US20050028852A1 - Portable sunshade - Google Patents
Portable sunshade Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20050028852A1 US20050028852A1 US10/634,776 US63477603A US2005028852A1 US 20050028852 A1 US20050028852 A1 US 20050028852A1 US 63477603 A US63477603 A US 63477603A US 2005028852 A1 US2005028852 A1 US 2005028852A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- boom
- mast
- support
- collar
- portable sunshade
- 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
- A45B23/00—Other umbrellas
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45B—WALKING STICKS; UMBRELLAS; LADIES' OR LIKE FANS
- A45B25/00—Details of umbrellas
- A45B25/10—Umbrella crowns
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45B—WALKING STICKS; UMBRELLAS; LADIES' OR LIKE FANS
- A45B19/00—Special folding or telescoping of umbrellas
- A45B19/04—Special folding or telescoping of umbrellas with telescopic sticks
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45B—WALKING STICKS; UMBRELLAS; LADIES' OR LIKE FANS
- A45B19/00—Special folding or telescoping of umbrellas
- A45B2019/005—Special folding or telescoping of umbrellas without stick
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45B—WALKING STICKS; UMBRELLAS; LADIES' OR LIKE FANS
- A45B23/00—Other umbrellas
- A45B2023/0031—Cantilever umbrellas or sunshades with a support arm
- A45B2023/005—Cantilever umbrellas or sunshades with a support arm the support arm being attached to a rib or being formed by a rib
Definitions
- This invention relates to a sunshade in the form of an umbrella, and in particular to a portable sunshade capable to move around to various locations with relative ease.
- Sunshades are known in the art. Most sunshades, at least or the large variety, are relatively stationary and require a heavy base to support the umbrella like cover or canopy that most of them conventionally use. Sunshades are used around pools, at the beach and elsewhere in tropical countries, in particular, to block out the rays of the sun during the heat of the day.
- a typical sunshade comprises a large cover or canopy, supported by a frame consisting of movable struts or ribs, connected to a boom which can be tilted at various angles around a stationary support or pole.
- the pole is typically mounted in a heavy cement block at its lower end or base, so that in high winds the sunshade does not tip over and injure those who may be sitting under it.
- a large sunshade has been, out of necessity, more or less stationary.
- the portable sunshade in accordance with the present invention comprises a mast structure extending in a generally vertical direction, means for attaching said mast structure at its lower end to a support structure, a boom extending outwardly from the mast structure, having an end movably attached to the mast structure, a hub assembly attached to a second free end of the boom, a plurality of elongated support ribs extending radially from the hub assembly, each support rib having one end rotatably attached to the hub assembly, a canopy positioned over the elongated support ribs and fastened thereto, the canopy having an opening in it corresponding to a predetermined position along the boom, and a boom support strut pivotably attached at on end to the upper end of the mast structure, and at the other end pivotably secured to the boom at a predetermined position along the length of it, the boom support strut extending through the opening in the canopy at the point where it is connected to the boom.
- the hub assembly comprises two plates substantially parallel and spaced from each other to pivotally sandwich the one end of each support rib whereby each support rib is rotatable with respect to an axis perpendicular to a plane parallel to the plates and thus movable on the plane.
- the canopy overlying the support ribs is thus collapsed and closed by the movement of the support ribs on the plane.
- the hub comprises a flat crown having a circumference along which radially extending lugs are spaced with notches defined between adjacent lugs to pivotally receive the one end of each support rib.
- the support rib is thus rotatable about an axis that is on a plane substantially parallel to the crown and movable on a plane substantially normal to the crown, which allows collapse of the canopy spanning the support ribs.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a sunshade constructed in accordance with the present invention in an expanded condition
- FIG. 2 is a perspective view, partially exploded, of a sunshade constructed in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention
- FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the sunshade of the first embodiment showing a canopy that is supported by a rotatable boom and right side up;
- FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a frame of the sunshade of the first embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the frame of FIG. 4 ;
- FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing the sunshade in a collapsed condition
- FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a base of the sunshade frame of the present invention.
- FIG. 8 is an exploded view of the a hub assembly of the sunshade of the first embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 9 is a side elevational view of the hub assembly of the first embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of a mechanism for connecting a boom support strut to a top end of a mast of the sunshade frame;
- FIG. 11 is an exploded view of a clamping mechanism for positioning the boom on the mast;
- FIG. 12 is an exploded view of a clamp and safety handle for the mast and base height extension of the sunshade frame of the present invention.
- FIG. 13 is a perspective view, with parts broken away, showing means for connecting the boom support strut to the boom;
- FIG. 14 is a perspective view, with parts but away, illustrating telescoping mechanism of a support rib for canopy of the sunshade;
- FIG. 15 is a cut-away view of the mast of the sunshade of the present invention showing locking means of the mast and trailer hitch vehicle mounting system;
- FIG. 16 is an exploded view of the locking means for the sunshade to multiple types of base stands
- FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a sunshade constructed in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a frame of the sunshade of the second embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 19 is an exploded view of the sunshade frame of the second embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 20 is a perspective view, similar to FIG. 18 , but showing canopy support ribs and a hub carrying the canopy support ribs in an rotatable condition, whereas the canopy support not only is able to be angled down or up, but also to be rotated 180 degrees from side to side;
- FIG. 21 is a cross sectional view of the hub and a runner of the sunshade frame of the second embodiment, showing the canopy support ribs are expanded;
- FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view similar to FIG. 21 but showing the canopy support ribs are collapsed;
- FIG. 23 is a perspective view showing a different embodiment of the base of the present invention.
- FIG. 24 is a perspective view showing that the base in FIG. 23 is folded so that the size thereof is compact.
- FIG. 25 is a perspective view showing still another embodiment of the base of the present invention.
- a portable sunshade constructed in accordance with the present invention comprises a frame (not labeled) for supporting a canopy 102 that is collapsible as illustrated in FIG. 6 .
- the sunshade frame comprises a base member 12 on which a mast is mounted for movably supporting a boom 24 and a boom support strut 68 that carries a hub mechanism 48 and a plurality of canopy support ribs 62 (particularly shown in FIG. 8 ) on which the canopy 102 overlies.
- the base member 12 comprises a U-shaped base support frame 120 having spaced limbs (not labeled) between which a lower end of a tubular vertical column 122 is mounted by a bolt 124 which extends through the limbs of the U-shaped frame 120 , through spacers 125 separating the limbs of the U-shaped frame 120 from the lower end of the column 122 , and through the column 122 .
- the U-shaped frame 120 is rotatable around a horizontal axis defined by the bolt 124 to allow the stand to be folded flat.
- a slidable collar 126 is fitted around to the column 122 at a short distance from the lower end of the column 122 .
- the collar 126 has ears 128 , which extend outward on each side, defining aligned through holes (not shown) for the extension of a bolt (not shown).
- a pin 1261 secures the collar 126 in place on the column 122 .
- a pair of support struts 132 connects the collar 126 to the U-shaped frame 120 .
- the support struts 132 are connected, respectively, to the limbs of the U-shaped frame 120 by bolts 134 , which extend through the limbs and the struts 132 .
- the struts 132 are rotatable about the bolts 134 .
- Means is employed to prevent the collar 126 from moving upward as pressure is placed thereon by the weight of the sunshade.
- An example is a slip pin (not shown) extending through holes defined in both the column 122 and the collar 126 .
- the U-shaped frame 120 can be folded up against the column 122 by disabling the means that is employed to prevent the collar 126 from moving upward to loosen the collar 126 , and allowing the collar 126 to move to a higher position on the column 122 .
- the U-shaped base support frame 120 should be sufficiently strong so as to support for example the weight of an automobile or other vehicle when the wheels of the automobile are resting on the frame 120 , which is used to provide stability for the sunshade 10 .
- the U-shaped base support frame 120 can be made of any material, such as iron, steel, and aluminum, but should be sufficiently sturdy that the frame 120 does not bend, deform, or even break when the wheels of the automobile are resting thereon, yet light enough to ensure easy transportation.
- the column 122 can also be fabricated of iron, steel, or aluminum, but it too, should be sufficiently sturdy so as not to break or bend due to the weight of or forces brought to bear by the rest of the sunshade 10 .
- the mast 20 is telescopically mounted on the tubular column 122 of the base 12 .
- the external diameter of the mast 20 is slightly less than the internal diameter of the tubular column 122 so that the lower end of the mast 20 securely fits into and is slidable within the column 122 .
- a main mast 22 is telescopically fitted over the mast 20 .
- the internal diameter of the main mast 22 is slightly larger than the external diameter of the mast 20 so that the main mast 22 can slide up and down on mast 20 as adjustments are made in its height.
- a clamp 154 selectively fixes the position of the main mast 22 on the mast 20 . This will be further described.
- the mast 20 has a keyway installed along a length of inner periphery of the mast 20 and the main mast 22 has a key installed along a length of the main mast 22 such that after the main mast 22 is inserted into the mast 20 , the corresponding between the key and keyway is able to prevent relative rotation movement between the main mast 22 and the mast 20 .
- the mast 20 and main mast 22 can be made of any suitable material, such as iron, steel, plastic composite materials and aluminum, but aluminum is preferred because of light weight and durability.
- a sliding mast clamp 26 attaches a proximal end of the boom 24 to the main mast 22 .
- the mast clamp 26 comprises a collar fitting around the main mast 22 .
- the mast clamp 26 consists of opposing plates 28 , 30 , each of which is shaped, in an inner surface, to conform to the outer surface of the main mast 22 .
- the plates 28 , 30 are connected together by a web 31 at one end and spaced apart from each other at the other end by a slit 33 whereby the main mast 22 is received between the plates 28 , 30 .
- Each plate 28 , 30 has an ear extension 32 , 34 , that projects horizontally away from the main mast 22 .
- the ear extensions 32 , 34 are spaced from each other and defines a space therebetween.
- the plates 28 , 30 define aligned through holes 36 for the extension of compression bolts 37 from opposite directions.
- the opposing plates 28 , 30 are tightened around the main mast 22 by compression nut knob handles 40 , which are threaded around the projecting ends of the compression bolts 37 .
- the plates 28 and 30 are drawn toward each other as the knobs 40 are tightened thereby securely fixing the mast clamp 26 on the main mast 22 .
- the position of the mast clamp 26 on the main mast 22 can thus be adjusted by moving the mast clamp 26 up or down along the mast 22 and tightening the compression bolts 37 with the knobs 40 when the desired position is achieved.
- the ears 32 , 34 also have holes 38 defined therein and aligning with each other for the extension of a bolt 42 . This will be further described.
- the boom 24 is pivotably affixed to the mast clamp 26 by fitting the proximal end thereof into a collar 96 comprising opposing plates 98 , 100 .
- the collar 96 fits in the space between the opposing ears 32 , 34 of the plates 28 , 30 of the mast clamp 26 .
- the opposing plates 98 , 100 of the collar 96 are drawn together by opposed compression bolts 43 extending through the plates 98 , 100 and threadingly engaging with and tightened by compression bolt tightening knobs 44 .
- Inside surfaces of the plates 98 , 100 are shaped so as to conform to outer surface of the boom 24 .
- the bolt 42 extends through the holes 38 defined in the ears 32 , 34 of the mast clamp 26 and through holes 95 defined in the collar 96 , securing the collar 96 in place and allowing the collar 96 and thus the boom 24 to pivot about the bolt 42 with respect to the main mast 22 in a vertical direction.
- a nut 46 secures the bolt 42 and thus fixes the boom 24 to the main mast 22 .
- washers 45 are sandwiched between the collar 96 and nut 46 and a head of the bolt 42 .
- the collar 96 is thus rotatably fixed between the opposing ears 32 , 34 of the mast clamp 26 .
- the boom 24 is rotatable around a horizontal axis, and pivotable with respect to the main mast 22 in a vertical direction.
- the boom 24 can be rotated about an axis thereof by loosing the knobs 44 on the compression bolts 43 . After the boom 24 is rotated to the desired degree, the knobs 44 are tightened again, fixing the boom 24 in its new position.
- a hub mechanism 48 is attached to a distal free end of the boom 24 .
- the hub mechanism 48 consists of two opposing triangular shaped angled plates 50 , 52 , each defining a plurality of holes 54 .
- Each of the plates 50 and 52 are bent at an angle at a point approximately one-third distance from the apex, at that apex where the distal end of the boom 24 is fastened. The angle is approximately 15 degrees.
- the holes 54 in the plate 50 are aligned with the holes 54 in the plate 52 , when the plates 50 and 52 are aligned with each other.
- the plates 50 and 52 are separated, or spaced apart by a plurality of rotating rib plugs 56 , each of which defines a bore 58 extending in a vertical direction.
- each rib plug 56 has a cylindrical projection 60 extending outwardly from the side thereof.
- the projections 60 serve to receive proximal ends of cylindrical canopy support ribs 62 that extend radially outwardly from the hub mechanism 48 .
- the support ribs 62 are tubular, and the proximal end of each rib 62 fits over the corresponding projection 60 .
- the support ribs 62 are movable to some extent with regard to the projections 60 .
- the plates 50 , 52 are secured to each other by means of bolts 64 , which extend through the holes 54 in both plates 50 , 52 and through the bores 58 in the rib plugs 56 .
- the bolts 64 are secured by nuts (not shown).
- the rib plugs 56 are secured between the plates 50 and 52 , but are free to rotate about a vertical axis defined by the bolts 64 .
- the distal end of the boom 24 is fixed between the plates 50 , 52 by means of the bolts 64 extending through holes 54 defined in the plates 50 , 52 and corresponding holes 66 defined through the distal end.
- the bolts 64 may be secured in position by nuts (not labeled but shown in FIG. 9 ).
- the boom support strut 68 is pivotably connected at a proximal end thereof to the main mast 22 and pivotably connected at a distal end thereof to the boom 24 , at a point which is intermediate the point of attachment of the boom 24 to the main mast 22 , and the hub mechanism 48 .
- the boom support strut 68 is attached to the boom 24 at a point at least half of the length thereof.
- the boom support strut 68 is pivotably connected to the main mast 22 by means of a rotating strut collar 70 having extended ears 72 , which fits around the main mast 22 .
- the ears 72 define aligned holes 74 .
- a proximal end of the boom support strut 68 is received between the ears 72 of the collar 70 .
- a bolt 76 extends through the holes 74 of the ears 72 and through holes 78 in the proximal end of the boom support strut 68 .
- a saddle 79 is positioned on each side of the support strut 68 ; intermediate it and the ears 72 , to provide lateral support.
- the strut 68 is pivotable in a vertical direction about a horizontal axis defined by the bolt 76 .
- the collar 70 is secured to a top end of the main mast 22 by means of a rotating cap flange 80 through which an eyebolt 82 is threaded.
- the eye of the eyebolt 82 is held in place at the top of the main mast 22 by a bolt 84 which extends through holes defined in the main mast 22 through the eye of the eye bolt 82 , and is secured by a nut 86 .
- a distal end of the boom support strut 68 is pivotably secured to the boom 24 by a rotating boom collar 88 which has ears 90 extending from opposite sides thereof.
- the ears 90 defines aligned holes, as does the distal end of the boom support strut 68 (both not shown).
- a bolt and nut combination 92 extends through the holes in the ears 90 and the boom support strut 68 and pivotably secures the boom support strut 68 to the boom 24 .
- the support ribs 62 are telescoping ribs, and have an inner rib section 63 which telescopes within the support rib 62 , and which can be extended and fixed at a desired position by spring loaded buttons 65 affixed to the rib sections 63 , which pop out of holes (not shown) in the support rib 62 .
- a canopy 102 spans the support ribs 62 , which, when extended, extend radially from the hub mechanism 48 .
- the canopy 102 is rectangular in shape, but the shape is not critical. That is, it can be round, oval, square, rectangular, etc.
- the support ribs 62 can be adjusted to accommodate any shape of canopy. It can be made out of any suitable material, although waterproof canvas is preferred.
- the canopy 102 has a slot 104 cut in it through which the boom support strut 68 passes from its point of connection to the main mast 22 , to the point of connection on the boom 24 .
- Pockets 106 are sewn into the underside of the canopy 102 , and are adapted to receive distal ends 63 of the support ribs 62 , after the support ribs 62 are radially extended from the hub mechanism 48 .
- the pockets 106 are formed of a piece of fabric, which is sewn to the underside of the canopy 102 .
- the ribs 62 are secured to the hub mechanism 48 at their near ends and to the canopy 102 by the pocket enclosures 106 at their far ends.
- the canopy 102 of the sunshade 10 can be raised or lowered, and its angle in relation to the sun changed, by raising or lowering the sliding mast clamp 26 attached to the main mast 22 , and by pivoting and/or rotating the boom 24 .
- the portable sunshade 10 folds itself up, and is easily transportable.
- the relational aspect of the support ribs 62 to the boom 24 enable the support ribs 62 to be rotated so that the ribs 62 are aligned in parallel to each other and to the boom 24 , thus permitting to entire canopy 102 to be folded into a compact package.
- the hub mechanism which is designated with reference numeral 300 , comprises a disk like crown 302 having a circumference along which pairs of lugs 304 are formed and spaced from each other. Each pair of lugs 304 defines a space therebetween for receiving the proximal end of each support rib 62 .
- the proximal end of the support rib 62 is pivoted to the lugs 304 by a pivot pin 306 whereby the support rib 62 is rotatable about a horizontal axis in a vertical direction with respect to the crown 302 .
- a central column 308 is fixed to the crown at an upper end thereof and has a free lower end.
- the distal end of the boom 24 is coupled to the crown 302 by being fixed between lugs of the crown 302 whereby the crown 302 and the support ribs 62 are supported in position by the boom 24 .
- a runner 310 comprises a disk like member 312 having a circumference along which pairs of lugs 314 are formed and spaced from each other. Each pair of lugs 314 defines a space therebetween for receiving an end of a stretcher 316 which is pivotally mounted to the lugs 314 by a pivot pin 318 .
- a central column 320 is mounted to and extends from the runner disk member 312 .
- the crown 302 and the runner 310 are arranged so that the central columns 308 , 320 are substantially coaxially aligned with and extending toward each other.
- a canopy control cable 322 is coupled between the runner 310 and the crown 302 for driving the runner 310 with respect to the crown 302 . This will be further discussed.
- the stretcher 316 has a distal end pivoted to the support rib 62 .
- a rib collar 324 is fit over and fixed to each support rib 62 and has ears 326 defining a space therebetween for receiving the distal en of the support rib 62 in a pivoting manner.
- a runner support strut 328 has a distal end coupled to the runner 310 by being fixed between lugs of the runner 310 and a proximal end coupled to the boom 24 by a second boom collar 330 .
- the boom collar 330 is rotatably and slidably fit over the boom 24 and has ears 332 defining a space therebetween for receiving the proximal end of the runner support strut 328 in a pivoting manner.
- the second boom collar 330 has a structure similar to the boom collar 88 whereby no more description is necessary. However, it is noted that the second boom collar 330 is not allowed to move or rotate around the boom 24 once the second boom collar 330 is fixed on the boom 24 .
- the canopy control cable 322 has a first end fixed to the crown 302 , extends to the runner 310 inside the columns 308 , 320 , wraps around a runner pulley 334 arranged inside the column 320 of the runner 310 , then goes upward to the crown 302 and wraps around a second pulley 336 arranged inside the column 308 of the crown 302 .
- the cable 322 extends out of the crown 302 and enters the boom 24 by being redirected by a third pulley 338 .
- the runner 310 By tightening and loosening the cable 322 , the runner 310 is driven toward/away from the crown 302 , which causes the stretchers 316 to erect up and fold the support ribs 62 and the canopy 102 overlying the support ribs 62 is in turn expanded and folded up.
- the clamp 154 that connects the main mast 22 to the lower mast 20 of the sunshade 10 comprises a block 156 having pairs of upper and lower ears 158 , 160 , which project outwardly.
- the clamp 154 is tightened around the masts 22 , 20 by means of compression screws 159 extending through opposing ears 158 ( 160 ), and which are tightened by means of the knobs 162 affixed to the compression screws 159 .
- the knobs 162 are tightened around the compression screws 159 , the ears 158 , 160 are drawn closer to each other around the masts 22 , 20 , and fixes the masts 22 , 20 in position, thereby allowing telescoping height adjustment of the sunshade 10 .
- the mast 20 has a keyway installed along a length of inner periphery of the mast 20 and the main mast 22 has a key installed along a length of the main mast 22 such that after the main mast 22 is inserted into the mast 20 , the corresponding between the key and keyway is able to prevent relative rotation movement between the main mast 22 and the mast 20 .
- a protection lever 350 is pivotally attached to the clamp 154 and driven by spring 352 to bias a lower tip 354 of the lever 350 inward.
- the tip 354 of the lever 350 engages a circumferential shoulder 356 formed on around a top end of the vertical column 122 of the base member 12 to prevent direct engagement between the clamp 154 and the shoulder 356 thereby offering protection to an operator's fingers.
- the sunshade mast 20 is also locked in place by means of a lock-hook lever 164 , which is biased by a spring 165 to rotate around a bolt 166 extending through the mast 20 .
- the lever 164 is attached to a rope 168 which extends up through the interior cavities of the mast 20 and main mast 22 , over a pulley 170 mounted at the upper end of the main mast 22 , thence through a hole 174 in the main mast 22 , to the outside.
- the lower end of the mast 20 is notched 176 , and thus fits over a pin 178 extending through the column 122 of the base member 12 .
- the rope 168 is pulled from the outside and the lever 164 is rotated around the bolt 166 , and disengages.
- the mast 20 and the balance of the sunshade 10 can then be removed, and retracted through telescoping action.
- the base 12 a of the present invention may be configured to have four limbs 121 a spaced apart from each other by 90 degrees and pivotally connected to each other and four arms 122 a each pivotally sandwiched between the slidable collar 126 and a corresponding one of the limbs 121 a.
- Weights 123 a are provided between two adjacent limbs 121 a to secure relative position of each of the limbs 121 a and to secure the base 12 a It is seen from FIG. 24 that after the weights 123 a are removed, the limbs 121 a are able to be folded toward the slidable collar 126 so that the sunshade of the present invention is compact in size.
- the base 12 b is configured to have a base plate 121 b with a supporting tube 122 b securely formed on a top face of the base plate 121 b and having a through hole 1221 defined through the supporting tube 122 b to correspond to a bulb-nut combination 123 b.
- the column 122 is provided with a securing hole 1222 corresponding to the through hole 1221 of the supporting tube 122 b. Therefore, when the column 122 is inserted into the supporting tube 122 b to align the securing hole 1222 and the through hole 1221 of the column 122 , the bulb-nut combination 123 b is able to secure the relative position of the column 122 and the supporting tube 122 b.
Abstract
Disclosed herein is a portable sunshade comprising a mast structure extending in a generally vertically direction, means for attaching the mast structure at its lower end to a support structure, a boom extending outwardly from the mast structure, having first and second ends, the first end being movably attached to the mast structure, a hub assembly attached to the second end of the boom, a plurality of elongated support ribs extending radially from the hub assembly, each of said support ribs, having one end rotatably attached to the hub assembly, a canopy positioned over the elongated support ribs and fastened thereto, the canopy having an opening in it corresponding to a predetermined position along the boom, and a boom support strut pivotably attached at one end to the upper end of the mast structure, and at the other end pivotably secured to boom at a predetermined position along the length of it, the boom support strut extending through the opening in the canopy at the point where it is connected to the boom.
Description
- 1. Field of the Invention
- This invention relates to a sunshade in the form of an umbrella, and in particular to a portable sunshade capable to move around to various locations with relative ease.
- 2. Relevant Art
- Sunshades are known in the art. Most sunshades, at least or the large variety, are relatively stationary and require a heavy base to support the umbrella like cover or canopy that most of them conventionally use. Sunshades are used around pools, at the beach and elsewhere in tropical countries, in particular, to block out the rays of the sun during the heat of the day.
- A typical sunshade comprises a large cover or canopy, supported by a frame consisting of movable struts or ribs, connected to a boom which can be tilted at various angles around a stationary support or pole. The pole is typically mounted in a heavy cement block at its lower end or base, so that in high winds the sunshade does not tip over and injure those who may be sitting under it. Thus, up until now, a large sunshade has been, out of necessity, more or less stationary.
- There is a need, however, for large portable sunshades, which can be moved around with ease. Campers, and travel trailer owners, in particular, would like to have a sunshade which can be moved around, set up and torn down, without a lot of hassle. Camping is a popular pastime and sunshades are definitely useful in open areas where there is little if any shade.
- It is an object of the present invention to provide a lightweight portable sunshade, which can be folded up and moved around with a minimum of difficulty.
- It is a further object of this invention to provide a sunshade that can be tilted and rotated at various angles, to block out the sun, and which does not require a large stationary base to support it.
- Other objects of the invention will be realized by reference to the description below.
- In accordance with the above objects and those that will be mentioned and will become apparent below, the portable sunshade in accordance with the present invention comprises a mast structure extending in a generally vertical direction, means for attaching said mast structure at its lower end to a support structure, a boom extending outwardly from the mast structure, having an end movably attached to the mast structure, a hub assembly attached to a second free end of the boom, a plurality of elongated support ribs extending radially from the hub assembly, each support rib having one end rotatably attached to the hub assembly, a canopy positioned over the elongated support ribs and fastened thereto, the canopy having an opening in it corresponding to a predetermined position along the boom, and a boom support strut pivotably attached at on end to the upper end of the mast structure, and at the other end pivotably secured to the boom at a predetermined position along the length of it, the boom support strut extending through the opening in the canopy at the point where it is connected to the boom.
- In one embodiment, the hub assembly comprises two plates substantially parallel and spaced from each other to pivotally sandwich the one end of each support rib whereby each support rib is rotatable with respect to an axis perpendicular to a plane parallel to the plates and thus movable on the plane. The canopy overlying the support ribs is thus collapsed and closed by the movement of the support ribs on the plane.
- In another embodiment of the present invention, the hub comprises a flat crown having a circumference along which radially extending lugs are spaced with notches defined between adjacent lugs to pivotally receive the one end of each support rib. The support rib is thus rotatable about an axis that is on a plane substantially parallel to the crown and movable on a plane substantially normal to the crown, which allows collapse of the canopy spanning the support ribs.
- The present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art by reading the following description of preferred embodiments thereof, with reference to the attached drawings, in which:
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FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a sunshade constructed in accordance with the present invention in an expanded condition; -
FIG. 2 is a perspective view, partially exploded, of a sunshade constructed in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the sunshade of the first embodiment showing a canopy that is supported by a rotatable boom and right side up; -
FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a frame of the sunshade of the first embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the frame ofFIG. 4 ; -
FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing the sunshade in a collapsed condition; -
FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a base of the sunshade frame of the present invention; -
FIG. 8 is an exploded view of the a hub assembly of the sunshade of the first embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 9 is a side elevational view of the hub assembly of the first embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of a mechanism for connecting a boom support strut to a top end of a mast of the sunshade frame; -
FIG. 11 is an exploded view of a clamping mechanism for positioning the boom on the mast; -
FIG. 12 is an exploded view of a clamp and safety handle for the mast and base height extension of the sunshade frame of the present invention; -
FIG. 13 is a perspective view, with parts broken away, showing means for connecting the boom support strut to the boom; -
FIG. 14 is a perspective view, with parts but away, illustrating telescoping mechanism of a support rib for canopy of the sunshade; -
FIG. 15 is a cut-away view of the mast of the sunshade of the present invention showing locking means of the mast and trailer hitch vehicle mounting system; -
FIG. 16 is an exploded view of the locking means for the sunshade to multiple types of base stands; -
FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a sunshade constructed in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a frame of the sunshade of the second embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 19 is an exploded view of the sunshade frame of the second embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 20 is a perspective view, similar toFIG. 18 , but showing canopy support ribs and a hub carrying the canopy support ribs in an rotatable condition, whereas the canopy support not only is able to be angled down or up, but also to be rotated 180 degrees from side to side; -
FIG. 21 is a cross sectional view of the hub and a runner of the sunshade frame of the second embodiment, showing the canopy support ribs are expanded; -
FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view similar toFIG. 21 but showing the canopy support ribs are collapsed; -
FIG. 23 is a perspective view showing a different embodiment of the base of the present invention; -
FIG. 24 is a perspective view showing that the base inFIG. 23 is folded so that the size thereof is compact; and -
FIG. 25 is a perspective view showing still another embodiment of the base of the present invention. - With reference to the drawings and in particular to
FIG. 1 of the drawings, a portable sunshade constructed in accordance with the present invention, generally designated withreference numeral 10, comprises a frame (not labeled) for supporting acanopy 102 that is collapsible as illustrated inFIG. 6 . The sunshade frame comprises abase member 12 on which a mast is mounted for movably supporting aboom 24 and aboom support strut 68 that carries ahub mechanism 48 and a plurality of canopy support ribs 62 (particularly shown inFIG. 8 ) on which thecanopy 102 overlies. - Also referring to
FIG. 7 , thebase member 12 comprises a U-shapedbase support frame 120 having spaced limbs (not labeled) between which a lower end of a tubularvertical column 122 is mounted by abolt 124 which extends through the limbs of theU-shaped frame 120, throughspacers 125 separating the limbs of theU-shaped frame 120 from the lower end of thecolumn 122, and through thecolumn 122. The U-shapedframe 120 is rotatable around a horizontal axis defined by thebolt 124 to allow the stand to be folded flat. - A
slidable collar 126 is fitted around to thecolumn 122 at a short distance from the lower end of thecolumn 122. Thecollar 126 hasears 128, which extend outward on each side, defining aligned through holes (not shown) for the extension of a bolt (not shown). Apin 1261 secures thecollar 126 in place on thecolumn 122. - A pair of
support struts 132 connects thecollar 126 to the U-shapedframe 120. Thesupport struts 132 are connected, respectively, to the limbs of theU-shaped frame 120 bybolts 134, which extend through the limbs and thestruts 132. Thestruts 132 are rotatable about thebolts 134. Means is employed to prevent thecollar 126 from moving upward as pressure is placed thereon by the weight of the sunshade. An example is a slip pin (not shown) extending through holes defined in both thecolumn 122 and thecollar 126. - Thus, the
U-shaped frame 120 can be folded up against thecolumn 122 by disabling the means that is employed to prevent thecollar 126 from moving upward to loosen thecollar 126, and allowing thecollar 126 to move to a higher position on thecolumn 122. - The U-shaped
base support frame 120 should be sufficiently strong so as to support for example the weight of an automobile or other vehicle when the wheels of the automobile are resting on theframe 120, which is used to provide stability for thesunshade 10. - The U-shaped
base support frame 120 can be made of any material, such as iron, steel, and aluminum, but should be sufficiently sturdy that theframe 120 does not bend, deform, or even break when the wheels of the automobile are resting thereon, yet light enough to ensure easy transportation. Thecolumn 122 can also be fabricated of iron, steel, or aluminum, but it too, should be sufficiently sturdy so as not to break or bend due to the weight of or forces brought to bear by the rest of thesunshade 10. - Also referring to
FIGS. 2-5 , themast 20 is telescopically mounted on thetubular column 122 of thebase 12. The external diameter of themast 20 is slightly less than the internal diameter of thetubular column 122 so that the lower end of themast 20 securely fits into and is slidable within thecolumn 122. Amain mast 22 is telescopically fitted over themast 20. The internal diameter of themain mast 22 is slightly larger than the external diameter of themast 20 so that themain mast 22 can slide up and down onmast 20 as adjustments are made in its height. Aclamp 154 selectively fixes the position of themain mast 22 on themast 20. This will be further described. Themast 20 has a keyway installed along a length of inner periphery of themast 20 and themain mast 22 has a key installed along a length of themain mast 22 such that after themain mast 22 is inserted into themast 20, the corresponding between the key and keyway is able to prevent relative rotation movement between themain mast 22 and themast 20. - The
mast 20 andmain mast 22 can be made of any suitable material, such as iron, steel, plastic composite materials and aluminum, but aluminum is preferred because of light weight and durability. - Also referring to
FIG. 11 , a slidingmast clamp 26 attaches a proximal end of theboom 24 to themain mast 22. Themast clamp 26 comprises a collar fitting around themain mast 22. Themast clamp 26 consists of opposingplates main mast 22. Theplates web 31 at one end and spaced apart from each other at the other end by aslit 33 whereby themain mast 22 is received between theplates plate ear extension main mast 22. Theear extensions plates holes 36 for the extension ofcompression bolts 37 from opposite directions. - The opposing
plates main mast 22 by compression nut knob handles 40, which are threaded around the projecting ends of thecompression bolts 37. Theplates knobs 40 are tightened thereby securely fixing themast clamp 26 on themain mast 22. The position of themast clamp 26 on themain mast 22 can thus be adjusted by moving themast clamp 26 up or down along themast 22 and tightening thecompression bolts 37 with theknobs 40 when the desired position is achieved. - The
ears holes 38 defined therein and aligning with each other for the extension of abolt 42. This will be further described. - The
boom 24 is pivotably affixed to themast clamp 26 by fitting the proximal end thereof into acollar 96 comprising opposingplates collar 96 fits in the space between the opposingears plates mast clamp 26. The opposingplates collar 96 are drawn together byopposed compression bolts 43 extending through theplates bolt tightening knobs 44. Inside surfaces of theplates boom 24. - The
bolt 42 extends through theholes 38 defined in theears mast clamp 26 and throughholes 95 defined in thecollar 96, securing thecollar 96 in place and allowing thecollar 96 and thus theboom 24 to pivot about thebolt 42 with respect to themain mast 22 in a vertical direction. Anut 46 secures thebolt 42 and thus fixes theboom 24 to themain mast 22. Preferably,washers 45 are sandwiched between thecollar 96 andnut 46 and a head of thebolt 42. Thecollar 96 is thus rotatably fixed between the opposingears mast clamp 26. Thus theboom 24 is rotatable around a horizontal axis, and pivotable with respect to themain mast 22 in a vertical direction. - The
boom 24 can be rotated about an axis thereof by loosing theknobs 44 on thecompression bolts 43. After theboom 24 is rotated to the desired degree, theknobs 44 are tightened again, fixing theboom 24 in its new position. - As best seen in
FIGS. 4, 5 , 8 and 9, ahub mechanism 48 is attached to a distal free end of theboom 24. Thehub mechanism 48 consists of two opposing triangular shapedangled plates holes 54. Each of theplates boom 24 is fastened. The angle is approximately 15 degrees. Theholes 54 in theplate 50 are aligned with theholes 54 in theplate 52, when theplates plates bore 58 extending in a vertical direction. - As seen in
FIG. 5 , eachrib plug 56 has acylindrical projection 60 extending outwardly from the side thereof. Theprojections 60 serve to receive proximal ends of cylindricalcanopy support ribs 62 that extend radially outwardly from thehub mechanism 48. Thesupport ribs 62 are tubular, and the proximal end of eachrib 62 fits over the correspondingprojection 60. Thus, thesupport ribs 62 are movable to some extent with regard to theprojections 60. - The
plates bolts 64, which extend through theholes 54 in bothplates bores 58 in the rib plugs 56. Thebolts 64 are secured by nuts (not shown). Thus the rib plugs 56 are secured between theplates bolts 64. - The distal end of the
boom 24 is fixed between theplates bolts 64 extending throughholes 54 defined in theplates holes 66 defined through the distal end. Thebolts 64 may be secured in position by nuts (not labeled but shown inFIG. 9 ). - The
boom support strut 68 is pivotably connected at a proximal end thereof to themain mast 22 and pivotably connected at a distal end thereof to theboom 24, at a point which is intermediate the point of attachment of theboom 24 to themain mast 22, and thehub mechanism 48. Preferably, theboom support strut 68 is attached to theboom 24 at a point at least half of the length thereof. - As seen in
FIG. 10 , theboom support strut 68 is pivotably connected to themain mast 22 by means of arotating strut collar 70 having extendedears 72, which fits around themain mast 22. Theears 72 define alignedholes 74. A proximal end of theboom support strut 68 is received between theears 72 of thecollar 70. Abolt 76 extends through theholes 74 of theears 72 and throughholes 78 in the proximal end of theboom support strut 68. Asaddle 79 is positioned on each side of thesupport strut 68; intermediate it and theears 72, to provide lateral support. Thus thestrut 68 is pivotable in a vertical direction about a horizontal axis defined by thebolt 76. - The
collar 70 is secured to a top end of themain mast 22 by means of arotating cap flange 80 through which aneyebolt 82 is threaded. The eye of theeyebolt 82 is held in place at the top of themain mast 22 by abolt 84 which extends through holes defined in themain mast 22 through the eye of theeye bolt 82, and is secured by anut 86. - As seen in
FIG. 13 , a distal end of theboom support strut 68 is pivotably secured to theboom 24 by a rotatingboom collar 88 which hasears 90 extending from opposite sides thereof. Theears 90 defines aligned holes, as does the distal end of the boom support strut 68 (both not shown). A bolt andnut combination 92 extends through the holes in theears 90 and theboom support strut 68 and pivotably secures theboom support strut 68 to theboom 24. - Bolts secured by
nuts 94 placed through holes (not shown) in theboom 24 on each side of theboom collar 88 hold theboom collar 88 in place on theboom 24. Thus theboom collar 88 is free to rotate around theboom 24 but is not allowed to move along theboom 24. - As seen best in
FIG. 14 , thesupport ribs 62 are telescoping ribs, and have aninner rib section 63 which telescopes within thesupport rib 62, and which can be extended and fixed at a desired position by spring loadedbuttons 65 affixed to therib sections 63, which pop out of holes (not shown) in thesupport rib 62. - A
canopy 102 spans thesupport ribs 62, which, when extended, extend radially from thehub mechanism 48. As shown inFIGS. 1-3 , thecanopy 102 is rectangular in shape, but the shape is not critical. That is, it can be round, oval, square, rectangular, etc. Thesupport ribs 62 can be adjusted to accommodate any shape of canopy. It can be made out of any suitable material, although waterproof canvas is preferred. Thecanopy 102 has aslot 104 cut in it through which theboom support strut 68 passes from its point of connection to themain mast 22, to the point of connection on theboom 24. -
Pockets 106 are sewn into the underside of thecanopy 102, and are adapted to receivedistal ends 63 of thesupport ribs 62, after thesupport ribs 62 are radially extended from thehub mechanism 48. Thepockets 106 are formed of a piece of fabric, which is sewn to the underside of thecanopy 102. - Thus, the
ribs 62 are secured to thehub mechanism 48 at their near ends and to thecanopy 102 by thepocket enclosures 106 at their far ends. - The
canopy 102 of thesunshade 10 can be raised or lowered, and its angle in relation to the sun changed, by raising or lowering the slidingmast clamp 26 attached to themain mast 22, and by pivoting and/or rotating theboom 24. As seen inFIG. 6 , when themast clamp 26 is lowered to the lowest point on themast 22, theportable sunshade 10 folds itself up, and is easily transportable. The relational aspect of thesupport ribs 62 to theboom 24 enable thesupport ribs 62 to be rotated so that theribs 62 are aligned in parallel to each other and to theboom 24, thus permitting toentire canopy 102 to be folded into a compact package. - Another embodiment of the hub mechanism in accordance with the present invention is shown in
FIGS. 17-20 . As shown, the hub mechanism, which is designated withreference numeral 300, comprises a disk likecrown 302 having a circumference along which pairs oflugs 304 are formed and spaced from each other. Each pair oflugs 304 defines a space therebetween for receiving the proximal end of eachsupport rib 62. The proximal end of thesupport rib 62 is pivoted to thelugs 304 by apivot pin 306 whereby thesupport rib 62 is rotatable about a horizontal axis in a vertical direction with respect to thecrown 302. Acentral column 308 is fixed to the crown at an upper end thereof and has a free lower end. The distal end of theboom 24 is coupled to thecrown 302 by being fixed between lugs of thecrown 302 whereby thecrown 302 and thesupport ribs 62 are supported in position by theboom 24. - A
runner 310 comprises a disk likemember 312 having a circumference along which pairs oflugs 314 are formed and spaced from each other. Each pair oflugs 314 defines a space therebetween for receiving an end of a stretcher 316 which is pivotally mounted to thelugs 314 by apivot pin 318. Acentral column 320 is mounted to and extends from therunner disk member 312. Thecrown 302 and therunner 310 are arranged so that thecentral columns canopy control cable 322 is coupled between therunner 310 and thecrown 302 for driving therunner 310 with respect to thecrown 302. This will be further discussed. - The stretcher 316 has a distal end pivoted to the
support rib 62. Arib collar 324 is fit over and fixed to eachsupport rib 62 and hasears 326 defining a space therebetween for receiving the distal en of thesupport rib 62 in a pivoting manner. - A
runner support strut 328 has a distal end coupled to therunner 310 by being fixed between lugs of therunner 310 and a proximal end coupled to theboom 24 by asecond boom collar 330. Theboom collar 330 is rotatably and slidably fit over theboom 24 and hasears 332 defining a space therebetween for receiving the proximal end of therunner support strut 328 in a pivoting manner. Thesecond boom collar 330 has a structure similar to theboom collar 88 whereby no more description is necessary. However, it is noted that thesecond boom collar 330 is not allowed to move or rotate around theboom 24 once thesecond boom collar 330 is fixed on theboom 24. - Also referring to
FIGS. 21 and 22 , thecanopy control cable 322 has a first end fixed to thecrown 302, extends to therunner 310 inside thecolumns runner pulley 334 arranged inside thecolumn 320 of therunner 310, then goes upward to thecrown 302 and wraps around asecond pulley 336 arranged inside thecolumn 308 of thecrown 302. Thecable 322 extends out of thecrown 302 and enters theboom 24 by being redirected by athird pulley 338. By tightening and loosening thecable 322, therunner 310 is driven toward/away from thecrown 302, which causes the stretchers 316 to erect up and fold thesupport ribs 62 and thecanopy 102 overlying thesupport ribs 62 is in turn expanded and folded up. - Referring to
FIG. 12 , theclamp 154 that connects themain mast 22 to thelower mast 20 of thesunshade 10 comprises ablock 156 having pairs of upper andlower ears clamp 154 is tightened around themasts compression screws 159 extending through opposing ears 158 (160), and which are tightened by means of theknobs 162 affixed to the compression screws 159. As theknobs 162 are tightened around the compression screws 159, theears masts masts sunshade 10. Themast 20 has a keyway installed along a length of inner periphery of themast 20 and themain mast 22 has a key installed along a length of themain mast 22 such that after themain mast 22 is inserted into themast 20, the corresponding between the key and keyway is able to prevent relative rotation movement between themain mast 22 and themast 20. - A
protection lever 350 is pivotally attached to theclamp 154 and driven byspring 352 to bias alower tip 354 of thelever 350 inward. Thus, when themasts tip 354 of thelever 350 engages acircumferential shoulder 356 formed on around a top end of thevertical column 122 of thebase member 12 to prevent direct engagement between theclamp 154 and theshoulder 356 thereby offering protection to an operator's fingers. - As seen in
FIGS. 15 and 16 , thesunshade mast 20 is also locked in place by means of a lock-hook lever 164, which is biased by aspring 165 to rotate around abolt 166 extending through themast 20. Thelever 164 is attached to arope 168 which extends up through the interior cavities of themast 20 andmain mast 22, over apulley 170 mounted at the upper end of themain mast 22, thence through ahole 174 in themain mast 22, to the outside. The lower end of themast 20 is notched 176, and thus fits over apin 178 extending through thecolumn 122 of thebase member 12. When themast 20 is lowered into place in thecolumn 122 of thebase member 12, thelever 164 engages thepin 178, and themast 20 is thus locked into position. - When it is desired to remove the sunshade, the
rope 168 is pulled from the outside and thelever 164 is rotated around thebolt 166, and disengages. Themast 20 and the balance of thesunshade 10 can then be removed, and retracted through telescoping action. - With reference to
FIG. 23 , it is to be noted that the base 12 a of the present invention may be configured to have fourlimbs 121 a spaced apart from each other by 90 degrees and pivotally connected to each other and fourarms 122 a each pivotally sandwiched between theslidable collar 126 and a corresponding one of thelimbs 121 a.Weights 123 a are provided between twoadjacent limbs 121 a to secure relative position of each of thelimbs 121 a and to secure the base 12 a It is seen fromFIG. 24 that after theweights 123 a are removed, thelimbs 121 a are able to be folded toward theslidable collar 126 so that the sunshade of the present invention is compact in size. - With reference to
FIG. 25 , the base 12 b is configured to have abase plate 121 b with a supportingtube 122 b securely formed on a top face of thebase plate 121 b and having a throughhole 1221 defined through the supportingtube 122 b to correspond to a bulb-nut combination 123 b. Thecolumn 122 is provided with asecuring hole 1222 corresponding to the throughhole 1221 of the supportingtube 122 b. Therefore, when thecolumn 122 is inserted into the supportingtube 122 b to align thesecuring hole 1222 and the throughhole 1221 of thecolumn 122, the bulb-nut combination 123 b is able to secure the relative position of thecolumn 122 and the supportingtube 122 b. - It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications can be made in the sunshade of this invention, yet will be within the spirit and scope of the invention, being limited solely by the appended claims.
Claims (19)
1. A portable sunshade comprising:
a mast extending in a generally vertical direction;
a support structure attached to the mast at a lower end thereof to support the mast;
a boom attachment collar slidably engaging the mast, the collar selectively positionable along a portion of the mast;
a boom having a first and second end and a longitudinal axis, the boom engaging the collar at the first end in a manner allowing the boom to be rotated about the longitudinal axis and secured in selectable positions of rotation;
a canopy assembly attached to the second end of the boom; and
a boom support strut having first and second ends, pivotably attached to the mast above the slidable collar and to the boom at a point between the first and second ends of the boom.
2. The portable sunshade of claim 1 further comprising a hub positioned at the second end of the boom, the hub having a plurality of radial ribs to support the canopy.
3. The portable sunshade of claim 2 wherein the radial ribs are pivotable around the hub to fold the canopy against the boom.
4. The portable sunshade of claim 3 wherein the radial ribs and the boom lie substantially in the same plane.
5. The portable sunshade of claim 2 wherein the hub comprises a pair of opposing plates spaced apart by rib plugs, and the ribs pivot with the rib plugs.
6. The portable sunshade of claim 1 wherein the support structure comprises a horizontally-extending plate, such that a heavy object may, by bearing on the plate, support the mast.
7. The portable sunshade of claim 1 wherein the support structure comprises an assembly of folding legs, deployable at essentially a right angle to the mast to support the mast, or foldable along the mast for portability.
8. The portable sunshade of claim 1 wherein the mast comprises an assembly of telescoping tubes, such that the height of the mast may be adjusted.
9. The portable sunshade of claim 1 wherein the support structure comprises an attachment mechanism to attach the mast to an upwardly projecting shaft of a utility rack of a recreational vehicle.
10. The portable sunshade as claimed in claim 7 , wherein the support structure further comprises at least three limbs pivotable relative to a sliding collar, at least three arms each pivotally sandwiched between the sliding collar and a corresponding one of the at least three limbs and at least three weights removably located between two adjacent limbs to secure the support structure.
11. The portable sunshade as claimed in claim 7 , wherein the support structure comprises a base plate with a supporting tube securely formed on a top face of the base plate and a sliding collar insertable into the supporting tube such that a bolt-nut combination is able to secure relative position between the sliding collar and the base plate.
12. A portable sunshade comprising:
a mast extending in a generally vertical direction;
a support structure attached to the mast at a lower end thereof to support the mast and comprising at least three limbs pivotable relative to a sliding collar, at least three arms each pivotally sandwiched between the sliding collar and a corresponding one of the at least three limbs and at least three weights removably located between two adjacent limbs to secure the support structure;
a boom attachment collar slidably engaging the mast, the collar selectively positionable along a portion of the mast;
a boom having a first and second end and a longitudinal axis, the boom engaging the collar at the first end in a manner allowing the boom to be rotated about the longitudinal axis and secured in selectable positions of rotation;
a canopy assembly attached to the second end of the boom;
a boom support strut having first and second ends, pivotably attached to the mast above the slidable collar and to the boom at a point between the first and second ends of the boom; and
a hub positioned at the second end of the boom, the hub having a plurality of radial ribs to support the canopy, wherein the radial ribs are pivotable around the hub to fold the canopy against the boom and the radial ribs and the boom lie substantially in the same plane.
13. The portable sunshade of claim 12 wherein the hub comprises a pair of opposing plates spaced apart by rib plugs, and the ribs pivot with the rib plugs.
14. The portable sunshade of claim 13 wherein the support structure comprises a horizontally-extending plate, such that a heavy object may, by bearing on the plate, support the mast.
15. The portable sunshade of claim 14 wherein the support structure comprises an assembly of folding legs, deployable at essentially a right angle to the mast to support the mast, or foldable along the mast for portability, wherein the mast comprises an assembly of telescoping tubes, such that the height of the mast may be adjusted.
16. The portable sunshade of claim 15 wherein the support structure comprises an attachment mechanism to attach the mast to an upwardly projecting shaft of a utility rack of a recreational vehicle.
17. A portable sunshade comprising:
a mast extending in a generally vertical direction;
a support structure attached to the mast at a lower end thereof to support the mast and having a base plate with a supporting tube securely formed on a top face of the base plate and a sliding collar insertable into the supporting tube such that a bolt-nut combination is able to secure relative position between the sliding collar and the base plate;
a boom attachment collar slidably engaging the mast, the collar selectively positionable along a portion of the mast;
a boom having a first and second end and a longitudinal axis, the boom engaging the collar at the first end in a manner allowing the boom to be rotated about the longitudinal axis and secured in selectable positions of rotation;
a canopy assembly attached to the second end of the boom;
a boom support strut having first and second ends, pivotably attached to the mast above the slidable collar and to the boom at a point between the first and second ends of the boom; and
a hub positioned at the second end of the boom, the hub having a plurality of radial ribs to support the canopy, wherein the radial ribs are pivotable around the hub to fold the canopy against the boom and the radial ribs and the boom lie substantially in the same plane, wherein the hub comprises a pair of opposing plates spaced apart by rib plugs, and the ribs pivot with the rib plugs.
18. The portable sunshade of claim 17 wherein the support structure comprises a horizontally-extending plate, such that a heavy object may, by bearing on the plate, support the mast.
19. The portable sunshade of claim 18 wherein the support structure comprises an attachment mechanism to attach the mast to an upwardly projecting shaft of a utility rack of a recreational vehicle.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US10/634,776 US20050028852A1 (en) | 2003-08-06 | 2003-08-06 | Portable sunshade |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/634,776 US20050028852A1 (en) | 2003-08-06 | 2003-08-06 | Portable sunshade |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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US20050028852A1 true US20050028852A1 (en) | 2005-02-10 |
Family
ID=34116098
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US10/634,776 Abandoned US20050028852A1 (en) | 2003-08-06 | 2003-08-06 | Portable sunshade |
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US (1) | US20050028852A1 (en) |
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