Umbrella Hinge Stability via Wedge Locking and Segmented Joints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing umbrella hinge designs lack sufficient stability, especially in windy conditions and for larger umbrellas, and can jam due to the reliance on an anchor mechanism, compromising strength and performance.
Innovation Solution
A robust hinge assembly featuring a cantilevered beam with an elbow and fork structure, including a pin-slot joint and locking mechanisms with wedge-shaped recesses and projections, which provides stability and secure engagement to prevent rotation and translation when necessary, ensuring the umbrella remains intact under various loads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If an anchor mechanism is used to couple hinge portions, then the hinge can be simple in structure, but the stability and reliability are insufficient especially in windy conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge is divided into multiple portions (first hinge portion, second hinge portion, third hinge portion) that can rotate relative to each other, allowing independent movement and locking of each segment. This segmentation enables the hinge to achieve both simplicity in individual components and reliability through their coordinated interaction during deployment and locking sequences.
Solution Approach 2:
The tension member is pre-configured to automatically engage locking mechanisms during the deployment sequence. As the hinge portions rotate into position, the tension member's tension automatically triggers the locking features to engage, preventing rotation before the canopy is fully deployed. This preliminary action ensures stability is established before operational use.
2Ease of operation
If an anchor mechanism is used to allow rotation, then the hinge can be simple, but it may jam without fully entering the anchor room
Solution Approach 1:
The tension member acts as an intermediary mechanism that coordinates the rotation and locking actions. It transfers force between the hinge portions and locking mechanisms, ensuring that locking features engage only when properly positioned. This intermediary control prevents jamming by sequencing the rotation and locking operations through the tension member's mechanical advantage.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge transitions from a static anchored state to a dynamic rotating state, then to a locked stable state. The pin-slot joints allow dynamic movement during deployment, while the locking mechanisms provide static stability when deployed. This dynamic-static transition prevents jamming by allowing controlled movement followed by secure positioning.
3Strength
If a robust hinge connection is implemented, then stability and strength are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functions are merged into single components: the tension member simultaneously provides structural support, controls deployment sequencing, and triggers locking mechanisms. The locking mechanisms are integrated directly into the hinge portions rather than being separate assemblies. This merging reduces overall complexity while maintaining robust connection strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The tension member serves multiple purposes: it supports the canopy weight, controls the rotation sequence of hinge portions, and actuates the locking mechanisms. The pin-slot joints provide both rotational movement and positional guidance. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional dedicated components, maintaining simplicity despite the robust design.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The robust hinge assembly enhances stability and strength, preventing jamming and maintaining performance even in high wind conditions, making it suitable for larger umbrellas by providing a secure and reliable connection between the canopy and support rod.
Implementation Method 1
A first locking mechanism includes a plurality of side projections disposed on the upper hinge portion and a corresponding plurality of recesses disposed on the lower hinge portion adapted to slide toward and receive the side projections
Implementation Method 2
A fork that comprises first and second tines is disposed adjacent to opposite sides of and rotatably and translationally coupled to the lower portion of the elbow by a pin disposed between said tines and within said elongated pin-slot
Implementation Method 3
The wedge shaped recess is disposed on the lower portion of the elbow and the wedge-shaped projection is disposed on the fork that aligns with the wedge-shaped recess when the pathways are aligned
Data Source
Figure 1~1A
Figure 2
Figure 2A
AI summary
An umbrella assembly is provided that comprises a canopy assembly and support rods connected by a hinge assembly. The hinge assembly allows the canopy assembly to alternate between both deployed and folded positions, as well as opened and closed, by a single tension member that can be controlled by an actuation device such as a crank. The hinge assembly can also interlock, stabilizing the canopy assembly.