Umbrella Mechanism V-Shaped Rib Vertical Opening

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional umbrellas require manual operation, which can be cumbersome and poses a risk of accidental contact during opening, especially when hands are occupied or in confined spaces.

Innovation Solution

A handheld umbrella mechanism with a 'V' shaped rib configuration that automatically opens vertically before expanding horizontally, powered by a motor, springs, or pneumatics, allowing for hands-free operation and integration with various devices like backpacks or structures.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Extent of automation

If conventional manual operation is used, then the umbrella can be operated with simple structure, but the operation becomes cumbersome and requires user attention

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautomatic openingVSAvoidmechanism complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Extent of automationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The umbrella mechanism performs opening and closing operations automatically without requiring manual manipulation of the umbrella itself. The motorized drive system enables the umbrella to open and close autonomously, with the user only needing to activate the control mechanism, thereby achieving self-service operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The manual mechanical operation is replaced with an automated motorized drive system. The motor replaces the need for manual pressing or sliding actions, using electrical or pneumatic actuation to drive the opening and closing mechanism, thus substituting manual mechanical input with automated mechanical output.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Object-affected harmful factors

If conventional A-shaped ribs are used, then the umbrella structure is simple, but the ribs immediately extend outward risking contact with the user

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecontact riskVSAvoidrib configuration

Core Design Contradiction:

Object-affected harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The ribs are designed to perform a preliminary vertical opening motion before the horizontal expansion phase. This preliminary action of opening vertically first ensures that the canopy does not immediately extend outward toward the user, reducing the risk of contact during the opening process.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The rib opening motion is divided into sequential phases in different dimensional directions: first vertical movement (upward opening) followed by horizontal expansion (outward spreading). This dimensional sequencing transforms the simultaneous outward expansion into a staged process, with vertical motion occurring before horizontal motion to prevent user contact.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Ease of operation

If hands are occupied or in confined spaces, then the user cannot manually operate the umbrella, but automatic operation solves this limitation

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvehands-free operationVSAvoidcontrol mechanism

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The umbrella performs opening and closing operations automatically without requiring manual manipulation of the umbrella itself. The motorized drive system enables the umbrella to open and close autonomously, with the user only needing to activate the control mechanism, thereby achieving self-service operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

An automated control mechanism acts as an intermediary between the user and the umbrella operation. Instead of directly manipulating the umbrella, the user interacts with a control system (such as a button, sensor, or remote) that mediates the opening and closing actions through the motorized drive system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

Enables convenient, hands-free operation of umbrellas in various environments, preventing accidental contact during opening and allowing for integration with additional features like fans, heaters, or GPS, enhancing usability and safety.

Implementation Method 1

the outer shaft slider being controlled by a spring mechanism which expands to extend the canopy and contracts to contract the canopy

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSpring: Spring

Implementation Method 2

activating a raise motor in order to raise and fully expand an umbrella canopy from a handheld housing

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic conversion: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 3

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPneumatics: Pressure Gradient

Data Source

PatentUS8733378B2Umbrella mechanism and methods of use

Publication Date: 2014.05.27 TAYEBI SEAN K

AI summary

Apparatus and methods for an umbrella mechanism with an outer and inner shaft, a plurality of ribs connected with the outer shaft and a canopy supported by the plurality of ribs are provided. The plurality of ribs are configured into a substantially “V” shape when the umbrella mechanism is in a closed position, such that upon opening the umbrella into an open position, the plurality of ribs opens vertically before expanding horizontally, thus avoiding inadvertent contact of the umbrella with a user during the opening operation. The umbrella mechanism may be handheld or mounted to a structure such as a backpack, chair, table, patio or house, and may be operated by an enclosed motor. The motor may be powered by a battery, solar panel embedded into the canopy or an outside power source.