CA2088948A1 - Retractable cantilevered boat awning - Google Patents
Retractable cantilevered boat awningInfo
- Publication number
- CA2088948A1 CA2088948A1 CA 2088948 CA2088948A CA2088948A1 CA 2088948 A1 CA2088948 A1 CA 2088948A1 CA 2088948 CA2088948 CA 2088948 CA 2088948 A CA2088948 A CA 2088948A CA 2088948 A1 CA2088948 A1 CA 2088948A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- awning
- support rods
- support structure
- cantilevered
- improved
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
- 238000006073 displacement reaction Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 8
- 230000001681 protective effect Effects 0.000 claims description 12
- 230000015572 biosynthetic process Effects 0.000 claims description 8
- 238000005755 formation reaction Methods 0.000 claims description 8
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims description 8
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 abstract description 24
- 230000002411 adverse Effects 0.000 abstract description 10
- 230000007613 environmental effect Effects 0.000 abstract description 9
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 5
- 230000009471 action Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 2
- XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N aluminium Chemical compound [Al] XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 229910052782 aluminium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 230000008901 benefit Effects 0.000 description 1
- 208000018747 cerebellar ataxia with neuropathy and bilateral vestibular areflexia syndrome Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 230000008859 change Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000295 complement effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000000383 hazardous chemical Substances 0.000 description 1
- JEIPFZHSYJVQDO-UHFFFAOYSA-N iron(III) oxide Inorganic materials O=[Fe]O[Fe]=O JEIPFZHSYJVQDO-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 230000007774 longterm Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000717 retained effect Effects 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04H—BUILDINGS OR LIKE STRUCTURES FOR PARTICULAR PURPOSES; SWIMMING OR SPLASH BATHS OR POOLS; MASTS; FENCING; TENTS OR CANOPIES, IN GENERAL
- E04H15/00—Tents or canopies, in general
- E04H15/02—Tents combined or specially associated with other devices
- E04H15/04—Tents combined or specially associated with other devices suspended type, e.g. from trees or from cantilever supports
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
- B63B—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; EQUIPMENT FOR SHIPPING
- B63B17/00—Vessels parts, details, or accessories, not otherwise provided for
- B63B17/02—Awnings, including rigid weather protection structures, e.g. sunroofs; Tarpaulins; Accessories for awnings or tarpaulins
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Architecture (AREA)
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Ocean & Marine Engineering (AREA)
- Civil Engineering (AREA)
- Structural Engineering (AREA)
- Tents Or Canopies (AREA)
Abstract
ABSTRACT OF THE DISCLOSURE
This invention relates to improvements in cantilevered support structures for presenting an awning or canopy over and above an area for holding an object such as, for example, a docked water vessel or boat, to protect same from a variety of adverse environmental conditions. The improved support structure of the invention comprises a base for securing the structure to a suitable support surface, such as a dock, and cantilevered support rods extending from the base to present the awning over and above the holding area. The support rods feature lockable sliders for attaching the awning to the support rods and which are adapted for displacement along the support rods so that the awning can be furled from an extended position over and above the holding area to a collapsed position for storage. In order to aid a person entering or exiting an object in the holding area, such as a docked water vessel, the support structure includes along one edge a releasable lock for securing an edge of the awning or canopy to the cantilevered support rods so that the awning or canopy can be released in that region from the support rods and folded or furled to a collapsed position adjacent the lockable sliders presented by the support rods in that region. Once the canopy or awning in that region has been so displaced, access to the object in the holding area is readily available.
This invention relates to improvements in cantilevered support structures for presenting an awning or canopy over and above an area for holding an object such as, for example, a docked water vessel or boat, to protect same from a variety of adverse environmental conditions. The improved support structure of the invention comprises a base for securing the structure to a suitable support surface, such as a dock, and cantilevered support rods extending from the base to present the awning over and above the holding area. The support rods feature lockable sliders for attaching the awning to the support rods and which are adapted for displacement along the support rods so that the awning can be furled from an extended position over and above the holding area to a collapsed position for storage. In order to aid a person entering or exiting an object in the holding area, such as a docked water vessel, the support structure includes along one edge a releasable lock for securing an edge of the awning or canopy to the cantilevered support rods so that the awning or canopy can be released in that region from the support rods and folded or furled to a collapsed position adjacent the lockable sliders presented by the support rods in that region. Once the canopy or awning in that region has been so displaced, access to the object in the holding area is readily available.
Description
.
Field of the Invention This invention relates to improvements in support structures for retractable or foldable awnings or canopies for covering objects, such as water vessels, automobiles, or the like, and more particularly relates to a cantilevered awning structure for protecting boats, or the like, from a variety of adverse environmental conditions.
Backaround of the Invention Canopies, awnings, or protective coverings for boats are well known, and a number of structures used to protect automobiles and other objects from adverse atmospheric or other environmental hazards have been known and used for a number of years. These prior art structures, however, are often bulky and permanently fixed to the surface over which the awning or canopy extends, for example, through use of posts concreted to the supporting surface, as disclosed in United States patent nos. 2,694,231, and 3,060,519.
Such structures, as described in the aforementioned United States patents, generally disclose awnings or canopies suitable for short-time use with the awnings or canopies extending over the object to be covered, for example, covering an automobile at a drive-in theatre while it is raining. Moreover, the mechanisms for retracting, or moving the canopy or awning out of protective position above the automobile or object in question generally involves complex arrangements of gears or pulleys which would be unsuitable to allow removal of the awning or canopy from the support structure for off-site storage when not needed, for example, over winter months when a water vessel is in a storage ' ~
Field of the Invention This invention relates to improvements in support structures for retractable or foldable awnings or canopies for covering objects, such as water vessels, automobiles, or the like, and more particularly relates to a cantilevered awning structure for protecting boats, or the like, from a variety of adverse environmental conditions.
Backaround of the Invention Canopies, awnings, or protective coverings for boats are well known, and a number of structures used to protect automobiles and other objects from adverse atmospheric or other environmental hazards have been known and used for a number of years. These prior art structures, however, are often bulky and permanently fixed to the surface over which the awning or canopy extends, for example, through use of posts concreted to the supporting surface, as disclosed in United States patent nos. 2,694,231, and 3,060,519.
Such structures, as described in the aforementioned United States patents, generally disclose awnings or canopies suitable for short-time use with the awnings or canopies extending over the object to be covered, for example, covering an automobile at a drive-in theatre while it is raining. Moreover, the mechanisms for retracting, or moving the canopy or awning out of protective position above the automobile or object in question generally involves complex arrangements of gears or pulleys which would be unsuitable to allow removal of the awning or canopy from the support structure for off-site storage when not needed, for example, over winter months when a water vessel is in a storage ' ~
2~8948 facility. Further, such prior art structures do not disclose how the awning or canopy could be stored in a compact form on site for long or short term storage and which would minimize, particularly in northern climates, snow from building up on the structure.
It can also be appreciated that none of the prior art structures described in the aforementioned United States patents contemplate accessability to objects below the awning or canopy structure, particularly where the canopy or awning extends over objects at a lower elevation than the surface supporting the awning or canopy, such as, in the preferred embodiment of this invention, a boat or water vessel at a dock wherein a typical user would have to step up or down when disembarking or embarking the water vessel.
In order to minimize adverse environmental conditions such as rain or sleet from coming in contact with the object, such as a water vessel or boat protected below the awning or canopy, such awning or canopy structures typically lie low to the water vessel or boat allowing little headroom for a person stepping up or down while disembarking or embarking the water vessel or boat.
Obiects of the Invention It is therefore an object of this invention to provide an improved support structure and awning or canopy which is of relatively lightweight construction yet able to withstand adverse atmospheric and other environmental conditions over extended periods of time. Particularly, a cantilevered support structure is desired for imparting the required strength and durability to the structure, yet maintain the lightweight construction.
' ' ~''' . . ~ -Moreover, it is an object of this invention to provide such a structure wherein the awning or canopy is retractable or collapsible so that same can be stored preferably at one side of the support structure minimizing or eliminating damage that could occur to such structure when not in use; for example, in wintertime where heavy snowfall is usual, the awning or canopy can be furled or folded to one side of the support structure minimizing snow build up on such awning or canopy.
Further, it is an object of this invention to provide an awning or canopy which is easily removable from the cantilevered support structure so that same can be stored in a separate location, such as a shed or warehouse, when the awning or canopy is not required, for example, in wintertime when the water vessel or boat is placed in storage facilities for that season.
It is also an object of this invention to provide an awning or canopy, particularly when extended over the object to be protected therebelow, which allows a person access to the object without requiring that person to crouch or bend over to avoid the awning or canopy, and particularly the awning edges or overhang; for example, - - .:. ~.....
a docked water vessel or boat beneath the awning or canopy wherein a person must step up or down to exit or enter such vessel.
Features of the Invention -IIt is therefore a feature of this invention to provide an improved cantilevered support structure for presenting an awning or canopy over and above an area for holding an object, such as a water vessel or boat, therebelow. In particular, the support structure comprises a base for securing the structure to a suitable support surface, and in the preferred embodiment, for securing such structure to a dock, and cantilevered support rods extending from the base to present the awning over and above the holding area.
In order that the awning or canopy be retractable or collapsible for storage, the support rods present lockable sliders for attaching the awning to the support rods and which are adapted to displace the awning over the support rods so that the awning can be furled from an extended position over and above the holding area to a collapsed position for storage.
It is a further feature of this invention to have the awning present transverse support rods to the lockable sliders for attaching the awning to the cantilevered support rods. Nore particularly, the lockable sliders present a first part including locking means for displaceably securing the sliders to the cantilevered support rods, and a second part for receiving the transverse support rods presented by the awning, and, in the preferred embodiment, the second part also includes locking means for displaceably securing the sliders to the transverse support rods of the awning.
Further, it is a feature of this invention that the first and second parts of the lockable sliders comprise respective tube `
formations adapted to surround the cantilevered support rods and the transverse support rods, respectively. This enables the awning to be displaced along the cantilevered support rods so that same can be furled to a collapsed position, and preferably to one side of the support rods for storage. Alternatively, the awning can be removed from the cantilevered support rods by displacing the "- . ~
208894~
sliders along such support rods and off one end thereof. The awning can then be folded for storage by removing the transverse support rods from the awning structure by displacing same through the respective second parts presented by the lockable sliders.
It can be appreciated that in order to releasably secure the awning to the support structure and particularly so that the ends of same are appropriately anchored against dislodgment from wind or the like, the awning presents longitudinal pocket formations for receiving therewithin the transverse support rods.
In order to allow a person access to an object in the holding area, and particularly in the example of a water vessel or boat which is usually at a lower elevation than the support surface or dock, means are provided to secure an edge of the awning to the cantilevered support rods in the region overlying the base of the support structure, so that the awning edge can be released from the support rods and furled or folded to a collapsed position exposing the boat therebelow in that region.
In one of the preferred embodiments of this invention one of the transverse support rods presented by the awning is used to releasably secure the edge of the awning over the base, while a second transverse support rod is presented to the lockable sliders in that region over the base, and which second support rod provides a pivot about which the awning edge can be folded.
Further, it can be appreciated that when the awning structure is collapsed for storage, a protective covering can be provided to sub~tantially ~urround the awning over oxtended period~ of time, for example, in wintertime when the boat or water vessel is in a storage facility.
Moreover, it is a feature of this invention to provide a support structure for presenting an awning over and above an area for holding an object therebelow wherein the support structure is cantilevered and comprises a base for securing the structure to a suitable support surface. The cantilevered support rods comprise a first portion extending from the base, and a second portion extending from the first portion to present the awning over and above the holding area. First diagonal supports are presented to extend from the base to the support surface, and further diagonal supports are presented to extend from the base to the second portion of the cantilevered support rods.
It is a feature of this invention that the further diagonal supports be pivotally secured at each of their ends to the respective base and second portions of the cantilevered support rods and at least one end be displaceably secured as well. This allows the support rods to be vertically adjustable so that the desired height of the cantilevered support rods, and hence the awning, over the object can be selected.
Noreover, it is a feature of this invention that the first diagonal support rods comprise a first part extending from the base to the support surface in the same direction as the extent of the cantilevered support rods, and a second part extending from the base in a region above where the first part extends from and towards the support surface in an opposed direction to that of the first part.
Particularly, it is a feature of this invention that the base comprise a plate portion secured to the support surface, and upstanding therefrom is a tubular portion having a configuration to receive therein at its upper extent the first portion of the cantilevered support rods. Moreover, so that the height of the cantilevered support rods above the object can be appropriately selected and secured, the tubular portions of the base can include a locking member for suitably locking with the displaceable portion of the cantilevered support rods against displacement.
Moreover, it is a feature of this invention to provide an improved method for storing an awning or canopy which is normally presented by a support structure over and above an area for holding an object therebelow, the method comprising the steps of releasing the means for releasably securing the awning to the support structure and displacing same along the support rods so that the awning is furled from an extended position to a collapsed position for storage.
Further, it is a feature of this invention to provide an improved method for entering or exiting an object, and particularly a water vessel or boat at a dock over which the awning extends, the mèthod comprising steps of releasing an edge on the awning releasably secured to the support rods in the region overlying the base of such structure and displacing the released awning edge so that the awning can be furled from an extended position over the base of such structure to a collapsed position in that region to allow access by a user to the object in the holding area, and particularly a water vessel below the awning structure.
.
Description of the Invention These and other objects and features of the invention will become clear upon reading the following description in conjunction with the drawings in which:
Figure 1 is a perspective view of a cantilevered retractable awning structure of this invention secured to a suitable support :
structure, such as a dock, and extending outwardly and away therefrom to extend over an object (not illustrated), such as a water vessel or boat; :
Figure 2 is a side sectional view of the cantilevered support ~ ~
structure illustrated in Figure 1; : :
Figure 3 is a sectional view taken along the lines 3-3 of Figure 2 illustrating the means for slideably securing the canopy or awning to the cantilevered support structure;
Figure 4 is a further side sectional view similar to Figure 3 again illustrating the means for slidably securing the canopy or . .
awning to the cantilevered support structure; ~ :
Figure 5 is a side sectional view of the transverse support rods and the construction of the awning or canopy, and particularly ~ -illustrating how the canopy or awning is secured to such rods;
Figure 6 is a side sectional view of the cantilevered support structure of this invention with the awning in the region over the base of the support structure furled back so as to allow access to an object therebelow; ~ -Figure 7 is a side sectional view of the cantilevered support structure of this invention wherein the awning or canopy is in part -furled to a collapsed or retracted position for storage;
8 ~;
: ~ ' ' ' 208894~
.
Figure 8 is a perspective view of the means for securing the support structure to a suitable support surface, such a dock; and Figure 9 is a perspective view of the awning or canopy furled or folded in a completely retracted or collapsed position for storage on the support structure and surrounded by a protective covering or sleeve.
The improved cantilevered retractable awning structure lO of this invention is best illustrated in Figure l and comprises a plurality of cantilevered support posts 12 for positioning and supporting at one end thereof an awning or canopy 14 over an area for holding an object to be protected by the structure, while the other end of such posts present mounting brackets 16 suitably welded to a base 18 which in turn is secured to a support surface 20 through means of bolts 22.
Support posts 12 preferably position and support awning 14 outwardly and away in a cantilever like fashion from the suitable support surface 20, such as, in the preferred embodiment, a side of a dock, so that the awning extends over the object to be protected, which in the preferred embodiment is a water vessel or boat, not illustrated.
In order to increase the strength and stability of the cantilevered support structure mounting brackets 16 are provided withl a series of diagonally disposed supports 24 extending from mounting brackets 16 to base 18 in the region of the edge of supporting surface 20, and by a series of opposed diagonally disposed supports 26, likewise extending from mounting brackets 16 to base 18, but secured to mounting brackets 16 in a region above - . .: ., ,~ .,: . ., . : . : .- . :
: . .... : -. ~, - ., . :. . .
20889~8 where diagonally disposed supports 24 are secured to mounting brackets 16. Such diagonal supports 24, 26 are preferably welded at both ends to base 18 and mounting brackets 16, respectively, so as to impart substantial strength and stability to mounting brackets 16 which, in turn, provides a firm base for support posts 12; all so that the structure can withstand a variety of adverse environmental conditions to which awning or canopy 14 will be subjected.
As can be seen, support posts 12 present mounting brackets 16 at one end thereof, and comprise at their other ends generally L-shaped cantilevered awning support rods 28, best illustrated in Figure 2, which have the short sides slidably received within mounting brackets 16, and the elongated sides extending outwardly and generally horizontally over the area to be covered and adapted lS for receiving thereon awning or canopy 14.
In order to provide additional support to cantilevered support rods 28, diagonal support rods 30 are provided extending from mounting brackets 16 to the elongate portions of awning support rods 28 and secured at either end through respective lower and ~. - .
upper brackets 32, 34. Accordingly, any forces impinging upon awning 14 and transferred through awning support rods 28 are also transferred through diagonal support rods 30 to mounting brackets 16, providing additional strength and stability to structure 10 ~ ~ -when such structure is exposed to adverse environmental conditions. ~
Support posts 12 allow for ad~ustment of the height of the :~:
cantilevered support structure through the slidable action of :~
awning support rods 28 within mounting brackets 16. Once the : -.
: .: ' '~; ' desired height has heen selected support rods 28 are locked in place within mounting brackets 16 through use of appropriate lock nuts 36, as is well known in the art.
In order to accommodate adjusting of the height of awning support rods 28, diagonal support rods 30 are pivotally securPd to lower brackets 32 and top brackets 34, respectively. Additionally, top brackets 34 are slideably displaceable along the generally horizontal portion of support rods 28 so that diagonal support rods 30 can accommodate the adjustment in the height of awning support rods 28. Therefore, once the desired height has been selected and lock nuts 36 appropriately tightened, top brackets 34 can likewise , be locked to awning support rods 28 to secure diagonal support rods 30 in place.
Awning or canopy 14 is secured to awning support rods 28 through means of a plurality of transversely extending support rods or stringers 38, which are slidably received within pockets provided in awning 14, as will hereinafter be explained, and which are connected to awning support rods 28 through means of a plurality of lockable sliders 40a, 40b, 40c, and 40d.
Lockable sliders 40a, 40b, 40c, and 40d, are divided into upper tubular parts 42a, 42b, 42c, and 42d, respectively, for slideably receiving therethrough transverse support rods 38, and lower tubular parts 44a, 44b, 44c, and 44d, respectively, for slideably receiving therethrough awning support rods 28, all as best illustrated in Figures 3 and 4.
To lock transverse support rods 38 against displacement within upper tubular parts 42a, 42b, 42c, and 42d, of lockable sliders . :. - . ` :
:
20889~8 40a, 40b, 40c, and 40d, respectively, set screws 46a, 46b, 46c, and 46d, respectively, are provided. Similarly, to lock awning support rods 28 against displacement within lower tubular parts 44a, 44b, 44c, and 44d, of lockable sliders 40a, 40b, 40c, and 40d, respectively, set screws 48a, 48b, 48c, and 48d, respectively, are provided.
Once the desired spacing of lockable sliders 40a, 40b, 40c, and 40d, along transverse support rods 38 has been selected, set screws 46a, 46b, 46c, and 46d, respectively, are tightened.
Similarly, once the desired spacing of lockable sliders 40a, 40b, 40c, and 40d, on awning support rods 28 has been selected, lower set screws 48a, 48b, 48c, and 48d, respectively, are tightened.
Therefore, awning or canopy 14 can be appropriately extended or retracted over a plurality of awning support rods 28 by displacing lockable sliders 40a, 40b, 40c, and 40d, respectively, over the generally horizontal extent of awning support rods 28, and : .
selectively securing or releasing same thereto through use of the lower set screws 48a, 48b, 48c, and 48d, respectively. -As best illustrated in Figures 2, 6, and 7, awning or canopy 14 is releasably secured to awning support rods 28 in the forward ~ ~ ;
region of the structure overlying the base through suitable means such as clips 50. This allows a user ready access to the object below the awning from the support surface by allowing the awning to be lifted from or folded back over support rods 28 in the region of ~ ~
the base, as will hereinafter be described. ~ ;
~ ' 12 - ~
In constructing the support structure 10 of this invention, it can be appreciated that all rods and sliders are constructed from rust resistant materials able to withstand adverse environment conditions year round. In the preferred embodiment aluminum tubing is used, however, other suitable materials can be utilized providing they have the requisite strength and resistance to environmental conditions.
Awning or canopy 14 is best illustrated in Figures 3, 4, and 5, and is preferably of a canvass construction comprising two layers, an upper layer 52, and a lower or securing layer 54 secured to upper layer 52 through appropriate means such as stitching, and, as illustrated in Figures 1, and 5, upper layer 52 extends beyond the lengths of transverse support rods 38 and awning support rods 28 to form a finishing trim 56 around the entire structure.
In the preferred embodiment lower layer 54 is appropriately stitched to upper layer 52 in a manner to ~orm longitudinal pockets 58 within which awning support rods 38 are slideably retained, as best illustrated in Figures 3 and 4.
Note that in order for lockable sliders 40a, 40b, 40c, and 40d, to present their upper tubular portions 42a, 42b, 42c, and 42d, respectively, to transverse support rods 38, selectively positioned gaps 60 in longitudinal pockets 58 are needed to expose those portions of transverse support rods 38 to upper tubular portions 42a, 42b, 42c, and 42d, of respective lockable slider 40a, 40b, 40c, and 40d, as best illustrated in Figure 3.
In order to secure transverse support rods 38 within longitudinal pockets 58 of awning or canopy 14, longitudinal . - - : . - ~ . .
.:
-.- .: :. . : :-..: :- ~ .;
.: :. . : :
2~88948 pockets 58 are provided lowermost near the edges thereof with VELCRO~ hooks or loops 62 for cooperating with corresponding VELCRO~ hooks or loops 64 presented by the edges of lower or securing layer 54. As best illustrated in Figure 5, the respective ends of lower or securing layer 54 are pulled around the open ends of longitudinal pockets 58 and the ends of transverse support rods 38 held within longitudinal pockets 58 and releasably secured to the underside of longitudinal pockets 58 by the respective VELCRO~
hooks and loops.
It can be appreciated that in order for awning or canopy 14 to be effective in providing adequate protection against adverse environmental conditions, the awning or canopy should be relatively close to the object being protected. A disadvantage to this is realized when one considers a water vessel or boat at a dock wherein the change in elevation means the user has to step up or down, respectively, when boarding or disembarking from such vessel;
the edge of the awning or canopy presents an obstacle to such action, causing the user to crouch during boarding or disembarking.
A particular advantage of this invention is that awning or canopy 14 in the region overlying the vertical portion of support rods 28 can be displaced away therefrom so as to allow ready and easy access to the object below awning or canopy 14 in the holding area. For example, awning 14 can be hinged about first lockable slider 40a so that upon appropriate release of clips 50 awning 14 is swung upwardly and away from support rods 28 in that region allowing the user ready and easy access to the water vessel or boat '~,, ', .', ,.. ...
- -, , . . . ,. .. : . .
2o88948 below the awning or canopy with no interference by the awning or canopy.
Alternatively, awning or canopy 14 can be, upon appropriate release of clips 50, rolled up as indicated at 66 in Figure 6, exposing the object below the awning or canopy in that region for easy access.
The ability to furl, fold, or roll the awning or canopy away from the vertical portion of support rods 28 is important for water vessels or boats alongside a dock to which one must either step up or step down to disembark or board, respectively, from such vessel.
Without such a mechanism the changing elevation between the dock and the water vessel would cause the user to have to unnecessarily crouch in order to enter or exit the docked water vessel or boat in order to avoid the awning or canopy in the region overlying the lS dock edge.
It is also a feature of this invention that awning or canopy 14 can also be furled to one side of the generally horizontal portion of support rods 28 when such awning is not to be used over a period of time. In order to achieve this storage position, lower set screws 48a, 48~, 48c, and 48d, of lockable sliders 40a, 40b, 40c, and 40d, respectively, are loosened, and the lower tubular parts 44a, 44b, 44c, and 44d, thereof slidably displaced along the generally horizontal portion of awning support rods 28 and preferably toward top brackets 34, as best illustrated in Figure 7, so that awning or canopy 14 can be furled to one side of the support structure, and preferably in folds 68 as illustrated in Figure 9.
~$~d ~ ~ ` t 'i' 208894~
For a complete collapsed or retracted storage position, as illustrated in Figure 9, clips 50 are then released and the awning or canopy 14 is preferably furled into complementary folds to folds 68. Once the awning or canopy is so collapsed or retracted in the appropriate folds, a suitable sleeve or protective covering 70, such as tarpaulin, is then provided to surround awning or canopy 14.
Protective covering or sleeve 70 is provided with appropriate openings 72 lowermost to allow support rods 28 to extend therethrough. By providing such openings lowermost, however, sleeve or protective covering 70 protects lockable sliders 40a, 40b, 40c, and 40d, therewithin from a variety of adverse environmental conditions.
Once properly fitted around awning or canopy 14, sleeve or protective covering 70 is releasably secured lowermost through means of suitable snaps 74.
Should it be desired to store the awning or canopy for long periods of time, such as in winter time when common water vessels or boats are in storage, awning or canopy 14 can be removed from the support structure with protective covering or sleeve 70 intact by simply loosening lower set screws 48a, 48b, 48c, and 48d, of lockable sliders 40a~ 40b, 40c, and 40d, respectively, and displacing lower tubular parts 44a, 44b, 44c, and 44d, thereof over the open ends of the generally horizontal portions of support rods 28.
Alternatively, awning or canopy 14 can be appropriately folded for storage by first removing same from support rods 28, as . .
.
16 ~ ;
:, . . .
'`; ~;' 208~948 described above, and then removing transverse support rods 38 from longitudinal pockets 38, by loosening upper set screws 46a, 46b, 46c, and 46d, of lockable sliders 40a, 40b, 40c, and 40d, respectively, and then releasing the VELCRO~ hooks and loops 62, 64 of the edge portions of lower or securing layer 54 from the edge portions of longitudinal pockets 58 and slidably removing transverse support rods 38 from upper tubular parts 42a, 42b, 42c, and 42d, of sliders 40a, 40b, 40c, and 40d, respectively, and longitudinal pockets 58. The awning or canopy can then be folded for long term storage and the lockable sliders and transverse support rods also stored away.
While a specific embodiment of this invention has been illustrated and described herein, the invention is not to be limited to the specific construction disclosed. Those skilled in the art may be able to provide modifications or alternatives to the disclosed structural features while still practising this invention. It is intended to cover all such modifications and alternatives as well as other embodiments not disclosed which do not constitute a departure from the spirit and scope of the attached claims.
It can also be appreciated that none of the prior art structures described in the aforementioned United States patents contemplate accessability to objects below the awning or canopy structure, particularly where the canopy or awning extends over objects at a lower elevation than the surface supporting the awning or canopy, such as, in the preferred embodiment of this invention, a boat or water vessel at a dock wherein a typical user would have to step up or down when disembarking or embarking the water vessel.
In order to minimize adverse environmental conditions such as rain or sleet from coming in contact with the object, such as a water vessel or boat protected below the awning or canopy, such awning or canopy structures typically lie low to the water vessel or boat allowing little headroom for a person stepping up or down while disembarking or embarking the water vessel or boat.
Obiects of the Invention It is therefore an object of this invention to provide an improved support structure and awning or canopy which is of relatively lightweight construction yet able to withstand adverse atmospheric and other environmental conditions over extended periods of time. Particularly, a cantilevered support structure is desired for imparting the required strength and durability to the structure, yet maintain the lightweight construction.
' ' ~''' . . ~ -Moreover, it is an object of this invention to provide such a structure wherein the awning or canopy is retractable or collapsible so that same can be stored preferably at one side of the support structure minimizing or eliminating damage that could occur to such structure when not in use; for example, in wintertime where heavy snowfall is usual, the awning or canopy can be furled or folded to one side of the support structure minimizing snow build up on such awning or canopy.
Further, it is an object of this invention to provide an awning or canopy which is easily removable from the cantilevered support structure so that same can be stored in a separate location, such as a shed or warehouse, when the awning or canopy is not required, for example, in wintertime when the water vessel or boat is placed in storage facilities for that season.
It is also an object of this invention to provide an awning or canopy, particularly when extended over the object to be protected therebelow, which allows a person access to the object without requiring that person to crouch or bend over to avoid the awning or canopy, and particularly the awning edges or overhang; for example, - - .:. ~.....
a docked water vessel or boat beneath the awning or canopy wherein a person must step up or down to exit or enter such vessel.
Features of the Invention -IIt is therefore a feature of this invention to provide an improved cantilevered support structure for presenting an awning or canopy over and above an area for holding an object, such as a water vessel or boat, therebelow. In particular, the support structure comprises a base for securing the structure to a suitable support surface, and in the preferred embodiment, for securing such structure to a dock, and cantilevered support rods extending from the base to present the awning over and above the holding area.
In order that the awning or canopy be retractable or collapsible for storage, the support rods present lockable sliders for attaching the awning to the support rods and which are adapted to displace the awning over the support rods so that the awning can be furled from an extended position over and above the holding area to a collapsed position for storage.
It is a further feature of this invention to have the awning present transverse support rods to the lockable sliders for attaching the awning to the cantilevered support rods. Nore particularly, the lockable sliders present a first part including locking means for displaceably securing the sliders to the cantilevered support rods, and a second part for receiving the transverse support rods presented by the awning, and, in the preferred embodiment, the second part also includes locking means for displaceably securing the sliders to the transverse support rods of the awning.
Further, it is a feature of this invention that the first and second parts of the lockable sliders comprise respective tube `
formations adapted to surround the cantilevered support rods and the transverse support rods, respectively. This enables the awning to be displaced along the cantilevered support rods so that same can be furled to a collapsed position, and preferably to one side of the support rods for storage. Alternatively, the awning can be removed from the cantilevered support rods by displacing the "- . ~
208894~
sliders along such support rods and off one end thereof. The awning can then be folded for storage by removing the transverse support rods from the awning structure by displacing same through the respective second parts presented by the lockable sliders.
It can be appreciated that in order to releasably secure the awning to the support structure and particularly so that the ends of same are appropriately anchored against dislodgment from wind or the like, the awning presents longitudinal pocket formations for receiving therewithin the transverse support rods.
In order to allow a person access to an object in the holding area, and particularly in the example of a water vessel or boat which is usually at a lower elevation than the support surface or dock, means are provided to secure an edge of the awning to the cantilevered support rods in the region overlying the base of the support structure, so that the awning edge can be released from the support rods and furled or folded to a collapsed position exposing the boat therebelow in that region.
In one of the preferred embodiments of this invention one of the transverse support rods presented by the awning is used to releasably secure the edge of the awning over the base, while a second transverse support rod is presented to the lockable sliders in that region over the base, and which second support rod provides a pivot about which the awning edge can be folded.
Further, it can be appreciated that when the awning structure is collapsed for storage, a protective covering can be provided to sub~tantially ~urround the awning over oxtended period~ of time, for example, in wintertime when the boat or water vessel is in a storage facility.
Moreover, it is a feature of this invention to provide a support structure for presenting an awning over and above an area for holding an object therebelow wherein the support structure is cantilevered and comprises a base for securing the structure to a suitable support surface. The cantilevered support rods comprise a first portion extending from the base, and a second portion extending from the first portion to present the awning over and above the holding area. First diagonal supports are presented to extend from the base to the support surface, and further diagonal supports are presented to extend from the base to the second portion of the cantilevered support rods.
It is a feature of this invention that the further diagonal supports be pivotally secured at each of their ends to the respective base and second portions of the cantilevered support rods and at least one end be displaceably secured as well. This allows the support rods to be vertically adjustable so that the desired height of the cantilevered support rods, and hence the awning, over the object can be selected.
Noreover, it is a feature of this invention that the first diagonal support rods comprise a first part extending from the base to the support surface in the same direction as the extent of the cantilevered support rods, and a second part extending from the base in a region above where the first part extends from and towards the support surface in an opposed direction to that of the first part.
Particularly, it is a feature of this invention that the base comprise a plate portion secured to the support surface, and upstanding therefrom is a tubular portion having a configuration to receive therein at its upper extent the first portion of the cantilevered support rods. Moreover, so that the height of the cantilevered support rods above the object can be appropriately selected and secured, the tubular portions of the base can include a locking member for suitably locking with the displaceable portion of the cantilevered support rods against displacement.
Moreover, it is a feature of this invention to provide an improved method for storing an awning or canopy which is normally presented by a support structure over and above an area for holding an object therebelow, the method comprising the steps of releasing the means for releasably securing the awning to the support structure and displacing same along the support rods so that the awning is furled from an extended position to a collapsed position for storage.
Further, it is a feature of this invention to provide an improved method for entering or exiting an object, and particularly a water vessel or boat at a dock over which the awning extends, the mèthod comprising steps of releasing an edge on the awning releasably secured to the support rods in the region overlying the base of such structure and displacing the released awning edge so that the awning can be furled from an extended position over the base of such structure to a collapsed position in that region to allow access by a user to the object in the holding area, and particularly a water vessel below the awning structure.
.
Description of the Invention These and other objects and features of the invention will become clear upon reading the following description in conjunction with the drawings in which:
Figure 1 is a perspective view of a cantilevered retractable awning structure of this invention secured to a suitable support :
structure, such as a dock, and extending outwardly and away therefrom to extend over an object (not illustrated), such as a water vessel or boat; :
Figure 2 is a side sectional view of the cantilevered support ~ ~
structure illustrated in Figure 1; : :
Figure 3 is a sectional view taken along the lines 3-3 of Figure 2 illustrating the means for slideably securing the canopy or awning to the cantilevered support structure;
Figure 4 is a further side sectional view similar to Figure 3 again illustrating the means for slidably securing the canopy or . .
awning to the cantilevered support structure; ~ :
Figure 5 is a side sectional view of the transverse support rods and the construction of the awning or canopy, and particularly ~ -illustrating how the canopy or awning is secured to such rods;
Figure 6 is a side sectional view of the cantilevered support structure of this invention with the awning in the region over the base of the support structure furled back so as to allow access to an object therebelow; ~ -Figure 7 is a side sectional view of the cantilevered support structure of this invention wherein the awning or canopy is in part -furled to a collapsed or retracted position for storage;
8 ~;
: ~ ' ' ' 208894~
.
Figure 8 is a perspective view of the means for securing the support structure to a suitable support surface, such a dock; and Figure 9 is a perspective view of the awning or canopy furled or folded in a completely retracted or collapsed position for storage on the support structure and surrounded by a protective covering or sleeve.
The improved cantilevered retractable awning structure lO of this invention is best illustrated in Figure l and comprises a plurality of cantilevered support posts 12 for positioning and supporting at one end thereof an awning or canopy 14 over an area for holding an object to be protected by the structure, while the other end of such posts present mounting brackets 16 suitably welded to a base 18 which in turn is secured to a support surface 20 through means of bolts 22.
Support posts 12 preferably position and support awning 14 outwardly and away in a cantilever like fashion from the suitable support surface 20, such as, in the preferred embodiment, a side of a dock, so that the awning extends over the object to be protected, which in the preferred embodiment is a water vessel or boat, not illustrated.
In order to increase the strength and stability of the cantilevered support structure mounting brackets 16 are provided withl a series of diagonally disposed supports 24 extending from mounting brackets 16 to base 18 in the region of the edge of supporting surface 20, and by a series of opposed diagonally disposed supports 26, likewise extending from mounting brackets 16 to base 18, but secured to mounting brackets 16 in a region above - . .: ., ,~ .,: . ., . : . : .- . :
: . .... : -. ~, - ., . :. . .
20889~8 where diagonally disposed supports 24 are secured to mounting brackets 16. Such diagonal supports 24, 26 are preferably welded at both ends to base 18 and mounting brackets 16, respectively, so as to impart substantial strength and stability to mounting brackets 16 which, in turn, provides a firm base for support posts 12; all so that the structure can withstand a variety of adverse environmental conditions to which awning or canopy 14 will be subjected.
As can be seen, support posts 12 present mounting brackets 16 at one end thereof, and comprise at their other ends generally L-shaped cantilevered awning support rods 28, best illustrated in Figure 2, which have the short sides slidably received within mounting brackets 16, and the elongated sides extending outwardly and generally horizontally over the area to be covered and adapted lS for receiving thereon awning or canopy 14.
In order to provide additional support to cantilevered support rods 28, diagonal support rods 30 are provided extending from mounting brackets 16 to the elongate portions of awning support rods 28 and secured at either end through respective lower and ~. - .
upper brackets 32, 34. Accordingly, any forces impinging upon awning 14 and transferred through awning support rods 28 are also transferred through diagonal support rods 30 to mounting brackets 16, providing additional strength and stability to structure 10 ~ ~ -when such structure is exposed to adverse environmental conditions. ~
Support posts 12 allow for ad~ustment of the height of the :~:
cantilevered support structure through the slidable action of :~
awning support rods 28 within mounting brackets 16. Once the : -.
: .: ' '~; ' desired height has heen selected support rods 28 are locked in place within mounting brackets 16 through use of appropriate lock nuts 36, as is well known in the art.
In order to accommodate adjusting of the height of awning support rods 28, diagonal support rods 30 are pivotally securPd to lower brackets 32 and top brackets 34, respectively. Additionally, top brackets 34 are slideably displaceable along the generally horizontal portion of support rods 28 so that diagonal support rods 30 can accommodate the adjustment in the height of awning support rods 28. Therefore, once the desired height has been selected and lock nuts 36 appropriately tightened, top brackets 34 can likewise , be locked to awning support rods 28 to secure diagonal support rods 30 in place.
Awning or canopy 14 is secured to awning support rods 28 through means of a plurality of transversely extending support rods or stringers 38, which are slidably received within pockets provided in awning 14, as will hereinafter be explained, and which are connected to awning support rods 28 through means of a plurality of lockable sliders 40a, 40b, 40c, and 40d.
Lockable sliders 40a, 40b, 40c, and 40d, are divided into upper tubular parts 42a, 42b, 42c, and 42d, respectively, for slideably receiving therethrough transverse support rods 38, and lower tubular parts 44a, 44b, 44c, and 44d, respectively, for slideably receiving therethrough awning support rods 28, all as best illustrated in Figures 3 and 4.
To lock transverse support rods 38 against displacement within upper tubular parts 42a, 42b, 42c, and 42d, of lockable sliders . :. - . ` :
:
20889~8 40a, 40b, 40c, and 40d, respectively, set screws 46a, 46b, 46c, and 46d, respectively, are provided. Similarly, to lock awning support rods 28 against displacement within lower tubular parts 44a, 44b, 44c, and 44d, of lockable sliders 40a, 40b, 40c, and 40d, respectively, set screws 48a, 48b, 48c, and 48d, respectively, are provided.
Once the desired spacing of lockable sliders 40a, 40b, 40c, and 40d, along transverse support rods 38 has been selected, set screws 46a, 46b, 46c, and 46d, respectively, are tightened.
Similarly, once the desired spacing of lockable sliders 40a, 40b, 40c, and 40d, on awning support rods 28 has been selected, lower set screws 48a, 48b, 48c, and 48d, respectively, are tightened.
Therefore, awning or canopy 14 can be appropriately extended or retracted over a plurality of awning support rods 28 by displacing lockable sliders 40a, 40b, 40c, and 40d, respectively, over the generally horizontal extent of awning support rods 28, and : .
selectively securing or releasing same thereto through use of the lower set screws 48a, 48b, 48c, and 48d, respectively. -As best illustrated in Figures 2, 6, and 7, awning or canopy 14 is releasably secured to awning support rods 28 in the forward ~ ~ ;
region of the structure overlying the base through suitable means such as clips 50. This allows a user ready access to the object below the awning from the support surface by allowing the awning to be lifted from or folded back over support rods 28 in the region of ~ ~
the base, as will hereinafter be described. ~ ;
~ ' 12 - ~
In constructing the support structure 10 of this invention, it can be appreciated that all rods and sliders are constructed from rust resistant materials able to withstand adverse environment conditions year round. In the preferred embodiment aluminum tubing is used, however, other suitable materials can be utilized providing they have the requisite strength and resistance to environmental conditions.
Awning or canopy 14 is best illustrated in Figures 3, 4, and 5, and is preferably of a canvass construction comprising two layers, an upper layer 52, and a lower or securing layer 54 secured to upper layer 52 through appropriate means such as stitching, and, as illustrated in Figures 1, and 5, upper layer 52 extends beyond the lengths of transverse support rods 38 and awning support rods 28 to form a finishing trim 56 around the entire structure.
In the preferred embodiment lower layer 54 is appropriately stitched to upper layer 52 in a manner to ~orm longitudinal pockets 58 within which awning support rods 38 are slideably retained, as best illustrated in Figures 3 and 4.
Note that in order for lockable sliders 40a, 40b, 40c, and 40d, to present their upper tubular portions 42a, 42b, 42c, and 42d, respectively, to transverse support rods 38, selectively positioned gaps 60 in longitudinal pockets 58 are needed to expose those portions of transverse support rods 38 to upper tubular portions 42a, 42b, 42c, and 42d, of respective lockable slider 40a, 40b, 40c, and 40d, as best illustrated in Figure 3.
In order to secure transverse support rods 38 within longitudinal pockets 58 of awning or canopy 14, longitudinal . - - : . - ~ . .
.:
-.- .: :. . : :-..: :- ~ .;
.: :. . : :
2~88948 pockets 58 are provided lowermost near the edges thereof with VELCRO~ hooks or loops 62 for cooperating with corresponding VELCRO~ hooks or loops 64 presented by the edges of lower or securing layer 54. As best illustrated in Figure 5, the respective ends of lower or securing layer 54 are pulled around the open ends of longitudinal pockets 58 and the ends of transverse support rods 38 held within longitudinal pockets 58 and releasably secured to the underside of longitudinal pockets 58 by the respective VELCRO~
hooks and loops.
It can be appreciated that in order for awning or canopy 14 to be effective in providing adequate protection against adverse environmental conditions, the awning or canopy should be relatively close to the object being protected. A disadvantage to this is realized when one considers a water vessel or boat at a dock wherein the change in elevation means the user has to step up or down, respectively, when boarding or disembarking from such vessel;
the edge of the awning or canopy presents an obstacle to such action, causing the user to crouch during boarding or disembarking.
A particular advantage of this invention is that awning or canopy 14 in the region overlying the vertical portion of support rods 28 can be displaced away therefrom so as to allow ready and easy access to the object below awning or canopy 14 in the holding area. For example, awning 14 can be hinged about first lockable slider 40a so that upon appropriate release of clips 50 awning 14 is swung upwardly and away from support rods 28 in that region allowing the user ready and easy access to the water vessel or boat '~,, ', .', ,.. ...
- -, , . . . ,. .. : . .
2o88948 below the awning or canopy with no interference by the awning or canopy.
Alternatively, awning or canopy 14 can be, upon appropriate release of clips 50, rolled up as indicated at 66 in Figure 6, exposing the object below the awning or canopy in that region for easy access.
The ability to furl, fold, or roll the awning or canopy away from the vertical portion of support rods 28 is important for water vessels or boats alongside a dock to which one must either step up or step down to disembark or board, respectively, from such vessel.
Without such a mechanism the changing elevation between the dock and the water vessel would cause the user to have to unnecessarily crouch in order to enter or exit the docked water vessel or boat in order to avoid the awning or canopy in the region overlying the lS dock edge.
It is also a feature of this invention that awning or canopy 14 can also be furled to one side of the generally horizontal portion of support rods 28 when such awning is not to be used over a period of time. In order to achieve this storage position, lower set screws 48a, 48~, 48c, and 48d, of lockable sliders 40a, 40b, 40c, and 40d, respectively, are loosened, and the lower tubular parts 44a, 44b, 44c, and 44d, thereof slidably displaced along the generally horizontal portion of awning support rods 28 and preferably toward top brackets 34, as best illustrated in Figure 7, so that awning or canopy 14 can be furled to one side of the support structure, and preferably in folds 68 as illustrated in Figure 9.
~$~d ~ ~ ` t 'i' 208894~
For a complete collapsed or retracted storage position, as illustrated in Figure 9, clips 50 are then released and the awning or canopy 14 is preferably furled into complementary folds to folds 68. Once the awning or canopy is so collapsed or retracted in the appropriate folds, a suitable sleeve or protective covering 70, such as tarpaulin, is then provided to surround awning or canopy 14.
Protective covering or sleeve 70 is provided with appropriate openings 72 lowermost to allow support rods 28 to extend therethrough. By providing such openings lowermost, however, sleeve or protective covering 70 protects lockable sliders 40a, 40b, 40c, and 40d, therewithin from a variety of adverse environmental conditions.
Once properly fitted around awning or canopy 14, sleeve or protective covering 70 is releasably secured lowermost through means of suitable snaps 74.
Should it be desired to store the awning or canopy for long periods of time, such as in winter time when common water vessels or boats are in storage, awning or canopy 14 can be removed from the support structure with protective covering or sleeve 70 intact by simply loosening lower set screws 48a, 48b, 48c, and 48d, of lockable sliders 40a~ 40b, 40c, and 40d, respectively, and displacing lower tubular parts 44a, 44b, 44c, and 44d, thereof over the open ends of the generally horizontal portions of support rods 28.
Alternatively, awning or canopy 14 can be appropriately folded for storage by first removing same from support rods 28, as . .
.
16 ~ ;
:, . . .
'`; ~;' 208~948 described above, and then removing transverse support rods 38 from longitudinal pockets 38, by loosening upper set screws 46a, 46b, 46c, and 46d, of lockable sliders 40a, 40b, 40c, and 40d, respectively, and then releasing the VELCRO~ hooks and loops 62, 64 of the edge portions of lower or securing layer 54 from the edge portions of longitudinal pockets 58 and slidably removing transverse support rods 38 from upper tubular parts 42a, 42b, 42c, and 42d, of sliders 40a, 40b, 40c, and 40d, respectively, and longitudinal pockets 58. The awning or canopy can then be folded for long term storage and the lockable sliders and transverse support rods also stored away.
While a specific embodiment of this invention has been illustrated and described herein, the invention is not to be limited to the specific construction disclosed. Those skilled in the art may be able to provide modifications or alternatives to the disclosed structural features while still practising this invention. It is intended to cover all such modifications and alternatives as well as other embodiments not disclosed which do not constitute a departure from the spirit and scope of the attached claims.
Claims (34)
1. An improved cantilevered support structure for presenting an awning over and above an area for holding an object therebelow wherein said support structure comprises a base for securing such structure to a suitable support surface, and cantilevered support rods extending from such base to present the awning over and above said area, said support rods presenting lockable sliders for attaching said awning to said support rods and adapted for displacement along said support rods so that said awning can be furled from an extended position over and above said area to a collapsed position for storage.
2. An improved support structure according to claim 1 wherein said awning presents transverse support rods to said lockable sliders for attaching said awning to said cantilevered support rods.
3. An improved support structure according to claim 2 wherein said lockable sliders present a first part including locking means for displaceably securing said sliders to said cantilevered support rods, and a second part for receiving said transverse support rods presented by said awning.
4. An improved support structure according to claim 3 wherein said second part of said lockable sliders includes locking means for displaceably securing said sliders to said transverse support rods of said awning.
5. An improved support structure according to claim 4 wherein said first and second parts of said lockable sliders comprise respective tube formations adapted to surround said cantilevered support rods and said transverse support rods, respectively.
6. An improved support structure according to claims 2, 3, 4, or 5, wherein said awning presents a longitudinal pocket formations for receiving therewithin said transverse support rods.
7. An improved support structure according to claim 6 wherein means to releasably secure an edge of said awning to said cantilevered support rods is presented by such rods in the region overlying said base so that said awning edge can be released from said support rods and folded or furled to a collapsed position adjacent those lockable sliders presented by said support rods in that region.
8. An improved support structure according to claim 7 wherein a protective covering is provided to substantially surround said awning when furled and in a collapsed position for storage.
9. An improved cantilevered support structure for presenting an awning over and above an area for holding an object therebelow wherein said support structure comprises a base for securing such structure to a suitable support surface, and cantilevered support rods extending from such base to present the awning over and above said area, said support rods presenting first means to attach said awning to said support rods and presenting in the region overlying said base second means to releasably secure an edge of said awning to said support rods so that said awning edge can be released from said support rods and furled to a collapsed position in that region.
10. An improved support structure according to claim 9 wherein said awning presents transverse support rods to said first means for attaching said awning to said cantilevered support rods.
11. An improved support structure according to claim 10 wherein one of said transverse support rods presented to said first means for attaching said awning to said support rods provides a pivot about which said awning edge can be folded.
12. An improved support structure according to claims 10 or 11 wherein one of said transverse support rods is presented by said awning edge to said second means for releasably securing such edge to said cantilevered support rods and provides a pivot about which said awning edge can be furled.
13. An improved support structure according to claim 12 wherein said first means for attaching said awning to said cantilevered support rods comprises lockable sliders adapted for displacement along such rods so that said awning can be furled from an extended position over and above said area to a collapsed position for storage.
14. An improved support structure according to claim 13 wherein said lockable sliders present a first part including locking means for displaceably securing said sliders to said cantilevered support rods, and a second part for receiving said transverse support rods presented by said awning.
15. An improved support structure according to claim 14 wherein said second part of said lockable sliders includes locking means for displaceably securing said sliders to said transverse support rods of said awning.
16. An improved support structure according to claim 15 wherein said first and second parts of said lockable sliders comprise respective tube formations adapted to surround said cantilevered support rods and said transverse support rods, respectively.
17. An improved support structure according to claims 13, 14, 15, or 16, wherein said awning presents a longitudinal pocket formations for receiving therewithin said transverse support rods.
18. An improved support structure according to claim 17 wherein a protective covering is provided to substantially surround said awning when furled and in a collapsed position for storage.
19. An improved cantilevered support structure for presenting an awning over and above an area for holding an object therebelow wherein said support structure comprises a base for securing such structure to a suitable support surface, cantilevered support rods comprising a first portion extending from said base and a second portion extending from said first part to present the awning over and above said area, first diagonal support rods extending from said base to said support surface, and second diagonal support rods extending from said base to said second portion of said cantilevered support rods.
20. An improved support structure according to claim 19 wherein said second diagonal support rods are pivotly secured at each of their ends to said respective base and second portion of said cantilevered support rods.
21. An improved support structure according to claims 19 or 20 wherein said first diagonal support rods comprise a first part extending from said base to said suitable support surface in the direction of extent of said second portion of said cantilevered support rods, and a second part extending from said base in a region above where said first part extends from and towards said suitable support surface in a direction opposed to that for said first part.
22. An improved support structure according to claim 21 wherein said base comprises a plate portion suitably secured to said support surface, and upstanding therefrom a tubular portion having a configuration to receive therein at its upper end said first portion of said cantilevered support rods.
23. An improved support structure according to claim 22 wherein said tubular portion includes a locking member for suitably locking said first portion of said cantilevered support rods against displacement.
24. An improved support structure according to claim 23 wherein said second portion of said cantilevered support rods present lockable sliders for attaching said awning to said support rods and adapted for displacement along said support rods so that said awning can be furled from an extended position over and above said area to a collapsed position for storage.
25. An improved support structure according to claim 24 wherein said awning presents transverse support rods to said lockable sliders for attaching said awning to said cantilevered support rods.
26. An improved support structure according to claim 25 wherein said lockable sliders present a first part including locking means for displaceably securing said sliders to said cantilevered support rods, and a second part for receiving said transverse support rods presented by said awning.
27. An improved support structure according to claim 26 wherein said second part of said lockable sliders includes locking means for displaceably securing said sliders to said transverse support rods of said awning.
28. An improved support structure according to claim 27 wherein said first and second parts of said lockable sliders comprise respective tube formations adapted to surround said cantilevered support rods and said transverse support rods, respectively.
29. An improved support structure according to claims 25, 26, 27, or 28, wherein said awning presents a longitudinal pocket formations for receiving therewithin said transverse support rods.
30. An improved support structure according to claim 29 wherein means to releasably secure an edge of said awning to said cantilevered support rods is presented by such rods in the region overlying said base so that said awning edge can be released from said support rods and folded or furled to a collapsed position adjacent those lockable sliders presented by said support rods in that region.
31. An improved support structure according to claim 30 wherein a protective covering is provided to substantially surround said awning when furled and in a collapsed position for storage.
32. An improved method for storing an awning presented by a support structure and which extends over and above an area for holding an object therebelow the method comprising the steps of releasing the means for displaceably securing said awning to said support structure and displacing same there along so that said awning is furled from the extended position to a collapsed position for storage and reversely.
33. An improved method for entering or exiting an object held in an area over which an awning extends said awning presented by a support structure suitably anchored by its base to a support surface, the method comprising the steps of releasing an edge of said awning releasably secured to said support structure in the region overlying the base, and furling the released awning edge so that said awning in that region is displaced from an extended position to a collapsed position allowing access to the object therebelow.
34. An improved method according to claim 33 wherein said support structure comprises cantilevered support rods, and said awning presents transverse support rods for securing same to said cantilevered support rods, and wherein one of said transverse support rods presented to said cantilevered support rods provides a pivot about which said awning edge can be swung.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2088948 CA2088948A1 (en) | 1993-02-05 | 1993-02-05 | Retractable cantilevered boat awning |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2088948 CA2088948A1 (en) | 1993-02-05 | 1993-02-05 | Retractable cantilevered boat awning |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2088948A1 true CA2088948A1 (en) | 1994-08-06 |
Family
ID=4151114
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2088948 Abandoned CA2088948A1 (en) | 1993-02-05 | 1993-02-05 | Retractable cantilevered boat awning |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2088948A1 (en) |
Cited By (12)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2008074112A1 (en) * | 2006-12-20 | 2008-06-26 | Nelson Buiano Fiedler | A naval cover |
| AT510164A4 (en) * | 2010-08-04 | 2012-02-15 | Kuchler Fritz | ROOFING FOR A WATER SUPPLEMENT OF A BOAT |
| USD686560S1 (en) | 2011-01-17 | 2013-07-23 | Christine Hamilton | Canopy |
| US8783276B2 (en) | 2009-11-24 | 2014-07-22 | Marco Canvas and Upholstery LLC | Covering system |
| US20150308143A1 (en) * | 2014-04-25 | 2015-10-29 | Designer Direct, Inc. d/b/a Levin Associates | Cantilevered Watercraft Canopy |
| US9216798B2 (en) | 2012-10-01 | 2015-12-22 | Marine Concepts, Llc | Covering system |
| US9410341B1 (en) * | 2014-10-09 | 2016-08-09 | John R. Welch | Canopy and table frame assembly |
| US20160368571A1 (en) * | 2015-06-19 | 2016-12-22 | Designer Direct, Inc., d/b/a Levin Associates | One-Sided Cantilevered Watercraft Canopy |
| US10272971B2 (en) | 2015-06-19 | 2019-04-30 | Designer Direct, Inc. | Watercraft canopy for U-shaped dock |
| US10541640B2 (en) | 2017-07-07 | 2020-01-21 | Designer Direct, Inc. | Solar power system for marine dock |
| US11840860B2 (en) | 2017-06-09 | 2023-12-12 | Marine Concepts Acquisition, Llc | Retractable RV and trailer cover |
| US11952781B2 (en) | 2022-01-27 | 2024-04-09 | Designer Direct, Inc. | Watercraft canopy extension for existing covered dock |
-
1993
- 1993-02-05 CA CA 2088948 patent/CA2088948A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (22)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2008074112A1 (en) * | 2006-12-20 | 2008-06-26 | Nelson Buiano Fiedler | A naval cover |
| US8783276B2 (en) | 2009-11-24 | 2014-07-22 | Marco Canvas and Upholstery LLC | Covering system |
| US9187923B2 (en) | 2009-11-24 | 2015-11-17 | Macro Canvas and Upholstery, LLC | Covering system |
| US10035564B2 (en) | 2009-11-24 | 2018-07-31 | Marco Canvas And Upholstery, Llc | Covering system |
| AT510164A4 (en) * | 2010-08-04 | 2012-02-15 | Kuchler Fritz | ROOFING FOR A WATER SUPPLEMENT OF A BOAT |
| AT510164B1 (en) * | 2010-08-04 | 2012-02-15 | Kuchler Fritz | ROOFING FOR A WATER SUPPLEMENT OF A BOAT |
| USD686560S1 (en) | 2011-01-17 | 2013-07-23 | Christine Hamilton | Canopy |
| US10239583B2 (en) | 2012-10-01 | 2019-03-26 | Marine Concepts, Llc | Covering system |
| US9216798B2 (en) | 2012-10-01 | 2015-12-22 | Marine Concepts, Llc | Covering system |
| US9556640B2 (en) * | 2014-04-25 | 2017-01-31 | Designer Direct, Inc. | Cantilevered watercraft canopy |
| US9777504B2 (en) | 2014-04-25 | 2017-10-03 | Designer Direct, Inc. | Cantilevered watercraft canopy |
| US20150308143A1 (en) * | 2014-04-25 | 2015-10-29 | Designer Direct, Inc. d/b/a Levin Associates | Cantilevered Watercraft Canopy |
| US10309096B2 (en) | 2014-04-25 | 2019-06-04 | Designer Direct, Inc. | Cantilevered watercraft canopy |
| US9410341B1 (en) * | 2014-10-09 | 2016-08-09 | John R. Welch | Canopy and table frame assembly |
| US20160368571A1 (en) * | 2015-06-19 | 2016-12-22 | Designer Direct, Inc., d/b/a Levin Associates | One-Sided Cantilevered Watercraft Canopy |
| US9776687B2 (en) * | 2015-06-19 | 2017-10-03 | Designer Direct, Inc. | One-sided cantilevered watercraft canopy |
| US10272971B2 (en) | 2015-06-19 | 2019-04-30 | Designer Direct, Inc. | Watercraft canopy for U-shaped dock |
| US10363994B2 (en) | 2015-06-19 | 2019-07-30 | Designer Direct, Inc. | One-sided cantilevered watercraft canopy |
| US11840860B2 (en) | 2017-06-09 | 2023-12-12 | Marine Concepts Acquisition, Llc | Retractable RV and trailer cover |
| US10541640B2 (en) | 2017-07-07 | 2020-01-21 | Designer Direct, Inc. | Solar power system for marine dock |
| US10903781B2 (en) | 2017-07-07 | 2021-01-26 | Designer Direct, Inc. | Solar power system for marine dock |
| US11952781B2 (en) | 2022-01-27 | 2024-04-09 | Designer Direct, Inc. | Watercraft canopy extension for existing covered dock |
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