0045] Figure 4 is a schematic view of the mat of Figure 1 in use with an umbrella type sunshade;

[0046] Figure 5 is a schematic view of the mat of Figure 1 in use with a cabana type sunshade;

[0047] Figure 6 is a schematic view of the mat of Figure 1 in use with a cabana type sunshade;

[0048] Figure 7 is a schematic view of the mat of Figure 1 in use with a cabana type sunshade;

[0049] Figure 8 is a is a schematic view of the mat according to another embodiment of the present invention in use with a cabana type sunshade;

[0050] Figure 9 is a schematic view of the mat according to Figure 7 in use with a cabana type sunshade; and

[0051] Figure 10 is a schematic view of the mat according to Figure 7 in use with a cabana type sunshade. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

[0052] With reference to Figure 1 , there is shown a mat 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The mat 10 is substantially circular in shape. The mat 10 has an elongate opening 12 extending inwardly towards a central portion of the mat 10. The mat 10 has a closure system 14. The closure system 14 has a plurality of toggles 16 and a plurality of loops 18. The plurality of toggles 16 and the plurality of loops 18 can be attached to each other to selectively close the elongate opening 12. The elongate opening 12 is shown in an open condition. In the open condition, a central pole 20 of a sunshade can move relative to the elongate opening 12.

[0053] With reference to Figure 2, there is shown the mat 10 in use with a sunshade 22 in the form of an umbrella. The mat 10 can be moved relative to the sunshade 22, such that the central pole 20 remains within the elongate opening 12 and the mat 10 is located within the shade 30 of the sunshade 22. The elongate opening 12 can be selectively closed using the closure system 14 (best seen in Figure 1) to inhibit soil or sand from coming through the elongate opening.

[0054] With reference to Figure 3, there is shown the mat 10 when the sun (not shown) is substantially overhead, for example, a noon position. The central pole 20 of the sunshade 22 is located towards a first end 19 of the elongate opening 12 to maintain the mat within the shade 30.

[0055] With reference to Figure 4, there is shown the mat 10 when the sun (not shown) is at more of an angle compared to the noon position, for example an afternoon position. The central pole 20 of the sunshade 22 is located towards a second end 17 of the elongate opening 12 to maintain the mat within the shade 30.

[0056] With reference to Figures 5 to 7, there is shown the mat 10 used with a cabana type sunshade 24 having a central pole 26. It can be seen how the mat 10 can be moved (e.g. Figures 6 and 7) to maximise the amount of the mat in the shade 30 during different times of the day.

[0057] With reference to figures 8 to 10, there is shown a mat 110 according to another embodiment of the invention. The mat 110 is substantially square in shape, having an elongate opening 112 extending from adjacent a corner of the mat 110 to a central portion of the mat 110. It can be seen how the mat 10 can be moved relative to a central pole 26 of a cabana type sunshade 24 to maximise the amount of the mat in the shade 30 during different times of the day (e.g. Figures 9 and 10). ADVANTAGES

[0058] An advantage of the preferred embodiment of the mat includes that the mat can be repositioned as the shade moves during the day. Another advantage of the preferred embodiment of the mat includes that the opening can be selectively closed to inhibit sand or soil from coming up through the elongate opening onto the mat. A further advantage of the preferred embodiment of the mat includes that it can be used with different type of sunshades that utilise a central pole. Another advantage of an embodiment of the mat featuring an elongate opening open at one edge is its seamless integration with an existing umbrella pole setup, enabling installation and removal without necessitating the extraction of the umbrella pole from the ground.

[0059] VARIATIONS

[0060] While the foregoing has been given by way of illustrative example of this invention, all such and other modifications and variations thereto as would be apparent to persons skilled in the art are deemed to fall within the broad scope and ambit of this invention as is herein set forth.

[0061] Throughout the description and claims of this specification the word “comprise" and variations of that word such as “comprises” and “comprising”, are not intended to exclude other additives, components, integers or steps.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A mat for a sunshade with a central pole, the mat having an elongate opening; and a closure system associated with the opening, wherein the closure system is selectively closable to close at least a portion of the elongate opening.

2. A mat as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the elongate opening extends inwardly from adjacent an edge of the mat.

3. A mat as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the elongate opening extends towards a central portion of the mat.

4. A mat as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein a length of the elongate opening is between 40% to 60% of a diameter or a width of the mat.

5. A mat as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the closure system is a zipper type closure system.

6. A mat as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the closure system is adapted to selectively close at least a portion of the elongate opening.

7. A mat as claimed in claim 6, wherein in use when a central pole of a sunshade is located within the elongate opening, the closure system is adapted to selectively close a portion of the elongate opening from a first end of the elongate opening to a portion adjacent the central pole, and when the central pole is not located adjacent a second end of the elongate opening, the closure system is adapted to selectively close a portion of the elongate opening from the second end of the elongate opening to a portion adjacent the central pole.

8. A mat as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the mat has a diameter or width of between 1.5m and 3.5m.

9. A mat as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, further including one or more securing members adapted to secure the mat to itself in a rolled up or folded up condition.

10. A mat as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the mat is a beach mat.

11. A mat as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the mat is predominantly made from a natural fabric.

12. A mat as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the mat is substantially circular in shape.

13. A mat as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 11 , wherein the mat is substantially rectangular in shape.

14. A mat and sunshade assembly, the assembly having a sunshade with a substantially centrally located pole; and a mat having an elongate opening adapted to receive the pole; and a closure system associated with the opening, wherein the closure system is selectively closable to close at least a portion of the elongate opening.

15. A mat and sunshade assembly as claimed in claim 13, wherein the sunshade is a cabana type sunshade.

16. A mat and sunshade assembly as claimed in claim 13, wherein the sunshade is an umbrella type sunshade.

17. A mat and sunshade assembly as claimed in any one of claims 14 to 16, wherein the mat is a mat as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 13.

18. A method of aligning a mat with a sunshade, including the steps oflocating a central pole of the sunshade within an elongate opening of the mat; and selectively closing at least a portion of the elongate opening with a closure system.

19. A method as claimed in claim 18, further including the step of at least partially opening the closure system, moving the mat relative to the sunshade and selectively closing the open portion of the elongate opening.

20. A method as claimed in claim 18 or claim 19, wherein the mat is a mat as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 13.

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