Umbrella Hub Cord Lock Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing umbrella hubs and cord retention devices require multiple parts, are difficult to assemble, and have obstructed cord paths, leading to wear, friction, and instability in maintaining the umbrella in an open position.
Innovation Solution
An umbrella hub with an integrated cord retention device, featuring a hub body with projections and a cam-shaped engagement mechanism that allows the cord to pass freely in one direction while preventing movement in the opposite direction, reducing the number of parts and assembly complexity, and providing an obstruction-free path for the cord.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional cord retention devices are used, then the umbrella can be maintained in an open position, but the devices require multiple parts, are difficult to assemble, and have obstructed cord paths leading to wear and friction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the hub body and cord retention device into a single integrated component. The cord retention device is formed as an integral part of the hub body, eliminating the need for separate retention components and reducing the total number of parts that require assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The cord retention device is nested within the hub body structure. The device is positioned inside the hub body with the cord passage extending through the hub, allowing the retention mechanism to be contained within the existing hub structure without adding external complexity.
2Reliability
If traditional cord retention devices are used, then the umbrella can be maintained in an open position, but the cord path is obstructed causing wear, friction, and reduced cord life
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes obstructions from the cord passage by designing a clear, unobstructed path through the hub body. The cord passage is formed to allow free cord movement without contact with surrounding structural elements, extracting the harmful friction and wear factors from the system.
Solution Approach 2:
The cord passage is designed with specific local characteristics - a smooth, unobstructed path that directs the cord away from friction-prone areas. The passage geometry is optimized locally to minimize contact and wear while maintaining the overall hub structure.
3Reliability
If multiple-part cord retention devices are used, then cord engagement can be achieved, but manufacturing and assembly costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The hub body and cord retention device are manufactured as a single integrated component, likely through injection molding or similar processes. This merging eliminates the need for separate manufacturing of retention parts and their subsequent assembly, reducing both manufacturing steps and assembly costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The hub body serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the umbrella mechanism and simultaneously houses the cord retention device with its cord passage and engagement features. This multi-functionality reduces the total number of components needed and simplifies the overall manufacturing process.
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 solution results in a more secure, efficient, and durable umbrella deployment mechanism with reduced manufacturing and assembly costs, extended cord life, and improved user experience by minimizing friction and wear, while maintaining the umbrella in an open position effectively.
Implementation Method 1
a cam-shaped engagement mechanism that allows the cord to pass freely in one direction while preventing movement in the opposite direction
Data Source
AI summary
An umbrella hub is provided that is operative to engage an umbrella cord for maintaining an umbrella in an open position. The hub can comprise a cord retention mechanism. For example, the hub can comprise upper and lower hub portions that form a hub body and a cord retention mechanism comprising an aperture extending through the hub body, a recess disposed within the upper or lower hub portion, and a pair of engagement members disposed in the recess. The cord lock mechanism can be configured to allow the cord to pass freely in a first direction while preventing movement of the cord therethrough in a second direction that is opposite the first direction or to pass freely in both the first and second directions.