Multi-angle Umbrella with Segmented Ribs and Conjoined Coil Caps
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing canopy umbrellas lack the ability to divide ribs into shorter segments for reduced shipping costs, provide structural strength, and offer multiple configuration options for privacy and protection, as well as fail to incorporate features like conjoined-double-coil caps and springs for enhanced functionality and stability.
Innovation Solution
The multi-angle multi-function umbrella incorporates first and second conjoined-double-coil caps and springs, allowing for the division of ribs into shorter segments, connection of ribs for strength, and multiple configurations, along with a height-adjusting system and mounting options for various surfaces, enabling efficient shipping, structural integrity, and versatile use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of stationary object
If ribs are divided into shorter segments, then shipping costs are reduced and packaging volume is decreased, but structural strength and stability are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The ribs are divided into multiple segments (first rib segment, second rib segment, third rib segment) that can be separately packaged to reduce shipping volume. The segments are connected through specialized joints (first rib joint, second rib joint) that maintain structural integrity while allowing compact storage.
Solution Approach 2:
The shorter rib segments are designed to nest within each other or within the umbrella canopy when folded, maximizing space efficiency during storage and shipping while maintaining the ability to form complete rib structures when deployed.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple configuration options are added for privacy and protection, then versatility and functionality are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The umbrella is designed with multiple canopy configurations (single canopy, dual canopy, multi-layer canopy) and adjustable positioning mechanisms that allow the same basic structure to serve multiple functions including sun protection, rain protection, and privacy screening, eliminating the need for multiple separate products.
Solution Approach 2:
The umbrella incorporates adjustable and reconfigurable elements such as height-adjustable posts, angle-adjustable canopy supports, and removable privacy screens that allow users to dynamically change the configuration based on specific needs without permanently complicating the base structure.
3Reliability
If conjoined-double-coil caps and springs are incorporated, then functionality and stability are enhanced, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The conjoined-double-coil cap integrates multiple functions into a single component: it serves as both the structural cap for the rib segment and incorporates the coil spring mechanism for automatic locking and positioning. This merging reduces the number of separate parts and simplifies assembly while enhancing reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The coil spring mechanism is designed to automatically lock rib segments into position and maintain canopy tension without requiring manual adjustment or additional fastening mechanisms, providing self-regulating stability that reduces manufacturing complexity despite the enhanced functionality.
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
This design reduces shipping costs, enhances structural strength, and provides multiple configuration options for privacy and protection, improving the overall functionality and usability of the umbrella.
Implementation Method 1
first conjoined-double-coil springs respectively secured to the first conjoined-double-coil axles; second conjoined-double-coil springs respectively secured to the second conjoined-double-coil axles
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-angle multi-function umbrella comprises: a first foot, a second foot, a mounting plate bolted to the first and second feet, a lower post attached to the mounting plate, an upper post, a middle post, a first inner core inserted into the lower and middle posts, a second inner core inserted into the middle and upper posts, a central tube, a spool, a crank rotatably attached to the spool, a rope threaded through the central tube, central ribs, central arms pivotably attached to the central ribs, an adjustable central canopy attached to the central ribs to adjust to different heights, an intersector slidably attached to the central tube, first ribs pivotably connected to the intersector and central arms, second ribs, third ribs, first coil caps pivotably connected to the first and second ribs, second coil caps pivotably connected to the second and third ribs, raising arms foldably attached to the intersector, an adjustable ring canopy attached to the first and second ribs, and adjusting flaps sewn to the adjustable ring canopy to adjust it to multiple different sizes.