US20060112981A1 - Powered patio pole umbrella - Google Patents
Powered patio pole umbrella Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20060112981A1 US20060112981A1 US11/327,037 US32703706A US2006112981A1 US 20060112981 A1 US20060112981 A1 US 20060112981A1 US 32703706 A US32703706 A US 32703706A US 2006112981 A1 US2006112981 A1 US 2006112981A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- pole
- power
- umbrella
- electrical
- powered
- 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
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
- H01R13/00—Details of coupling devices of the kinds covered by groups H01R12/70 or H01R24/00 - H01R33/00
- H01R13/46—Bases; Cases
- H01R13/52—Dustproof, splashproof, drip-proof, waterproof, or flameproof cases
- H01R13/5213—Covers
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45B—WALKING STICKS; UMBRELLAS; LADIES' OR LIKE FANS
- A45B3/00—Sticks combined with other objects
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
- H01R25/00—Coupling parts adapted for simultaneous co-operation with two or more identical counterparts, e.g. for distributing energy to two or more circuits
- H01R25/006—Coupling parts adapted for simultaneous co-operation with two or more identical counterparts, e.g. for distributing energy to two or more circuits the coupling part being secured to apparatus or structure, e.g. duplex wall receptacle
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45B—WALKING STICKS; UMBRELLAS; LADIES' OR LIKE FANS
- A45B23/00—Other umbrellas
- A45B2023/0012—Ground supported umbrellas or sunshades on a single post, e.g. resting in or on a surface there below
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45B—WALKING STICKS; UMBRELLAS; LADIES' OR LIKE FANS
- A45B25/00—Details of umbrellas
- A45B25/14—Devices for opening and for closing umbrellas
- A45B2025/146—Devices for opening and for closing umbrellas with a crank connected to a rope
-
- 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
- A45B2200/1063—Umbrellas; Sunshades combined with other objects with tables
-
- 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
- A45B25/14—Devices for opening and for closing umbrellas
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
- H01R13/00—Details of coupling devices of the kinds covered by groups H01R12/70 or H01R24/00 - H01R33/00
- H01R13/66—Structural association with built-in electrical component
- H01R13/70—Structural association with built-in electrical component with built-in switch
- H01R13/713—Structural association with built-in electrical component with built-in switch the switch being a safety switch
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10S—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10S135/00—Tent, canopy, umbrella, or cane
- Y10S135/91—Illuminated cane or umbrella
Definitions
- the present invention generally relates to a patio pole umbrella. More particularly, the present invention relates to a powered patio pole umbrella with electrical outlets for powering appliances, lights, and other devices.
- Patio pole umbrellas are currently in wide use by consumers in a variety of applications and settings.
- a patio pole umbrella is typically installed outdoors to provide shade on a sunny day or shelter from rain on an overcast day. Individuals may sit under the patio pole umbrella by itself, but frequently the patio pole umbrella is installed with a patio table or serving center.
- a patio pole umbrella When used with a patio table or serving center, a patio pole umbrella is typically installed with the pole of the umbrella rising up through a hole in the patio table or serving center. To help maintain the balance and vertical position of the patio pole umbrella, the bottom of the pole is sometimes set in a support base.
- the pole sometimes includes an umbrella crank handle for opening and closing the umbrella canopy.
- the umbrella crank handle is connected to a crank wire that runs up the pole and connects to the support structure of the umbrella canopy.
- a user rotates the umbrella crank handle.
- Rotation of the umbrella crank handle draws or releases the crank wire depending on the direction of rotation. Movement of the crank wire moves the support structure which in turn opens or closes the umbrella canopy.
- One way consumers may choose to hide a power cord is to strap the power cord to the surface of the pole of the patio pole umbrella. By securing the power cords near the pole, usable space around the pole is freed up and the potential for inadvertent contact with people is reduced.
- Rushing U.S. Pat. No. 5,053,931.
- the system of Rushing shows lights attached to the ribs of an umbrella with zip ties.
- a power cord for the lights is trained down from the umbrella along the pole of the patio pole umbrella.
- the power cord is secured to the outside surface of the pole with zip ties.
- FIG. 1 Another example, is a design for an illuminated garden umbrella disclosed in Finkel, U.S. Pat. No. 2,087,537.
- the system of Finkle shows a light fixture situated in the top of a garden umbrella.
- a one-piece, continuous power cord for the light fixture is run from the light fixture to the base of the pole through the inside of the pole.
- the one-piece, continuous power cord exits the pole at the base of the pole.
- affixing the power cords to the pole in such a manner does not provide for mobility of the electrical devices attached to the power cords or flexibility in changing from the use of electrical one device to another. Also, affixing power cords to the pole does nothing to reduce the number of power cords running around the base of the patio umbrella. Thus, simply securing power cords near the pole of the patio pole umbrella does not provide an optimal solution to management of power cords and wires where an individual desires to alternate the use of various electrical devices near a patio pole umbrella.
- a consumer may have a patio pole umbrella installed in the center of a patio table in the backyard of the consumer's home. While sitting at the patio table out in the backyard, the consumer may desire to power a small cooler sitting beneath the table, listen to a radio sitting on the table top, and power a lamp secured up near the umbrella canopy.
- the consumer could power the cooler, radio, and lamp in one of two ways: 1) the consumer could run a designated power cord for each device from a household outlet, across the yard, to the patio table; or 2) the consumer could run a single power cord across the yard to a typical household power strip laying on the ground and run power cords from the power strip to each of the cooler, radio, and lamp.
- designated power cords may be run from household outlets to each of the cooler, the radio, and the lamp.
- Each of the power cords may be trained from the outlet, across the yard, to the patio table.
- the cord for the cooler would be trained on the ground.
- the cord for the radio sitting on top of the table would run across the table top, over the edge of the table and down to the ground level.
- the power cord for the lamp would hang down from the top of the umbrella to the table top, run across the table top, lay over the edge of the table, and then hang down to the ground.
- a single power cord may be run from a household outlet to a power strip lying on the ground. Power cords for each of the devices would then be run to the power strip instead of all the way back to outlets at the house. Similar to the first scenario, the cord for the cooler would be trained across the ground to the power strip. The cord for the radio sitting on top of the table would run across the table top, over the edge of the table, and down to the power strip. The power cord for the lamp would hang down from the top of the umbrella to the table top, run across the table top, lay over the edge of the table, and hang down to the power strip.
- the power cords are strewn all over the table top and hanging in the way of individuals trying to use the patio table. Essentially, the power cords are creating an obstacle course in the vicinity of the patio pole umbrella.
- a patio pole umbrella with a wire management system for reducing the presence of power cords under the patio pole umbrella. It may also be highly desirable to have a patio pole umbrella with a wire management system that provides flexibility as to what types of devices may be provided power. It may also be highly desirable to have a patio umbrella with a wire management system that provides the convenience of being able to readily change the devices being powered with minimal effort. It may also be highly desirable to have a wire management solution that minimizes the risk of shock or electrocution and conforms with applicable safety standards.
- the consumer may be highly desirable for the consumer to have access to power outlets at the umbrella or umbrella/patio table in order to power electrical devices and/or appliances that the user may want to use. That is, the availability of power where the consumer needs it (e.g., at the patio table) may be highly desirable.
- a preferred embodiment of the present invention provides a powered patio pole umbrella. Power is received by the powered patio pole umbrella from a wall outlet through a cord equipped with a ground fault circuit interrupter. The cord plugs into a bi-directional power hub located in the lower portion of the central pole of the powered patio pole umbrella, but displaced vertically upward from the ground. Power is then supplied from the bi-directional power hub to a plurality of other power hubs located vertically along the powered patio pole umbrella. The power hubs are sealed for moisture and the ground fault circuit interrupter is provided for additional safety
- FIG. 1 illustrates a powered patio pole umbrella in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 2 illustrates the powered patio pole umbrella shown in FIG. 1 installed in a patio table in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 3 illustrates a bi-directional power hub in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 4 illustrates the bi-directional power hub shown in FIG. 3 with outlet covers in an open position in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 5 illustrates a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the bi-directional power hub shown in FIG. 3 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 6 illustrates a latitudinal cross-sectional view of the bi-directional power hub shown in FIG. 3 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 7 illustrates a separable female internal power connector within the patio pole umbrella in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 8 illustrates a mid-level power hub in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 9 illustrates the mid-level power hub shown in FIG. 8 with an outlet cover in an open position in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 10 illustrates a side view of the mid-level power hub shown in FIG. 8 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 11 illustrates a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the mid-level power hub shown in FIG. 8 with a separable male internal power connector within the patio pole umbrella in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 12 illustrates a top power hub in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 13 illustrates the top power hub shown in FIG. 12 with an outlet cover in an open position in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 14 illustrates a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the top power hub shown in FIG. 12 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 15 illustrates a latitudinal cross-sectional view of the top tube slightly above the top power hub shown in FIG. 12 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 16 illustrates the position of a support rib hub and support ribs in relation to the outlet cover of a power hub in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 17 illustrates the size of a power hub and position of support ribs in relation to the outlet cover of the power hub in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 18 illustrates a separable male input power connector in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 19 illustrates a side view of the male input power connector shown in FIG. 18 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 20 illustrates a perspective view of the male input power connector shown in FIG. 18 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 21 illustrates a separable female input power connector in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 22 illustrates a side view of the separable female input power connector shown in FIG. 21 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 23 illustrates a perspective view of the separable female input power connector shown in FIG. 21 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 24 illustrates a separable male internal power connector in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 25 illustrates an end view of the male internal power connector shown in FIG. 24 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 26 illustrates a perspective view of the male internal power connector shown in FIG. 24 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 27 illustrates a separable female internal power connector in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 28 illustrates an end view of the female internal power connector shown in FIG. 27 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 29 illustrates a perspective view of the female internal power connector shown in FIG. 27 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 30 illustrates a power cable restraint in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 31 illustrates an end view of an internal power cable with a separable male internal power connector and the power cable restraint shown in FIG. 30 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 32 illustrates a pole section slip restraint in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 1 illustrates a powered patio pole umbrella 100 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- the powered patio pole umbrella 100 includes a power cord 115 , support base 125 , a powered bottom pole section 130 , and a powered top pole section 140 .
- the support base 125 includes a support aperture 126 .
- the powered bottom pole section 130 includes a pole connection aperture 131 , a bottom tube 190 , a bi-directional power hub 210 , an input power receptacle 221 , and a bottom power outlet 230 .
- the powered top pole section 140 includes an umbrella canopy 150 , an umbrella cap 160 , an umbrella crank handle 165 , a pole connection piece 185 , a top tube 195 , a pole section slip restraint 301 , a mid-level power hub 310 , a mid-level power outlet 330 , a top power hub 410 , and a top power outlet 430 .
- the power cord 115 includes an outlet plug 105 , a male power input connector 120 , and a ground fault circuit interrupter 110 .
- the bottom tube 190 of the powered bottom pole section 130 slides into the support aperture 126 of the support base 125 .
- the pole section slip restraint 301 depresses into the pole connection piece 185 of the powered top pole section 140 .
- the pole connection piece 185 slides into the pole connection aperture 131 of the powered bottom pole section 130 .
- the pole connection piece 185 is positioned within the pole connection aperture 131 such that the pole section slip restraint 301 aligns with a hole in the sidewall of the bottom tube 190 .
- the hole in the sidewall of the bottom tube 190 is sized to receive the pole section slip restraint 301 as the pole section slip restraint 301 is forced into the hole. Engagement of the pole section slip restraint 301 with the hole in the sidewall of bottom tube 190 prevents rotation and sliding of the top tube 195 with respect to the bottom tube 190 .
- the female power input connector 120 of the power cord 115 is plugged into the input power receptacle 221 of the powered bottom pole section 130 .
- the outlet plug 105 on the other end of power cord 115 is plugged into an outlet that supplies electrical power.
- the powered patio pole umbrella 100 may be used to provide safe and convenient access to a power supply for appliances and other electrical devices.
- electrical devices may be plugged into the bottom power outlet 230 , the mid-level power outlet 330 , or the top power outlet 430 to reduce the hazards and inconvenience associated with running numerous power cords across a porch, room, or yard in order to plug electrical devices into remote sources of power.
- FIG. 2 illustrates the powered patio pole umbrella 100 of FIG. 1 installed within a hole 108 in a patio table 107 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- a radio 10 is shown plugged into the mid-level power outlet 330 .
- a lamp 20 is shown plugged into the top power outlet 430 .
- the female power input connector 120 of the power cord 115 is plugged into the input power receptacle 221 of the powered bottom pole section 130 .
- the outlet plug 105 is plugged into a power outlet 106 .
- the power outlet 106 provides electrical power from an AC power source to the outlet plug 105 . Electrical power flows from outlet plug 105 through the power cord 115 and the ground fault circuit interrupter 110 to the male power input connector 120 . Electrical power flows from the male power input connector 120 into the input power receptacle 221 .
- the input power receptacle 221 supplies electrical power to the bottom power outlet 230 , the mid-level power outlet 330 , and the top power outlet 430 .
- the radio 10 or other electrical device may be plugged into the mid-level power outlet 330 .
- the lamp 20 or other electrical device may be plugged into the top power outlet 430 .
- plugging the radio 10 , the lamp 20 , and other electrical devices into the bottom power outlet 230 , the mid-level power outlet 330 , and the top power outlet 430 reduces hazards and congestion caused by power cords dangling from the umbrella canopy 150 and draping over the edges of the table 107 . Additionally, reduction of power cords dangling from the umbrella canopy 150 above and hanging over the edges of the table 107 , reduces the potential for injury to people through incidental contact with power cords.
- the possibility of water infiltration creating a hazardous shocking condition have been greatly minimized.
- no joining of electric cords occurs at ground level.
- the outlet plug 105 and input power receptacle are both upwardly vertically displaced from the ground to minimize water penetration.
- the presences of the ground fault circuit interrupter 110 minimizes the possibility of electrocution by being able to interrupt the power supplied if an electrocution condition is occurring.
- FIGS. 3, 4 , 5 , and 6 illustrate the bi-directional power hub 210 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- the bi-directional power hub 210 includes bi-directional power hub end caps 205 , a bi-directional power hub faceplate 212 , a solid backplate 211 , a bottom outlet cover 220 , the input power receptacle 221 , an input power receptacle cover 225 , and the bottom power outlet 230 .
- the bottom power outlet 230 and the input power receptacle 221 are mounted inside the bi-directional power hub 210 .
- the bottom outlet cover 220 and the input power receptacle cover 225 are attached with hinges to the bidirectional power hub faceplate 212 .
- the bidirectional power hub end caps 205 encircle the outer surface of the bottom tube 190 and attach to the bi-directional power hub faceplate 212 and the solid backplate 211 .
- FIGS. 5 and 6 illustrate cross-sectional views of the bi-directional power hub 210 shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 .
- the longitudinal cross-sectional view of the bi-directional power hub 210 in FIG. 5 includes the bottom tube 190 , the bi-directional power hub end caps 205 , the solid backplate 211 , the bi-directional power hub faceplate 212 , the bottom outlet cover 220 , the input power receptacle 221 , the input power receptacle cover 225 , the bottom power outlet 230 , the bi-directional power hub end cap seal 240 , bi-directional power hub faceplate cover seals 242 , input ground terminal 245 , input power terminals 246 , and a bottom section internal power cable 250 .
- the latitudinal cross-sectional view of the bi-directional power hub 210 in FIG. 6 includes the bottom tube 190 , the solid backplate 211 , the bi-directional power hub faceplate 212 , the input power receptacle 221 , the input power receptacle cover 225 , a cover-closing device 226 , bi-directional power hub plate seals 241 , the bi-directional power hub faceplate cover seals 242 , the input power terminals 246 , and the bottom section internal power cable 250 .
- the bottom section internal power cable 250 is connected to the input power receptacle 221 and the bottom power outlet 230 .
- the bottom section internal power cable 250 continues upward within the bottom tube 190 until it reaches the pole connection aperture 131 shown in FIG. 1 and illustrated in FIG. 7 .
- the bottom section internal power cable 250 connects to a female internal power connector 260 .
- the input power receptacle 221 and the bottom power outlet 230 are positioned within openings in the sidewall of the bottom tube 190 and attached to the bi-directional power hub faceplate 212 .
- the bi-directional power hub faceplate 212 and the solid backplate 211 are positioned on opposite sides of the bottom tube 190 with opposing edges pressed together. Threads in the bi-directional power hub end caps 205 engage threads on the bi-directional power hub faceplate 212 and the solid backplate 211 .
- the bi-directional power hub end caps 205 are rotated until tightly seated with the bi-directional power hub faceplate 212 and the solid backplate 211 .
- the bi-directional power hub 210 includes the bottom outlet cover 220 , the input power receptacle cover 225 , the bi-directional power hub end cap seal 240 , the bi-directional power hub plate seals 241 , and the bi-directional power hub faceplate cover seals 242 .
- the bi-directional power hub end cap seal 240 is placed around the bottom tube 190 along the top of the bi-directional power hub faceplate 212 and the solid backplate 211 .
- the bi-directional power hub end cap seal 240 is compressed between the bi-directional power hub end cap 205 and both the bi-directional power hub faceplate 212 and the solid backplate 211 . Compressing the bi-directional power hub end cap seal 240 forces the bi-directional power hub end cap seal 240 against the outer surface of the bottom tube 190 and forms a watertight seal.
- the bi-directional power hub 210 includes the bi-directional power hub plate seals 241 .
- the bi-directional power hub plate seals 241 are sandwiched between the shared edges of the bi-directional power hub faceplate 212 and the solid backplate 211 .
- edges of the bi-directional power hub faceplate 212 and the solid backplate 211 are forced together and compress the bi-directional power hub plate seals 241 to form a watertight seal.
- the bottom outlet cover 220 and the input power receptacle cover 225 are provided.
- the bottom outlet cover 220 and the input power receptacle cover 225 are positioned over the bottom power outlet 230 and the input power receptacle 221 .
- the bottom outlet cover 220 and the input power receptacle cover 225 are attached to the bi-directional power hub faceplate 212 with hinges.
- the bottom outlet cover 220 or the input power receptacle cover 225 may be rotated into the open position as shown in FIG. 4 .
- the bottom outlet cover 220 or the input power receptacle cover 225 is rotated into a closed position as shown in FIG. 3 .
- cover-closing devices 226 are attached to each of the bottom outlet cover 220 and the input power receptacle cover 225 .
- the cover-closing devices 226 are anchored to the bi-directional power hub faceplate 212 .
- the cover-closing devices 226 exert a force on the bottom outlet cover 220 and the input power receptacle cover 225 that causes the outlet cover 220 and the input power receptacle cover 225 to rotate into the closed position.
- a bi-directional power hub faceplate cover seal 242 may be installed around the edges of the bottom outlet cover 220 and the input power receptacle cover 225 . With the bottom outlet cover 220 and the input power receptacle cover 225 in the closed position, the bi-directional power hub faceplate cover seals 242 fill the gaps between the bi-directional power hub faceplate 212 and edges of both the bottom outlet cover 220 and the input power receptacle cover 225 .
- the coverage and seals provided by the bi-directional power hub end cap seal 240 , the bi-directional power hub plate seals 241 , the bi-directional power hub faceplate cover seals 242 , the bottom outlet cover 220 , and the input power receptacle cover 225 help prevent moisture and other materials from entering the bi-directional power hub 210 .
- FIGS. 8, 9 , 10 and 11 illustrate the mid-level power hub 310 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- the mid-level power hub 310 includes an umbrella crank handle 165 , mid-level power hub end caps 305 , a handle backplate 311 , a mid-level power hub faceplate 312 , a mid-level outlet cover 320 , and a mid-level power outlet 330 .
- the mid-level power outlet 330 is mounted inside the mid-level power hub 310 .
- the mid-level outlet cover 320 is attached with a hinge to the mid-level power hub faceplate 312 .
- the mid-level power hub end caps 305 encircle the outer surface of the top tube 195 and attach to the mid-level power hub faceplate 312 and the handle backplate 311 .
- the umbrella crank handle 165 is used to open and close the umbrella canopy 150 on top of the powered patio pole umbrella 100 .
- the umbrella crank handle 165 seats in a hole in the handle backplate 311 of the mid-level power hub 310 .
- an individual rotates the umbrella crank handle 165 .
- Rotation of the umbrella crank handle 165 controls a canopy crank wire that is connected to a support structure of the umbrella canopy 150 .
- FIG. 11 illustrates a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the mid-level power hub 310 shown in FIGS. 8-10 .
- the longitudinal cross-sectional view of the mid-level power hub 310 in FIG. 11 includes the umbrella crank handle 165 , the pole connection piece 185 , the top tube 195 , the pole section slip restraint 301 , a pole section slip restraint ring 302 , the mid-level power hub end caps 305 , the handle backplate 311 , the mid-level power hub faceplate 312 , the mid-level outlet cover 320 , the mid-level power outlet 330 , the mid-level power hub end cap seal 340 , a top section internal power cable 350 , a male internal power connector 360 , a canopy crank wire 380 , and an internal separation device 390 .
- the male internal power connector 360 from the powered top pole section 140 is plugged into the female internal power connector 260 from the powered bottom pole section 130 shown in FIG. 7 .
- the male internal power connector 360 is connected to the top section internal power cable 350 .
- the top section internal power cable 350 is trained inside the powered top pole section 140 . Beginning at the male internal power connector 360 , the top section internal power cable 350 runs inside the pole connection piece 185 and the top tube 195 to the mid-level power outlet 330 .
- the top section internal power cable 350 is connected to the mid-level power outlet 330 .
- the top section internal power cable 350 continues upward from the mid-level power outlet 330 towards the top of the powered patio pole umbrella 100 .
- the mid-level power outlet 330 is positioned within an opening in the sidewall of the top tube 195 and the mid-level power outlet 330 is attached to the mid-level power hub faceplate 312 .
- the mid-level power hub faceplate 312 and the handle backplate 311 are positioned on opposite sides of the top tube 195 with opposing edges pressed together. Threads in the mid-level power hub end caps 305 engage threads on the mid-level power hub faceplate 312 and the handle backplate 311 .
- the mid-level power hub end caps 305 are rotated until tightly seated with the mid-level power hub faceplate 312 and the handle backplate 311 .
- the mid-level power hub 310 includes the mid-level outlet cover 320 , the mid-level power hub end cap seal 340 , the mid-level power hub plate seals 341 , and the mid-level power hub faceplate cover seals 342 .
- the mid-level power hub end cap seal 340 is placed around the top tube 195 along the top of the mid-level power hub faceplate 312 and the handle backplate 311 .
- the mid-level power hub end cap seal 340 is compressed between the mid-level power hub end cap 305 and both the mid-level power hub faceplate 312 and the handle backplate 311 . Compressing the mid-level power hub end cap seal 340 forces the mid-level power hub end cap seal 340 against the outer surface of the top tube 195 and forms a watertight seal.
- all power hubs including the mid-level power hub may be equipped with a drain in the bottom power hub end cap 305 .
- the drain may allow any moisture entering the power hub to exit the power hub under the force of gravity.
- the mid-level power hub 310 includes the mid-level power hub plate seals 341 .
- the mid-level power hub plate seals 341 are sandwiched between the shared edges of the mid-level power hub faceplate 312 and the handle backplate 311 .
- edges of the mid-level power hub faceplate 312 and the handle backplate 311 are forced together and compress the mid-level power hub plate seals 341 to form a watertight seal.
- the mid-level outlet cover 320 is provided.
- the mid-level outlet cover 320 is positioned over the mid-level power outlet 330 .
- the mid-level outlet cover 320 is attached to the mid-level power hub faceplate 312 with a hinge.
- the mid-level outlet cover 320 may be rotated into the open position as illustrated in FIG. 9 .
- the mid-level outlet cover 320 is rotated into a closed position as illustrated in FIG. 8 .
- a cover-closing device 226 like that used in the bi-directional power hub 210 is attached to the mid-level outlet cover 320 .
- the cover-closing device 226 is anchored to the mid-level power hub faceplate 312 .
- the cover-closing device 226 exerts a force on the mid-level outlet cover 320 that causes the mid-level outlet cover 320 to rotate into the closed position.
- a mid-level power hub faceplate cover seal 342 may be installed around the edges of the mid-level outlet cover 320 . With the mid-level outlet cover 320 in the closed position, the mid-level power hub faceplate cover seals 342 fill the gaps between the mid-level power hub faceplate 312 and edges of the mid-level outlet cover 320 .
- outlet covers may alternatively be equipped with a seal, such as an elastic washer seal, around the perimeter of the outlet cover with further minimize water intrusion.
- the outlet covers may be equipped with a drain at the bottom of the outlet covers to allow water to drain out in cease water enters the outlet cover.
- the internal separation device 390 is positioned inside the top tube 195 between the top section internal power cable 350 and the canopy crank wire 380 to prevent contact between the top section internal power cable 350 and the canopy crank wire 380 .
- the internal separation device 390 is preferably an good insulator that is rigidly positioned between the internal power cable 350 and the canopy crank wire 380 .
- the internal power cable 350 is preferably already insulated, the internal separation device adds an additional measure of protection to safeguard the consumer.
- the umbrella crank handle 165 is turned. Turning the umbrella crank handle 165 rotates the crank bolt 166 . As the crank bolt 166 is rotated, the canopy crank wire 380 wraps or unwraps from around the crank bolt 166 . Friction between the moving canopy crank wire 380 and the top section internal power cable 350 may damage the top section internal power cable 350 and/or the canopy crank wire 380 .
- the internal separation device 390 is positioned between the top section internal power cable 350 and the canopy crank wire 380 to prevent contact between the top section internal power cable 350 and the canopy crank wire 380 .
- FIGS. 12, 13 , 14 and 15 illustrate a top power hub 410 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- the top power hub 410 includes top power hub end caps 405 , a top power hub faceplate 412 , a top outlet cover 420 , and a top power outlet 430 .
- the top power hub 14 also includes a wire guide backplate 411 , a top power hub end cap seal 440 , top power hub plate seals 441 , top power hub faceplate cover seals 442 , and a wire guide 450 .
- the top power outlet 430 is connected to the top section internal power cable 350 trained inside the top tube 195 from the mid-level power outlet 330 .
- the top power outlet 430 is positioned within openings in the sidewall of the top tube 195 and attached to the top power hub faceplate 412 .
- the top outlet cover 420 is attached with a hinge to the top power hub faceplate 412 .
- the top power hub end caps 405 encircle the outer surface of the top tube 195 and attach to the top power hub faceplate 412 and the wire guide backplate 411 .
- the wire guide 450 is located within a hole in the sidewall of the top tube 195 .
- the wire guide 450 is attached to the sidewall of the top tube 195 .
- the canopy crank wire 380 is trained from the crank bolt 166 shown in FIG. 11 to the wire guide 450 .
- the canopy crank wire 380 and the wire guide 450 are separated from the top section internal power cable 350 by the internal separation device 390 .
- the canopy crank wire 380 drapes over the wire guide 450 and exits the top power hub 410 through an opening in the wire guide backplate 411 .
- top power hub faceplate 412 and the wire guide backplate 411 are positioned on opposite sides of the top tube 195 with opposing edges pressed together. Threads in the top power hub end caps 405 engage threads on the top power hub faceplate 312 and the wire guide backplate 411 . The top power hub end caps 405 are rotated until tightly seated with the top power hub faceplate 312 and the wire guide backplate 411 .
- the top power hub 410 includes the top outlet cover 420 , the top power hub end cap seal 440 , the top power hub plate seals 441 , and the top power hub faceplate cover seals 442 .
- the top power hub end cap seal 440 is placed around the top tube 195 along the top of the top power hub faceplate 412 and the wire guide backplate 411 .
- the top power hub end cap seal 440 is compressed between the top power hub end cap 405 and both the top power hub faceplate 412 and the wire guide backplate 411 . Compressing the top power hub end cap seal 440 forces the top power hub end cap seal 440 against the outer surface of the top tube 195 and forms a watertight seal.
- the top power hub 410 includes the top power hub plate seals 441 .
- the top power hub plate seals 441 are sandwiched between the shared edges of the top power hub faceplate 412 and the wire guide backplate 411 .
- edges of the top power hub faceplate 412 and the wire guide backplate 411 are forced together and compress the top power hub plate seals 441 to form a watertight seal.
- the top outlet cover 420 is provided.
- the top outlet cover 420 is positioned over the top power outlet 430 .
- the top outlet cover 420 is attached to the top power hub faceplate 412 with a hinge.
- the top outlet cover 420 may be rotated into the open position as illustrated in FIG. 13 .
- the top outlet cover 420 is rotated into a closed position as illustrated in FIG. 12 .
- a cover-closing device 226 similar to that used in the bi-directional power hub 210 is attached to the top outlet cover 420 .
- the cover-closing device 226 is anchored to the top power hub faceplate 412 .
- the cover-closing device 226 exerts a force on the top outlet cover 420 that causes the top outlet cover 420 to rotate into the closed position.
- top power hub faceplate cover seals 442 may be installed around the edges of the top outlet cover 420 . With the top outlet cover 420 in the closed position, the top power hub faceplate cover seals 442 fill the gaps between the top power hub faceplate 412 and edges of the top outlet cover 420 .
- the bottom power outlet 230 , the mid-level power outlet 330 , and the top power outlet 430 may be installed in power hubs that are separated from other components such as the input power receptacle 221 , the umbrella crank handle 165 , and the wire guide 450 .
- a ground fault circuit interrupter 110 similar to that shown in FIG. 1 may be installed in a power hub on the patio pole umbrella 100 .
- a ground fault circuit interrupter 110 may be installed in the bi-directional power hub 210 , the mid-level power hub 310 , or the top level power hub 410 .
- the ground fault circuit interrupter 110 may be installed in the power hubs 210 , 310 , and 410 in place of or in addition to the ground fault circuit interrupter 110 installed in the power cord 115 .
- FIGS. 16 and 17 illustrate the top power hub 410 shown in FIGS. 12-15 with a support rib hub 505 and support ribs 510 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- the support ribs 510 support the umbrella canopy 150 .
- the support rib hub 505 is positioned on the end of the top tube 195 .
- the support ribs 510 are connected to the support rib hub 505 .
- the top outlet cover 420 and the top power outlet 430 are positioned between the support ribs 510 when the umbrella canopy 150 is in the closed position.
- the umbrella crank handle 165 shown in FIGS. 1, 2 and 8 - 11 is rotated to open and close the umbrella canopy 150 .
- the support ribs 510 that support the umbrella canopy 150 are drawn inward towards the powered top pole section 140 of the powered patio pole umbrella 100 .
- plugs of devices plugged into the top power hub 430 such as the lamp 20 shown in FIG. 2 , may be damaged if the support ribs 510 crush or bend the plug.
- the top outlet cover 420 may be damaged by the support ribs 510 when the umbrella canopy 150 is lowered.
- the top power outlet 430 and the top outlet cover 420 may be positioned to avoid contact with the support ribs 510 .
- the top power outlet 430 and the top outlet cover 420 may be positioned relative to the support ribs 510 such that the top outlet cover 420 and the top power outlet 430 are situated between the support ribs 510 and do not contact the support ribs 510 when the umbrella canopy 150 is opened and closed.
- the size of the support rib hub 505 may be such that the support ribs 510 do not contact the top power outlet 430 or the top outlet cover 420 when the umbrella canopy 150 is opened or closed.
- the diameter of the support rib hub 505 may be such that the support ribs 510 never get closer than a predetermined minimum distance to an open top outlet cover 420 .
- the top outlet cover 420 is in the open position and all of the support ribs 510 are prevented from getting closer than a minimum distance designated as “d” from the open top outlet cover 420 .
- devices plugged into the top power outlet 430 may be conveniently left plugged in when the umbrella canopy 150 is lowered without incurring damage from the support ribs 510 or other portions of the support structure.
- FIGS. 18, 19 , 20 , 21 , 22 , and 23 illustrate an embodiment of a power input connector 120 and an input power receptacle 221 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- the power input connector 120 includes a power input connector base 121 , a power input connector face 122 , female input power terminals 146 , and a female input ground terminal 145 .
- the input power receptacle 221 includes an input power receptacle cavity 222 , a male input ground terminal 245 , and male input power terminals 246 .
- the power input connector base 121 is connected to the power chord 115 .
- the power input connector face 122 is connected to the power input connector base 121 .
- the female power input terminals 146 are attached to conductors within the power chord 115 that carry electricity from the power outlet 106 .
- the female power input terminals 146 are positioned inside the power input connector face 122 .
- the female input ground terminal 145 is also positioned inside the power input connector face 122 .
- the input power receptacle 221 is connected to the bottom section internal power cable 250 .
- the input power receptacle cavity 222 is located within the input power receptacle 221 and sized to receive the power input connector face 122 of the power input connector 120 .
- the male input power terminals 246 are attached to conductors within the bottom section internal power cable 250 .
- the male input power terminals 246 are positioned inside the input power receptacle cavity 222 .
- the male input ground terminal 245 is also positioned within the input power receptacle cavity 222 and connected to a ground conductor within the bottom section internal power cable 250 .
- the power cord 115 provides electrical power to the powered patio pole umbrella 100 from an AC power source.
- the outlet plug 105 on the end of power cord 115 is plugged into a power source 106 as shown in FIG. 2 .
- the power input connector 120 is plugged into the input power receptacle 221 to provide a conductive path for power to flow from the power source 106 to the input power receptacle 221 of the powered patio pole umbrella 100 .
- the power input connector face 122 is inserted into the input power receptacle cavity 222 .
- the male input power terminals 246 are seated within the female input power terminals 146 .
- the male input ground terminal 245 is seated within the female input ground terminal 145 .
- Contact between the male input power terminals 246 and the female input power terminals 146 allows electricity to flow from the female input power terminals 146 to the male input power terminals 246 .
- Contact between the male input ground terminal 245 and the female input ground terminal 145 furnishes a conductive path to an established ground for the powered patio pole umbrella 100 .
- FIGS. 24, 25 , 26 , 27 , 28 and 29 illustrate the male internal power connector 360 and the female internal power connector 260 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- the male internal power connector 360 includes a male internal power connector face 361 , male internal power connector terminals 362 , and a male internal ground terminal 363 .
- the female internal power connector 260 includes an internal power connector cavity 261 , female internal power connector terminals 262 , and female internal ground terminal 263 .
- the female internal power connector 260 is connected to the bottom section internal power cable 250 .
- the internal power connector cavity 261 is located within the end of the female internal power connector 260 .
- the female internal power connector 262 and the female internal ground terminal 263 are connected to conductors in the bottom section internal power cable 250 .
- the female internal power connector terminals 262 and the female internal ground terminal 263 are located on the bottom surface of the internal power cavity 261 .
- the male internal power connector 360 is connected to the top section internal power cable 350 .
- the male internal power connector terminals 362 and the male internal ground terminal 363 are connected to conductors in the top section internal power cable 350 .
- the male internal power connector terminals 362 and the male internal ground terminal 363 are located on the male internal power connector face 361 of the male internal power connector 360 .
- the male internal power connector 360 is plugged into the female internal power connector 260 .
- the connection between the female internal power connector 260 and the male internal power connector 360 provides a conductive path for power to be transferred between the bottom section internal power cable 250 and the top section internal power cable 350 .
- the male internal power connector face 361 is inserted into the internal power connector cavity 261 .
- the male internal power connector terminals 362 are seated within the female internal power connector terminals 262 .
- the male internal ground terminal 363 is seated within the female internal ground terminal 263 .
- Contact between the male internal power connector terminals 362 and the female internal power connector terminals 262 allows electricity to flow from the female internal power connector terminals 262 to the male internal power connector terminals 362 .
- Contact between the male internal ground terminal 363 and the female internal ground terminal 263 furnishes a conductive path to an established ground for the powered top section 140 of the powered patio pole umbrella 100 .
- the relative positions of the male internal power connector terminals 362 , the male internal ground terminal 363 , the female internal power connector terminals 262 , and the female ground terminal 263 are such that the male internal power connector 360 is prevented from plugging into the female internal power connector 260 unless corresponding power terminals and ground terminals are properly aligned.
- the male internal power connector terminals 362 in FIG. 25 are positioned on opposite sides of the periphery of the male internal power connector 360 .
- the male internal ground terminal 363 is positioned along the periphery of male internal power connector 360 perpendicular to an axis running through both of the male internal power connector terminals 362 .
- the female internal power connector terminals 262 in FIG. 28 are positioned on opposite sides of the periphery of female internal power connector 260 .
- the female internal ground terminal 263 is positioned along the periphery of female internal power connector 260 perpendicular to an axis running through both of the female internal power connector terminals 262 .
- the male internal power connector 360 is prevented from being inserted into the female internal power connector 260 unless the terminals are properly aligned.
- the male internal power connector terminals 362 , the female internal power connector terminals 262 , the male internal ground terminal 363 , and the female internal ground terminal 263 may be positioned in a different configuration.
- the male internal power connector terminals 362 and the male internal ground terminal 363 may be positioned along a single axis running across the face of the male internal power connector 360 with the male internal ground terminal 363 located between the two male internal power connector terminals 362 .
- the female internal power connector terminals 262 and the female internal ground terminal 263 could be similarly positioned to received corresponding male internal power connector terminals 362 and the male internal ground terminal 363 .
- the locations of the male internal power connector 360 and the female internal power connector 260 may be switched.
- the male internal power connector 360 may attached to the bottom section internal power cable 250 and the female internal power connector 260 may be attached to the top section internal power cable 350 .
- FIGS. 30 and 31 illustrate a power cable restraint 451 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- the power cable restraint 451 is attached to a power cable 450 .
- the power cable 450 and the power cable restraint 451 are inserted inside a tube 495 .
- the power cable restraint 451 contacts the inner surface of the tube 495 . Lateral movement of the power cable 450 inside the tube 495 is prevented by the contact between the power cable restraint 451 and the inner surface of the tube 495 . Longitudinal movement of the power cable 450 inside the tube 495 is prevented by friction between the edges of the power cable restraint 451 and the inner surface of the tube 495 . Consequently, the power cable 450 is prevented from shifting around inside the tube 495 .
- the power cable restraint 451 may be used inside the bottom tube 190 and top tube 195 of the powered patio pole umbrella 100 to prevent the bottom section internal power cable 250 and top section internal power cable 350 from sliding and shifting inside the bottom tube 190 and the top tube 195 .
- the male internal power connector 360 and the female internal power connector 260 may be prevented from sliding into the bottom tube 190 and the top tube 195 and making the male internal power connector 360 and the female internal power connector 260 unreachable.
- restraining movement of the bottom section internal power cable 250 and the top section internal power cable 350 with the power cable restraint 451 assists in maintaining predetermined spacing between both the bottom section internal power cable 250 and the top section internal power cable 350 and other components inside the bottom tube 190 and the top tube 195 of the powered patio pole umbrella 100 .
- FIG. 32 illustrates a pole section slip restraint 301 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- the pole section slip restraint 301 is attached to a pole section slip restraint ring 302 .
- the pole section slip restraint 301 and the pole section slip restraint ring 302 are positioned inside the pole connection piece 185 of the powered top pole section 140 as shown in FIG. 11 .
- the pole section slip restraint ring 302 is installed inside the pole connection piece 185 with the top section internal power cable 360 trained through the opening of the pole section slip restraint ring 302 .
- the pole section slip restraint 301 is inserted in a hole in the sidewall of the pole connection piece 185 .
- the pole section slip restraint 301 depresses into the pole connection piece 185 of the powered top pole section 140 .
- the pole connection piece 185 slides into the pole connection aperture 131 of the powered bottom pole section 130 .
- the pole connection piece 185 is positioned within the pole connection aperture 131 such that the pole section slip restraint 301 aligns with a hole in a sidewall of the bottom tube 190 .
- the hole in the sidewall of the bottom tube 190 is sized to receive the pole section slip restraint 301 as the pole section slip restraint 301 is forced into the hole by pressure supplied by the pole section slip restrain ring 302 . Engagement of the pole section slip restraint 301 with the hole in the sidewall of bottom tube 190 prevents rotation and sliding of the top tube 195 with respect to the bottom tube 190 .
- the pole section slip restraint 301 prevents damage to the bottom section internal power cable 250 and the top section internal power cable 350 that would result from twisting if the top tube 195 was allowed to rotate with respect to the bottom tube 190 .
- the pole section slip restraint ring 302 provides a force that keeps the pole section slip restraint 301 positioned within the hole in the sidewall of the bottom tube 190 while also accommodating the bottom section internal power cable 250 and the top section internal power cable 350 that are trained inside the bottom tube 190 and the top tube 195 .
- the powered patio pole umbrella 100 provides a safer wire management system for providing electrical power to devices used outdoors without impairing the overall operability of a patio pole umbrella.
- the powered patio pole umbrella 100 includes numerous safety features.
- incidental contact with power cords is reduced by routing a single power cord from a power outlet to a powered patio pole umbrella 100 .
- an input power receptacle 221 may be positioned in the support base 125 for the powered patio pole umbrella 100
- the input power receptacle 221 is positioned in the powered bottom pole section 130 of the powered patio pole umbrella 100 to raise the location of the input power receptacle 221 above the level of the ground.
- the input power receptacle 221 By positioning the input power receptacle 221 further from the ground, exposure of the input power receptacle 221 to moisture and contaminants at the ground level is reduced.
- the power patio pole umbrella 100 has been provided with various water seals and protective covers.
- the power hubs 210 , 310 , and 410 have been provided with cap seals 240 , 340 , and 440 to prevent moisture and particles from leaking into the power hubs 210 , 310 , and 410 .
- the power hubs 210 , 310 , and 410 have been provided with outlet covers 220 , 320 , and 420 along with cover seals 242 , 342 , and 442 to prevent the entrance of moisture and particles into the power outlets 230 , 330 , and 430 and other parts of the power hubs 210 , 310 , and 410 .
- the power hubs 210 , 310 , and 410 may be equipped with a drain in the lower cap seal 240 , 340 , 440 , to allow the exit of moisture under the force of gravity.
- the outlet covers 220 , 320 , and 420 may include a drain at the bottom of the outlet cover to allow the drainage of water under the force of gravity.
- a ground fault circuit interrupter 110 similar to that shown in FIG. 1 may be installed in a power hub on the patio pole umbrella 100 .
- a ground fault circuit interrupter 110 may be installed in the bi-directional power hub 210 , the mid-level power hub 310 , or the top level power hub 410 .
- the ground fault circuit interrupter 110 may be installed in the power hubs 210 , 310 , and 410 in place of or in addition to the ground fault circuit interrupter 110 installed in the power cord 115 .
- the power hubs 210 , 310 , and 410 have also been incorporated into the powered patio pole umbrella 100 without impairing the operability of the powered patio pole umbrella 100 .
- an umbrella crank handle 165 is included with the powered patio pole umbrella 100 for raising and lowering the umbrella canopy 150 .
- the umbrella canopy 150 may be raised and lowered without damaging electrical components within the powered patio pole umbrella 100 or having to unplug devices plugged into the powered patio pole umbrella 100 .
- the moving parts associated with raising and lowering the umbrella canopy 150 are separated from the electrical components by an internal separation device 390 .
- the internal separation device 390 prevents the power cables 250 , 350 and other electrical components from contacting the moving parts and being damaged due to abrasive and corrosive effects.
- the powered patio pole umbrella 100 and some devices on the powered patio pole umbrella 100 are protected from damage by predetermined positioning or sizing of portions of the umbrella canopy support structure.
- the power hubs 210 , 310 , and 410 may be aligned with gaps between the canopy support ribs 510 or other portions of the canopy support structure.
- the canopy support rib hub 505 may be increased in size and/or portions of the canopy support structure may be bent in order to prevent contact between the canopy support structure and portions of the power hubs 210 , 310 , and 410 such as the outlet covers 220 , 320 , and 420 .
- the central pole of the powered patio pole umbrella 100 including the powered bottom pole section 130 and the powered top pole section 140 may be composed of a pole having a greater diameter than the pole depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2 .
- the powered bottom pole section 130 and the powered top pole section 140 include hub areas having a greater diameter than other areas along the pole as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 .
- the diameter of the powered bottom pole section 130 and the powered top pole section 140 may be made to equal the diameter of the hub section and maintain that diameter the length of the pole.
- the overall effect of the change in pole diameter may be to decrease the appearance of the electrical outlets while at the same time providing better moisture proofing. That is, the hubs are eliminated and consequently the hub seals at top and bottom need not be relied upon.
- the powered patio pole umbrella 100 provides safety and convenience not provided by prior art patio pole umbrellas.
- a consumer may easily assemble a powered patio pole umbrella 100 and plug the powered patio pole umbrella 100 into an outlet 106 .
- Electrical devices may be conveniently plugged into the power outlets 230 , 330 , and 430 provided by the powered patio pole umbrella 100 without a need for long extension cords.
- precious usable space is freed up by plugging cords into power outlets 230 , 330 , and 430 on the pole rather than hazardously draping and hanging cords on and above a patio table 107 .
- the powered patio pole umbrella 100 is moisture resistant and may be safely left connected to a power source 106 . Similarly, lights may be left plugged into the top outlet 430 even if the umbrella canopy 150 is lowered because clearance is provided between the top outlet 430 and the canopy support structure so that plugs and outlet covers will not be damaged.
- a powered patio pole umbrella 100 provides a safe and convenient wire management system that frees up usable space under the powered patio pole umbrella 100 and reduces clutter associated with power cords of electrical devices.
- the powered patio pole umbrella 100 also provides flexibility as to what types of devices may be supplied with power.
- the powered patio pole umbrella 100 also provides a system where devices powered by the powered patio pole umbrella 100 may be easily swapped and changed.
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- Connector Housings Or Holding Contact Members (AREA)
Abstract
A powered patio pole umbrella is provided. The powered patio pole umbrella receives power from an external outlet and provides power to a plurality of power hubs including electrical outlets positioned vertically within the central pole of the umbrella. Consumers may plug electrical devices into the electrical outlets in the power hubs. The power hubs are sealed for moisture and a ground fault circuit interrupter is provided for additional safety
Description
- The present application is a continuation application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/781,183, filed Feb. 18, 2004, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/448,704, filed Feb. 18, 2003, entitled “Power Pole Patio Umbrella” and U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/541,526, filed Feb. 3, 2004, also entitled “Power Pole Patio Umbrella.”
- The present invention generally relates to a patio pole umbrella. More particularly, the present invention relates to a powered patio pole umbrella with electrical outlets for powering appliances, lights, and other devices.
- Patio pole umbrellas are currently in wide use by consumers in a variety of applications and settings. A patio pole umbrella is typically installed outdoors to provide shade on a sunny day or shelter from rain on an overcast day. Individuals may sit under the patio pole umbrella by itself, but frequently the patio pole umbrella is installed with a patio table or serving center.
- When used with a patio table or serving center, a patio pole umbrella is typically installed with the pole of the umbrella rising up through a hole in the patio table or serving center. To help maintain the balance and vertical position of the patio pole umbrella, the bottom of the pole is sometimes set in a support base.
- As an added convenience, the pole sometimes includes an umbrella crank handle for opening and closing the umbrella canopy. The umbrella crank handle is connected to a crank wire that runs up the pole and connects to the support structure of the umbrella canopy. To open and close the umbrella, a user rotates the umbrella crank handle. Rotation of the umbrella crank handle draws or releases the crank wire depending on the direction of rotation. Movement of the crank wire moves the support structure which in turn opens or closes the umbrella canopy.
- To further enjoy time spent outdoors under a patio pole umbrella, individuals sometimes bring a radio, television, lights, or other electrical devices out near the patio umbrella. Because such devices require electricity, routing power cords to, from, and around the patio pole umbrella may become cumbersome. Multiple power cords lying around the patio pole take up usable space and present a potential hazard. Consequently, consumers may prefer to reduce the presence of power cords around a patio pole umbrella while still being able to run electrical appliances and other devices.
- One way consumers may choose to hide a power cord is to strap the power cord to the surface of the pole of the patio pole umbrella. By securing the power cords near the pole, usable space around the pole is freed up and the potential for inadvertent contact with people is reduced.
- For example, a design for a patio pole umbrella lighting system is disclosed in Rushing, U.S. Pat. No. 5,053,931. The system of Rushing shows lights attached to the ribs of an umbrella with zip ties. A power cord for the lights is trained down from the umbrella along the pole of the patio pole umbrella. The power cord is secured to the outside surface of the pole with zip ties.
- Another example, is a design for an illuminated garden umbrella disclosed in Finkel, U.S. Pat. No. 2,087,537. The system of Finkle shows a light fixture situated in the top of a garden umbrella. A one-piece, continuous power cord for the light fixture is run from the light fixture to the base of the pole through the inside of the pole. The one-piece, continuous power cord exits the pole at the base of the pole.
- While some consumers choose to strap a power cord to the pole, affixing the power cords to the pole in such a manner does not provide for mobility of the electrical devices attached to the power cords or flexibility in changing from the use of electrical one device to another. Also, affixing power cords to the pole does nothing to reduce the number of power cords running around the base of the patio umbrella. Thus, simply securing power cords near the pole of the patio pole umbrella does not provide an optimal solution to management of power cords and wires where an individual desires to alternate the use of various electrical devices near a patio pole umbrella.
- For example, a consumer may have a patio pole umbrella installed in the center of a patio table in the backyard of the consumer's home. While sitting at the patio table out in the backyard, the consumer may desire to power a small cooler sitting beneath the table, listen to a radio sitting on the table top, and power a lamp secured up near the umbrella canopy. With a typical patio pole umbrella, the consumer could power the cooler, radio, and lamp in one of two ways: 1) the consumer could run a designated power cord for each device from a household outlet, across the yard, to the patio table; or 2) the consumer could run a single power cord across the yard to a typical household power strip laying on the ground and run power cords from the power strip to each of the cooler, radio, and lamp.
- Having numerous power cords strewn across the yard, draped over the edges of the patio table, and hanging from above poses an inconvenient and hazardous situation. The more power cords that are running across the yard and on top of the table, the greater the chances that someone will accidentally stumble over a power cord and/or get snagged on a power cord. Not only could people get hurt by stumbling over the power cords or snagging the power cords, but the electrical devices attached to power cords could be damaged, as well.
- For example, in the first scenario presented above, designated power cords may be run from household outlets to each of the cooler, the radio, and the lamp. Each of the power cords may be trained from the outlet, across the yard, to the patio table. The cord for the cooler would be trained on the ground. The cord for the radio sitting on top of the table would run across the table top, over the edge of the table and down to the ground level. The power cord for the lamp would hang down from the top of the umbrella to the table top, run across the table top, lay over the edge of the table, and then hang down to the ground.
- In the second scenario, a single power cord may be run from a household outlet to a power strip lying on the ground. Power cords for each of the devices would then be run to the power strip instead of all the way back to outlets at the house. Similar to the first scenario, the cord for the cooler would be trained across the ground to the power strip. The cord for the radio sitting on top of the table would run across the table top, over the edge of the table, and down to the power strip. The power cord for the lamp would hang down from the top of the umbrella to the table top, run across the table top, lay over the edge of the table, and hang down to the power strip.
- In either of the two scenarios above, the power cords are strewn all over the table top and hanging in the way of individuals trying to use the patio table. Essentially, the power cords are creating an obstacle course in the vicinity of the patio pole umbrella.
- Additionally, the presence of water near electrical devices and cords is of great concern in the outdoor environment. In the above examples, moisture may permeate the junction between the extension cords and the appliance cords or may enter the power strip. Either condition may lead to potentially dangerous shock or electrocution conditions. Such a scenario becomes more likely when the cord or power strip are subjected to rain or are near a pool area where splashing may occur. Such use of extension cords in outdoor, water-exposed environments is specifically forbidden by must safety standards, including those promulgated by Underwriter's Labs (UL), for example.
- In order to reduce the clutter associated with powering electrical devices under a patio pole umbrella and free up precious usable space, it may be desirable to have a patio pole umbrella with a wire management system for reducing the presence of power cords under the patio pole umbrella. It may also be highly desirable to have a patio pole umbrella with a wire management system that provides flexibility as to what types of devices may be provided power. It may also be highly desirable to have a patio umbrella with a wire management system that provides the convenience of being able to readily change the devices being powered with minimal effort. It may also be highly desirable to have a wire management solution that minimizes the risk of shock or electrocution and conforms with applicable safety standards. Additionally, it may be highly desirable for the consumer to have access to power outlets at the umbrella or umbrella/patio table in order to power electrical devices and/or appliances that the user may want to use. That is, the availability of power where the consumer needs it (e.g., at the patio table) may be highly desirable.
- A preferred embodiment of the present invention provides a powered patio pole umbrella. Power is received by the powered patio pole umbrella from a wall outlet through a cord equipped with a ground fault circuit interrupter. The cord plugs into a bi-directional power hub located in the lower portion of the central pole of the powered patio pole umbrella, but displaced vertically upward from the ground. Power is then supplied from the bi-directional power hub to a plurality of other power hubs located vertically along the powered patio pole umbrella. The power hubs are sealed for moisture and the ground fault circuit interrupter is provided for additional safety
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FIG. 1 illustrates a powered patio pole umbrella in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 2 illustrates the powered patio pole umbrella shown inFIG. 1 installed in a patio table in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 3 illustrates a bi-directional power hub in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 4 illustrates the bi-directional power hub shown inFIG. 3 with outlet covers in an open position in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 5 illustrates a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the bi-directional power hub shown inFIG. 3 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 6 illustrates a latitudinal cross-sectional view of the bi-directional power hub shown inFIG. 3 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 7 illustrates a separable female internal power connector within the patio pole umbrella in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 8 illustrates a mid-level power hub in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 9 illustrates the mid-level power hub shown inFIG. 8 with an outlet cover in an open position in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 10 illustrates a side view of the mid-level power hub shown inFIG. 8 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 11 illustrates a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the mid-level power hub shown inFIG. 8 with a separable male internal power connector within the patio pole umbrella in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 12 illustrates a top power hub in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 13 illustrates the top power hub shown inFIG. 12 with an outlet cover in an open position in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 14 illustrates a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the top power hub shown inFIG. 12 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 15 illustrates a latitudinal cross-sectional view of the top tube slightly above the top power hub shown inFIG. 12 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 16 illustrates the position of a support rib hub and support ribs in relation to the outlet cover of a power hub in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 17 illustrates the size of a power hub and position of support ribs in relation to the outlet cover of the power hub in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 18 illustrates a separable male input power connector in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 19 illustrates a side view of the male input power connector shown inFIG. 18 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 20 illustrates a perspective view of the male input power connector shown inFIG. 18 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 21 illustrates a separable female input power connector in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 22 illustrates a side view of the separable female input power connector shown inFIG. 21 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 23 illustrates a perspective view of the separable female input power connector shown inFIG. 21 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 24 illustrates a separable male internal power connector in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 25 illustrates an end view of the male internal power connector shown inFIG. 24 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 26 illustrates a perspective view of the male internal power connector shown inFIG. 24 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 27 illustrates a separable female internal power connector in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 28 illustrates an end view of the female internal power connector shown inFIG. 27 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 29 illustrates a perspective view of the female internal power connector shown inFIG. 27 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 30 illustrates a power cable restraint in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 31 illustrates an end view of an internal power cable with a separable male internal power connector and the power cable restraint shown inFIG. 30 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 32 illustrates a pole section slip restraint in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 1 illustrates a poweredpatio pole umbrella 100 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The poweredpatio pole umbrella 100 includes apower cord 115,support base 125, a poweredbottom pole section 130, and a poweredtop pole section 140. Thesupport base 125 includes asupport aperture 126. The poweredbottom pole section 130 includes apole connection aperture 131, abottom tube 190, abi-directional power hub 210, aninput power receptacle 221, and abottom power outlet 230. The poweredtop pole section 140 includes anumbrella canopy 150, anumbrella cap 160, an umbrella crankhandle 165, apole connection piece 185, atop tube 195, a polesection slip restraint 301, amid-level power hub 310, amid-level power outlet 330, atop power hub 410, and atop power outlet 430. Thepower cord 115 includes anoutlet plug 105, a malepower input connector 120, and a groundfault circuit interrupter 110. - The
bottom tube 190 of the poweredbottom pole section 130 slides into thesupport aperture 126 of thesupport base 125. The polesection slip restraint 301 depresses into thepole connection piece 185 of the poweredtop pole section 140. With the polesection slip restraint 301 depressed, thepole connection piece 185 slides into thepole connection aperture 131 of the poweredbottom pole section 130. Thepole connection piece 185 is positioned within thepole connection aperture 131 such that the polesection slip restraint 301 aligns with a hole in the sidewall of thebottom tube 190. The hole in the sidewall of thebottom tube 190 is sized to receive the polesection slip restraint 301 as the polesection slip restraint 301 is forced into the hole. Engagement of the polesection slip restraint 301 with the hole in the sidewall ofbottom tube 190 prevents rotation and sliding of thetop tube 195 with respect to thebottom tube 190. - The female
power input connector 120 of thepower cord 115 is plugged into theinput power receptacle 221 of the poweredbottom pole section 130. Theoutlet plug 105 on the other end ofpower cord 115 is plugged into an outlet that supplies electrical power. - The powered
patio pole umbrella 100 may be used to provide safe and convenient access to a power supply for appliances and other electrical devices. For example, as further described in detail below, electrical devices may be plugged into thebottom power outlet 230, themid-level power outlet 330, or thetop power outlet 430 to reduce the hazards and inconvenience associated with running numerous power cords across a porch, room, or yard in order to plug electrical devices into remote sources of power. -
FIG. 2 illustrates the poweredpatio pole umbrella 100 ofFIG. 1 installed within ahole 108 in a patio table 107 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. On top of the patio table 107, aradio 10 is shown plugged into themid-level power outlet 330. Clamped to thetop tube 195, alamp 20 is shown plugged into thetop power outlet 430. - In operation, the female
power input connector 120 of thepower cord 115 is plugged into theinput power receptacle 221 of the poweredbottom pole section 130. On the other end of thepower cord 115, theoutlet plug 105 is plugged into apower outlet 106. - The
power outlet 106 provides electrical power from an AC power source to theoutlet plug 105. Electrical power flows fromoutlet plug 105 through thepower cord 115 and the groundfault circuit interrupter 110 to the malepower input connector 120. Electrical power flows from the malepower input connector 120 into theinput power receptacle 221. Theinput power receptacle 221 supplies electrical power to thebottom power outlet 230, themid-level power outlet 330, and thetop power outlet 430. - To power the
radio 10 or another electrical device sitting on top of the patio table 107, theradio 10 or other electrical device may be plugged into themid-level power outlet 330. To power thelamp 20 or another electrical device positioned near the top of the poweredpatio pole umbrella 100, thelamp 20 or other electrical device may be plugged into thetop power outlet 430. - As shown in
FIG. 2 , plugging theradio 10, thelamp 20, and other electrical devices into thebottom power outlet 230, themid-level power outlet 330, and thetop power outlet 430 reduces hazards and congestion caused by power cords dangling from theumbrella canopy 150 and draping over the edges of the table 107. Additionally, reduction of power cords dangling from theumbrella canopy 150 above and hanging over the edges of the table 107, reduces the potential for injury to people through incidental contact with power cords. - For example, reduction of power cords dangling from the
umbrella canopy 150 above or hanging over the edges of the table 107, reduces the chances of people accidentally hooking a power cord with a body part or other object and accidentally dragging the electrical device off the table. Reduction of power cords above the surface of the table also creates more useable room for other items such as food and reading materials. - Additionally, as shown in
FIG. 1 , the possibility of water infiltration creating a hazardous shocking condition have been greatly minimized. First, no joining of electric cords occurs at ground level. Theoutlet plug 105 and input power receptacle are both upwardly vertically displaced from the ground to minimize water penetration. Additionally, the presences of the groundfault circuit interrupter 110 minimizes the possibility of electrocution by being able to interrupt the power supplied if an electrocution condition is occurring. -
FIGS. 3, 4 , 5, and 6 illustrate thebi-directional power hub 210 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. As shown inFIGS. 3-6 , thebi-directional power hub 210 includes bi-directional power hub end caps 205, a bi-directionalpower hub faceplate 212, asolid backplate 211, abottom outlet cover 220, theinput power receptacle 221, an inputpower receptacle cover 225, and thebottom power outlet 230. - The
bottom power outlet 230 and theinput power receptacle 221 are mounted inside thebi-directional power hub 210. Thebottom outlet cover 220 and the inputpower receptacle cover 225 are attached with hinges to the bidirectionalpower hub faceplate 212. The bidirectional powerhub end caps 205 encircle the outer surface of thebottom tube 190 and attach to the bi-directionalpower hub faceplate 212 and thesolid backplate 211. - More specifically,
FIGS. 5 and 6 illustrate cross-sectional views of thebi-directional power hub 210 shown inFIGS. 3 and 4 . The longitudinal cross-sectional view of thebi-directional power hub 210 inFIG. 5 includes thebottom tube 190, the bi-directional power hub end caps 205, thesolid backplate 211, the bi-directionalpower hub faceplate 212, thebottom outlet cover 220, theinput power receptacle 221, the inputpower receptacle cover 225, thebottom power outlet 230, the bi-directional power hubend cap seal 240, bi-directional power hub faceplate cover seals 242,input ground terminal 245,input power terminals 246, and a bottom sectioninternal power cable 250. The latitudinal cross-sectional view of thebi-directional power hub 210 inFIG. 6 includes thebottom tube 190, thesolid backplate 211, the bi-directionalpower hub faceplate 212, theinput power receptacle 221, the inputpower receptacle cover 225, a cover-closingdevice 226, bi-directional power hub plate seals 241, the bi-directional power hub faceplate cover seals 242, theinput power terminals 246, and the bottom sectioninternal power cable 250. - The bottom section
internal power cable 250 is connected to theinput power receptacle 221 and thebottom power outlet 230. The bottom sectioninternal power cable 250 continues upward within thebottom tube 190 until it reaches thepole connection aperture 131 shown inFIG. 1 and illustrated inFIG. 7 . Near thepole connection aperture 131, the bottom sectioninternal power cable 250 connects to a femaleinternal power connector 260. - The
input power receptacle 221 and thebottom power outlet 230 are positioned within openings in the sidewall of thebottom tube 190 and attached to the bi-directionalpower hub faceplate 212. The bi-directionalpower hub faceplate 212 and thesolid backplate 211 are positioned on opposite sides of thebottom tube 190 with opposing edges pressed together. Threads in the bi-directional powerhub end caps 205 engage threads on the bi-directionalpower hub faceplate 212 and thesolid backplate 211. The bi-directional power hub end caps 205 are rotated until tightly seated with the bi-directionalpower hub faceplate 212 and thesolid backplate 211. - To prevent the intrusion of water, dust particles, and other undesired foreign objects into the
bi-directional power hub 210, thebi-directional power hub 210 includes thebottom outlet cover 220, the inputpower receptacle cover 225, the bi-directional power hubend cap seal 240, the bi-directional power hub plate seals 241, and the bi-directional power hub faceplate cover seals 242. The bi-directional power hubend cap seal 240 is placed around thebottom tube 190 along the top of the bi-directionalpower hub faceplate 212 and thesolid backplate 211. As the bi-directional power hub end caps 205 are threaded onto the bi-directionalpower hub faceplate 212 and thesolid backplate 211, the bi-directional power hubend cap seal 240 is compressed between the bi-directional powerhub end cap 205 and both the bi-directionalpower hub faceplate 212 and thesolid backplate 211. Compressing the bi-directional power hubend cap seal 240 forces the bi-directional power hubend cap seal 240 against the outer surface of thebottom tube 190 and forms a watertight seal. - In addition to the bi-directional power hub
end cap seal 240, thebi-directional power hub 210 includes the bi-directional power hub plate seals 241. The bi-directional power hub plate seals 241 are sandwiched between the shared edges of the bi-directionalpower hub faceplate 212 and thesolid backplate 211. As the bi-directional power hub end caps 205 are threaded onto the bi-directionalpower hub faceplate 212 and thesolid backplate 211, edges of the bi-directionalpower hub faceplate 212 and thesolid backplate 211 are forced together and compress the bi-directional power hub plate seals 241 to form a watertight seal. - To cover the
bottom power outlet 230 and theinput power receptacle 221 when not in use and reduce the intrusion of water and other particles, thebottom outlet cover 220 and the inputpower receptacle cover 225 are provided. Thebottom outlet cover 220 and the inputpower receptacle cover 225 are positioned over thebottom power outlet 230 and theinput power receptacle 221. Thebottom outlet cover 220 and the inputpower receptacle cover 225 are attached to the bi-directionalpower hub faceplate 212 with hinges. To insert a plug into either thebottom power outlet 230 or theinput power receptacle 221, thebottom outlet cover 220 or the inputpower receptacle cover 225 may be rotated into the open position as shown inFIG. 4 . When a plug is removed from the either thebottom power outlet 230 or theinput power receptacle 221, thebottom outlet cover 220 or the inputpower receptacle cover 225 is rotated into a closed position as shown inFIG. 3 . - To assist in closing the
bottom outlet cover 220 and the inputpower receptacle cover 225, cover-closingdevices 226 are attached to each of thebottom outlet cover 220 and the inputpower receptacle cover 225. The cover-closingdevices 226 are anchored to the bi-directionalpower hub faceplate 212. The cover-closingdevices 226 exert a force on thebottom outlet cover 220 and the inputpower receptacle cover 225 that causes theoutlet cover 220 and the inputpower receptacle cover 225 to rotate into the closed position. - To further prevent moisture, dirt, and other foreign objects from entering through gaps between the bi-directional
power hub faceplate 212 and edges of both thebottom outlet cover 220 and the inputpower receptacle cover 225, a bi-directional power hubfaceplate cover seal 242 may be installed around the edges of thebottom outlet cover 220 and the inputpower receptacle cover 225. With thebottom outlet cover 220 and the inputpower receptacle cover 225 in the closed position, the bi-directional power hub faceplate cover seals 242 fill the gaps between the bi-directionalpower hub faceplate 212 and edges of both thebottom outlet cover 220 and the inputpower receptacle cover 225. - Consequently, the coverage and seals provided by the bi-directional power hub
end cap seal 240, the bi-directional power hub plate seals 241, the bi-directional power hub faceplate cover seals 242, thebottom outlet cover 220, and the inputpower receptacle cover 225 help prevent moisture and other materials from entering thebi-directional power hub 210. -
FIGS. 8, 9 , 10 and 11 illustrate themid-level power hub 310 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. As shown inFIGS. 8-11 , themid-level power hub 310 includes an umbrella crankhandle 165, mid-level power hub end caps 305, ahandle backplate 311, a mid-levelpower hub faceplate 312, amid-level outlet cover 320, and amid-level power outlet 330. - The
mid-level power outlet 330 is mounted inside themid-level power hub 310. Themid-level outlet cover 320 is attached with a hinge to the mid-levelpower hub faceplate 312. The mid-level powerhub end caps 305 encircle the outer surface of thetop tube 195 and attach to the mid-levelpower hub faceplate 312 and thehandle backplate 311. - The umbrella crank
handle 165 is used to open and close theumbrella canopy 150 on top of the poweredpatio pole umbrella 100. The umbrella crank handle 165 seats in a hole in thehandle backplate 311 of themid-level power hub 310. To open and close theumbrella canopy 150, an individual rotates the umbrella crankhandle 165. Rotation of the umbrella crankhandle 165 controls a canopy crank wire that is connected to a support structure of theumbrella canopy 150. -
FIG. 11 illustrates a longitudinal cross-sectional view of themid-level power hub 310 shown inFIGS. 8-10 . The longitudinal cross-sectional view of themid-level power hub 310 inFIG. 11 includes the umbrella crankhandle 165, thepole connection piece 185, thetop tube 195, the polesection slip restraint 301, a pole sectionslip restraint ring 302, the mid-level power hub end caps 305, thehandle backplate 311, the mid-levelpower hub faceplate 312, themid-level outlet cover 320, themid-level power outlet 330, the mid-level power hubend cap seal 340, a top sectioninternal power cable 350, a maleinternal power connector 360, a canopy crankwire 380, and aninternal separation device 390. - The male
internal power connector 360 from the poweredtop pole section 140 is plugged into the femaleinternal power connector 260 from the poweredbottom pole section 130 shown inFIG. 7 . The maleinternal power connector 360 is connected to the top sectioninternal power cable 350. The top sectioninternal power cable 350 is trained inside the poweredtop pole section 140. Beginning at the maleinternal power connector 360, the top sectioninternal power cable 350 runs inside thepole connection piece 185 and thetop tube 195 to themid-level power outlet 330. The top sectioninternal power cable 350 is connected to themid-level power outlet 330. The top sectioninternal power cable 350 continues upward from themid-level power outlet 330 towards the top of the poweredpatio pole umbrella 100. - The
mid-level power outlet 330 is positioned within an opening in the sidewall of thetop tube 195 and themid-level power outlet 330 is attached to the mid-levelpower hub faceplate 312. The mid-levelpower hub faceplate 312 and thehandle backplate 311 are positioned on opposite sides of thetop tube 195 with opposing edges pressed together. Threads in the mid-level powerhub end caps 305 engage threads on the mid-levelpower hub faceplate 312 and thehandle backplate 311. The mid-level power hub end caps 305 are rotated until tightly seated with the mid-levelpower hub faceplate 312 and thehandle backplate 311. - To prevent the intrusion of water, dust particles, and other undesired foreign objects into the
mid-level power hub 310, themid-level power hub 310 includes themid-level outlet cover 320, the mid-level power hubend cap seal 340, the mid-level power hub plate seals 341, and the mid-level power hub faceplate cover seals 342. The mid-level power hubend cap seal 340 is placed around thetop tube 195 along the top of the mid-levelpower hub faceplate 312 and thehandle backplate 311. As the mid-level power hub end caps 305 are threaded onto the mid-levelpower hub faceplate 312 and thehandle backplate 311, the mid-level power hubend cap seal 340 is compressed between the mid-level powerhub end cap 305 and both the mid-levelpower hub faceplate 312 and thehandle backplate 311. Compressing the mid-level power hubend cap seal 340 forces the mid-level power hubend cap seal 340 against the outer surface of thetop tube 195 and forms a watertight seal. - In addition to the seal, all power hubs, including the mid-level power hub may be equipped with a drain in the bottom power
hub end cap 305. The drain may allow any moisture entering the power hub to exit the power hub under the force of gravity. - In addition to the mid-level power hub
end cap seal 340, themid-level power hub 310 includes the mid-level power hub plate seals 341. The mid-level power hub plate seals 341 are sandwiched between the shared edges of the mid-levelpower hub faceplate 312 and thehandle backplate 311. As the mid-level power hub end caps 305 are threaded onto the mid-levelpower hub faceplate 312 and thehandle backplate 311, edges of the mid-levelpower hub faceplate 312 and thehandle backplate 311 are forced together and compress the mid-level power hub plate seals 341 to form a watertight seal. - To cover the
mid-level power outlet 330 when not in use and reduce the intrusion of water and other particles, themid-level outlet cover 320 is provided. Themid-level outlet cover 320 is positioned over themid-level power outlet 330. Themid-level outlet cover 320 is attached to the mid-levelpower hub faceplate 312 with a hinge. To insert a plug into themid-level power outlet 330, themid-level outlet cover 320 may be rotated into the open position as illustrated inFIG. 9 . When a plug is removed from themid-level power outlet 330, themid-level outlet cover 320 is rotated into a closed position as illustrated inFIG. 8 . - To assist in closing the
mid-level outlet cover 320, a cover-closingdevice 226 like that used in thebi-directional power hub 210 is attached to themid-level outlet cover 320. The cover-closingdevice 226 is anchored to the mid-levelpower hub faceplate 312. The cover-closingdevice 226 exerts a force on themid-level outlet cover 320 that causes themid-level outlet cover 320 to rotate into the closed position. - To further prevent moisture, dirt, and other foreign objects from entering through gaps between the mid-level
power hub faceplate 312 and edges of themid-level outlet cover 320, a mid-level power hubfaceplate cover seal 342 may be installed around the edges of themid-level outlet cover 320. With themid-level outlet cover 320 in the closed position, the mid-level power hub faceplate cover seals 342 fill the gaps between the mid-levelpower hub faceplate 312 and edges of themid-level outlet cover 320. - Additionally, all outlet covers may alternatively be equipped with a seal, such as an elastic washer seal, around the perimeter of the outlet cover with further minimize water intrusion. Alternatively or in addition to the above, the outlet covers may be equipped with a drain at the bottom of the outlet covers to allow water to drain out in cease water enters the outlet cover.
- The
internal separation device 390 is positioned inside thetop tube 195 between the top sectioninternal power cable 350 and the canopy crankwire 380 to prevent contact between the top sectioninternal power cable 350 and the canopy crankwire 380. Theinternal separation device 390 is preferably an good insulator that is rigidly positioned between theinternal power cable 350 and the canopy crankwire 380. Although theinternal power cable 350 is preferably already insulated, the internal separation device adds an additional measure of protection to safeguard the consumer. - For example, to open and close the
umbrella canopy 150, the umbrella crankhandle 165 is turned. Turning the umbrella crankhandle 165 rotates thecrank bolt 166. As thecrank bolt 166 is rotated, the canopy crankwire 380 wraps or unwraps from around thecrank bolt 166. Friction between the moving canopy crankwire 380 and the top sectioninternal power cable 350 may damage the top sectioninternal power cable 350 and/or the canopy crankwire 380. - For example, friction between the canopy crank
wire 380 and the top sectioninternal power cable 350 may damage insulation coatings on the top sectioninternal power cable 350 and expose conductors inside the top sectioninternal power cable 350. Contact between exposed conductors inside the top sectioninternal power cable 350 and other parts of the poweredpatio pole umbrella 100 may unintentionally electrify portions of the poweredpatio pole umbrella 100. Contact between a person and the unintentionally electrified portions of the poweredpatio pole umbrella 100 may shock or electrocute the person. Consequently, theinternal separation device 390 is positioned between the top sectioninternal power cable 350 and the canopy crankwire 380 to prevent contact between the top sectioninternal power cable 350 and the canopy crankwire 380. -
FIGS. 12, 13 , 14 and 15 illustrate atop power hub 410 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. As shown inFIGS. 12 and 13 , thetop power hub 410 includes top power hub end caps 405, a toppower hub faceplate 412, atop outlet cover 420, and atop power outlet 430. As shown in the longitudinal cross-sectional view ofFIG. 14 and the latitudinal cross-sectional view ofFIG. 15 , the top power hub 14 also includes awire guide backplate 411, a top power hubend cap seal 440, top power hub plate seals 441, top power hub faceplate cover seals 442, and awire guide 450. - The
top power outlet 430 is connected to the top sectioninternal power cable 350 trained inside thetop tube 195 from themid-level power outlet 330. Thetop power outlet 430 is positioned within openings in the sidewall of thetop tube 195 and attached to the toppower hub faceplate 412. Thetop outlet cover 420 is attached with a hinge to the toppower hub faceplate 412. The top powerhub end caps 405 encircle the outer surface of thetop tube 195 and attach to the toppower hub faceplate 412 and thewire guide backplate 411. - The
wire guide 450 is located within a hole in the sidewall of thetop tube 195. Thewire guide 450 is attached to the sidewall of thetop tube 195. Inside thetop tube 195, the canopy crankwire 380 is trained from thecrank bolt 166 shown inFIG. 11 to thewire guide 450. The canopy crankwire 380 and thewire guide 450 are separated from the top sectioninternal power cable 350 by theinternal separation device 390. The canopy crankwire 380 drapes over thewire guide 450 and exits thetop power hub 410 through an opening in thewire guide backplate 411. - The top
power hub faceplate 412 and thewire guide backplate 411 are positioned on opposite sides of thetop tube 195 with opposing edges pressed together. Threads in the top powerhub end caps 405 engage threads on the toppower hub faceplate 312 and thewire guide backplate 411. The top power hub end caps 405 are rotated until tightly seated with the toppower hub faceplate 312 and thewire guide backplate 411. - To prevent the intrusion of water, dust particles, and other undesired foreign objects into the
top power hub 410, thetop power hub 410 includes thetop outlet cover 420, the top power hubend cap seal 440, the top power hub plate seals 441, and the top power hub faceplate cover seals 442. The top power hubend cap seal 440 is placed around thetop tube 195 along the top of the toppower hub faceplate 412 and thewire guide backplate 411. As the top power hub end caps 405 are threaded onto the toppower hub faceplate 412 and thewire guide backplate 411, the top power hubend cap seal 440 is compressed between the top powerhub end cap 405 and both the toppower hub faceplate 412 and thewire guide backplate 411. Compressing the top power hubend cap seal 440 forces the top power hubend cap seal 440 against the outer surface of thetop tube 195 and forms a watertight seal. - In addition to the top power hub
end cap seal 440, thetop power hub 410 includes the top power hub plate seals 441. The top power hub plate seals 441 are sandwiched between the shared edges of the toppower hub faceplate 412 and thewire guide backplate 411. As the top power hub end caps 405 are threaded onto the toppower hub faceplate 412 and thewire guide backplate 411, edges of the toppower hub faceplate 412 and thewire guide backplate 411 are forced together and compress the top power hub plate seals 441 to form a watertight seal. - To cover the
top power outlet 430 when not in use and reduce the intrusion of water and other particles, thetop outlet cover 420 is provided. Thetop outlet cover 420 is positioned over thetop power outlet 430. Thetop outlet cover 420 is attached to the toppower hub faceplate 412 with a hinge. To insert a plug into thetop power outlet 430, thetop outlet cover 420 may be rotated into the open position as illustrated inFIG. 13 . When a plug is removed from thetop power outlet 430, thetop outlet cover 420 is rotated into a closed position as illustrated inFIG. 12 . - To assist in closing the
top outlet cover 420, a cover-closingdevice 226 similar to that used in thebi-directional power hub 210 is attached to thetop outlet cover 420. The cover-closingdevice 226 is anchored to the toppower hub faceplate 412. The cover-closingdevice 226 exerts a force on thetop outlet cover 420 that causes thetop outlet cover 420 to rotate into the closed position. - To further prevent moisture, dirt, and other foreign objects from entering through gaps between the top
power hub faceplate 412 and edges of thetop outlet cover 420, top power hub faceplate cover seals 442 may be installed around the edges of thetop outlet cover 420. With thetop outlet cover 420 in the closed position, the top power hub faceplate cover seals 442 fill the gaps between the toppower hub faceplate 412 and edges of thetop outlet cover 420. - In an alternative embodiment, there may be a plurality of
bottom power outlets 230,mid-level power outlets 330, and/ortop power outlets 430. Also, there may be a plurality ofbi-directional power hubs 210,mid-level power hubs 310, and/ortop power hubs 410 spread throughout the length of the poweredtop pole section 140 and the poweredbottom pole section 130. Also, thebottom power outlet 230, themid-level power outlet 330, and thetop power outlet 430 may be installed in power hubs that are separated from other components such as theinput power receptacle 221, the umbrella crankhandle 165, and thewire guide 450. - In an alternative embodiment, a ground
fault circuit interrupter 110 similar to that shown inFIG. 1 may be installed in a power hub on thepatio pole umbrella 100. For example, a groundfault circuit interrupter 110 may be installed in thebi-directional power hub 210, themid-level power hub 310, or the toplevel power hub 410. The groundfault circuit interrupter 110 may be installed in thepower hubs fault circuit interrupter 110 installed in thepower cord 115. -
FIGS. 16 and 17 illustrate thetop power hub 410 shown inFIGS. 12-15 with asupport rib hub 505 andsupport ribs 510 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Thesupport ribs 510 support theumbrella canopy 150. Thesupport rib hub 505 is positioned on the end of thetop tube 195. Thesupport ribs 510 are connected to thesupport rib hub 505. Thetop outlet cover 420 and thetop power outlet 430 are positioned between thesupport ribs 510 when theumbrella canopy 150 is in the closed position. - In operation, the umbrella crank
handle 165 shown inFIGS. 1, 2 and 8-11 is rotated to open and close theumbrella canopy 150. As theumbrella canopy 150 is closed, thesupport ribs 510 that support theumbrella canopy 150 are drawn inward towards the poweredtop pole section 140 of the poweredpatio pole umbrella 100. As thesupport ribs 510 are drawn inward towards the poweredtop pole section 140, plugs of devices plugged into thetop power hub 430, such as thelamp 20 shown inFIG. 2 , may be damaged if thesupport ribs 510 crush or bend the plug. Similarly, thetop outlet cover 420 may be damaged by thesupport ribs 510 when theumbrella canopy 150 is lowered. - To prevent damage to the
top outlet cover 420 and plugs of devices that are plugged into thetop power outlet 430 while theumbrella canopy 150 and thesupport ribs 510 are being lowered, thetop power outlet 430 and thetop outlet cover 420 may be positioned to avoid contact with thesupport ribs 510. For example, as shown inFIG. 16 , thetop power outlet 430 and thetop outlet cover 420 may be positioned relative to thesupport ribs 510 such that thetop outlet cover 420 and thetop power outlet 430 are situated between thesupport ribs 510 and do not contact thesupport ribs 510 when theumbrella canopy 150 is opened and closed. - In the alternative, the size of the
support rib hub 505 may be such that thesupport ribs 510 do not contact thetop power outlet 430 or thetop outlet cover 420 when theumbrella canopy 150 is opened or closed. For example, as shown inFIG. 17 , the diameter of thesupport rib hub 505 may be such that thesupport ribs 510 never get closer than a predetermined minimum distance to an opentop outlet cover 420. InFIG. 17 , thetop outlet cover 420 is in the open position and all of thesupport ribs 510 are prevented from getting closer than a minimum distance designated as “d” from the opentop outlet cover 420. - Consequently, devices plugged into the
top power outlet 430 may be conveniently left plugged in when theumbrella canopy 150 is lowered without incurring damage from thesupport ribs 510 or other portions of the support structure. -
FIGS. 18, 19 , 20, 21, 22, and 23 illustrate an embodiment of apower input connector 120 and aninput power receptacle 221 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Thepower input connector 120 includes a powerinput connector base 121, a powerinput connector face 122, femaleinput power terminals 146, and a femaleinput ground terminal 145. Theinput power receptacle 221 includes an inputpower receptacle cavity 222, a maleinput ground terminal 245, and maleinput power terminals 246. - The power
input connector base 121 is connected to thepower chord 115. The powerinput connector face 122 is connected to the powerinput connector base 121. The femalepower input terminals 146 are attached to conductors within thepower chord 115 that carry electricity from thepower outlet 106. The femalepower input terminals 146 are positioned inside the powerinput connector face 122. The femaleinput ground terminal 145 is also positioned inside the powerinput connector face 122. - The
input power receptacle 221 is connected to the bottom sectioninternal power cable 250. The inputpower receptacle cavity 222 is located within theinput power receptacle 221 and sized to receive the powerinput connector face 122 of thepower input connector 120. The maleinput power terminals 246 are attached to conductors within the bottom sectioninternal power cable 250. The maleinput power terminals 246 are positioned inside the inputpower receptacle cavity 222. The maleinput ground terminal 245 is also positioned within the inputpower receptacle cavity 222 and connected to a ground conductor within the bottom sectioninternal power cable 250. - In operation, the
power cord 115 provides electrical power to the poweredpatio pole umbrella 100 from an AC power source. For example, theoutlet plug 105 on the end ofpower cord 115 is plugged into apower source 106 as shown inFIG. 2 . Thepower input connector 120 is plugged into theinput power receptacle 221 to provide a conductive path for power to flow from thepower source 106 to theinput power receptacle 221 of the poweredpatio pole umbrella 100. - As the
power input connector 120 is plugged into theinput power receptacle 221, the powerinput connector face 122 is inserted into the inputpower receptacle cavity 222. After the powerinput connector face 122 is inserted into the inputpower receptacle cavity 222, the maleinput power terminals 246 are seated within the femaleinput power terminals 146. Similarly, the maleinput ground terminal 245 is seated within the femaleinput ground terminal 145. Contact between the maleinput power terminals 246 and the femaleinput power terminals 146 allows electricity to flow from the femaleinput power terminals 146 to the maleinput power terminals 246. Contact between the maleinput ground terminal 245 and the femaleinput ground terminal 145 furnishes a conductive path to an established ground for the poweredpatio pole umbrella 100. -
FIGS. 24, 25 , 26, 27, 28 and 29 illustrate the maleinternal power connector 360 and the femaleinternal power connector 260 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The maleinternal power connector 360 includes a male internalpower connector face 361, male internalpower connector terminals 362, and a maleinternal ground terminal 363. The femaleinternal power connector 260 includes an internalpower connector cavity 261, female internalpower connector terminals 262, and femaleinternal ground terminal 263. - The female
internal power connector 260 is connected to the bottom sectioninternal power cable 250. The internalpower connector cavity 261 is located within the end of the femaleinternal power connector 260. The femaleinternal power connector 262 and the femaleinternal ground terminal 263 are connected to conductors in the bottom sectioninternal power cable 250. The female internalpower connector terminals 262 and the femaleinternal ground terminal 263 are located on the bottom surface of theinternal power cavity 261. - The male
internal power connector 360 is connected to the top sectioninternal power cable 350. The male internalpower connector terminals 362 and the maleinternal ground terminal 363 are connected to conductors in the top sectioninternal power cable 350. The male internalpower connector terminals 362 and the maleinternal ground terminal 363 are located on the male internalpower connector face 361 of the maleinternal power connector 360. - In operation, the male
internal power connector 360 is plugged into the femaleinternal power connector 260. The connection between the femaleinternal power connector 260 and the maleinternal power connector 360 provides a conductive path for power to be transferred between the bottom sectioninternal power cable 250 and the top sectioninternal power cable 350. - As the male
internal power connector 360 is plugged into the femaleinternal power connector 260, the male internalpower connector face 361 is inserted into the internalpower connector cavity 261. After the male internalpower connector face 361 is inserted into the internalpower connector cavity 261, the male internalpower connector terminals 362 are seated within the female internalpower connector terminals 262. Similarly, the maleinternal ground terminal 363 is seated within the femaleinternal ground terminal 263. Contact between the male internalpower connector terminals 362 and the female internalpower connector terminals 262 allows electricity to flow from the female internalpower connector terminals 262 to the male internalpower connector terminals 362. Contact between the maleinternal ground terminal 363 and the femaleinternal ground terminal 263 furnishes a conductive path to an established ground for the poweredtop section 140 of the poweredpatio pole umbrella 100. - As shown in
FIGS. 24-29 , the relative positions of the male internalpower connector terminals 362, the maleinternal ground terminal 363, the female internalpower connector terminals 262, and thefemale ground terminal 263 are such that the maleinternal power connector 360 is prevented from plugging into the femaleinternal power connector 260 unless corresponding power terminals and ground terminals are properly aligned. - For example, the male internal
power connector terminals 362 inFIG. 25 are positioned on opposite sides of the periphery of the maleinternal power connector 360. The maleinternal ground terminal 363 is positioned along the periphery of maleinternal power connector 360 perpendicular to an axis running through both of the male internalpower connector terminals 362. Likewise, the female internalpower connector terminals 262 inFIG. 28 are positioned on opposite sides of the periphery of femaleinternal power connector 260. The femaleinternal ground terminal 263 is positioned along the periphery of femaleinternal power connector 260 perpendicular to an axis running through both of the female internalpower connector terminals 262. With the male internalpower connector terminals 362, the female internalpower connector terminals 262, the maleinternal ground terminal 363, and the femaleinternal ground terminal 263 in this configuration, the maleinternal power connector 360 is prevented from being inserted into the femaleinternal power connector 260 unless the terminals are properly aligned. - In alternative embodiments, the male internal
power connector terminals 362, the female internalpower connector terminals 262, the maleinternal ground terminal 363, and the femaleinternal ground terminal 263 may be positioned in a different configuration. For example, the male internalpower connector terminals 362 and the maleinternal ground terminal 363 may be positioned along a single axis running across the face of the maleinternal power connector 360 with the maleinternal ground terminal 363 located between the two male internalpower connector terminals 362. Likewise, the female internalpower connector terminals 262 and the femaleinternal ground terminal 263 could be similarly positioned to received corresponding male internalpower connector terminals 362 and the maleinternal ground terminal 363. - In another alternative embodiment, the locations of the male
internal power connector 360 and the femaleinternal power connector 260 may be switched. The maleinternal power connector 360 may attached to the bottom sectioninternal power cable 250 and the femaleinternal power connector 260 may be attached to the top sectioninternal power cable 350. -
FIGS. 30 and 31 illustrate apower cable restraint 451 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Thepower cable restraint 451 is attached to apower cable 450. Thepower cable 450 and thepower cable restraint 451 are inserted inside atube 495. - In operation, the
power cable restraint 451 contacts the inner surface of thetube 495. Lateral movement of thepower cable 450 inside thetube 495 is prevented by the contact between thepower cable restraint 451 and the inner surface of thetube 495. Longitudinal movement of thepower cable 450 inside thetube 495 is prevented by friction between the edges of thepower cable restraint 451 and the inner surface of thetube 495. Consequently, thepower cable 450 is prevented from shifting around inside thetube 495. - Because the
power cable restraint 451 prevents thepower cable 450 from shifting around inside thetube 495, thepower cable restraint 451 may be used inside thebottom tube 190 andtop tube 195 of the poweredpatio pole umbrella 100 to prevent the bottom sectioninternal power cable 250 and top sectioninternal power cable 350 from sliding and shifting inside thebottom tube 190 and thetop tube 195. By preventing the bottom sectioninternal power cable 250 and the top sectioninternal power cable 350 from sliding and shifting, the maleinternal power connector 360 and the femaleinternal power connector 260 may be prevented from sliding into thebottom tube 190 and thetop tube 195 and making the maleinternal power connector 360 and the femaleinternal power connector 260 unreachable. Also, restraining movement of the bottom sectioninternal power cable 250 and the top sectioninternal power cable 350 with thepower cable restraint 451 assists in maintaining predetermined spacing between both the bottom sectioninternal power cable 250 and the top sectioninternal power cable 350 and other components inside thebottom tube 190 and thetop tube 195 of the poweredpatio pole umbrella 100. -
FIG. 32 illustrates a polesection slip restraint 301 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The polesection slip restraint 301 is attached to a pole sectionslip restraint ring 302. - In operation, the pole
section slip restraint 301 and the pole sectionslip restraint ring 302 are positioned inside thepole connection piece 185 of the poweredtop pole section 140 as shown inFIG. 11 . The pole sectionslip restraint ring 302 is installed inside thepole connection piece 185 with the top sectioninternal power cable 360 trained through the opening of the pole sectionslip restraint ring 302. The polesection slip restraint 301 is inserted in a hole in the sidewall of thepole connection piece 185. - As described above with respect to
FIG. 1 , the polesection slip restraint 301 depresses into thepole connection piece 185 of the poweredtop pole section 140. With the polesection slip restraint 301 depressed, thepole connection piece 185 slides into thepole connection aperture 131 of the poweredbottom pole section 130. Thepole connection piece 185 is positioned within thepole connection aperture 131 such that the polesection slip restraint 301 aligns with a hole in a sidewall of thebottom tube 190. The hole in the sidewall of thebottom tube 190 is sized to receive the polesection slip restraint 301 as the polesection slip restraint 301 is forced into the hole by pressure supplied by the pole section slip restrainring 302. Engagement of the polesection slip restraint 301 with the hole in the sidewall ofbottom tube 190 prevents rotation and sliding of thetop tube 195 with respect to thebottom tube 190. - Consequently, the pole
section slip restraint 301 prevents damage to the bottom sectioninternal power cable 250 and the top sectioninternal power cable 350 that would result from twisting if thetop tube 195 was allowed to rotate with respect to thebottom tube 190. Also, the pole sectionslip restraint ring 302 provides a force that keeps the polesection slip restraint 301 positioned within the hole in the sidewall of thebottom tube 190 while also accommodating the bottom sectioninternal power cable 250 and the top sectioninternal power cable 350 that are trained inside thebottom tube 190 and thetop tube 195. - Thus, the powered
patio pole umbrella 100 provides a safer wire management system for providing electrical power to devices used outdoors without impairing the overall operability of a patio pole umbrella. - That is, rather than extending numerous extension cords across a yard or patio and/or positioning power strips around an umbrella, a consumer may safely and conveniently plug electrical devices into power outlets provided by the powered
patio pole umbrella 100. To reduce the risks of shock or other hazards associated with using electricity in an outdoor environment, the poweredpatio pole umbrella 100 includes numerous safety features. - For example, incidental contact with power cords is reduced by routing a single power cord from a power outlet to a powered
patio pole umbrella 100. While aninput power receptacle 221 may be positioned in thesupport base 125 for the poweredpatio pole umbrella 100, theinput power receptacle 221 is positioned in the poweredbottom pole section 130 of the poweredpatio pole umbrella 100 to raise the location of theinput power receptacle 221 above the level of the ground. By positioning theinput power receptacle 221 further from the ground, exposure of theinput power receptacle 221 to moisture and contaminants at the ground level is reduced. - To further reduce exposure of electrified components to moisture and contaminants, the power
patio pole umbrella 100 has been provided with various water seals and protective covers. For example, thepower hubs cap seals power hubs power hubs cover seals power outlets power hubs - Alternatively, the
power hubs lower cap seal - In addition to the ground
fault circuit interrupter 110 shown near theoutlet 106, a groundfault circuit interrupter 110 similar to that shown inFIG. 1 may be installed in a power hub on thepatio pole umbrella 100. For example, a groundfault circuit interrupter 110 may be installed in thebi-directional power hub 210, themid-level power hub 310, or the toplevel power hub 410. The groundfault circuit interrupter 110 may be installed in thepower hubs fault circuit interrupter 110 installed in thepower cord 115. - The
power hubs patio pole umbrella 100 without impairing the operability of the poweredpatio pole umbrella 100. - For example, an umbrella crank
handle 165 is included with the poweredpatio pole umbrella 100 for raising and lowering theumbrella canopy 150. Theumbrella canopy 150 may be raised and lowered without damaging electrical components within the poweredpatio pole umbrella 100 or having to unplug devices plugged into the poweredpatio pole umbrella 100. - To protect
power cables patio pole umbrella 100, the moving parts associated with raising and lowering theumbrella canopy 150 are separated from the electrical components by aninternal separation device 390. Theinternal separation device 390 prevents thepower cables power cables power cables patio pole umbrella 100. - Additionally, some portions of the powered
patio pole umbrella 100 and some devices on the poweredpatio pole umbrella 100 are protected from damage by predetermined positioning or sizing of portions of the umbrella canopy support structure. For example, thepower hubs canopy support ribs 510 or other portions of the canopy support structure. Also, the canopysupport rib hub 505 may be increased in size and/or portions of the canopy support structure may be bent in order to prevent contact between the canopy support structure and portions of thepower hubs - Additionally, the central pole of the powered
patio pole umbrella 100 including the poweredbottom pole section 130 and the poweredtop pole section 140 may be composed of a pole having a greater diameter than the pole depicted inFIGS. 1 and 2 . For example, the poweredbottom pole section 130 and the poweredtop pole section 140 include hub areas having a greater diameter than other areas along the pole as shown inFIGS. 1 and 2 . Alternatively, the diameter of the poweredbottom pole section 130 and the poweredtop pole section 140 may be made to equal the diameter of the hub section and maintain that diameter the length of the pole. The overall effect of the change in pole diameter may be to decrease the appearance of the electrical outlets while at the same time providing better moisture proofing. That is, the hubs are eliminated and consequently the hub seals at top and bottom need not be relied upon. - Thus, the powered
patio pole umbrella 100 provides safety and convenience not provided by prior art patio pole umbrellas. A consumer may easily assemble a poweredpatio pole umbrella 100 and plug the poweredpatio pole umbrella 100 into anoutlet 106. Electrical devices may be conveniently plugged into thepower outlets patio pole umbrella 100 without a need for long extension cords. Also, precious usable space is freed up by plugging cords intopower outlets - When a consumer is done using the powered
patio pole umbrella 100, the inconvenience of having to unplug lights and put away extension cords is eliminated. The poweredpatio pole umbrella 100 is moisture resistant and may be safely left connected to apower source 106. Similarly, lights may be left plugged into thetop outlet 430 even if theumbrella canopy 150 is lowered because clearance is provided between thetop outlet 430 and the canopy support structure so that plugs and outlet covers will not be damaged. - Thus, a powered
patio pole umbrella 100 provides a safe and convenient wire management system that frees up usable space under the poweredpatio pole umbrella 100 and reduces clutter associated with power cords of electrical devices. The poweredpatio pole umbrella 100 also provides flexibility as to what types of devices may be supplied with power. The poweredpatio pole umbrella 100 also provides a system where devices powered by the poweredpatio pole umbrella 100 may be easily swapped and changed. - While the invention has been described with reference to certain embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the invention without departing from its scope. Therefore, it is intended that the invention not be limited to the particular embodiment disclosed, but that the invention will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.
Claims (30)
1. A powered patio pole umbrella including:
an umbrella canopy; and
a pole supporting said umbrella canopy,
wherein said pole includes an electrical input adapted to receive AC electricity from an external source, and
wherein said pole includes an electrical outlet adapted to provide said AC electricity received at said electrical input to an external device.
2. The powered patio pole umbrella of claim 1 , wherein an electrical connector is introduced into said electrical input to provide said AC electricity to said electrical input.
3. The powered patio pole umbrella of claim 2 , wherein said electrical connector is removable from said electrical input.
4. The powered patio pole umbrella of claim 2 , wherein said electrical connector is connected to an electrical cord including a circuit interrupter.
5. The powered patio pole umbrella of claim 4 , wherein said circuit interrupter is a ground fault circuit interrupter.
6. The powered patio pole umbrella of claim 1 , wherein said electrical input is at least partially covered by a movable door attached to said pole.
7. The powered patio pole umbrella of claim 1 , wherein said electrical outlet is at least partially covered by a movable door attached to said pole.
8. The powered patio pole umbrella of claim 1 , wherein said pole includes an internal separator to axially separate the interior of said pole into at least two interior pole sections.
9. The powered patio pole umbrella of claim 8 , wherein electrical current carrying elements are placed in one of said interior pole sections to isolate said electrical current carrying elements from the remainder of the interior of the pole.
10. The powered patio pole umbrella of claim 1 , wherein the said pole is supported by a base resting on a surface and said electrical input is positioned vertically upward from said surface along said pole.
11. A powered patio pole umbrella including:
an umbrella canopy;
an electrical outlet adapted to provide AC electricity to an external device;
an electrical input adapted to receive said AC electricity from an external source for transmission to said electrical outlet; and
a pole supporting said umbrella canopy,
wherein said pole includes said electrical outlet and said electrical input.
12. The powered patio pole umbrella of claim 11 , wherein an electrical connector is introduced into said electrical input to provide said AC electricity to said electrical input.
13. The powered patio pole umbrella of claim 12 , wherein said electrical connector is removable from said electrical input.
14. The powered patio pole umbrella of claim 12 , wherein said electrical connector is connected to an electrical cord including a circuit interrupter.
15. The powered patio pole umbrella of claim 14 , wherein said circuit interrupter is a ground fault circuit interrupter.
16. The powered patio pole umbrella of claim 11 , wherein said electrical input is at least partially covered by a movable door attached to said pole.
17. The powered patio pole umbrella of claim 11 , wherein said electrical outlet is at least partially covered by a movable door attached to said pole.
18. The powered patio pole umbrella of claim 11 , wherein said pole includes an internal separator to axially separate the interior of said pole into at least two interior pole sections.
19. The powered patio pole umbrella of claim 18 , wherein electrical current carrying elements are placed in one of said interior pole sections to isolate said electrical current carrying elements from the remainder of the interior of the pole.
20. The powered patio pole umbrella of claim 11 , wherein the said pole is supported by a base resting on a surface and said electrical input is positioned vertically upward from said surface along said pole.
21. A powered patio pole umbrella including:
an umbrella canopy; and
a pole supporting said umbrella canopy,
wherein said pole includes a first pole section and a second pole section,
wherein said first pole section includes an electrical input adapted to receive AC electricity from an external source, and
wherein said second pole section includes an electrical outlet adapted to provide said AC electricity received at said electrical input to an external device, and
wherein said first pole section is removably connected to said second pole section.
22. The powered patio pole umbrella of claim 21 , wherein an electrical connector is introduced into said electrical input to provide said AC electricity to said electrical input.
23. The powered patio pole umbrella of claim 22 , wherein said electrical connector is removable from said electrical input.
24. The powered patio pole umbrella of claim 22 , wherein said electrical connector is connected to an electrical cord including a circuit interrupter.
25. The powered patio pole umbrella of claim 24 , wherein said circuit interrupter is a ground fault circuit interrupter.
26. The powered patio pole umbrella of claim 21 , wherein said electrical input is at least partially covered by a movable door attached to said pole.
27. The powered patio pole umbrella of claim 21 , wherein said electrical outlet is at least partially covered by a movable door attached to said pole.
28. The powered patio pole umbrella of claim 21 , wherein said pole includes an internal separator to axially separate the interior of said pole into at least two interior pole sections.
29. The powered patio pole umbrella of claim 28 , wherein electrical current carrying elements are placed in one of said interior pole sections to isolate said electrical current carrying elements from the remainder of the interior of the pole.
30. The powered patio pole umbrella of claim 21 , wherein the said pole is supported by a base resting on a surface and said electrical input is positioned vertically upward from said surface along said pole.
Priority Applications (1)
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US11/327,037 US20060112981A1 (en) | 2003-02-18 | 2006-01-06 | Powered patio pole umbrella |
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US54152604P | 2004-02-03 | 2004-02-03 | |
US10/781,183 US7017598B2 (en) | 2003-02-18 | 2004-02-18 | Powered patio pole umbrella |
US11/327,037 US20060112981A1 (en) | 2003-02-18 | 2006-01-06 | Powered patio pole umbrella |
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US10/781,183 Continuation US7017598B2 (en) | 2003-02-18 | 2004-02-18 | Powered patio pole umbrella |
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Family
ID=33425132
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US11/327,037 Abandoned US20060112981A1 (en) | 2003-02-18 | 2006-01-06 | Powered patio pole umbrella |
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US10/781,183 Expired - Fee Related US7017598B2 (en) | 2003-02-18 | 2004-02-18 | Powered patio pole umbrella |
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CA (1) | CA2517710A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2006080901A1 (en) |
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- 2004-02-19 WO PCT/US2004/004983 patent/WO2006080901A1/en active Application Filing
- 2004-02-19 CA CA002517710A patent/CA2517710A1/en not_active Abandoned
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2006
- 2006-01-06 US US11/327,037 patent/US20060112981A1/en not_active Abandoned
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Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
CN105119098A (en) * | 2015-09-21 | 2015-12-02 | 福建省华创装饰用品有限公司 | Quick electric connection structure of outdoor parasol |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
WO2006080901A1 (en) | 2006-08-03 |
CA2517710A1 (en) | 2005-08-03 |
US7017598B2 (en) | 2006-03-28 |
US20040221883A1 (en) | 2004-11-11 |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: VENDOR DEVELOPMENT GROUP, MICHIGAN Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:NIPKE, MIKE;REEL/FRAME:017451/0573 Effective date: 20040707 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |