Modular Accessory System for Umbrella Lighting and Audio
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Solution Overview
Problem
Patio umbrellas and shade structures are inconvenient to store at night, as they need to be folded, and there is a lack of functionality beyond providing shade, especially in limited spaces.
Innovation Solution
A modular accessory system that includes a connection hub, power supply module, and functional modules, allowing for easy setup and integration with umbrellas and shade structures to provide additional functions like lighting and music, eliminating the need for nighttime storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If umbrellas are deployed to provide shade during the day, then shade function is achieved, but they need to be folded and stored at night which is inconvenient and wastes space
Solution Approach 1:
The umbrella system is enhanced with multiple functional modules including lighting modules that provide illumination at night, audio modules for music playback, and power supply integration. This multi-functionality allows the umbrella to remain deployed after sunset to provide both shade during the day and lighting/music at night, eliminating the need for daily folding and storage while maintaining convenience.
2Adaptability or versatility
If umbrellas are equipped with additional functions like lighting and music, then functionality is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The umbrella system is divided into modular functional components including separate lighting modules, audio modules, power supply modules, and control modules. Each module can be independently installed, configured, and removed. This segmentation allows the base umbrella structure to remain relatively simple while adding functionality through discrete modules that attach to the umbrella's existing framework.
Solution Approach 2:
The functional modules are designed to nest within or attach to the umbrella's structural components. For example, lighting modules can be integrated into the umbrella ribs or canopy support structure, and power supply modules can be housed in the central pole or base. This nesting approach minimizes additional space requirements and reduces the perceived complexity by incorporating new elements within the existing umbrella form factor.
3Stability of the object's composition
If functional modules are permanently attached to the umbrella, then stability is improved, but adaptability and ease of modification are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The connection mechanisms between functional modules and the umbrella structure are designed to be dynamically adjustable. Modules can be securely attached when needed for stable operation, and easily detached or repositioned when modification is desired. This dynamic attachment system allows the configuration to change from a stable, fixed state during use to a flexible, reconfigurable state during maintenance or upgrades.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular design allows functional modules to be easily removed (discarded from the system) and later reinstalled or replaced (recovered). The standardized connection interfaces ensure that modules can be detached without damage and recovered for reuse on the same or different umbrellas, maintaining both stability during operation and adaptability for future modifications.
Data Source
AI summary
An accessory is provided that includes power supply module, a first functional module, and a second functional module. The power supply module can be configured to be suspended beneath an overhead support, such as a hub of an umbrella. The first functional module is configured to affix to the power supply module and to be powered by the power supply module to provide a user directed function. The second functional module is configured to be detachably coupled to either the power supply module or the first functional module to receive power from the power supply module directly or through the first functional module.