U.S. patent application number 13/607911 was filed with the patent office on 2012-12-27 for umbrella apparatus.
Invention is credited to Gregory G. Kuelbs.
Application Number | 20120325278 13/607911 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 27767797 |
Filed Date | 2012-12-27 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20120325278 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Kuelbs; Gregory G. |
December 27, 2012 |
Umbrella Apparatus
Abstract
An umbrella apparatus having a canopy portion hingedly coupled
to a pole portion. The umbrellas apparatus includes a rechargeable
electrical power system that provides electrical power to an
electromechanical opening and closing system and a light assembly.
A solar energy system is conductively coupled to the rechargeable
electrical power system and is utilized to collect and convert
solar energy to electrical energy for recharging the electrical
power system.
Inventors: |
Kuelbs; Gregory G.;
(Grapevine, TX) |
Family ID: |
27767797 |
Appl. No.: |
13/607911 |
Filed: |
September 10, 2012 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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13311887 |
Dec 6, 2011 |
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13607911 |
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12240845 |
Sep 29, 2008 |
8069868 |
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13311887 |
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10829790 |
Apr 22, 2004 |
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12240845 |
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10650537 |
Aug 28, 2003 |
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10829790 |
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10068424 |
Feb 7, 2002 |
6612713 |
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10650537 |
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60335933 |
Nov 2, 2001 |
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60267018 |
Feb 7, 2001 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
135/16 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F24F 5/0035 20130101;
Y02B 20/72 20130101; A45B 25/143 20130101; A45B 2200/1036 20130101;
A45B 2200/1045 20130101; F21V 33/0096 20130101; A45B 3/04 20130101;
F21V 33/006 20130101; A45B 2200/1027 20130101; F24F 5/0046
20130101; Y02B 10/20 20130101; A45B 3/00 20130101; A45B 2023/0012
20130101; Y02B 10/10 20130101; F21S 9/03 20130101; Y02B 30/54
20130101; Y02A 30/272 20180101 |
Class at
Publication: |
135/16 |
International
Class: |
A45B 3/04 20060101
A45B003/04 |
Claims
1. An umbrella apparatus comprising: a pole portion having a hollow
interior; a canopy portion hingedly coupled to the pole portion,
the canopy portion having a plurality of rib members; a
rechargeable electrical power system for providing electrical power
to the umbrella apparatus; a solar energy system carried by the
pole portion above the canopy portion, the solar energy system
having a module releasably coupled to the pole portion, the solar
energy system being configured to collect solar energy and convert
the solar energy into electrical energy, the solar energy system
being conductively coupled to the rechargeable electrical power
system such that the solar energy collected and converted into
electrical energy recharges the rechargeable electrical power
system; a lighting system carried by the canopy portion, the
lighting system being conductively coupled to and powered by the
rechargeable electrical power system, the lighting system having a
light subassembly positioned along at least one of the rib members;
an electromechanical opening and closing system for opening and
closing the canopy portion, the electromechanical opening and
closing system being conductively coupled to and powered by the
rechargeable electrical power system; and a control system for
remotely controlling the operation of the rechargeable electrical
power system; wherein the opening and closing of the canopy portion
is achieved by the electromechanical opening and closing system in
response to selective operation of the control system.
2. The umbrella apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control
system comprises: a receiver conductively coupled to the electric
motor; a remote transmitter for transmitting an encoded signal to
the receiver; and a decoder conductively coupled to the receiver
for decoding the encoded signal from the transmitter.
3. The umbrella apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the
electromechanical opening and closing system comprises: a motor
carried by the pole portion; and a cable and pulley system coupled
to the motor and the canopy portion.
4. The umbrella apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the
electromechanical opening and closing system further comprises: a
gear system.
5. The umbrella apparatus according to claim 3, further comprising:
a line winding shaft rotatably driven by the motor; wherein the
line winding shaft is disposed within the hollow interior of the
pole portion.
6. The umbrella apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising:
a crank housing coupled to the pole portion, the crank housing
having switches for controlling the operation of the rechargeable
electrical power system.
7. The umbrella apparatus according to claim 1, wherein at least a
portion of the light subassembly is recessed within at least one of
the rib members.
8. The umbrella apparatus according to claim 1, wherein at least
one of the rib members includes a channel; and wherein a wire
conductively coupled to the light subassembly is recessed within
the channel.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser.
No. 13/311,887, filed 6 Dec. 2011, titled "Umbrella Apparatus,"
which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 12/240,845,
filed 29 Sep. 2008, titled "Umbrella Apparatus," which issued on 6
Dec. 2011 under U.S. Pat. No. 8,069,868, which is a continuation of
U.S. application Ser. No. 10/829,790 filed 22 Apr. 2004, titled
"Umbrella Apparatus," which is a continuation-in-part of U.S.
application Ser. No. 10/650,537, filed 28 Aug. 2003, titled
"Umbrella Apparatus," which is a continuation of U.S. application
Ser. No. 10/068,424, filed 7 Feb. 2002, titled "Umbrella
Apparatus," which issued on 2 Sep. 2003 under U.S. Pat. No.
6,612,713, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application
No. 60/267,018, filed 7 Feb. 2001, titled "Lighted Patio Umbrella
Apparatus," and which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Application No. 60/335,933, filed 2 Nov. 2001, titled "Outdoor
Lighting Systems with Cold Cathode Tubes," all of which are hereby
incorporated by reference for all purposes as if fully set forth
herein.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates in general to patio umbrellas,
and in particular, to an improved patio umbrella with integral
lighting system and other modular electronic systems and
components.
[0004] 2. Description of the Prior Art
[0005] There has been a recent increase in the interest in
entertaining in a lawn and garden environment. Patio furniture is
quite popular and useful for outdoor entertaining, especially in
portions of the country that have warmer climates. However, the sun
often presents an impediment to such outdoor entertaining.
Consequently, sales have increased for relatively large patio and
table umbrellas for use in shielding or shading table areas and
people sitting around the tables from direct exposure to the
sunlight. Given the relatively high degree of interest in patio
umbrellas, it is likely that improved umbrellas, or umbrellas with
enhanced functions, will be well received in the marketplace.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0006] The novel features believed characteristic of the invention
are set forth in the appended claims. However, the invention
itself, as well as a preferred mode of use and further objectives
and advantages thereof, will best be understood by reference to the
following detailed description of the preferred embodiment when
read in conjunction with the following drawings.
[0007] FIG. 1 is a fragmentary and sectional view of the preferred
embodiment of the lighted umbrella with motorized opening and
closing system according to the present invention.
[0008] FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 2C are pictorial, fragmentary, and section
views of an alternate embodiment of the present invention which is
directed to a lighted umbrella with a stand and a single battery
and removable base cover.
[0009] FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 3C are pictorial, fragmentary, and partial
section views of another alternate embodiment of the present
invention which is directed to a lighted umbrella with a stand,
charger, batteries, and removable battery cover.
[0010] FIG. 4A is a fragmentary and sectional view of another
alternate embodiment of the present invention which is directed to
a lighted umbrella with recessed lighting.
[0011] FIG. 4B is a fragmentary and sectional view of another
alternate embodiment of the present invention which is directed to
a lighted umbrella with integral misting system.
[0012] FIG. 4C is a fragmentary and sectional view of another
alternate embodiment of the present invention which is directed to
a lighted umbrella with an integral fan system.
[0013] FIG. 5A is a block diagram representation of the motorized
opening and closing system of the umbrella of FIG. 1 and of the
other embodiments of the umbrella of the present invention.
[0014] FIG. 5B is a block diagram representation of an alternate
embodiment of the motorized opening and closing system of FIG.
5A.
[0015] FIG. 6 is a simplified schematic of an alternative
embodiment of the present invention which is directed to a lighted
umbrella with a top-mounted power unit and a cold cathode tube
lighting system.
[0016] FIG. 7 is a simplified schematic of an alternative
embodiment of the present invention which is directed to an
umbrella with a top-mounted power unit and an electric fan cooling
system.
[0017] FIG. 8 is a simplified view of an alternative embodiment of
the present invention which is directed to an umbrella with a
top-mounted power unit and a mist producing cooling system.
[0018] FIG. 9 is a simplified schematic of an alternate embodiment
of the present invention that is directed to an umbrella with a
top-mounted power unit and a motorized opening and closing
system.
[0019] FIG. 10 is a schematic of one broad implementation of the
present invention.
[0020] FIG. 11 is a block diagram representation of the present
invention.
[0021] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a lamp module according to
the invention and adapted for mounting on an umbrella apparatus
using an adhesive pad.
[0022] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the lamp module of FIG. 12
and shows a wire tie inserted for use in mounting the lamp
module.
[0023] FIG. 14A is a side view of an alternative mounting bracket
according to the invention and optionally used to mount the lamp
module of FIG. 12 to a rib of an umbrella apparatus.
[0024] FIG. 14B is a side view of a second alternative mounting
bracket according to the invention and optionally used to mount the
lamp module of FIG. 12 to a rib of an umbrella apparatus.
[0025] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a solar collector module
according to the invention and attached to a rib of an umbrella
apparatus.
[0026] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the solar module of FIG. 15
installed on an umbrella apparatus and viewed from above.
[0027] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the solar module of FIG. 15
installed on an umbrella apparatus and viewed from below.
[0028] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a battery module according
to the invention and adapted for mounting on an umbrella apparatus
using wire ties or similar connectors.
[0029] FIG. 19 is an exploded perspective view of the battery
module of FIG. 18 showing the battery pack disassembled from the
mounting bracket.
[0030] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the battery module of FIG.
18 with an alternative attachment means for securing the mounting
bracket to an umbrella apparatus.
[0031] FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the battery module of FIG.
18 with a second alternative attachment means for securing the
mounting bracket to an umbrella apparatus.
[0032] FIG. 22 is a perspective view illustrating the use according
to the invention of a recharging system adapted to be connected to
an alternating current power source and the optional use of a solar
power recharging system.
[0033] FIG. 23 is a perspective view showing various locations
according to the invention for mounting the battery module of FIG.
18 on an umbrella apparatus.
[0034] FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a spacer according to the
invention used to provide electrical connection to a battery module
mounted under a table of an umbrella apparatus.
[0035] FIG. 25 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of
a spacer according to the invention used to provide electrical
connection to a battery module mounted under a table of an umbrella
apparatus.
[0036] FIG. 26 is an exploded perspective view of a second
embodiment of a battery module according to the invention and
showing the battery pack disassembled from a mounting bracket
having an electrical outlet port.
[0037] FIG. 27 is a perspective view showing a lighting system
according to the invention, wherein a battery module is mounted on
a support rib of an umbrella apparatus and connected to a strand of
lights connected in a series arrangement, each light being affixed
to a peripheral portion of a canopy of the umbrella apparatus.
[0038] FIG. 28 is a perspective view of a strand of lights mounted
according to the invention to a peripheral portion of a table of an
umbrella apparatus.
[0039] FIG. 29 is a perspective view of a lighting system according
to the invention, wherein a battery module is mounted on a support
rib of an umbrella apparatus and connected to an electrical hub for
providing power to lights connected to the hub in a parallel
arrangement, each light being affixed to a peripheral portion of a
canopy of the umbrella apparatus.
[0040] FIG. 30 is an enlarged perspective view of the hub shown in
FIG. 29 and according to the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0041] Referring to FIG. 1 in the drawings, one embodiment of an
umbrella apparatus according to the present invention is
illustrated. Umbrella apparatus 11 includes an umbrella portion 13
and a hollow tubular pole portion 15. Pole portion 15 is coupled to
and supports umbrella portion 13. Umbrella portion 13 is preferably
retractable and may be moved between a raised, or expanded open
position, which is shown; and a lowered, or retracted, closed
position in which umbrella portion is collapsed down about pole
portion 15, as is conventional. A flexible canopy 17 is attached to
and covers umbrella portion 15. Canopy 17 is supported by a
plurality of rib members 19, 21, 23, and 25. Rib members 19, 21,
23, and 25 are preferably hingedly coupled to pole portion 15 at an
upper portion of pole portion 15. An integral lighting system 26 is
carried by at least one of rib members 19, 21, 23, or 25. Lighting
system 26 provides high intensity light to umbrella apparatus 11
and the surrounding area. In the embodiment of FIG. 1, lighting
system 26 preferably utilizes a cold cathode tube which will be
described in greater detail herein.
[0042] Umbrella apparatus 11 may include a base member adapted to
receive pole portion 15 and to support umbrella apparatus 11 in a
generally upright position. Although not shown in the embodiment
FIG. 1, other embodiments of the present invention depict a variety
of conventional and novel base members, any of which may be
utilized with the embodiment of FIG. 1. It should be understood
that in all of the embodiments of the present invention discussed
herein, umbrella apparatus 11 may be used with little or no base
member whatsoever, provided there is a table or some other support
structure, including the ground, which may be adapted to receive
pole portion 15. For example, many patio tables are designed with
central apertures to receive, support, and stabilize relatively
large umbrellas. In some cases, the patio tables eliminate the need
for a base member all together.
[0043] In accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present
invention, light system 26 includes a plurality of light strands
27, 29, 31, and 33 attached to rib members 19, 21, 23, and 25. Each
light strand 27, 29, 31, and 33 includes electrical wiring 39 which
conductively connects a plurality of small cold cathode tube light
bulbs together for providing the high intensity light under canopy
17 and in the area surrounding umbrella apparatus 11. A wiring ring
37 secures and locates electrical wiring 39 of light strands 27,
29, 31, and 33, so that electrical wiring 39 may be passed through
the hollow interior of pole portion 15 to a power source, as will
be described in detail below.
[0044] Umbrella apparatus 11 includes an optional opening and
closing system 40 that aids in expanding umbrella portion 13 into
the open condition and retracting umbrella portion 13 into the
closed condition. Opening and closing system 40 includes a cable
system 41, a gear and pulley system 43 housed in a crank case 44,
and a manual crank 45. Crank case 44 is preferably located on pole
portion 15 such that crank case 44 is accessible when umbrella
portion 13 is in the fully retracted position against pole portion
15. Cable system 41 is coupled between rib members 19, 21, 23, and
25 and gear and pulley system 43, and is preferably disposed within
the hollow interior of pole portion 15. Manual crank 45 is coupled
to gear and pulley system 43 so as to allow manual opening and
closing of umbrella portion 13.
[0045] Opening and closing system 40 may be automated by the
inclusion of an electric screw driver motor 49, or other similar
relatively small diameter motor assembly, and one or more
operational switches 47. Motor 49 is preferably disposed within the
hollow interior of pole portion 15 and is coupled to gear and
pulley system 43. Operational switches 47 are preferably carried by
crank case 44, and include one or more switches for controlling the
operation of motor 49. With the inclusion of motor 49, a user may
expand and retract umbrella portion 13 simply by pressing the
appropriate operational switch 47. This feature is particularly
advantageous when used with large umbrellas which may be relatively
heavy and awkward to operate, or when the user lacks sufficient
strength to expand or retract umbrella portion 13.
[0046] Umbrella apparatus 11 includes a power system 50 having a
power source 55. In this embodiment, power source 55 is preferably
disposed in the hollow interior of pole portion 15 at a lower
extremity and comprises one or more rechargeable batteries 55a. A
releasable end cap 57 having integral ground connectors is provided
at the lowermost portion of pole portion 15 to complete the
electrical circuit of power system 50 and to allow access to
rechargeable batteries 55a, as rechargeable batteries 55a may have
to be periodically replaced. Power system 50 provides electrical
power to lighting system 26 and opening and closing system 40. An
external power system charger 51 is electrically coupled to power
system 50 to aid in repeatedly charging rechargeable batteries 55a.
As is shown in FIG. 1, an external adapter 60 may be provided.
External adapter 60 includes a relatively small plug 59 that is
adapted to be conductively received by external power system
charger 51, an extension cord 61, an electrical transformer 63, and
terminals 65 that allow transformer 63 to be plugged into a
conventional AC wall outlet. This allows power system charger 51 to
receive power directly from a conventional AC wall outlet in order
to recharge rechargeable batteries 55a.
[0047] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, an alternative power system charger 62 may be provided.
Alternate power system charger 62 includes at least one solar cell
35 carried by an upper cap portion 64. Solar cells 35 are
conductively coupled to power system charger 51 via wires (not
shown) that pass through the hollow interior of pole portion 15,
thereby allowing solar cells 35 to provide an electrical charge to
recharge rechargeable batteries 55a, provided sunlight falls upon
solar cells 35. Because solar cells 35 provide continuous
recharging throughout the daylight hours, the amount and frequency
of charging power system 50 with external power system charger 60
may be minimized. It is important to note that locating alternate
power system charger 62 atop umbrella portion 13 is unique and
advantageous, particularly when alternate power system charger 62
includes solar cells 35 or other types of solar energy collectors.
Such location limits the visibility of alternate power system
charger 62 and ensures that solar energy collection is
maximized.
[0048] The embodiment depicted in FIG. 1 is advantageous over the
prior art in that it provides a number of useful functions.
Umbrella apparatus 11 is lighted by lighting system 26 which does
not require continuous access to a conventional AC wall outlet,
while providing high intensity light. This allows umbrella
apparatus 11 to be placed in a relatively remote lawn or garden
locations that are away from, or substantially removed from,
conventional AC power outlets. During daylight hours, solar cells
35 provide a continuous trickle charge to recharge rechargeable
batteries 55a, thereby reducing the need for and frequency of use
of external power system charger 60. However, when an electrical
charge is needed, external power system charger 60 may be utilized
to directly charge power system charger 51. Of course, a
conventional extension cord may be used, thereby eliminating the
need to move umbrella apparatus 11 from its remote location to a
location near an AC power outlet.
[0049] Referring now to FIGS. 2A-2C in the drawings, another
embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. In this
embodiment, an umbrella apparatus 111 includes an umbrella portion
113, a pole portion 115, a stand portion 118, and a base portion
120 adapted to house a rechargeable power system 151. Umbrella
apparatus 11 includes a lighting system 126 and may include a
motorized opening and closing system 140. Umbrella portion 113 is
preferably retractable and may be moved between a raised, or
expanded open position, which is shown; and a lowered, or
retracted, closed position in which umbrella portion is collapsed
down about pole portion 115, as is conventional. A flexible canopy
117 is attached to and covers umbrella portion 115. Canopy 117 is
supported by a plurality of rib members 119, 121, 123, and 125. Rib
members 119, 121, 123, and 125 are preferably hingedly coupled to
pole portion 115 at an upper portion of pole portion 115. An
integral lighting system 126 is carried by at least one of rib
members 119, 121, 123, or 125. Lighting system 126 provides high
intensity light to umbrella apparatus 111 and the surrounding area.
In the embodiment of FIGS. 2A-2C, lighting system 126 preferably
utilizes a cold cathode tube which will be described in greater
detail herein.
[0050] Lighting system 126 includes a plurality of light strands
127, 129, 131, and 133 attached to rib members 119, 121, 123, and
125. Each light strand 127, 129, 131, and 133 includes electrical
wiring 139 which conductively couples a plurality of small cold
cathode tube light bulbs together for providing the high intensity
light under canopy 117 and in the area surrounding umbrella
apparatus 111. A wiring ring 137 secures and locates electrical
wiring 139 of light strands 127, 129, 131, and 133, so that
electrical wiring 139 may be passed through the hollow interior of
pole portion 115 to a power source, as will be described in detail
below.
[0051] Umbrella apparatus 111 includes an optional opening and
closing system 140 that aids in expanding umbrella portion 113 into
the open condition and retracting umbrella portion 113 into the
closed condition. Opening and closing system 140 includes a cable
system 141, a gear and pulley system 143 housed in a crank case
144, and a manual crank 145. Crank case 144 is preferably located
on pole portion 115 such that crank case 144 is accessible when
umbrella portion 113 is in the fully retracted position against
pole portion 115. Cable system 141 is coupled between rib members
119, 121, 123, and 125 and gear and pulley system 143, and is
preferably disposed within the hollow interior of pole portion 115.
Manual crank 145 is coupled to gear and pulley system 143 so as to
allow manual opening and closing of umbrella portion 113.
[0052] Opening and closing system 140 may be automated by the
inclusion of an electric screw driver motor 149, or other similar
relatively small diameter motor assembly, and one or more
operational switches 147. Motor 149 is preferably disposed within
the hollow interior of pole portion 115 and is coupled to gear and
pulley system 143. Operational switches 147 are preferably carried
by crank case 144, and include one or more switches for controlling
the operation of motor 149. With the inclusion of motor 149, a user
may expand and retract umbrella portion 113 simply by pressing the
appropriate operational switch 147. This feature is particularly
advantageous when used with large umbrellas which may be relatively
heavy and awkward to operate, or when the user lacks sufficient
strength to expand or retract umbrella portion 113.
[0053] Umbrella apparatus 111 includes a power system 150 having a
power source 155. In this embodiment, power source 155 is
preferably adapted to be conductively coupled to base portion 120
and comprises a rechargeable battery pack 155a, preferably an
18-Volt rechargeable battery pack. Battery pack 155a is preferably
the type of rechargeable battery that is utilized with most modern
cordless power tools, such as drills, saws, and sanders. Battery
pack 155a is adapted to be repeatedly recharged by plugging battery
pack 155a into a conventional charger (not shown) that is plugged
into a conventional AC power outlet. Power system 150 provides
electrical power to lighting system 126 and opening and closing
system 140.
[0054] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, an alternative power system charger 162 may be provided.
Alternate power system charger 162 includes at least one solar cell
135 carried by an upper cap portion 164. Solar cells 135 are
conductively coupled to power system 150 via wires (not shown) that
pass through the hollow interior of pole portion 115, thereby
allowing solar cells 135 to provide an electrical charge to
recharge rechargeable battery pack 155a, provided sunlight falls
upon solar cells 135. Because solar cells 135 provide continuous
recharging throughout the daylight hours, the frequency with which
battery pack 155a must be replaced or recharged may be minimized.
It is important to note that locating alternate power system
charger 162 atop umbrella portion 113 is unique and advantageous,
particularly when alternate power system charger 162 includes solar
cells 135 or other types of solar energy collectors. Such location
limits the visibility of alternate power system charger 162 and
ensures that solar energy collection is maximized.
[0055] Stand portion 118 includes an upright shaft portion 170
having a central aperture 172 that is adapted to receive the pole
portion 115 of umbrella apparatus 111. A plurality of screw clamps
174 and 176 are provided to secure pole portion 115 within shaft
portion 170. A bottom portion 146 is provided to stabilize umbrella
apparatus 111 while umbrella apparatus 111 is installed within
stand portion 118.
[0056] Base portion 120 includes a removable cylindrical sleeve
156, a removable cover 160, and a receiver 168. Sleeve 156 is
configured to slip over the exterior of shaft portion 170, and
includes a longitudinal slot 158 that allows access to screw clamps
174 and 176 when sleeve 156 is placed over shaft portion 170. Slot
158 also allows access to a connector 166 disposed in the lower
portion of pole portion 115 when sleeve 156 is placed over shaft
portion 170. Connector 166 is conductively coupled to the wires
from alternate power system charger 162 and solar cells 135. Cover
160 is preferably concave in shape, thereby defining an interior
space which may be used to house the electronics (not shown) of
power system 150. Cover 160 may include one or more seams 163 that
allow access to the interior space defined by cover 160. Receiver
168 releasably receives battery pack 155a. A wire 152 and plug 154
conductively couple battery pack 155a to connector 166, thereby
providing an electrical circuit between rechargeable battery pack
155a and light strands 119, 121, 123, and 125 of lighting system
126.
[0057] The embodiment depicted in FIGS. 2A-2C is advantageous over
the prior art in that it provides a number of useful functions.
Umbrella apparatus 111 is lighted by lighting system 126 which does
not require continuous access to a conventional AC wall outlet,
while providing high intensity light. This allows umbrella
apparatus 111 to be placed in a relatively remote lawn or garden
locations that are away from, or substantially removed from,
conventional AC power outlets. During daylight hours, solar cells
135 provide a continuous trickle charge to recharge rechargeable
battery pack 155a, thereby reducing the frequency with which
battery pack 155a must be replaced or recharged. Additionally, this
embodiment is advantageous over the prior art in that conventional
rechargeable battery packs, which are commonly used with cordless
power tools, may be utilized. If battery pack 155a is
insufficiently charged illuminate light strands 119, 121, 123, and
125 of light system 126, the user may simply replace battery pack
155a with another fully charged battery pack 155a. In this manner,
lighting system 126 of umbrella apparatus 111 may be energized
conveniently, even though umbrella apparatus 111 may be located
extremely remotely from an AC power outlet, such as in a garden
patio, or on a boat dock. In this embodiment, there is no need to
use extension cords to charge an alternate power system
charger.
[0058] Referring now to FIGS. 3A-3C in the drawings, another
embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. In this
embodiment, an umbrella apparatus 211 includes an umbrella portion
213, a pole portion 215, a stand portion 218, and a base portion
220 adapted to house a rechargeable power system 251. Umbrella
apparatus 211 includes a lighting system 226 and may include a
motorized opening and closing system 240. Umbrella portion 213 is
preferably retractable and may be moved between a raised, or
expanded open position, which is shown; and a lowered, or
retracted, closed position in which umbrella portion is collapsed
down about pole portion 215, as is conventional. A flexible canopy
217 is attached to and covers umbrella portion 215. Canopy 217 is
supported by a plurality of rib members 219, 221, 223, and 225. Rib
members 219, 221, 223, and 225 are preferably hingedly coupled to
pole portion 215 at an upper portion of pole portion 215. An
integral lighting system 226 is carried by at least one of rib
members 219, 221, 223, or 225. Lighting system 226 provides high
intensity light to umbrella apparatus 211 and the surrounding area.
In the embodiment of FIGS. 3A-3C, lighting system 226 preferably
utilizes a cold cathode tube which will be described in greater
detail herein.
[0059] Lighting system 226 includes a plurality of light strands
227, 229, 231, and 233 attached to rib members 219, 221, 223, and
225. Each light strand 227, 229, 231, and 233 includes electrical
wiring 239 which conductively couples a plurality of small cold
cathode tube light bulbs together for providing the high intensity
light under canopy 217 and in the area surrounding umbrella
apparatus 211. A wiring ring 237 secures and locates electrical
wiring 239 of light strands 227, 229, 231, and 233, so that
electrical wiring 239 may be passed through the hollow interior of
pole portion 215 to a power source, as will be described in detail
below.
[0060] Umbrella apparatus 211 includes an optional opening and
closing system 240 that aids in expanding umbrella portion 213 into
the open condition and retracting umbrella portion 213 into the
closed condition. Opening and closing system 240 includes a cable
system 241, a gear and pulley system 243 housed in a crank case
244, and a manual crank 245. Crank case 244 is preferably located
on pole portion 215 such that crank case 244 is accessible when
umbrella portion 213 is in the fully retracted position against
pole portion 215. Cable system 241 is coupled between rib members
219, 221, 223, and 225 and gear and pulley system 243, and is
preferably disposed within the hollow interior of pole portion 215.
Manual crank 245 is coupled to gear and pulley system 243 so as to
allow manual opening and closing of umbrella portion 213.
[0061] Opening and closing system 240 may be automated by the
inclusion of an electric screw driver motor 249, or other similar
relatively small diameter motor assembly, and one or more
operational switches 247. Motor 249 is preferably disposed within
the hollow interior of pole portion 215 and is coupled to gear and
pulley system 243. Operational switches 247 are preferably carried
by crank case 244, and include one or more switches for controlling
the operation of motor 249. With the inclusion of motor 249, a user
may expand and retract umbrella portion 213 simply by pressing the
appropriate operational switch 247. This feature is particularly
advantageous when used with large umbrellas which may be relatively
heavy and awkward to operate, or when the user lacks sufficient
strength to expand or retract umbrella portion 213.
[0062] Umbrella apparatus 211 includes a power system 250 having a
rechargeable power source 255. In this embodiment, power source 255
is preferably adapted to be conductively coupled to and hosed
within base portion 220 and comprises a bundle of rechargeable
batteries 255a. Power system 250 provides electrical power to
lighting system 226 and opening and closing system 240. An external
power system charger and transformer 251 are electrically coupled
to power system 250 to aid in repeatedly charging rechargeable
batteries 255a. An extension cord 261 having terminals 265 allow
external power system charger and transformer 251 to be plugged
into a conventional AC wall outlet. This allows external power
system charger and transformer 251 to receive power directly from a
conventional AC wall outlet in order to recharge rechargeable
batteries 255a.
[0063] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, an alternative power system charger 262 may be provided.
Alternate power system charger 262 includes at least one solar cell
235 carried by an upper cap portion 264. Solar cells 235 are
conductively coupled to power system 250 via wires (not shown) that
pass through the hollow interior of pole portion 215, thereby
allowing solar cells 235 to provide an electrical charge to
recharge rechargeable batteries 255a, provided sunlight falls upon
solar cells 235. Because solar cells 235 provide continuous
recharging throughout the daylight hours, the frequency with which
batteries 255a must be replaced or recharged may be minimized. It
is important to note that locating alternate power system charger
262 atop umbrella portion 213 is unique and advantageous,
particularly when alternate power system charger 262 includes solar
cells 235 or other types of solar energy collectors. Such location
limits the visibility of alternate power system charger 262 and
ensures that solar energy collection is maximized.
[0064] Stand portion 218 includes an upright shaft portion 270
having a central aperture 272 that is adapted to receive pole
portion 215 of umbrella apparatus 211. A plurality of screw clamps
274 and 276 are provided to secure pole portion 215 within shaft
portion 270. A bottom portion 246 is provided to stabilize umbrella
apparatus 211 while umbrella apparatus 211 is installed within
stand portion 218.
[0065] Base portion 220 includes a removable cylindrical sleeve
256, a removable cover 260, and recessed portions 280 and 282.
Sleeve 256 is configured to slip over the exterior of shaft portion
270, and includes a longitudinal slot 258 that allows access to
screw clamps 274 and 276 when sleeve 256 is placed over shaft
portion 270. Slot 258 also allows access to a connector 266
disposed in the lower portion of pole portion 215 when sleeve 256
is placed over shaft portion 270. Connector 266 is conductively
coupled to the wires from alternate power system charger 262 and
solar cells 235. Cover 260 is preferably concave in shape, thereby
defining an interior space which may be used to house the
electronics (not shown) of power system 250. Cover 260 may include
one or more seams 263 that allow access to the interior space
defined by cover 260. Recessed portion 280 releasably receives
batteries 255a, and recessed portion 282 releasably receives
external power system charger 251. A wire 252 and plug 254
conductively couple batteries 255a to connector 266, thereby
providing an electrical circuit between rechargeable batteries 255a
and light strands 219, 221, 223, and 225 of lighting system
226.
[0066] The embodiment depicted in FIGS. 3A-3C is advantageous over
the prior art in that it provides a number of useful functions.
Umbrella apparatus 211 is lighted by lighting system 226 which does
not require continuous access to a conventional AC wall outlet,
while providing high intensity light. This allows umbrella
apparatus 211 to be placed in a relatively remote lawn or garden
locations that are away from, or substantially removed from,
conventional AC power outlets. During daylight hours, solar cells
235 provide a continuous trickle charge to recharge rechargeable
batteries 255a, thereby reducing the frequency with which batteries
255a must be replaced or recharged. However, when an electrical
charge is needed, external power system charger 251 may be utilized
to directly charge batteries 255a. Of course, a conventional
extension cord may be used, thereby eliminating the need to move
umbrella apparatus 211 from its remote location to a location near
an AC power outlet.
[0067] Referring now to FIG. 4A in the drawings, the preferred
embodiment of lighting systems 26, 126, and 226 of the present
invention is illustrated. In this embodiment, a plurality of
lighting elements 307, preferably cold cathode tube bulbs, are
recessed into a rib member 301. Rib member 301 is indicative of rib
members 19, 21, 23, 25, 119, 121, 123, 125, 219, 221, 223, and 225.
As is shown, a cavity 303 is formed within rib 301. Cavity 303 is
adapted to receive and hold light bulb 307. A translucent material
305 extends along the entire length of the cavity 303 to protect
bulbs 307 from damage and undesirable exposure to weather and other
conditions. Translucent material 305 may have a smooth surface or
be textured to accentuate or enhance the light from bulbs 307.
Although only a single cold cathode tube bulb 307 is illustrated,
it should be understood that there may be many bulbs 307 spaced
along the length of rib member 301 to illuminate the area under
umbrella apparatus 11, 111, or 211. Rib member 301 includes a
wiring channel 309 configured to receive a wire 311 that
conductively connects all of the bulbs 307 installed in rib member
301, thereby forming an electrical circuit between bulbs 307 and
the rechargeable power source, such as power sources 50, 150, and
250. In this manner, recessed lighting, which is carried entirely
within rib member 301 and is not otherwise exposed to the elements,
is achieved.
[0068] Referring now to FIG. 4B in the drawings, an alternate
embodiment of lighting systems 26, 126, and 226 of the present
invention is illustrated. This embodiment is similar to the
embodiment of FIG. 4A, with the exception that an integral cooling
system 410 has been added. In this embodiment, a plurality of
lighting elements 307, preferably cold cathode tube bulbs, are
recessed into a rib member 301. Rib member 301 is indicative of rib
members 19, 21, 23, 25, 119, 121, 123, 125, 219, 221, 223, and 225.
Cooling system 410 comprises a misting means that provides a light
mist to cool the area under umbrella apparatus 11, 111, or 211. A
cavity 403 is formed within rib member 401. Cavity 403 is adapted
to receive and hold light bulb 407. A translucent material 405
extends along the entire length of the cavity 403 to protect bulbs
407 from damage and undesirable exposure to weather and other
conditions. Translucent material 405 may have a smooth surface or
be textured to accentuate or enhance the light from bulbs 407.
Although only a single cold cathode tube bulb 407 is illustrated,
it should be understood that there may be many bulbs 407 spaced
along the length of rib member 401 to illuminate the area under
umbrella apparatus 11, 111, or 211. Rib member 401 includes a
wiring channel 409 configured to receive a wire 411 that
conductively connects all of the bulbs 407 installed in rib member
401, thereby forming an electrical circuit between bulbs 407 and
the rechargeable power source, such as power sources 50, 150, and
250. In this manner, recessed lighting, which is carried entirely
within rib member 401 and is not otherwise exposed to the elements,
is achieved.
[0069] A fluid supply channel 421 is provided in order to receive a
fluid tight hose which supplies water to a plurality of misting
nozzles 425 which generate mist 427 and 480. A fluid discharge
channel 423 is provided to carry a fluid tight hose which carries
water from the hose in fluid supply channel 421 to misting nozzles
425. In this embodiment, umbrella apparatus should include a small
reservoir (not shown) of water or other water source, such as an
inlet hose, and an electric pump to pressurize and pump the water
through cooling system 410. In this manner, umbrella apparatus 11,
111, or 211 provides both light and a cooling mist to those in
close proximity.
[0070] Referring now to FIG. 4C in the drawings, another embodiment
of lighting systems 26, 126, and 226 of the present invention is
illustrated. This embodiment is similar to the embodiment of FIG.
4A, with the exception that a different integral cooling system 510
has been added. In this embodiment, a plurality of lighting
elements 507, preferably cold cathode tube bulbs, are recessed into
a rib member 501. Rib member 501 is indicative of rib members 19,
21, 23, 25, 119, 121, 123, 125, 219, 221, 223, and 225. Cooling
system 510 comprises a fanning means that provides a cool breeze
under umbrella apparatus 11, 111, or 211. A cavity 503 is formed
within rib member 501. Cavity 503 is adapted to receive and hold
light bulb 507. A translucent material 505 extends along the entire
length of the cavity 503 to protect bulbs 507 from damage and
undesirable exposure to weather and other conditions. Translucent
material 505 may have a smooth surface or be textured to accentuate
or enhance the light from bulbs 507. Although only a single cold
cathode tube bulb 507 is illustrated, it should be understood that
there may be many bulbs 507 spaced along the length of rib member
501 to illuminate the area under umbrella apparatus 11, 111, or
211. Rib member 501 includes a wiring channel 509 configured to
receive a wire 511 that conductively connects all of the bulbs 507
installed in rib member 501, thereby forming an electrical circuit
between bulbs 507 and the rechargeable power source, such as power
sources 50, 150, and 250. In this manner, recessed lighting, which
is carried entirely within rib member 501 and is not otherwise
exposed to the elements, is achieved.
[0071] A wiring conduit 520 is provided which routes electrical
wiring from wire 511 to an electric motor 524 carried in a recessed
cavity 522. Fanning means 528 and 580, such as fan blades, are
carried by rotating shafts 530 which are connected to motors 524.
When energized, motors 524 rotate fan blades 528 and 580, thereby
providing a cooling breeze under umbrella apparatus 11, 111, and
211. A plurality of fan blade sets 528 and 580 may be located at
predetermined locations along the length of rib member 501.
[0072] Referring now to FIG. 5A in the drawings, a block diagram
representation of the preferred embodiment of opening and closing
systems 40, 140, and 240 is illustrated. As is shown, a pulley
system 600 is coupled through gears 602 to an electric motor 604. A
switch 606 is electrically connected between a power supply 608 and
electric motor 604. Power supply 608 is indicative of rechargeable
power systems 50, 150, and 250. External power system charger 610
and solar charger 612 are coupled to power supply 608 to recharge
the rechargeable battery elements. External power system charger
610 is indicative of external power system chargers 51 and 251.
Solar charger 612 is indicative of alternate power system chargers
62, 162, and 262. Mechanical actuation of switch 606 allows current
to flow from power supply 608 to electric motor 604. Motor 604
works through gears 602 to operate pulley 600, thereby opening and
closing canopy 17, 117, or 217 of umbrella apparatus 11, 111, or
211, respectively.
[0073] Referring now to FIG. 5B in the drawings, another embodiment
of the opening and closing systems 40, 140, and 240 of the present
invention is illustrated. In this embodiment, a wireless
transmitter 708 is utilized to transmit encoded signals and
remotely communicate with a wireless receiver 706 that is carried
by umbrella apparatus 11, 111, or 211, preferably near housings 44,
144, and 244. A decoder 704 is provided to decode the encoded
signals. As is conventional with such receivers and transmitters,
transmitter 708 and receiver 706 may be adapted to be coded on a
particular frequency or coding scheme which enable a dedicated
transmitter 708 to actuate a particular receiver 706. A decoder 704
coupled to an electrical switch 702 serves to allow for such
identification. Switch 702 controls the application of electrical
energy from a power supply 710 to an electric motor 700. Power
supply 710 is indicative of rechargeable power systems 50, 150, and
250. Motor 700 is indicative of motors 49, 149, and 249. In this
manner, a motorized retraction system may be actuated remotely
utilizing wireless transmitter 708.
[0074] Referring now to FIGS. 6-9 in the drawings, the preferred
embodiments of the umbrella apparatus of the present invention are
illustrated. In these embodiments, the rechargeable power source
and solar recharging system are mounted atop the pole portion of
the umbrella apparatus above the canopy. One concept which runs
throughout the embodiments depicted in FIGS. 6-9 is the utilization
of a "power unit." This concept involves the placement of a unitary
structure at a defined location relative to the umbrella. For
example, in the embodiments of FIGS. 6-9, the power unit is shown
at a top location directly above the umbrella apparatus, and
secured to the pole portion with a threaded coupling. FIG. 6
depicts a top-mounted power unit and a cold cathode tube lighting
system. FIG. 7 depicts a top-mounted power unit with a fanning
means cooling system. FIG. 8 depicts a top-mounted power unit with
mist producing cooling system. FIG. 9 depicts a top-mounted power
unit with an automated opening and closing system.
[0075] Although FIGS. 6-9 depict power units with a single
electrical system, it should be understood that in alternative
embodiments, one could mix and match these electrical subassemblies
such that a single power unit provides electrical power to two or
more subassemblies. For example, an umbrella apparatus may include
a lighting system and either one or both of the cooling systems
described above. Alternatively, an umbrella apparatus may include a
lighting system, a cooling system, and an automated opening and
closing system as described herein. In this manner, the umbrella
apparatus of the present invention is modular such that the
different subsystems can be easily mixed and matched.
[0076] This modularity allows one to manufacture and sell
aftermarket kits which can be installed and interchanged by the
umbrella owners. Such kits may include a power unit and one or more
of the subsystems, such as a lighting system and/or a cooling
system and/or an automated opening and closing system. Because the
power unit is relatively self-contained, little interaction is
required to attach the power unit to an umbrella apparatus.
Alternatively, this modularity in design facilitates the mass
manufacture of umbrellas, allowing the electrical system to be
manufactured by one factory, and the umbrella systems, which do not
include electrical systems, to be manufactured by a different
factory. The parts can then be brought together in an assembly area
and assembled together.
[0077] Referring now specifically to FIG. 6, an umbrella apparatus
701 is illustrated. As is shown, a power unit 725 is provided for
connection to the uppermost portion of umbrella apparatus 701. In
this embodiment, a cold cathode tube light subassembly 721 is
provided for connection at a different location to umbrella
apparatus 701. Power unit 725 includes a solar collector 727 at its
uppermost portion. Solar collector 727 is preferably carried by a
top portion 703 of power unit 725. A bottom portion 705 of power
unit 725 defines an interior battery compartment 707. Additionally,
power unit 725 carries a coupling mechanism 729 to allow coupling
between power unit 725 and a pole portion 719 of umbrella apparatus
701, pole portion 719 being adapted at an upper end 711, preferably
with threads 713, to releasably receive power unit 725. A top cap
715 hingedly connects pole portion 719 to a canopy 717. Cold
cathode tube light subassembly 721 is coupled at a desired location
underneath canopy 717 to provide high intensity light in the area
surrounding umbrella apparatus 701. Cold cathode tube light
subassembly 721 is conductively coupled to power unit 725 by wiring
709 that passes through the hollow interior of pole portion 719.
Such light allows users to read, play games, or perform other
leisure activities that require a relatively high intensity light.
The electrical components of umbrella apparatus 701 are entirely
independent of any household electrical system. The power source,
such as power sources 50, 150, and 250, carried by power unit 725
is utilized to energize cold cathode tube light subassembly 721.
During daylight hours, solar energy is collected by solar panel 727
and is converted and utilized to recharge the rechargeable power
source which is maintained within battery compartment 707.
[0078] Cold cathode tube light subassembly 721 is described below
in more detail below. As will be appreciated by those skilled in
the art, other low power lighting systems may be used instead of
cold cathode tube light sub assembly 721. For example, an LED or
fluorescent lighting subassembly may be utilized instead. LED and
fluorescent systems designed for use with solar and low voltage
lighting are known in the art. Such alternative lighting sources
may be easily used with the present system in manners which are
recognized by those skilled in the art. Implementation of LED,
fluorescent, or other alternate light sources instead of cold
cathode tube light subassembly 721 is a straightforward and need
not be further described in detail.
[0079] Referring now specifically to FIG. 7 in the drawings, an
umbrella apparatus 801 is illustrated. As is shown, a power unit
825 is provided for connection to the uppermost portion of umbrella
apparatus 801. In this embodiment, a cooling system 821 comprising
a fanning means 831 is provided for connection at a different
location to umbrella apparatus 801. Power unit 825 includes a solar
collector 827 at its uppermost portion. Solar collector 827 is
preferably carried by a top portion 803 of power unit 825. A bottom
portion 805 of power unit 825 defines an interior battery
compartment 807. Additionally, power unit 825 carries a coupling
mechanism 829 to allow coupling between power unit 825 and a pole
portion 819 of umbrella apparatus 801, pole portion 819 being
adapted at an upper end 811, preferably with threads 813, to
releasably receive power unit 825. A top cap 815 hingedly connects
pole portion 819 to a canopy 817. Cooling system 821 is coupled at
a desired location underneath canopy 817 to provide a cooling
breeze in the area surrounding umbrella apparatus 801. Cooling
system 821 is conductively coupled to power unit 825 by wiring 809
that passes through the hollow interior of pole portion 819. The
electrical components of umbrella apparatus 801 are entirely
independent of any household electrical system. The power source,
such as power sources 50, 150, and 250, carried by power unit 825
is utilized to energize cooling system 821. During daylight hours,
solar energy is collected by solar panel 827 and is converted and
utilized to recharge the rechargeable power source which is
maintained within battery compartment 807.
[0080] Referring now specifically to FIG. 8 in the drawings, an
umbrella apparatus 901 is illustrated. As is shown, a power unit
955 is provided for connection to the uppermost portion of umbrella
apparatus 901. In this embodiment, a cooling system 921 comprising
a misting system 931 is provided for connection at a different
location to umbrella apparatus 901. Power unit 955 includes a solar
collector 957 at its uppermost portion. Solar collector 957 is
preferably carried by a top portion 903 of power unit 955. A bottom
portion 905 of power unit 955 defines an interior battery
compartment 907. Additionally, power unit 955 carries a coupling
mechanism 959 to allow coupling between power unit 955 and a pole
portion 919 of umbrella apparatus 901, pole portion 919 being
adapted at an upper end 911, preferably with threads 913, to
releasably receive power unit 955. A top cap 915 hingedly connects
pole portion 919 to a canopy 917. The electrical components of
umbrella apparatus 901 are entirely independent of any household
electrical system. The power source, such as power sources 50, 150,
and 250, carried by power unit 955 is utilized to energize cooling
system 921. During daylight hours, solar energy is collected by
solar panel 957 and is converted and utilized to recharge the
rechargeable power source which is maintained within battery
compartment 907.
[0081] Cooling system 921 is coupled at a desired location
underneath canopy 917 to provide a cooling mist in the area
surrounding umbrella apparatus 901. Cooling system 921 is
conductively coupled to power unit 955 by wiring 909 that passes
through the hollow interior of pole portion 919. Cooling system 921
is a misting system comprising a reservoir 925, or other water
source, a pump 927, water feed lines 929, and mist nozzles 923.
Pump 927 pressurizes and pumps the water from reservoir 925 through
water feed lines 929 and out of mist nozzles 923, which are located
at selected spaced intervals under canopy 917, at a selected flow
rate. Reservoir 925 may be a conventional ice cooler, such that the
mist is chilled water.
[0082] Referring now specifically to FIG. 9 in the drawings, an
umbrella apparatus 1001 is illustrated. As is shown, a power unit
1055 is utilized to provide electrical power to an automated
opening and closing system 1050. Power unit 1055 includes a solar
collector 1027 at its uppermost portion. Solar collector 1027 is
preferably carried by a top portion 1003 of power unit 1055. A
bottom portion 1005 of power unit 1055 defines an interior battery
compartment 1007. Additionally, power unit 1055 carries a coupling
mechanism 1029 to allow coupling between power unit 1055 and a pole
portion 1019 of umbrella apparatus 1001, pole portion 1019 being
adapted at an upper end 1011, preferably with threads 1013, to
releasably receive power unit 1055. A top cap 1015 hingedly
connects pole portion 1019 to a canopy 1017. The electrical
components of umbrella apparatus 1001 are entirely independent of
any household electrical system. Automated opening and closing
system 1050 is conductively coupled to power unit 1055 by wiring
1009 that passes through the hollow interior of pole portion 1019.
The power source, such as power sources 50, 150, and 250, carried
by power unit 1055 is utilized to energize automated opening and
closing system 1050. During daylight hours, solar energy is
collected by solar panel 1027 and is converted and utilized to
recharge the rechargeable power source which is maintained within
battery compartment 1007.
[0083] Automated opening and closing system 1050 is carried at the
uppermost portion of pole portion 1019. Opening and closing system
1050 includes a motor 1021, a transmission 1023, a line winding
shaft 1025, a pulley system 1031, and a cable system 1033. These
components cooperate to open and close the umbrella in response to
the receipt of a command signal. The command signal may be supplied
by the actuation of a switch (see FIGS. 1-3) carried on pole
portion 1019, or it may be a wireless signal received from a paired
transmitter receiver system (see FIG. 5B).
[0084] Referring now to FIG. 10 in the drawings, a schematic of the
cold cathode tube lighting system of the present invention is
illustrated. The invention is to utilize in combination a cold
cathode lamp, a power inverter which supplies alternating current
to the cold cathode lamp, a rechargeable DC battery pack, and a
solar collector. This is depicted in simplified form in FIG. 10.
This may be utilized in any outdoor application in which there is
no easy or convenient access to household power. The system is
entirely self-contained and does not require any household power
for operation, or charging. As is shown, the cold cathode tube
lighting system 3000 includes a cold cathode lamp 3001 that is
supplied with AC power from a power inverter 3007. A DC battery
pack 3003 includes rechargeable batteries that supply DC current to
power inverter 3007. A solar collector 3005 is provided to recharge
the batteries contained within DC power pack 3003.
[0085] A cold cathode tube is a lamp that produces light by the
passage of an electric current through a vapor or gas maintained
within a tube. A cold cathode tube does not require any heating
above ambient temperature to produce light. The tube is phosphor
coated on its inner surface, and thus may emit various colored
light. In most cases, cold cathode tube lamps are low-pressure
mercury vapor lamps. Such lamps use a 253.7 nanometer ultraviolet
emission from mercury vapor excited by an electrical discharge
through the lamp to charge the phosphors maintained on the wall of
the lamp.
[0086] The optimum operating temperature for cold cathode tube is
approximately 40 degrees Celsius, although Applicant believes that
these lamps can be produced in a manner to reliably provide outdoor
lighting in temperatures as cold as 15 degrees Fahrenheit. While
the cold cathode tube does not require heating, the output of the
lamp does vary based upon the ambient temperature. At room
temperature, the initial output of a lamp is only about seventy
percent of its steady state value at 40 degrees Celsius. In
contrast, its output is only 25 percent when the lamp is started at
zero degrees Celsius. Cold starts do require additional voltage
from the power source to ensure reliable operation. However, the
number of lamp "starts" has no adverse effect on the lamp. This is
not true for fluorescent lamps, which degrade over time due to the
number of "starts." Cold cathode tubes may be utilized to supply a
white light output.
[0087] In the preferred embodiment, a cold cathode tube
manufactured by Nanjing Lampus Electronics Company, Ltd. is
utilized. Specifically, a lamp type CFL-20 is utilized. This has an
inner diameter of 1.5 millimeters. The tube length is variable, and
may be anywhere in the range of 50 millimeters to 30 millimeters in
overall length. The tube is adapted to operate on four milliamps of
tube current. The tube voltage is in the range of 200 to 750 Volts.
The average brightness of this particular tube is 40,000
cd/m.sup.2.
[0088] Another advantage of cold cathode tubes is that the tubes
can be very thin in diameter. For example, in the preferred
implementation, the cold cathode tube may be one or two millimeters
in diameter. A cold cathode tube can be bent into any shape and can
be formed in very long lengths, such as several feet long. Thus,
cold cathode tubes provide greater light output per foot versus
conventional lighting.
[0089] Another significant advantage of cold cathode tubes it that
they have relatively long lamp life. It is not unusual to have lamp
lives which are thirty to forty thousand hours of use. In other
words, these cold cathode tubes have, for all practical purposes,
an infinite life span.
[0090] They are low power devices. They do not generate a lot of
heat. They provide high lumen output. For these reasons, fewer
batteries are needed to drive the cold cathode ray tube, and
smaller solar cell panels may be utilized to recharge the
batteries. In other words, relatively small form factors can be
achieved because the solar cells, the batteries, and the bulbs can
be relatively small in size.
[0091] The present invention can be implemented on a small, medium,
or large scale so the solar cell panels and batteries may be moved
up in size to either provide greater light output or to provide for
a longer useful life.
[0092] Additionally, the present invention may be considered to
satisfy three separate and distinct outdoor lighting applications,
all of which may be incorporated into the umbrella apparatus of the
present invention.
[0093] The first application is that of a "special purpose light,"
or "task light," such as for security applications. These special
purpose lights would provide very light output, for a relatively
short duration. One example would be the utilization of the cold
cathode ray tube to provide extremely high light output for a very
small area for a very short time, all in response to detection of
motion in a particular area. For example, a system can be
configured to detect motion in a doorway, motion in a yard, motion
in a driveway, or the like. The brightness can be provided which
can be far in excess of 40,000 cd/m.sup.2. For example, 100,000 to
200,000 cd/m.sup.2 may be provided for a very small area for a very
short duration. For example, the duration may be a few minutes to
ten minutes.
[0094] The second application requires a medium amount of light
output, but requires longer periods of operation or wider areas of
coverage. For example, the light assembly provided with the
umbrella provides a relatively high light output, such as in the
range of 20,000 to 100,000 cd/m.sup.2, in order to allow one to
read, play games, operate a computer, or do needlework under the
umbrella. Preferably, the battery pack and associated solar panel
is sufficient to allow the system to operate continuously for a
time interval in the range of 8-12 hours. Additionally, and
preferably, the solar panel should be of the size and output which
is sufficient to fully recharge the battery pack during the
daylight hours.
[0095] A third application requires a lower level of light
intensity. A good example would be lawn, patio, walkway, or
landscape lighting. One does not ordinarily expect to be able to
read or do intricate work under this type of lighting. In contrast,
all that is expected is that a reasonable amount of light be
provided to allow one to walk safely through an area. This type of
task may require brightness in the range of 6,000 cd/m.sup.2 to
60,000 cd/m.sup.2.
[0096] Referring now to FIG. 11 in the drawings, a block diagram
representation of the application of the present invention to a
lawn lighting scenario is illustrated. In this scenario, a
plurality of solar panels 4001, 4003, 4005, and 4007 are connected
together in series. Preferably, solar panels 4001, 4003, 4005, and
4007 are manufactured by Siemens and comprise mono-crystal solar
panels, each providing 1.5 Volts. The total current for the array
of solar panels is about 80 milliamps. The current from solar
panels 4001, 4003, 4005, and 4007 is passed through a diode 4009
and then to a battery pack 4011. Battery pack 4011 includes a
plurality of batteries 4013, 4015, and 4017, for example three AA
batteries. In alternative embodiments, as few as two batteries may
be used. As is shown, each battery is a 1.2 Volt Nickel Cadmium
battery. They collectively provide 700 milliamp hours of power.
[0097] The output of DC battery pack 4011 is provided as an input
to an inverter 4019. Inverter 4019 receives 4.8 Volts DC in and
produces as an output of 800 Volts rms AC at 40 Hertz. The total
current of the output is 4-6 milliamps.
[0098] This is provided to the cathode of a cold cathode ray tube
lamp 4021. The current passes through the vapor maintained within
cold cathode ray tube lamp 4021 and causes electrons to be stripped
from the gas. These electrons collide with the phosphorus coating
on the interior surface of cold cathode ray tube lamp 4021, thereby
emitting light.
[0099] Referring now to FIG. 12, a lamp module 5001 is adapted for
attachment to a portion of the umbrella apparatus of the present
invention. Lamp module 5001 comprises a lamp 5003, which may be of
any type described herein, mounted to a housing 5005 that is
preferably pivotally connected to mounting bracket 5007. Housing
5005 pivots about shaft 5009, allowing lamp 5003 to be rotated to a
selected position for directing the light output of lamp 5003 in a
desired direction. Wire 5011 is conductively connected to lamp 5003
for providing electrical power to lamp 5003. Mounting bracket 5007
has a planar mounting plate 5013 adapted to be fixedly attached to
an adhesive pad 5015 or similar connector for mounting lamp module
5001 to the umbrella apparatus. To install lamp module 5001, an
adhesive surface 5017 of pad 5015 is placed against a surface (not
shown) of the ribs, support struts, or canopy of the umbrella,
affixing lamp module 5001 in a desired position on the umbrella.
Housing 5005 may then be rotated about shaft 5009 to move lamp 5003
to the desired orientation. This method of mounting is
advantageous, since lamp module 5001 may be easily installed on or
removed from an umbrella, allowing lamp modules 5001 to be
pre-installed on an umbrella prior to sale of the umbrella or sold
separately and fitted to a user's existing umbrella.
[0100] In FIG. 13, an alternative method of attaching lamp module
5001 is illustrated. A wire tie 5019, commonly called a zip tie, is
inserted between housing 5005 and mounting bracket 5007 for
affixing module 5001 to a portion of an umbrella according to the
invention. To install lamp module 5001, mounting plate 5013 is
placed near a surface of a rib, strut, or other portion of the
umbrella, then end 5021 of wire tie 5019 is inserted into a
latching member 5023. Wire tie 5019 encircles mounting plate 5013
and the desired portion of the umbrella, and end 5021 is pulled
through latching member 5023, drawing mounting plate 5013 adjacent
the surface of the portion of the umbrella.
[0101] Additional methods of attaching lamp 5003 are illustrated in
FIGS. 14A and 14B. Housing 5005 is shown pivotally mounted to a
mounting bracket 5025, which has a U-shaped channel formed by
protruding members 5027, 5029 for latching mounting bracket 5025 to
a planar portion of the umbrella, such as rib 5031. Protruding
members 5027, 5029 form recesses 5033, 5035, respectively, for
receiving lateral edges of rib 5031 and affixing mounting bracket
5025 adjacent rib 5031. Member 5029 has a ramped surface 5037 to
allow the user to "snap" rib 5031 into mounting bracket 5025. To
install mounting bracket 5025, the user inserts one lateral edge of
rib 5031 into recess 5033 and places the other lateral edge of rib
5031 against ramped surface 5037. The user then forces rib 5031 and
mounting bracket 5025 toward each other, the lateral edge of rib
5031 sliding along ramped surface 5037 and deforming protruding
member 5029 outward until the lateral edge enters recess 5035. To
remove mounting bracket 5025 from rib 5031, the user pulls member
5029 outward until the lateral edge of rib 5031 is released from
recess 5035, freeing mounting bracket 5025 from rib 5031.
[0102] FIG. 14B shows a mounting bracket 5039 having a
spring-biased clamp 5041 for pivotally attaching housing 5005 to a
portion of the umbrella. Clamp member 5043 is connected by shaft
5045 to a clamp plate 5047, clamp member 5043 and clamp plate 5047
cooperating to retain mounting bracket 5039 on a rib, strut, or
other portion of the umbrella. As shown, one or both of member 5043
and plate 5047 may have teeth 5049 for assisting clamp 5041 in
gripping the portion of the umbrella to which bracket 5039 is
mounted.
[0103] An alternative embodiment for providing solar power to
operate devices or recharge batteries on the umbrella apparatus is
shown in FIGS. 15 through 17. Referring to the figures, solar
module 6001, which comprises solar cell array 6003 and bracket
6005, is connected to rib 6007 of umbrella 6009 (FIGS. 16 and 17).
Bracket 6005 is "L"-shaped for placing array 6003 above a
peripheral edge 6011 of canopy 6013 when solar module 6001 is
installed, as shown in FIG. 16, allowing light to strike array 6003
unencumbered by canopy 6013. A generally horizontal section 6015 of
bracket 6005 extends parallel and adjacent to an outer portion of
rib 6007, with a clevis 6017 on bracket 6005 being secured to rib
6007 with a screw and wingnut clamp combination 6019 or a similar
retaining fastener. Optionally or additionally, a wire tie 6021 may
encircle rib 6007 and a portion of horizontal section 6015 for
securing bracket 6005 to rib 6007. An optional ring 6023 is formed
in horizontal section 6015 to provide clearance for a lamp, such as
5001 (FIGS. 12 and 13), to be installed near the outer end of rib
6007 using a wire tie 5019.
[0104] Bracket 6005 also has a generally vertical section comprised
of members 6025 and 6027, which are pivotally connected to each
other at hinge 6029. Solar cell 6003 is mounted on an upper end of
member 6027, and a lower end of member 6025 is rotatably mounted to
the outer end 6031 of horizontal section 6015. Hinge 6029 provides
the ability to alter the angle of solar cell 6003 in relation to a
horizontal plane, and solar cell 6003 can be rotated about the
vertical axis of member 6025 relative to horizontal section 6005.
This allows the user to selectively position solar cell 6003 to a
desired position for maximizing the amount of light striking solar
cell 6003 without the need for repositioning umbrella 6009. Solar
module 6001 can be used to provide electrical power to any type of
device attached to umbrella 6009, such as lights, cooling devices,
or other types of electrical devices, or to recharge batteries.
While only one solar module 6001 is shown attached to umbrella 6009
in the figures, modules 6001 may be mounted on any number of ribs
6007. Also, though bracket 6005 is shown having a generally
"L"-shaped form, bracket 6005 may be formed to have other shapes,
including that of a "V" or a "U." Alternatively, bracket 6005 may
be generally straight for positioning solar cell 6003 outward of
the peripheral edge of canopy 6013. Solar module 6001 may be
pre-installed on umbrella 6009 or may be sold separately in kit
form for installation by a user.
[0105] Referring now to FIGS. 18 and 19, a battery module 7001,
which is preferably water-resistant, is adapted for use on an
umbrella apparatus of the invention for providing electrical power
to devices such as lights, misters, etc., as described herein.
Battery module 7001 comprises a rechargeable battery pack 7003 that
is preferably removably secured to a mounting bracket 7005, and
mounting bracket 7005 is adapted to be attached to a portion of an
umbrella, such as a rib, strut, pole, or other portion. Battery
module 7001 may be pre-installed on an umbrella prior to sale of
the umbrella or may be sold separately or in a kit for installation
on an existing umbrella. For example, the kit may contain a battery
module 7001 and a plurality of lamp modules 5001 or other
electrical devices (e.g., misters, fans) powered by battery module
7001. Additionally, items in the kit may be adapted for use on
other outdoor structures, including a deck, a gazebo, a plant, a
table, a stairway, a hand rail, an awning, a roof, an arbor, a
fence, a birdbath, a walkway, a retaining wall, and landscape
edging.
[0106] Battery pack 7003 has a set of connectors 7007, 7009, 7011
for connecting electrical sources for recharging pack 7003 and for
connecting electrical loads for pack 7003 to provide electrical
power. Connector 7007, labeled as "DC IN," is used to connect a
direct-current (DC) power source to battery pack 7003. This DC
source may be used to recharge battery pack 7003, or it may be used
in conjunction with battery pack 7003 to power electrical devices
connected to pack 7003. Examples of DC sources include power
supplied from a power converter plugged into an alternating-current
(AC) source, such as a wall outlet, and power supplied from an
additional battery connected to battery pack 7003. Connector 7009,
labeled as "SOLAR IN," is optional and used to connect battery pack
7003 to a power source derived from a solar cell, such as those
described above. Connector 7011, labeled as "LIGHT OUT," is for
connecting devices requiring power to battery pack 7003. An
indicator light 7013 may be used for various functions, including
indicating the charge of battery pack 7003, indicating "power on,"
or indicating that power is being supplied to DC IN connector 7007
or SOLAR IN connector 7009. Battery pack 7003 also comprises an
on/off switch 7015, which may also act as a dimmer, to control
power output through LIGHT OUT connector 7011. Switch 7015 may be
of a type that allows for remote operation, such as through use of
a wireless remote control device.
[0107] In this embodiment, mounting bracket 7005 is a "dumb"
bracket, such that bracket 7005 provides only a means for mounting
battery pack 7003 to an umbrella and does not include any of the
operational controls or connectors found on battery pack 7003. FIG.
19 shows one method of attachment for securing battery pack 7003 to
mounting bracket 7005. Slotted holes 7017 are provided in surface
7019 of bracket 7005 for receiving studs 7021 protruding from
surface 7023 of battery pack 7003. To attach battery pack 7003 and
bracket 7005, each stud 7021 is inserted into an enlarged section
of one of holes 7017, and then battery pack 7003 is moved laterally
to engage each stud 7021 in a narrow section of holes 7017 and
align the outer edges of surfaces 7019 and 7023, which are
adjacent. Removal of battery pack 7003 is accomplished by reversing
the attachment procedure.
[0108] Referring again to FIG. 18 and to FIGS. 20 and 21, mounting
bracket 7005 may be attached to the umbrella apparatus using a
number of conventional methods, three of which are illustrated in
the figures. In FIG. 18, pairs of holes 7025 are formed in surface
7027 of bracket 7005, each pair being adapted to receive a wire tie
7029 (shown in phantom) for securing bracket 7005 to a portion of
an umbrella apparatus. While shown in one orientation, holes 7025
may be configured in any orientation required for the application.
For example, wire ties 7029 may be oriented to be perpendicular or
at other angles to the direction shown. To mount bracket 7005, wire
ties 7029 are used to encircle a portion of the umbrella apparatus
and draw surface 7027 adjacent that portion.
[0109] In FIG. 20, mounting bracket 7005 is shown with a pair of
loops 7031 protruding from surface 7027. A strap 7033, which may be
formed from fabric or similar flexible materials, extends through
loops 7031 for encircling a portion of an umbrella apparatus when
the ends of strap 7033 are connected to each other. The ends of
strap 7033 preferably have hook and loop fasteners, though other
means may be used, such as snap closures or similar fasteners.
Loops 7031 may alternatively be oriented in any desired direction
relative to mounting bracket 7005.
[0110] A second alternative embodiment of mounting bracket 7005 is
shown in FIG. 21, in which a two-part C-clamp comprises a clamp
member 7035 extending from surface 7027 of bracket 7005 and a
cooperating clamp member 7037. Clamp member 7037 has holes 7039 for
receiving threaded studs 7041 protruding from member 7035. Member
7037 is retained on studs 7041 by wingnuts 7043 or similar
fasteners. A lining material 7045, which may be elastomeric or
formed from similar materials, is located on the inner surfaces of
members 7035, 7037 for increasing the friction between members
7035, 7037 and the portion of an umbrella apparatus to which
bracket 7005 is attached. Lining material 7045 may also prevent
marring or other damage to the portion of the umbrella
apparatus.
[0111] As discussed above, FIG. 22 illustrates the preferred
methods for providing power to battery module 7001. A power
converter 7047 is adapted to plug into a standard electrical outlet
for converting the AC power to DC power, which is then carried
through wire 7049 to connector 7007 on batter pack 7003. An
alternative source of power may be provided through an optional
solar system, in which a solar collector 7051, which is mounted on
umbrella apparatus 7053, produces power carried through wire 7055
to connector 7009 on battery pack 7003.
[0112] Battery module 7001 may be located in various locations on
an umbrella apparatus, as shown in FIG. 23. Umbrella apparatus 7057
comprises an umbrella portion 7059 and an optional table portion
7061. Preferred locations for locating battery module 7001 on
umbrella portion include a location along a rib 7063, on a support
strut 7065, and dangling from a flexible strap or other connector
7067, preferably located adjacent pole 7068. These locations place
battery module 7001 above the user area beneath umbrella portion
7059, yet the placement allows the umbrella to open and close
without interference. Preferred locations on table portion 7061
include the upper surface 7069 of the tabletop or suspended from
its lower surface 7071, as shown. When located on upper surface
7069, battery module 7001 may be attached by means such as those
described above, or module 7001 may be resting on the surface. In
the latter case, module 7001 preferably has feet 7073 protruding
from a lower surface of battery module 7001, and feet 7073 may be
elastomeric to minimize sliding of module 7001 on surface 7069.
When located on lower surface 7071, module 7001 may be attached
using methods described above or may be affixed using adhesives,
such as with two-sided adhesive pads or tape. An additional
location for mounting battery pack 7001 is on table leg 7075.
[0113] FIGS. 24 and 25 illustrate methods of providing electrical
power to lights or other devices on umbrella portion 7059 when
battery pack is located on lower surface 7071 of table portion
7061. FIG. 24 shows a spacer 7077 located between pole 7068 and the
inner edges of surfaces 7069, 7071. A cylindrical aperture in the
center of spacer 7077 is adapted to receive pole 7068. A female
electrical connector 7081 extends through spacer 7077 from a lower
portion of spacer 7077, and battery module 7001 is conductively
connected to connector 7081 through wire 7083. A male electrical
connector 7085 is sized to be received within an opening on an
upper portion of female connector 7081, and a wire 7087 extends
from male connector 7085 to lights or other electrical devices
mounted on umbrella portion 7059 (FIG. 23). Alternatively, spacer
7077 may have an integral conduit allowing wire 7083 or wire 7087
to pass through spacer 7077. The advantage to this embodiment is
that battery module 7001 may be installed beneath the table where
it is out of view, and umbrella portion 7059 may be removed by
simply unplugging male connector 7085, without the need to unplug
battery module 7001 from spacer 7077.
[0114] An alternative embodiment allowing placement of battery
module 7001 on lower surface 7071 is shown in FIG. 25. Spacer 7089
also has a central aperture 7091 for receiving pole 7068, but
aperture 7091 contains conductive elements 7093, 7095, which may be
circumferential, as shown, and are connected to battery module 7001
by wire 7097. It will be understood that all of spacer 7089, or at
least a central portion, will be formed of nonconductive materials
to prevent short circuiting between elements 7093, 7095.
Cooperating elements 7099, 7101 are located on pole 7068 on a
nonconductive sleeve 7103 and may also extend around the
circumference of pole 7068. A wire 7105 is conductively connected
to elements extends 7099, 7101 and extends within pole 7068 to an
upper portion of pole 7068 to provide power to devices mounted on
umbrella portion 7059 (FIG. 23). When pole 7068 is inserted into
aperture 7091 and lowered to its nominal position, electrical
contact occurs between elements 7093 and 7099 and between elements
7095 and 7101, allowing power to flow between module 7001 and wire
7105. By making at least one set of elements 7093, 7095 or 7099,
7101 circumferential, a particular angular orientation of pole 7068
relative to spacer 7089 is not required, allowing umbrella portion
7059 to be rotated as desired. An advantage of this embodiment is
that umbrella portion 7059 may be removed by simply pulling pole
7068 from within spacer 7089 without unplugging any wires.
[0115] An alternate embodiment of a battery module for the umbrella
apparatus is shown in FIG. 26. Battery module 7107 comprises
rechargeable battery pack 7109 and mounting bracket 7111. Battery
module 7107 is similar in construction to battery module 7001 (FIG.
18), except that the LIGHT OUT connector 7113 is located on
mounting bracket 7111, rather than on battery pack 7109. A set of
conductive tabs 7115 are located in surface 7117 of bracket 7111,
and tabs 7115 are conductively connected to LIGHT OUT connector
7113. When battery pack 7109 is attached to mounting bracket 7111,
tabs 7115 conductively engage elements 7119 on surface 7121 of pack
7109 for allowing power to flow between battery pack 7109 and
connector 7113. This permits the user to detach battery pack 7109
without having to unplug a wire from connector 7113, which is an
advantage when battery module 7107 is located high above the user
under the canopy of umbrella portion 7059.
[0116] Lights or other electrical devices, such as misters or fans,
may be mounted on an umbrella apparatus of the invention in
multiple configurations, two of which are shown in FIGS. 27 through
29. Battery module 7001 is shown in FIG. 27 mounted in a location
under canopy 7123 of umbrella 7125 and along rib 7125, though
module 7001 or additional modules 7001 may be affixed to any rib,
such as ribs 7127, 7129, 7131. A light strand 7133 comprising a
plurality of lights 7135 is conductively connected to the LIGHT OUT
connector 7011 of battery module 7001. Conductive wire 7137, which
may be coiled as shown, extends outward along rib 7125 from module
7001 to a first light 7135. Successive lengths of a preferably
coiled wire 7139 conductively connects subsequent lights 7135 in a
series configuration, each light 7135 being mounted near the
peripheral ends of ribs 7127, 7129, 7131. Using coiled wires 7139
to connect lights 7135 allows for wires 7139 to extend or contract
as umbrella 7125 is opened or closed, preventing tangling or damage
to wires 7139. Lights 7135 may be of the hanging type shown in FIG.
27, in which lights are mounted using hooks 7140, or may be of
other types disclosed herein. Though shown as extending along only
a portion of the periphery of canopy 7123, light strand 7133 may
extend around the entire peripheral edge of canopy 7123. As
described above, a strand of lights 7135 and battery module 7001
may be pre-installed as part of an umbrella apparatus or may be
sold separately as a kit to be installed by a user.
[0117] A similar series arrangement for lights 7135 is shown in
FIG. 28, in which lights 7135 are mounted to a peripheral edge of
table 7141. Each light 7135 is attached to a circumferential
vertical surface 7143 with a hook 7140 and a bracket 7145, and each
wire 7139 is hidden from view under table 7141. Alternatively,
lights 7135 may be attached on an inside vertical surface, or
lights may be suspended from the horizontal underside of table
7141. This configuration would be particularly suited to a battery
module being located in a position beneath table 7141, as shown in
FIG. 23.
[0118] FIG. 29 illustrates a configuration in which lights 7145 are
conductively connected to battery module 7001 in a parallel
arrangement. Each light 7145 is attached on a peripheral end
portion of one of ribs 7127, 7129 of umbrella 7125 under canopy
7123 and is conductively connected to a central electrical hub 7147
by a wire 7149. To provide power to operate lights 7145, a battery
module 7001 is mounted on rib 7131 and conductively connected to
hub 7147 with wire 7151, which is plugged into LIGHT OUT connector
7011.
[0119] Hub 7147 is mounted on central pole 7153, and is shown in
detail in FIG. 30. Hub is formed to have a "half-moon" shape, in
which a central cylindrical surface 7155 is sized to receive pole
7153 for placement of hub 7147 adjacent pole 7153. The
semi-circular shape of hub 7147 allows hub 7147 to be positioned on
pole 7153 in a location that prevents interference with a system
used to open and close umbrella 7125, which may include wires
and/or pulleys located on an upper portion of pole 7153. A wire tie
7157 or similar fastener extends through a slot in hub 7147 for
securing hub 7147 to pole 7153, though other methods of fastening
hub 7147 to pole 7153 may be used, for example, adhesives. Hub 7147
comprises multiple female connectors 7159 for receiving male
connectors 7161, such as the modular connector shown at the inner
end of wire 7149. Female connectors 7159 are conductively connected
to each other, such that wire 7151 (FIG. 29) connected to battery
module 7001 may be plugged into any one of female connectors 7159
for providing power through wires 7149 plugged into any other
female connector 7159. An advantage of hub 7147 is that it allows
multiple devices to be powered from one battery module 7001,
including multiple types of devices or multiple strands of lights,
such as those shown in FIGS. 27 and 28.
[0120] Although the invention has been described with reference to
a particular embodiment, this description is not meant to be
construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the
disclosed embodiments as well as alternative embodiments of the
invention will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon
reference to the description of the invention. For example, the
electrical power systems described above may provide power to
electrical devices providing functions one or more systems,
including a lighting system, a cooling system, a motorized
actuation system, a heating system, an audio system, a video
system, and an infrared system. It is therefore contemplated that
the appended claims will cover any such modifications or
embodiments that fall within the scope of the invention.
* * * * *