CA2608489A1 - Umbrella comprising an illumination device - Google Patents
Umbrella comprising an illumination device Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2608489A1 CA2608489A1 CA002608489A CA2608489A CA2608489A1 CA 2608489 A1 CA2608489 A1 CA 2608489A1 CA 002608489 A CA002608489 A CA 002608489A CA 2608489 A CA2608489 A CA 2608489A CA 2608489 A1 CA2608489 A1 CA 2608489A1
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- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- umbrella
- umbrella according
- illumination device
- illumination
- supporting construction
- 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
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Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45B—WALKING STICKS; UMBRELLAS; LADIES' OR LIKE FANS
- A45B3/00—Sticks combined with other objects
- A45B3/02—Sticks combined with other objects with illuminating devices
- A45B3/04—Sticks combined with other objects with illuminating devices electrical
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45B—WALKING STICKS; UMBRELLAS; LADIES' OR LIKE FANS
- A45B2200/00—Details not otherwise provided for in A45B
- A45B2200/10—Umbrellas; Sunshades
- A45B2200/1009—Umbrellas; Sunshades combined with other objects
- A45B2200/1027—Umbrellas; Sunshades combined with other objects with means for generating solar energy
Landscapes
- Walking Sticks, Umbrellas, And Fans (AREA)
- Securing Globes, Refractors, Reflectors Or The Like (AREA)
Abstract
The invention relates to an umbrella, in particular a hand-held umbrella, free-standing umbrella, or traffic light visor for protection against the rain, or for use as a sunshade. Said umbrella comprises a canopy (1), a supporting construction (2) for said canopy (1) and an illumination unit (3) that is allocated to the supporting construction (2). The aim of the invention is to provide the greatest possible protection for the illumination unit (3), whilst giving the umbrella a particularly aesthetic appearance. To achieve this, the invention is characterised in that the illumination unit (3) of the supporting construction (2) is essentially integrated into the umbrella.
Description
UMBRELLA COMPRISING AN ILLUMINATION DEVICE
The invention relates to an umbrella, more preferably a hand-held umbrella, free-standing umbrella, or offset hanging umbrella for protection against the rain, or for use as a sunshade.
Said umbrella comprises a canopy, a supporting construction for said canopy and an illumi-nation device that is allocated to the supporting construction.
An apparatus of the mentioned type is known based on utility model patent application DE
298 11 817 U 1. To improve the safety of pedestrians in traffic, it proposes an umbrella against the rain equipped with electrical light sources at the tip of some of the ribs supporting the covering of the umbrella. These light sources are intended to improve the visibility of pedes-trians in traffic by emitting a blinking or permanent light, particularly at night and in poor weather conditions.
Moreover, umbrellas against the rain equipped with illumination devices are known from prior art, which are intended to help the user of the umbrella find his or her way thanks to the illumination of the immediate surroundings in particular at night and in difficult terrain. They are designed to prevent stumbling or accidental falls of the pedestrian. Said umbrellas against the rain are equipped for example with commercially available light bulbs or filament bulbs, attached to the outside of the supporting construction of the umbrella.
Moreover, sunshades of the mentioned type are known from prior art. Especially large sun-shades are used for example in the gastronomic industry, usually placed on terraces or in beer gardens. At dusk or at night, sunshades without illumination devices need to be folded closed to allow the illumination by existing external illumination devices or to be able to use the re-maining sunlight at dusk. To make the complicated opening and closing of these sunshades several times a day unnecessary, sunshades equipped with illumination devices are now being offered. Several powerful lights are attached for example to the shaft of the umbrella. These lights can be turned on and off by the staff of the gastronomic establishment as needed.
However, the type-defining umbrellas have the disadvantage that the illumination device is very susceptible to damage as a result of the daily operation. Generally, the illumination de-vice is attached to the shaft of the umbrella or to the supporting ribs of the canopy. In par-ticular when the umbrella or the sunshade is folded open or closed, the illumination device can collide with other parts of the umbrella or its supporting construction, thus getting dam-aged or destroyed - especially over the long-term.
It is common knowledge that - as articles of the daily use - both umbrellas as well as sun-shades are not handled with particular care or treated gently, but are exposed to major wear as a result of their intended use and storage. The illumination device attached to the type-defining umbrella pursuant to the state of the art can be quickly and seriously damaged as a result.
An additional disadvantage of the umbrella comprising an illumination device known from prior art is the fact that the user perceives the illumination device as a highly disturbing for-eign object within the otherwise familiar construction of the umbrella. The attachment of il-lumination devices to the supporting construction of commercially available umbrellas makes an amateurish impression on the user and creates an unfavorable aesthetical appearance. This unfavorable aesthetical appearance may have an especially negative impact if the illuminated umbrella is used in professional surroundings, such as for example in the case of very large and cost-intensive sunshades used in the gastronomical industry.
Therefore, the objective of the invention at hand is to develop and redesign an umbrella of the type mentioned above in such a way as to achieve the greatest possible protection for the il-lumination device, while giving the umbrella a particularly aesthetic appearance.
The invention relates to an umbrella, more preferably a hand-held umbrella, free-standing umbrella, or offset hanging umbrella for protection against the rain, or for use as a sunshade.
Said umbrella comprises a canopy, a supporting construction for said canopy and an illumi-nation device that is allocated to the supporting construction.
An apparatus of the mentioned type is known based on utility model patent application DE
298 11 817 U 1. To improve the safety of pedestrians in traffic, it proposes an umbrella against the rain equipped with electrical light sources at the tip of some of the ribs supporting the covering of the umbrella. These light sources are intended to improve the visibility of pedes-trians in traffic by emitting a blinking or permanent light, particularly at night and in poor weather conditions.
Moreover, umbrellas against the rain equipped with illumination devices are known from prior art, which are intended to help the user of the umbrella find his or her way thanks to the illumination of the immediate surroundings in particular at night and in difficult terrain. They are designed to prevent stumbling or accidental falls of the pedestrian. Said umbrellas against the rain are equipped for example with commercially available light bulbs or filament bulbs, attached to the outside of the supporting construction of the umbrella.
Moreover, sunshades of the mentioned type are known from prior art. Especially large sun-shades are used for example in the gastronomic industry, usually placed on terraces or in beer gardens. At dusk or at night, sunshades without illumination devices need to be folded closed to allow the illumination by existing external illumination devices or to be able to use the re-maining sunlight at dusk. To make the complicated opening and closing of these sunshades several times a day unnecessary, sunshades equipped with illumination devices are now being offered. Several powerful lights are attached for example to the shaft of the umbrella. These lights can be turned on and off by the staff of the gastronomic establishment as needed.
However, the type-defining umbrellas have the disadvantage that the illumination device is very susceptible to damage as a result of the daily operation. Generally, the illumination de-vice is attached to the shaft of the umbrella or to the supporting ribs of the canopy. In par-ticular when the umbrella or the sunshade is folded open or closed, the illumination device can collide with other parts of the umbrella or its supporting construction, thus getting dam-aged or destroyed - especially over the long-term.
It is common knowledge that - as articles of the daily use - both umbrellas as well as sun-shades are not handled with particular care or treated gently, but are exposed to major wear as a result of their intended use and storage. The illumination device attached to the type-defining umbrella pursuant to the state of the art can be quickly and seriously damaged as a result.
An additional disadvantage of the umbrella comprising an illumination device known from prior art is the fact that the user perceives the illumination device as a highly disturbing for-eign object within the otherwise familiar construction of the umbrella. The attachment of il-lumination devices to the supporting construction of commercially available umbrellas makes an amateurish impression on the user and creates an unfavorable aesthetical appearance. This unfavorable aesthetical appearance may have an especially negative impact if the illuminated umbrella is used in professional surroundings, such as for example in the case of very large and cost-intensive sunshades used in the gastronomical industry.
Therefore, the objective of the invention at hand is to develop and redesign an umbrella of the type mentioned above in such a way as to achieve the greatest possible protection for the il-lumination device, while giving the umbrella a particularly aesthetic appearance.
Based on the present invention, the objective mentioned above will be solved with the char-acteristics described in patent claim 1. Based on it, an umbrella, in particular a hand-held um-brella, free-standing umbrella or offset hanging umbrella for protection against the rain or for use as a sunshade is characterized in that the illumination device of the supporting construc-tion is essentially integrated into the umbrella.
According to the present invention, it has been determined that the ideal protection of the il-lumination device allocated to the umbrella from being damaged or destroyed can be achieved by partially or completely integrating the illumination device in the supporting construction of the umbrella.
The sensitive illumination device which can consist for example of light bulbs, filament bulbs, light emitting diodes, etc., can be partially or completely "embedded"
in the supporting construction of the umbrella according to the present invention. To the extent a regularly con-structed umbrella is used for this purpose, the illumination device can be integrated for exam-ple in the shaft, the hub or the holding or supporting ribs of the umbrella.
The isolation of the illumination device from the surroundings achieved with this encapsula-tion effectively prevents it from being damaged by the opening and closing of the umbrella, by environmental influences or by influences which occur during the storage of the umbrella.
In addition, it has been determined according to the present invention that the integration of the illumination device within the supporting construction of the umbrella achieves a particu-larly beneficial aesthetic appearance. If the illumination device of the umbrella is not in op-eration, e.g. when daylight is available, the illumination device is not visible to the user of the umbrella or is vaguely discernible at best.
On the other hand, if the illumination device is in operation, a superior aesthetical impression of the complete umbrella is obtained thanks to the encapsulation of the illumination device.
According to the present invention, it has been determined that the ideal protection of the il-lumination device allocated to the umbrella from being damaged or destroyed can be achieved by partially or completely integrating the illumination device in the supporting construction of the umbrella.
The sensitive illumination device which can consist for example of light bulbs, filament bulbs, light emitting diodes, etc., can be partially or completely "embedded"
in the supporting construction of the umbrella according to the present invention. To the extent a regularly con-structed umbrella is used for this purpose, the illumination device can be integrated for exam-ple in the shaft, the hub or the holding or supporting ribs of the umbrella.
The isolation of the illumination device from the surroundings achieved with this encapsula-tion effectively prevents it from being damaged by the opening and closing of the umbrella, by environmental influences or by influences which occur during the storage of the umbrella.
In addition, it has been determined according to the present invention that the integration of the illumination device within the supporting construction of the umbrella achieves a particu-larly beneficial aesthetic appearance. If the illumination device of the umbrella is not in op-eration, e.g. when daylight is available, the illumination device is not visible to the user of the umbrella or is vaguely discernible at best.
On the other hand, if the illumination device is in operation, a superior aesthetical impression of the complete umbrella is obtained thanks to the encapsulation of the illumination device.
The invention effectively prevents the aesthetical appearance of a particularly high-quality umbrella or sunshade from being seriously devaluated due to illumination devices that are attached to the outside of the supporting construction, possibly in an amateurish manner.
Accordingly, the invention relates to an umbrella, in particular a hand-held umbrella, free-standing umbrella, or offset hanging umbrella for protection against the rain, or for use as a sunshade in which the greatest possible protection of the illumination device as well as a par-ticularly aesthetic appearance of the umbrella is achieved.
In a particularly preferred embodiment, the umbrella according to the invention comprises a supporting construction which is known from commercially available umbrellas or sunshades.
This means that the supporting construction is equipped with a shaft consisting of a fixed up-per hub and a lower hub which is moveable along the shaft, where the upper hub contains several holding ribs connected to the canopy, where several supporting ribs coupled with the holding ribs are connected to the lower hub and where the canopy can be folded open and closed by means of the movement of the lower hub.
The canopy can be made for example of natural or synthetic fabric, which can be impreg-nated, if necessary. In addition, it is possible to use a compound material made of fabric and synthetic foil. The compound material can consist of several layers. Finally, it is also possible to use a cover made of pure synthetic fabric for the canopy.
The lower hub and the shaft in the area of the upper end position of the lower hub are gener-ally designed in such a way as to allow the lower hub to lock into its upper end position with respect to the shaft.
In addition, the supporting construction can comprise a handle or a base or similar at the lower end of the shaft. The umbrella according to the invention can be designed similar to commercially available umbrellas and sunshades in this respect.
Accordingly, the invention relates to an umbrella, in particular a hand-held umbrella, free-standing umbrella, or offset hanging umbrella for protection against the rain, or for use as a sunshade in which the greatest possible protection of the illumination device as well as a par-ticularly aesthetic appearance of the umbrella is achieved.
In a particularly preferred embodiment, the umbrella according to the invention comprises a supporting construction which is known from commercially available umbrellas or sunshades.
This means that the supporting construction is equipped with a shaft consisting of a fixed up-per hub and a lower hub which is moveable along the shaft, where the upper hub contains several holding ribs connected to the canopy, where several supporting ribs coupled with the holding ribs are connected to the lower hub and where the canopy can be folded open and closed by means of the movement of the lower hub.
The canopy can be made for example of natural or synthetic fabric, which can be impreg-nated, if necessary. In addition, it is possible to use a compound material made of fabric and synthetic foil. The compound material can consist of several layers. Finally, it is also possible to use a cover made of pure synthetic fabric for the canopy.
The lower hub and the shaft in the area of the upper end position of the lower hub are gener-ally designed in such a way as to allow the lower hub to lock into its upper end position with respect to the shaft.
In addition, the supporting construction can comprise a handle or a base or similar at the lower end of the shaft. The umbrella according to the invention can be designed similar to commercially available umbrellas and sunshades in this respect.
In a particularly preferred further development of the umbrella according to the invention, the supporting construction integrates the illumination device in such a way that it is completely encapsulated and isolated from the surroundings. As a result, the illumination device is not in direct contact with the surroundings, thereby providing a particularly effective prevention of superficial wear of the illumination device. In other words: the illumination device is com-pletely enclosed by the supporting construction in all directions, and as a result, it is ideally protected.
Preferably, the supporting construction is made of transparent or translucent material at least in the area of the illumination device. If the illumination device is completely enclosed by the supporting construction as described above, the supporting construction must be designed in such a way at least in the area of the enclosed illumination device that the light emitted by the illumination device can penetrate the supporting construction at least partially to allow the illumination device to fulfill its purpose.
The achieved light efficiency is particularly high with the use of transparent material above the supporting construction. In contrast, the use of translucent material allows one to achieve light scattering similar to the effect known from matte light bulbs or lamps comprising lamp-shades. This allows the provision of a particularly comfortable illumination for the user.
Moreover, the use of translucent material allows the realization of color effects, namely, if the translucent material is colored and the emitted light acts as a color filter.
In addition, it is pos-sible to provide various colors of the emitted light within a single supporting construction, by using differently colored translucent material in different areas of the supporting construction.
The translucent material can consist of synthetic material or glass or any other suitable mate-rial with translucent properties. Based on prior art, a large number of different materials are known in this respect.
Preferably, the supporting construction is made of transparent or translucent material at least in the area of the illumination device. If the illumination device is completely enclosed by the supporting construction as described above, the supporting construction must be designed in such a way at least in the area of the enclosed illumination device that the light emitted by the illumination device can penetrate the supporting construction at least partially to allow the illumination device to fulfill its purpose.
The achieved light efficiency is particularly high with the use of transparent material above the supporting construction. In contrast, the use of translucent material allows one to achieve light scattering similar to the effect known from matte light bulbs or lamps comprising lamp-shades. This allows the provision of a particularly comfortable illumination for the user.
Moreover, the use of translucent material allows the realization of color effects, namely, if the translucent material is colored and the emitted light acts as a color filter.
In addition, it is pos-sible to provide various colors of the emitted light within a single supporting construction, by using differently colored translucent material in different areas of the supporting construction.
The translucent material can consist of synthetic material or glass or any other suitable mate-rial with translucent properties. Based on prior art, a large number of different materials are known in this respect.
The translucent materials known from prior art can consist of any color and/or shade or light permeability. This allows the achievement of interesting color and light effects with the um-brella according to the invention which are suitable for the respective situation.
In an additional embodiment of the umbrella according to the invention, the color and/or in-tensity of the emitted light can be changed by the user. The intensity of the emitted light can be changed for example in that the user is provided with a dimming function for the illumina-tion device. Said dimming function can be realized particularly well with commercially avail-able light bulbs. If the illumination device consists of illumination elements which are un-dimmable due to their function, the intensity of the emitted light can be controlled by turning a larger or smaller number of the illumination elements which form the illumination device on or off, depending on the requirements.
The color of the emitted light can be changed by turning illumination elements with different colors on or off as needed. For this purpose, the illumination device can consist of illumina-tion elements which each emit one of the complementary colors. Any color of the emitted light can be provided by selectively turning on and off certain illumination elements.
In another embodiment of the umbrella according to the invention, the illumination device within the supporting construction can be surrounded by a color filter, for example shaped like a cylinder, which is equipped with differently colored segments. By rotating or otherwise changing the position of the color filter within the supporting construction, the color of the emitted light changes depending on the user's selection.
In a particularly preferred embodiment of the umbrella according to the invention, the upper hub and/or lower hub is at least partially made of transparent or translucent material and at least partially integrates the illumination device. This embodiment of the umbrella according to the invention allows the achievement of a particularly uniform light distribution, in par-ticular if the illumination device is designed ring-like within the hub. For this purpose, several illumination elements with a defined distance between them can form a circle around the shaft of the umbrella. The area underneath the umbrella is particularly well lit by the reflection or diffusion of the emitted light through the canopy. In addition, the power supply of the illumi-nation device is easier thanks to the small distance from the shaft of the umbrella.
In addition or alternatively to the further development mentioned last, the umbrella can be equipped in such a way that one or a plurality of holding ribs and/or one or a plurality of sup-porting ribs are at least partially made of transparent or translucent material and at least par-tially integrate the illumination device. The integration of the illumination device within transparent or translucent supporting ribs ensures the optimal protection of the illumination device from being damaged. Moreover, the locally oriented illumination device is capable of realizing a particularly good illumination, including the area located outside the umbrella.
The supporting and holding ribs can have a square profile, with the illumination device inte-grated within them. For example, the illumination device can be arranged on a conducting rod or metal strip, inserted and fixed in the supporting and holding ribs when they are manufac-tured. To avoid a repetition, please refer to the statements above with respect to the materials and design options of the hubs, as well as the supporting or holding ribs.
Generally, an embodiment of the invention is preferred, in which the illumination device is equipped with one or a plurality of illumination elements. This generally allows the illumina-tion of a larger area. Several illumination elements can be distributed locally in the supporting construction of the umbrella to ensure the uniform and extensive illumination.
However, it is also possible to use a single illumination element as illumination device. For example, a circular neon tube can be integrated within a transparent or translucent hub of the umbrella as it is known from prior art.
The illumination elements can consist of filament bulbs, light bulbs and/or light emitting di-odes (LEDs). Filament bulbs or light bulbs have the advantage that they emit a light that is perceived particularly comfortable by the user. However, as is generally known, the power consumption of light bulbs or filament bulbs is high compared to the emitted luminous power.
Light emitting diodes have the advantage that they only take up a very small space within the supporting construction of the umbrella. In addition, the heat output of light emitting diodes is very small because a major share of the collected power is transformed into luminous power.
Therefore, compared to light bulbs, light emitting diodes generally require much less power.
Thanks to the small size of light emitting diodes, a particularly large number of light emitting diodes can be integrated within the supporting construction of the umbrella according to the invention. Moreover, a multitude of light effects can be realized with differently colored light emitting diodes. The luminous power can be controlled by selectively turning light emitting diodes on and off, whereby the power consumption of the illumination device can be mini-mized as well. The minimization of the power consumption is particularly important for um-brellas carried by the user, such as hand-held umbrellas for protection against the rain or sun.
The illumination device is generally equipped with an electrical circuit used to connect the illumination device to a power source. The electrical circuit can consist of wires, cables or conductive strips with the illumination elements arranged on them.
In a particularly preferred embodiment of the umbrella according to the invention, the electri-cal circuit is integrated within the supporting construction. As a result, the electrical circuit is not visible from the outside and safely protected from being damaged. In case the circuit is required to bridge two mobile parts of the supporting construction which are coupled to one another, a conductive joint or hinge can be provided. Moreover, it is possible to arrange a piece of cable in such a way that it runs along the outside of the joint one wishes to bridge, thereby bypassing it.
In a further development of the umbrella according to the invention, the illumination device can be supplied with power by means of a battery or rechargeable battery pack, external solar cells or solar cells mounted on the canopy or by means of the public mains (via inserted recti-fier, if necessary). If the umbrella according to the invention is equipped with several types of power supplies based on the user's selection, the user can select among them depending on the available power supply and switch for example from battery or rechargeable battery op-eration to operation using the public mains.
In a preferable embodiment, the rechargeable battery pack can be charged via solar cells and/or via public mains. This way, an umbrella that is for example carried by a user, such as an umbrella for protection from the rain, can be recharged via public mains in the residence of the user while he or she stays there. If the umbrella is needed, it is available fully charged. A
sunshade according to the invention equipped with a solar cell mounted on the canopy or for example on the upper hub can be used to charge the rechargeable battery pack during day-light. If the illumination of the umbrella is required in the evening or at night, a fully charged rechargeable battery is available.
The battery or rechargeable battery pack can be integrated within the shaft, the handle or the base, depending on the preferred design of the umbrella according to the invention and de-pending on the type of umbrella one wishes to use.
In an alternative embodiment, the battery or rechargeable battery pack can be fully enclosed and attached on the outside of the shaft so that it can be detached. In this embodiment of the umbrella according to the invention, it is particularly easy to replace the battery or recharge-able battery pack with a new or charged battery or rechargeable battery pack, if it has been used for so long that it is unable to provide any more energy.
In an additional embodiment of the umbrella according to the invention, the color and/or in-tensity of the emitted light can be changed by the user. The intensity of the emitted light can be changed for example in that the user is provided with a dimming function for the illumina-tion device. Said dimming function can be realized particularly well with commercially avail-able light bulbs. If the illumination device consists of illumination elements which are un-dimmable due to their function, the intensity of the emitted light can be controlled by turning a larger or smaller number of the illumination elements which form the illumination device on or off, depending on the requirements.
The color of the emitted light can be changed by turning illumination elements with different colors on or off as needed. For this purpose, the illumination device can consist of illumina-tion elements which each emit one of the complementary colors. Any color of the emitted light can be provided by selectively turning on and off certain illumination elements.
In another embodiment of the umbrella according to the invention, the illumination device within the supporting construction can be surrounded by a color filter, for example shaped like a cylinder, which is equipped with differently colored segments. By rotating or otherwise changing the position of the color filter within the supporting construction, the color of the emitted light changes depending on the user's selection.
In a particularly preferred embodiment of the umbrella according to the invention, the upper hub and/or lower hub is at least partially made of transparent or translucent material and at least partially integrates the illumination device. This embodiment of the umbrella according to the invention allows the achievement of a particularly uniform light distribution, in par-ticular if the illumination device is designed ring-like within the hub. For this purpose, several illumination elements with a defined distance between them can form a circle around the shaft of the umbrella. The area underneath the umbrella is particularly well lit by the reflection or diffusion of the emitted light through the canopy. In addition, the power supply of the illumi-nation device is easier thanks to the small distance from the shaft of the umbrella.
In addition or alternatively to the further development mentioned last, the umbrella can be equipped in such a way that one or a plurality of holding ribs and/or one or a plurality of sup-porting ribs are at least partially made of transparent or translucent material and at least par-tially integrate the illumination device. The integration of the illumination device within transparent or translucent supporting ribs ensures the optimal protection of the illumination device from being damaged. Moreover, the locally oriented illumination device is capable of realizing a particularly good illumination, including the area located outside the umbrella.
The supporting and holding ribs can have a square profile, with the illumination device inte-grated within them. For example, the illumination device can be arranged on a conducting rod or metal strip, inserted and fixed in the supporting and holding ribs when they are manufac-tured. To avoid a repetition, please refer to the statements above with respect to the materials and design options of the hubs, as well as the supporting or holding ribs.
Generally, an embodiment of the invention is preferred, in which the illumination device is equipped with one or a plurality of illumination elements. This generally allows the illumina-tion of a larger area. Several illumination elements can be distributed locally in the supporting construction of the umbrella to ensure the uniform and extensive illumination.
However, it is also possible to use a single illumination element as illumination device. For example, a circular neon tube can be integrated within a transparent or translucent hub of the umbrella as it is known from prior art.
The illumination elements can consist of filament bulbs, light bulbs and/or light emitting di-odes (LEDs). Filament bulbs or light bulbs have the advantage that they emit a light that is perceived particularly comfortable by the user. However, as is generally known, the power consumption of light bulbs or filament bulbs is high compared to the emitted luminous power.
Light emitting diodes have the advantage that they only take up a very small space within the supporting construction of the umbrella. In addition, the heat output of light emitting diodes is very small because a major share of the collected power is transformed into luminous power.
Therefore, compared to light bulbs, light emitting diodes generally require much less power.
Thanks to the small size of light emitting diodes, a particularly large number of light emitting diodes can be integrated within the supporting construction of the umbrella according to the invention. Moreover, a multitude of light effects can be realized with differently colored light emitting diodes. The luminous power can be controlled by selectively turning light emitting diodes on and off, whereby the power consumption of the illumination device can be mini-mized as well. The minimization of the power consumption is particularly important for um-brellas carried by the user, such as hand-held umbrellas for protection against the rain or sun.
The illumination device is generally equipped with an electrical circuit used to connect the illumination device to a power source. The electrical circuit can consist of wires, cables or conductive strips with the illumination elements arranged on them.
In a particularly preferred embodiment of the umbrella according to the invention, the electri-cal circuit is integrated within the supporting construction. As a result, the electrical circuit is not visible from the outside and safely protected from being damaged. In case the circuit is required to bridge two mobile parts of the supporting construction which are coupled to one another, a conductive joint or hinge can be provided. Moreover, it is possible to arrange a piece of cable in such a way that it runs along the outside of the joint one wishes to bridge, thereby bypassing it.
In a further development of the umbrella according to the invention, the illumination device can be supplied with power by means of a battery or rechargeable battery pack, external solar cells or solar cells mounted on the canopy or by means of the public mains (via inserted recti-fier, if necessary). If the umbrella according to the invention is equipped with several types of power supplies based on the user's selection, the user can select among them depending on the available power supply and switch for example from battery or rechargeable battery op-eration to operation using the public mains.
In a preferable embodiment, the rechargeable battery pack can be charged via solar cells and/or via public mains. This way, an umbrella that is for example carried by a user, such as an umbrella for protection from the rain, can be recharged via public mains in the residence of the user while he or she stays there. If the umbrella is needed, it is available fully charged. A
sunshade according to the invention equipped with a solar cell mounted on the canopy or for example on the upper hub can be used to charge the rechargeable battery pack during day-light. If the illumination of the umbrella is required in the evening or at night, a fully charged rechargeable battery is available.
The battery or rechargeable battery pack can be integrated within the shaft, the handle or the base, depending on the preferred design of the umbrella according to the invention and de-pending on the type of umbrella one wishes to use.
In an alternative embodiment, the battery or rechargeable battery pack can be fully enclosed and attached on the outside of the shaft so that it can be detached. In this embodiment of the umbrella according to the invention, it is particularly easy to replace the battery or recharge-able battery pack with a new or charged battery or rechargeable battery pack, if it has been used for so long that it is unable to provide any more energy.
In a particularly preferred embodiment of the umbrella according to the invention, the illumi-nation device can be activated by folding open the canopy. In other words, the illumination device is activated by means of a suitably designed contact which is triggered when the can-opy is folded open. This way, the hand or foot switch or a remote control to activate the illu-mination device is not required.
Preferably, the illumination device is activated when the lower hub is moved into its upper end position with respect to the shaft. For this purpose, a switch can be provided for example at the outside of the shaft, which is automatically operated by the lower hub as soon as it is brought into its upper end position with respect to the shaft. The upper end position of the lower hub is deemed taken when the canopy is completely folded open.
In another preferable instance, the transition between the shaft and the lower hub in the area of its upper end position is itself designed as an electrical switch which can be closed by moving the lower hub into its upper end position. The illumination device is automatically activated in that an electrically conductive contact is created between the hub and the electri-cal circuit arranged in the shaft in the area of the end position of the hub.
The electrical circuit for the illumination device is thereby closed. The electrical circuit is automatically re-opened if the hub is removed from its upper end position or if one wishes to close the canopy.
In an alternative embodiment of the umbrella according to the invention, the automatic acti-vation of the illumination device based on the opening of the canopy is not required. In this case, a hand or foot switch is integrated in the supporting construction which can be used at the choice of the user to activate the illumination device. This embodiment of the umbrella according to the invention is preferable in case the automatic activation of the illumination device with open canopy does not appear to be desirable. For example, for reasons of saving energy, it can appear to be rather worthwhile that the illumination device is exclusively activated and deactivated based on the user's choice.
Different options are available to process and further develop the teachings of the present in-vention in a beneficial manner. For this purpose, we refer to the claims below on the one hand and to the following explanation of several preferred embodiments of the umbrella according to the invention based on the corresponding figures on the other hand. In connection with the explanation of the preferred embodiments based on the figures, generally preferred embodi-ments and further developments of the teachings are explained as well. In the figures Fig. 1 shows a side view of the umbrella according to the invention comprising an illu-mination device, which has been designed as a free-standing umbrella in this case, shows the side view of an alternative embodiment of the umbrella according to the Fig. 2 invention, where the umbrella has been designed as an offset hanging umbrella, shows a partial view in cross-section of the supporting construction of the um-Fig. 3 brella according to the invention shown in Fig. 1, where part of the shaft as well as the lower hub of the supporting construction arranged in a moveable manner on the shaft are displayed, where the lower hub is designed in such a way that the illumination elements of the illumination device are partially encapsulated and where the lower hub is additionally designed in such a way that the illumination device can be activated automatically by moving the lower hub into its upper end position, shows a partial view in cross-section of the supporting construction of the um-Fig. 4 brella according to the invention, where contrary to Fig. 3 the lower hub of the supporting construction in this embodiment of the invention is designed in such a way that the illumination elements of the illumination device are integrated com-pletely isolated from the surroundings, where at least the underside of the lower hub is made of transparent or translucent material, Fig. 5 shows a partial view in cross-section of the supporting construction of an addi-tional embodiment of the umbrella according to the invention, where the illumina-tion elements of the illumination device are completely isolated from the sur-roundings through encapsulation into the supporting ribs of the supporting con-struction, while no illumination elements are integrated in the lower hub shown in this embodiment, where the lower hub is designed similar to Fig. 3 or Fig. 4 in such a way that the illumination device can be activated automatically by moving the lower hub into its upper end position, and Fig. 6 shows a side view along the longitudinal axis of a supporting or holding rib, for example in an embodiment according to Fig. 5, where the illumination elements of the illumination device are completely isolated from the surroundings through encapsulation into the supporting/holding rib, and where the supporting or holding rib is at least partially made of transparent or translucent material.
Fig. 1 shows the first embodiment of the umbrella according to the invention.
The umbrella has been designed as a stand-alone umbrella and is usually used as a sunshade.
The umbrella includes a canopy 1 and a supporting construction 2 for the canopy 1.
Moreover, the umbrella is equipped with an illumination device 3, which is indicated by the rays of the emitted light.
The supporting construction 2 consists of a shaft 4 with a fixed upper hub 5 and a lower hub 6 which can be moved along the shaft. Several holding ribs 7 connected to the canopy 1 are attached to the upper hub 5. Several supporting ribs 8 coupled with the holding ribs 7 are at-tached to the lower hub 6. As mentioned, the canopy 1 can be folded open and closed by moving the lower hub 6 along the shaft 4.
The lower end of the shaft 4 is connected to a base 9 which is only adumbrated here. The connection between the shaft 4 and the base 9 is realized with a clamp 10.
Preferably, the illumination device is activated when the lower hub is moved into its upper end position with respect to the shaft. For this purpose, a switch can be provided for example at the outside of the shaft, which is automatically operated by the lower hub as soon as it is brought into its upper end position with respect to the shaft. The upper end position of the lower hub is deemed taken when the canopy is completely folded open.
In another preferable instance, the transition between the shaft and the lower hub in the area of its upper end position is itself designed as an electrical switch which can be closed by moving the lower hub into its upper end position. The illumination device is automatically activated in that an electrically conductive contact is created between the hub and the electri-cal circuit arranged in the shaft in the area of the end position of the hub.
The electrical circuit for the illumination device is thereby closed. The electrical circuit is automatically re-opened if the hub is removed from its upper end position or if one wishes to close the canopy.
In an alternative embodiment of the umbrella according to the invention, the automatic acti-vation of the illumination device based on the opening of the canopy is not required. In this case, a hand or foot switch is integrated in the supporting construction which can be used at the choice of the user to activate the illumination device. This embodiment of the umbrella according to the invention is preferable in case the automatic activation of the illumination device with open canopy does not appear to be desirable. For example, for reasons of saving energy, it can appear to be rather worthwhile that the illumination device is exclusively activated and deactivated based on the user's choice.
Different options are available to process and further develop the teachings of the present in-vention in a beneficial manner. For this purpose, we refer to the claims below on the one hand and to the following explanation of several preferred embodiments of the umbrella according to the invention based on the corresponding figures on the other hand. In connection with the explanation of the preferred embodiments based on the figures, generally preferred embodi-ments and further developments of the teachings are explained as well. In the figures Fig. 1 shows a side view of the umbrella according to the invention comprising an illu-mination device, which has been designed as a free-standing umbrella in this case, shows the side view of an alternative embodiment of the umbrella according to the Fig. 2 invention, where the umbrella has been designed as an offset hanging umbrella, shows a partial view in cross-section of the supporting construction of the um-Fig. 3 brella according to the invention shown in Fig. 1, where part of the shaft as well as the lower hub of the supporting construction arranged in a moveable manner on the shaft are displayed, where the lower hub is designed in such a way that the illumination elements of the illumination device are partially encapsulated and where the lower hub is additionally designed in such a way that the illumination device can be activated automatically by moving the lower hub into its upper end position, shows a partial view in cross-section of the supporting construction of the um-Fig. 4 brella according to the invention, where contrary to Fig. 3 the lower hub of the supporting construction in this embodiment of the invention is designed in such a way that the illumination elements of the illumination device are integrated com-pletely isolated from the surroundings, where at least the underside of the lower hub is made of transparent or translucent material, Fig. 5 shows a partial view in cross-section of the supporting construction of an addi-tional embodiment of the umbrella according to the invention, where the illumina-tion elements of the illumination device are completely isolated from the sur-roundings through encapsulation into the supporting ribs of the supporting con-struction, while no illumination elements are integrated in the lower hub shown in this embodiment, where the lower hub is designed similar to Fig. 3 or Fig. 4 in such a way that the illumination device can be activated automatically by moving the lower hub into its upper end position, and Fig. 6 shows a side view along the longitudinal axis of a supporting or holding rib, for example in an embodiment according to Fig. 5, where the illumination elements of the illumination device are completely isolated from the surroundings through encapsulation into the supporting/holding rib, and where the supporting or holding rib is at least partially made of transparent or translucent material.
Fig. 1 shows the first embodiment of the umbrella according to the invention.
The umbrella has been designed as a stand-alone umbrella and is usually used as a sunshade.
The umbrella includes a canopy 1 and a supporting construction 2 for the canopy 1.
Moreover, the umbrella is equipped with an illumination device 3, which is indicated by the rays of the emitted light.
The supporting construction 2 consists of a shaft 4 with a fixed upper hub 5 and a lower hub 6 which can be moved along the shaft. Several holding ribs 7 connected to the canopy 1 are attached to the upper hub 5. Several supporting ribs 8 coupled with the holding ribs 7 are at-tached to the lower hub 6. As mentioned, the canopy 1 can be folded open and closed by moving the lower hub 6 along the shaft 4.
The lower end of the shaft 4 is connected to a base 9 which is only adumbrated here. The connection between the shaft 4 and the base 9 is realized with a clamp 10.
In this embodiment of the umbrella according to the invention, the illumination device 3 is supplied with power by means of a battery/rechargeable battery back 11. The bat-tery/rechargeable battery pack 11 is attached at the outside of the shaft 4 by means of a de-tachable holder 12. In addition, the umbrella includes a solar cell 13 mounted on the upper hub 5 used to supply the illumination device 3 or the battery/rechargeable battery pack 11 with power. Optionally, the solar cell 13 can also be mounted on the canopy 1.
In addition, it is possible to integrate the battery/rechargeable battery pack 11 within the shaft 4 or within the base 9.
In the illustrated embodiment, the illumination device 3 is integrated within the upper hub 5, the lower hub 6, the holding ribs 7 as well as the supporting ribs 8. The illumination device is completely isolated from the surroundings through encapsulation by the components men-tioned above. For this purpose, the components are at least partially made of transparent or translucent material. However, it is equally possible that the illumination device 3 is only par-tially integrated within the mentioned components. In this type of embodiment, the transpar-ent or translucent material may not be necessary.
Fig. 2 shows a side view of another embodiment of the umbrella according to the invention, designed as an offset hanging umbrella in this example. The base 9 of the offset hanging um-brella is located outside of the extension of the connection between the upper hub 5 and the lower hub 6. Moreover, the umbrella comprises two shafts 4. In this embodiment, the bat-tery/rechargeable battery pack 11 is attached to one of the supporting ribs 8.
Again, the illu-mination device 3 is completely isolated from the surroundings through encapsulation by the upper hub 5, the lower hub 6, the holding ribs 7 and the supporting ribs 8. To avoid a repeti-tion, please refer to the description of the figure under Fig. 1.
Fig. 3 shows a partial view in cross-section of the supporting construction 2 of an umbrella according to the invention which is designed identical to the umbrella described in Fig. I with respect to the construction. The canopy 1(not shown) is supported by a central shaft 4. Also shown is the lower hub 6 arranged on the shaft 4 in a moveable manner, with the supporting ribs 8 attached to it. In this embodiment, the illumination device 3 is partially isolated from the surroundings through encapsulation by the lower hub 6. The illumination device 3 consists of several illumination devices 14, arranged in a circular manner within the lower hub 6. The underside of the lower hub 6 is equipped with openings for the illumination elements 14. As a result, the illumination elements 14 only contact the surroundings with a very small part of their surface, thus effectively protecting them from being damaged. Moreover, the illumina-tion device 3 is hardly noticed by the user thanks to the partial encapsulation.
An electrical circuit 15 is provided to supply the illumination device 3 with power. The elec-trical circuit 15 is made of suitable conductive materials. In the embodiment shown, the elec-trical circuit 15 is supplied with power at the lower end of the shaft 4, for example via a bat-tery/rechargeable battery pack 11 (not shown). The electrical circuit 15 extends from the lower end of the shaft 4 within the shaft 4 to the spring 16, which is made of electrically con-ductive material. The part of the electrical circuit 15 arranged within the shaft 4 ends in the spring 16 made of electrically conductive material. The spring 16 is isolated from the outside of the shaft 4; however, it can be used to create an electrically conductive connection through the wall of the shaft 4.
The electrical circuit 15 arranged within the lower hub 6 is designed in such a way that it automatically creates an electrically conductive connection with the spring 16 if the lower hub 6 is in the upper end position with respect to the shaft 4.
With this construction, the illumination device 3 is always activated when the canopy 1 is folded open.
Alternatively, it goes without saying that the illumination device 3 can be activated manually by means of a hand or foot switch which can be integrated in any position.
In addition, it is possible to integrate the battery/rechargeable battery pack 11 within the shaft 4 or within the base 9.
In the illustrated embodiment, the illumination device 3 is integrated within the upper hub 5, the lower hub 6, the holding ribs 7 as well as the supporting ribs 8. The illumination device is completely isolated from the surroundings through encapsulation by the components men-tioned above. For this purpose, the components are at least partially made of transparent or translucent material. However, it is equally possible that the illumination device 3 is only par-tially integrated within the mentioned components. In this type of embodiment, the transpar-ent or translucent material may not be necessary.
Fig. 2 shows a side view of another embodiment of the umbrella according to the invention, designed as an offset hanging umbrella in this example. The base 9 of the offset hanging um-brella is located outside of the extension of the connection between the upper hub 5 and the lower hub 6. Moreover, the umbrella comprises two shafts 4. In this embodiment, the bat-tery/rechargeable battery pack 11 is attached to one of the supporting ribs 8.
Again, the illu-mination device 3 is completely isolated from the surroundings through encapsulation by the upper hub 5, the lower hub 6, the holding ribs 7 and the supporting ribs 8. To avoid a repeti-tion, please refer to the description of the figure under Fig. 1.
Fig. 3 shows a partial view in cross-section of the supporting construction 2 of an umbrella according to the invention which is designed identical to the umbrella described in Fig. I with respect to the construction. The canopy 1(not shown) is supported by a central shaft 4. Also shown is the lower hub 6 arranged on the shaft 4 in a moveable manner, with the supporting ribs 8 attached to it. In this embodiment, the illumination device 3 is partially isolated from the surroundings through encapsulation by the lower hub 6. The illumination device 3 consists of several illumination devices 14, arranged in a circular manner within the lower hub 6. The underside of the lower hub 6 is equipped with openings for the illumination elements 14. As a result, the illumination elements 14 only contact the surroundings with a very small part of their surface, thus effectively protecting them from being damaged. Moreover, the illumina-tion device 3 is hardly noticed by the user thanks to the partial encapsulation.
An electrical circuit 15 is provided to supply the illumination device 3 with power. The elec-trical circuit 15 is made of suitable conductive materials. In the embodiment shown, the elec-trical circuit 15 is supplied with power at the lower end of the shaft 4, for example via a bat-tery/rechargeable battery pack 11 (not shown). The electrical circuit 15 extends from the lower end of the shaft 4 within the shaft 4 to the spring 16, which is made of electrically con-ductive material. The part of the electrical circuit 15 arranged within the shaft 4 ends in the spring 16 made of electrically conductive material. The spring 16 is isolated from the outside of the shaft 4; however, it can be used to create an electrically conductive connection through the wall of the shaft 4.
The electrical circuit 15 arranged within the lower hub 6 is designed in such a way that it automatically creates an electrically conductive connection with the spring 16 if the lower hub 6 is in the upper end position with respect to the shaft 4.
With this construction, the illumination device 3 is always activated when the canopy 1 is folded open.
Alternatively, it goes without saying that the illumination device 3 can be activated manually by means of a hand or foot switch which can be integrated in any position.
Fig. 4 shows a partial view in cross-section of the supporting construction of the umbrella according to the invention according to Fig. 3, where the illumination elements 14 of this em-bodiment are completely integrated in the lower hub 6. As a result, the illumination elements 14 of the illumination device 3 are completely isolated from the surroundings through encap-sulation. The illumination elements 14 are arranged within the lower hub 6 on the electrical circuit 15. For this purpose, the electrical circuit 15 has been integrated as a holder and si-multaneously as an electrical conductor in a circular fashion within the lower hub 6. To allow the emission of light from the lower hub 6, the lower hub 6 is at least partially made of trans-parent or translucent material. For this purpose, the lower hub 6 can be at least partially made of synthetic material, glass or any other suitable material.
The complete encapsulation of the illumination elements 14 within the lower hub 6 practically prevents the illumination elements 14 from being damaged during the use, transport or storage of the umbrella according to the invention. In addition, the illumination elements 14 are hardly discernible from the outside, particularly not when the illumination device 3 is in use.
The illumination devices 14 can consist of light bulbs; however, in the embodiment shown the illumination elements 14 consist of light emitting diodes (LEDs).
Fig. 5 shows a partial view in cross-section of the supporting construction 2 of an umbrella according to the invention according to Fig. 1. Contrary to the embodiments described in Fig.
3 and Fig. 4, the illumination elements 14 are not arranged within the lower hub 6 here, but are completely encapsulated by the supporting ribs 8. For this purpose, the supporting rib 8 is connected to the electrical circuit 15 which is supplied with power starting from the lower end of the shaft 4 as described above. This embodiment of the umbrella according to the invention is also equipped with the automatic activation of the illumination device 3 as soon as the lower hub 6 takes its upper end position with respect to the shaft 4. This automatic activation is described in detail above.
The complete encapsulation of the illumination elements 14 within the lower hub 6 practically prevents the illumination elements 14 from being damaged during the use, transport or storage of the umbrella according to the invention. In addition, the illumination elements 14 are hardly discernible from the outside, particularly not when the illumination device 3 is in use.
The illumination devices 14 can consist of light bulbs; however, in the embodiment shown the illumination elements 14 consist of light emitting diodes (LEDs).
Fig. 5 shows a partial view in cross-section of the supporting construction 2 of an umbrella according to the invention according to Fig. 1. Contrary to the embodiments described in Fig.
3 and Fig. 4, the illumination elements 14 are not arranged within the lower hub 6 here, but are completely encapsulated by the supporting ribs 8. For this purpose, the supporting rib 8 is connected to the electrical circuit 15 which is supplied with power starting from the lower end of the shaft 4 as described above. This embodiment of the umbrella according to the invention is also equipped with the automatic activation of the illumination device 3 as soon as the lower hub 6 takes its upper end position with respect to the shaft 4. This automatic activation is described in detail above.
The supporting rib 8 shown preferably consists of a rectangular cross-section and is at least partially made of transparent or translucent material. A longitudinal holder for the illumina-tion elements 14 is arranged in the supporting rib 8. The illumination elements 14 are ar-ranged on this holder, separated from one another and connected to a power supply through the electrical circuit 15 integrated within the holder. The power supply is not shown in detail.
The illumination elements 14 consist of light emitting diodes. The light emitting diodes can have different colors and/or light intensities. Naturally, light bulbs or filament bulbs can be used instead of light emitting diodes.
The figure does not show the holding ribs 7 of the umbrella according to the invention. These holding ribs 7 can be designed according to the supporting ribs 8 shown and be electrically connected, thus allowing them to feed part of the illumination device 3. The simultaneous illumination of the holding ribs 7 and the supporting ribs 8 is shown in Fig.
1.
Naturally, an illuminated lower hub 6 pursuant to Fig. 3 or Fig. 4 can be combined with an illuminated upper hub 5 and additionally with illuminated holding ribs 7 and/or supporting ribs 8, depending on the desired illumination intensity and depending on the size of the area one wishes to illuminate. An umbrella with integrated illumination device 3 pursuant to Fig. 1 can be provided this way.
Fig. 6 shows a side view of the supporting rib 8 from Fig. 5, where the cutting plane is ar-ranged vertically with respect to the longitudinal axis of the supporting rib 8. The supporting rib 8 consists of a hollow profile with rectangular cross-section, where the edges of the profile are rounded.
However, the profile can have any other shape, such as an oval or circular cross-section.
Four slots 17 are arranged within the profile in a longitudinal direction, where two slots each are arranged pair-wise across from one another in the upper and lower area. A
longitudinal holder for the illumination elements 14 is inserted into a pair of slots. Said holder is integrated in the electrical circuit 15 for the illumination elements 14. The illumination elements 14 are arranged on the holder or the electrical circuit 15.
Because the illumination elements 14 are completely encapsulated by the supporting rib 8, the supporting rib 8 is at least partially made of transparent or translucent material. Depending on the intended illumination result, the holder for the illumination elements 14 which is inte-grated in the electrical circuit 15 can be made of transparent, translucent or non-transparent material.
In the exemplary embodiment shown, the supporting rib 8 is made of synthetic material.
However, the supporting rib 8 can be made of any other suitable material, such as glass.
When the supporting rib 8 is produced, the profile with the two pairs of slots is made first.
Then the longitudinal holder with the illumination elements 14 arranged on the holder is in-serted into a pair of slots. The supporting rib 8 can then be installed into the supporting con-struction 2 of the umbrella.
If a different direction of the light emission is desired, for example if one wishes to illuminate the canopy 1 instead of the floor, the holder with the illumination elements 14 can be mounted on the other pair of slots, thereby resulting in an opposite direction of the illumination.
Naturally, the construction shown here can be used both as supporting rib 8 as well as holding rib 7 and was only shown here as an example based on the supporting rib 8 shown in Fig. 5.
We would like to refer to Fig. 1 again, which shows an umbrella according to the invention, containing both illuminated holding ribs 7 as well as illuminated supporting ribs 8. In it, the design of the holding ribs 7 and the supporting ribs 8 corresponds to the construction shown in Fig. 6 Finally, we would like to emphasize that the exemplary embodiments described above are discussing the teachings according to the claim, without limiting them to the exemplary em-bodiments.
The illumination elements 14 consist of light emitting diodes. The light emitting diodes can have different colors and/or light intensities. Naturally, light bulbs or filament bulbs can be used instead of light emitting diodes.
The figure does not show the holding ribs 7 of the umbrella according to the invention. These holding ribs 7 can be designed according to the supporting ribs 8 shown and be electrically connected, thus allowing them to feed part of the illumination device 3. The simultaneous illumination of the holding ribs 7 and the supporting ribs 8 is shown in Fig.
1.
Naturally, an illuminated lower hub 6 pursuant to Fig. 3 or Fig. 4 can be combined with an illuminated upper hub 5 and additionally with illuminated holding ribs 7 and/or supporting ribs 8, depending on the desired illumination intensity and depending on the size of the area one wishes to illuminate. An umbrella with integrated illumination device 3 pursuant to Fig. 1 can be provided this way.
Fig. 6 shows a side view of the supporting rib 8 from Fig. 5, where the cutting plane is ar-ranged vertically with respect to the longitudinal axis of the supporting rib 8. The supporting rib 8 consists of a hollow profile with rectangular cross-section, where the edges of the profile are rounded.
However, the profile can have any other shape, such as an oval or circular cross-section.
Four slots 17 are arranged within the profile in a longitudinal direction, where two slots each are arranged pair-wise across from one another in the upper and lower area. A
longitudinal holder for the illumination elements 14 is inserted into a pair of slots. Said holder is integrated in the electrical circuit 15 for the illumination elements 14. The illumination elements 14 are arranged on the holder or the electrical circuit 15.
Because the illumination elements 14 are completely encapsulated by the supporting rib 8, the supporting rib 8 is at least partially made of transparent or translucent material. Depending on the intended illumination result, the holder for the illumination elements 14 which is inte-grated in the electrical circuit 15 can be made of transparent, translucent or non-transparent material.
In the exemplary embodiment shown, the supporting rib 8 is made of synthetic material.
However, the supporting rib 8 can be made of any other suitable material, such as glass.
When the supporting rib 8 is produced, the profile with the two pairs of slots is made first.
Then the longitudinal holder with the illumination elements 14 arranged on the holder is in-serted into a pair of slots. The supporting rib 8 can then be installed into the supporting con-struction 2 of the umbrella.
If a different direction of the light emission is desired, for example if one wishes to illuminate the canopy 1 instead of the floor, the holder with the illumination elements 14 can be mounted on the other pair of slots, thereby resulting in an opposite direction of the illumination.
Naturally, the construction shown here can be used both as supporting rib 8 as well as holding rib 7 and was only shown here as an example based on the supporting rib 8 shown in Fig. 5.
We would like to refer to Fig. 1 again, which shows an umbrella according to the invention, containing both illuminated holding ribs 7 as well as illuminated supporting ribs 8. In it, the design of the holding ribs 7 and the supporting ribs 8 corresponds to the construction shown in Fig. 6 Finally, we would like to emphasize that the exemplary embodiments described above are discussing the teachings according to the claim, without limiting them to the exemplary em-bodiments.
Claims (22)
1. An umbrella, in particular a hand-held umbrella, free-standing umbrella or an offset hanging umbrella for protection against the rain or for use as a sunshade, equipped with a canopy (1), a supporting construction (2) for the canopy (1) and an illumination device (3) that is allocated to the supporting construction (2), characterized in that the illumination device (3) of the supporting construction (2) is essentially integrated into the umbrella.
2. Umbrella according to claim 1, characterized in that the supporting construction (2) contains a shaft (4) with a fixed upper hub (5) and a lower hub (6) which can be moved along the shaft, where several holding ribs (7) connected to the canopy (1) are attached to the upper hub (5), where several supporting ribs (8) coupled with the holding ribs (7) are attached to the lower hub (6), and where the canopy (1) can be folded open and closed by moving the lower hub (6).
3. Umbrella according to claim 2, characterized in that the supporting construction (2) comprises a handle or base (9) or similar at the lower end of the shaft (4).
4. Umbrella according to any one of the claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the support-ing construction (2) encapsulates the illumination device (3) in such a way that it is com-pletely isolated from the surroundings.
5. Umbrella according to any one of the claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the support-ing construction (2) is made of transparent or translucent material at least in the area of the illumination device (3).
6. Umbrella according to claim 5, characterized in that the transparent or translucent material consists of synthetic material or glass.
7. Umbrella according to claim 5 or claim 6, characterized in that translucent material with different colors or a different degree of shading can be used.
8. Umbrella according to any one of the claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the color and/or the intensity of the emitted light can be changed by the user.
9. Umbrella according to any one of the claims 2 to 7, characterized in that the upper hub (5) and/or the lower hub (6) at least partially consist of transparent or translucent material and at least partially integrate the illumination device (3).
10. Umbrella according to any one of the claims 2 to 8, characterized in that one or a plu-rality of holding ribs (7) and/or one or a plurality of supporting ribs (8) at least partially con-sist of transparent or translucent material and at least partially integrate the illumination de-vice (3).
11. Umbrella according to any one of the claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the illumi-nation device (3) comprises one or a plurality of illumination elements (14).
12. Umbrella according to claim 11, characterized in that the illumination elements (14) consist of filament bulbs and/or light emitting diodes (LEDs).
13. Umbrella according to any one of the claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the illumi-nation device (3) comprises an electrical circuit (15).
14. Umbrella according to claim 13, characterized in that the electrical circuit (15) is ar-ranged within the supporting construction (2).
15. Umbrella according to any one of the claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the illumi-nation device (3) can be charged via battery or rechargeable battery pack (11), via external solar cells (13) or solar cells mounted on the canopy, or via public mains -preferably via inserted rectifier.
16. Umbrella according to claim 15, characterized in that the rechargeable battery pack (11) can be charged via solar cells (13) and/or via public mains.
17. Umbrella according to claim 15 or claim 16, characterized in that the battery or re-chargeable battery pack (11) is arranged within the shaft (4), the handle or the base (9).
18. Umbrella according to claim 15 or claim 16, characterized in that the battery or re-chargeable battery pack (11) is encapsulated and attached at the outside of the shaft (4) so that it can be detached.
19. Umbrella according to any one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that the illumination device (3) can be activated by folding open the canopy (1).
20. Umbrella according to any one of claims 2 to 19, characterized in that the illumination device (3) can be activated by moving the lower hub (6) into its upper end position with re-spect to the shaft (4).
21. Umbrella according to claim 20, characterized in that the transition between the shaft (4) and the lower hub (6) is designed as an electrical switch in the area of the upper end posi-tion, which is lockable by moving the lower hub (6) into its upper end position, whereby the illumination device (3) can be activated.
22. Umbrella according to any one of the claims 1 to 21, characterized in that the illumi-nation device (3) can be activated by a hand or foot switch integrated within the supporting construction (2).
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| DE102005023338.4 | 2005-05-17 | ||
| DE102005023338A DE102005023338A1 (en) | 2005-05-17 | 2005-05-17 | Shade with lighting device |
| PCT/DE2006/000467 WO2006122514A2 (en) | 2005-05-17 | 2006-03-15 | Umbrella comprising an illumination device |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2608489A1 true CA2608489A1 (en) | 2006-11-23 |
Family
ID=36593754
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002608489A Abandoned CA2608489A1 (en) | 2005-05-17 | 2006-03-15 | Umbrella comprising an illumination device |
Country Status (5)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| US (1) | US20080105287A1 (en) |
| EP (1) | EP1883326A2 (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2608489A1 (en) |
| DE (1) | DE102005023338A1 (en) |
| WO (1) | WO2006122514A2 (en) |
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| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2009124384A1 (en) * | 2008-04-07 | 2009-10-15 | Ioannis Chronopoulos | Umbrella lighting apparatus |
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| TWI522057B (en) * | 2011-11-21 | 2016-02-21 | Integrated light-emitting part of umbrella and its lead frame | |
| US20130167886A1 (en) * | 2011-12-30 | 2013-07-04 | Meredith Ann Crain | Personal Umbrella |
| US9088181B2 (en) * | 2012-07-27 | 2015-07-21 | Zon | Sunshades with solar power supplies for charging electronic devices |
| US10506854B2 (en) * | 2012-07-27 | 2019-12-17 | Zon | Solar-powered charging umbrella with USB ports |
| FR2998454B1 (en) * | 2012-11-23 | 2015-05-29 | Aurorale | UMBRELLA EMITTING FROM LIGHT |
| US20150259945A1 (en) * | 2014-03-17 | 2015-09-17 | American Recreation Products, LLC. | Illuminative shelter structure |
| CN203828387U (en) * | 2014-04-18 | 2014-09-17 | 客贝利(厦门)休闲用品有限公司 | Bar table with sunshade |
| CN104665138B (en) * | 2014-12-29 | 2018-01-23 | 临海市中天电子电器有限公司 | A kind of light umbrella |
| US11910891B2 (en) * | 2015-10-09 | 2024-02-27 | Current Products Corp. | Umbrella system |
| CN206360460U (en) * | 2016-11-16 | 2017-07-28 | 厦门博鸿林户外用品有限公司 | Connecting seat at the top of a kind of tent frame rod with light source |
| CN209594935U (en) * | 2018-06-12 | 2019-11-08 | 浙江永强集团股份有限公司 | Umbrella frame and lamp light umbrella |
| US11143369B2 (en) * | 2019-08-23 | 2021-10-12 | Jason Westberry Sapp | Controllable illumination lighting system and method for interior or exterior use |
| US12036501B2 (en) * | 2019-12-05 | 2024-07-16 | The Ceiling Sweeper, LLC | Filtering device for use with a ceiling fan |
| CN212325780U (en) | 2020-04-02 | 2021-01-12 | 客贝利(厦门)休闲用品有限公司 | Bar counter table structure of tent |
| US11910890B2 (en) | 2020-07-16 | 2024-02-27 | Current Products Corp. | Umbrella system |
Family Cites Families (9)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US4031381A (en) * | 1976-03-08 | 1977-06-21 | Phyllis Carver | Illuminatable umbrella |
| US4425602A (en) * | 1981-08-13 | 1984-01-10 | Lansing Lawrence A | Umbrella lamp assembly |
| CH679266A5 (en) * | 1989-04-21 | 1992-01-31 | Rene Dahinden | |
| US5331524A (en) * | 1993-07-06 | 1994-07-19 | Shin Yeh Enterprise Co., Ltd. | Umbrella with lighting device |
| DE19702011A1 (en) * | 1997-01-22 | 1998-07-23 | Klaus Strass | Safety umbrella or sunshade designed as safety unit with illuminated stem and cover |
| DE29811817U1 (en) * | 1998-07-02 | 1998-08-27 | Braun, Egon, 41542 Dormagen | Umbrella with lighting |
| US6612713B1 (en) * | 2001-02-07 | 2003-09-02 | World Factory, Inc. | Umbrella apparatus |
| DE20315183U1 (en) * | 2003-10-01 | 2003-12-04 | Tsai, Ting-Sheng, Kang Shan Chen | Illuminated umbrella has light emitting elements that are built into the struts of the canopy and are powered by a battery in the handle |
| US7000624B2 (en) * | 2003-12-05 | 2006-02-21 | Tony Wei-Sin Chang | Umbrella having solar powered illumination structure |
-
2005
- 2005-05-17 DE DE102005023338A patent/DE102005023338A1/en not_active Ceased
-
2006
- 2006-03-15 EP EP06722623A patent/EP1883326A2/en not_active Withdrawn
- 2006-03-15 CA CA002608489A patent/CA2608489A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2006-03-15 WO PCT/DE2006/000467 patent/WO2006122514A2/en not_active Application Discontinuation
-
2007
- 2007-11-14 US US11/939,902 patent/US20080105287A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2009124384A1 (en) * | 2008-04-07 | 2009-10-15 | Ioannis Chronopoulos | Umbrella lighting apparatus |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| DE102005023338A1 (en) | 2006-11-30 |
| WO2006122514A2 (en) | 2006-11-23 |
| WO2006122514A3 (en) | 2007-04-05 |
| US20080105287A1 (en) | 2008-05-08 |
| EP1883326A2 (en) | 2008-02-06 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request | ||
| FZDE | Discontinued |