Hands-free umbrella handler
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Solution Overview
Problem
Umbrellas require users to hold them with one hand, limiting the ability to perform tasks that need both hands, such as loading objects into a car or using a golf cart, especially in inclement weather.
Innovation Solution
A portable, hands-free umbrella holder that securely attaches to the umbrella handle, allowing it to be mounted on various objects like cars or golf carts, providing a stable and adjustable mechanism for holding the umbrella in an open state, enabling hands-free use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a person holds an umbrella with one hand, then they receive protection from weather elements, but they cannot freely use both hands for other activities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary device (umbrella holder with clamp mechanism) that mediates between the umbrella and the supporting surface. This holder acts as a mediator that secures the umbrella in place without requiring manual holding, thereby enabling hands-free operation while maintaining umbrella stability through the clamp and support structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical holding system (human hand gripping the umbrella handle) with an automated mechanical system (clamp mechanism with adjustable tension). This substitution eliminates the need for continuous manual intervention while maintaining secure attachment, resolving the contradiction between hands-free operation and stability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If an umbrella holder is designed to be portable and easily attachable, then it can be used in various environments, but it may compromise the secure attachment of the umbrella
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the umbrella holder with universal adaptability to mount on various surfaces (car windows, golf cart roofs, shopping carts) using different attachment methods (suction cups, magnetic bases, clamp-on mechanisms). This multi-functional design enables versatile deployment across different environments while maintaining secure attachment through appropriately selected mounting mechanisms for each surface type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates dynamic adjustment capabilities in the holder design, allowing the clamp tension and mounting position to be adjusted based on the specific application and umbrella size. This dynamic adaptability ensures secure attachment across diverse environments while maintaining portability and ease of installation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the umbrella holder accommodates different sizes of umbrella handles, then it increases versatility, but it may reduce the precision of fit and security
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs adjustable parameters in the clamp mechanism, including variable tension settings and adjustable jaw spacing, to accommodate different handle diameters. By changing these parameters dynamically, the holder maintains precise fit and secure attachment across a range of handle sizes without compromising manufacturing precision of the holder itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the holder into modular components with adjustable elements that can be configured for different handle sizes. This segmentation allows precise adaptation to various handle dimensions while maintaining overall structural integrity and secure attachment through properly configured modular sections.
Data Source
AI summary
A holder for an umbrella includes a base member and a top member. The top member is a resilient member that includes a central opening with slot defined around the opening. A handle for the umbrella can be inserted into the central opening. The base member can include a number of different attachment devices that can be used to attach the holder to an object such as a car or a golf cart. The attachment devices can include magnets or suction cups. The attachment devices can also include a flexible am. One end of the flexible arm can connect to the holder. The other end can have a connector, such as a claw device. The holder is configured to be connected to an object such as a golf cart, shopping cart or car.