U.S. patent application number 13/549303 was filed with the patent office on 2013-05-23 for water accumulation prevention systems, devices and methods for awning structures.
The applicant listed for this patent is Robert B. Thomas. Invention is credited to Robert B. Thomas.
Application Number | 20130126103 13/549303 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 46726376 |
Filed Date | 2013-05-23 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130126103 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Thomas; Robert B. |
May 23, 2013 |
WATER ACCUMULATION PREVENTION SYSTEMS, DEVICES AND METHODS FOR
AWNING STRUCTURES
Abstract
A rain shedding accessory for retractable awnings is provided.
The rain shedding accessory includes a bow system for coupling
between a pair of arm members of an awning structure in a mounting
region located beneath an area corresponding to a leading portion
of an awning sheet thereof. A bow member of the bow system is
aligned generally parallel to a lead member of the awning structure
and is upwardly curved to elevate a portion of the awning sheet
when the awning is in a deployed configuration to prevent the
accumulation of water or debris thereon. Other accessory devices
and methods of preventing the accumulation of water or debris on
retractable awning structures using bow systems and other prop
devices are also provided.
Inventors: |
Thomas; Robert B.; (Bothell,
WA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Thomas; Robert B. |
Bothell |
WA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
46726376 |
Appl. No.: |
13/549303 |
Filed: |
July 13, 2012 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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13338892 |
Dec 28, 2011 |
8256486 |
|
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13549303 |
|
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61561173 |
Nov 17, 2011 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
160/65 ;
160/368.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E04F 10/0618 20130101;
E04F 10/067 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
160/65 ;
160/368.1 |
International
Class: |
E04F 10/04 20060101
E04F010/04; E04F 19/00 20060101 E04F019/00 |
Claims
1. An awning system with a rain shedding accessory, comprising: a
retractable awning including an awning sheet, a base member and a
lead member, the lead member being retractably extendable to move
between an extended position in which the awning sheet is supported
between the base member and the lead member and a retracted
position, and the retractable awning further including a pair of
arm members to at least partially support the lead member in space
when the lead member is in the extended position; and a bow system
accessory including a bow member and a pair of couplers, each
coupler configured to engage a portion of a respective one of the
pair of arms of the retractable awning in a mounting region located
beneath an area corresponding to a leading portion of the awning
sheet adjacent the lead member when the retractable awning is in a
deployed configuration, the bow member coupled to the pair of arms
of the retractable awning by the pair of couplers and the bow
member being generally parallel to the lead member and upwardly
curved to elevate a portion of the awning sheet.
2. The awning system with the rain shedding accessory of claim 1
wherein each coupler includes a base portion sized and shaped to
closely receive the portion of the respective one of the pair of
arms of the retractable awning.
3. The awning system with the rain shedding accessory of claim 2
wherein the base portion is shaped to snap onto the portion of the
respective one of the pair of arms of the retractable awning.
4. The awning system with the rain shedding accessory of claim 1
wherein the base portion of each coupler further includes at least
one fastener for fixing the base portion to the respective one of
the pair of arms of the retractable awning.
5. The awning system with the rain shedding accessory of claim 1
wherein each coupler includes an upper portion configured to
receive one of opposing ends of the bow member.
6. The awning system with the rain shedding accessory of claim 1
wherein each coupler includes an upper portion which defines a
channel to receive one of opposing ends of the bow member, the
channel including a series of apertures to selectively adjust a
mounting location of the bow member.
7. The awning system with the rain shedding accessory of claim 1
wherein each coupler includes an upper portion which defines a
channel to receive a respective intermediate bow adjustment device,
each intermediate bow adjustment device pivotally coupled to the
coupler at a first end and coupled to the bow member at a second
end.
8. The awning system with the rain shedding accessory of claim 7
wherein the channel of each coupler includes a series of apertures
to selectively adjust a mounting location of the respective
intermediate bow adjustment device.
9. The awning system with the rain shedding accessory of claim 7
wherein each intermediate bow adjustment device includes a series
of apertures to selectively adjust a mounting location of the bow
member.
10. A retractable awning system with a rain shedding accessory,
comprising: a retractable awning having an awning sheet coupled
between a base member and a lead member to form a canopy structure
when the retractable awning is in a deployed configuration in which
the lead member is spatially offset from the base member, the lead
member supported in space at least in part by a pair of arm members
when the retractable awning is in a deployed configuration; and an
accessory bow system coupled to the pair of arm members in a
mounting region located beneath an area corresponding to a leading
portion of the awning sheet adjacent the lead member when the
retractable awning is in the deployed configuration, the accessory
bow system including a bow member aligned generally parallel to the
lead member and upwardly curved to elevate a portion of the awning
sheet when the retractable awning is in the deployed
configuration.
11. The awning system with the rain shedding accessory of claim 10
wherein the bow member is configured to automatically flex upwardly
during operation to elevate the portion of the awning sheet when
the pair of arms move toward an extended position to transition the
awning to the deployed configuration.
12. The awning system with the rain shedding accessory of claim 10,
further comprising: a prop device configured to couple to at least
one of the arm members, the prop device having a sheet support
structure with a generally convex upper surface to interface with
the awning sheet when the prop device is installed for use.
13. An awning accessory coupleable to a retractable awning to
assist in shedding rain from an awning sheet thereof, the awning
accessory comprising: a bow member; and a plurality of couplers
configured to couple the bow member to arms of the retractable
awning such that the bow member is supported in a mounting region
located beneath an area corresponding to a leading portion of the
awning sheet in a deployed configuration and oriented to align
generally parallel to a lead member of the retractable awning.
14. A water accumulation prevention accessory device for a
retractable awning having an awning sheet coupled between a base
member and a lead member to form a canopy structure when the
retractable awning is in a deployed configuration in which the lead
member is spatially offset from the base member, the lead member
supported in space at least in part by arm members when the awning
is in a deployed configuration, the water accumulation prevention
accessory device comprising: a propping structure configured to
removably couple to the retractable awning between the arm members
in a mounting region located entirely beneath an area corresponding
to a leading third of the awning sheet adjacent the lead member
when the awning is in the deployed configuration to elevate the
leading third of the awning sheet and assist in shedding rainwater
from the retractable awning.
15. The water accumulation prevention accessory device of claim 14
wherein the propping structure of the water accumulation prevention
device is a bow member, the bow member aligning generally parallel
to the lead member when coupled to the retractable awning to assist
in shedding rainwater.
16. The water accumulation prevention accessory device of claim 14
wherein the propping structure is supported during use to contact
the awning sheet only within the leading third of the awning sheet.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 13/338,892, filed Dec. 28, 2011, now pending,
which claims the benefit U.S. Provisional Application No.
61/561,173, filed Nov. 17, 2011, the entire contents of which are
incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.
BACKGROUND
[0002] 1. Technical Field
[0003] This disclosure generally relates to systems, devices and
methods for elevating a portion of an awning sheet of an awning
structure to prevent the accumulation of water and other debris
thereon, and in particular, various systems and devices configured
to be installed on conventional awning structures to elevate a
portion of an awning sheet thereof.
[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0005] Awnings are well known devices which attach to various
structures, such as, for example, residential homes and
recreational vehicles, to provide protection from rain, sun and
other elements.
[0006] FIGS. 1 and 2 show one particular conventional awning
structure 10. The awning structure 10 includes a retractable awning
sheet 12 coupled between a base member 14 and a lead member 16. The
lead member 16 is retractably extendable to move between an
extended position in which the awning sheet 12 is supported between
the base member 14 and the lead member 16 in a cantilevered manner
from a structure 22, such as a house as shown in FIG. 1, and a
retracted position in which the awning sheet 12 is collected within
the base member 14 near the structure 22. The lead member 16 is
coupled to the base member 14 by a pair of extendable arms 18 which
articulate between a collapsed configuration and an expanded
configuration to move the lead member 16 between the retracted
position and the extended position, respectively. Further details
of this type of awning structure 10 can be found in U.S. Pat. No.
6,957,679, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by
reference in its entirety.
[0007] FIG. 10 shows another conventional awning structure 10''.
Similar to the aforementioned awning structure 10, the awning
structure 10'' of FIG. 10 includes a retractable awning sheet 12''
coupled between a base member 14'' and a lead member 16''. The lead
member 16'' is retractably extendable to move between an extended
position in which the awning sheet 12'' is supported in an extended
manner between the base member 14'' and the lead member 16'', as
shown in FIG. 10, and a retracted position in which the awning
sheet 12'' is collected within the base member 14''. The base
member 14'' is securely coupled to a house structure 22'' and the
lead member 16'' is coupled to the base member 14'' by a pair of
telescoping or articulating arms 18''. The lead member 16'' is also
supported by a pair of telescoping or articulating legs 19 which
may be secured to a base or floor structure 26, as shown in FIG.
10, or the house structure 22'' during use.
[0008] With reference to FIGS. 1 and 10, when deployed for use, the
awning sheets 12, 12'' of such conventional awning structures 10,
10'' often accumulate water 20, 20'' and/or debris which can create
adverse safety conditions and other undesired consequences, such
as, for example, damage to the awning structures 10, 10''. Similar
problems exist for other conventional awnings. To address this
common problem, various devices, including bow-like devices, have
been designed to interface with awning structures to prevent or
reduce the accumulation of water and debris thereon. Examples of
such devices can be found, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos.
5,174,352; 5,203,393; 5,449,032; and 6,494,246. These devices,
however, suffer from a variety of deficiencies including, for
example, cumbersome assembly and/or installation requirements. In
addition, many known devices for preventing the accumulation of
water on awning structures interfere with the ability to retract
the awning sheet, thereby often requiring the devices to be removed
prior to retraction and storage of the awning sheet. Still further,
many known devices for preventing the accumulation of water on
awnings are overly complex, often requiring the use of many
bow-like elements and associated mounting components.
BRIEF SUMMARY
[0009] Embodiments described herein provide various systems and
devices for use with awning structures and related methods which
are particularly well adapted for preventing the accumulation of
water and other debris on the surface of an awning sheet or canopy
thereof in a particularly efficient form factor. According to some
embodiments, the systems, devices and related methods provide
particularly efficient mechanisms for preventing the accumulation
of water and other debris in a package that is relatively easy to
install and uninstall, if needed. In addition, some embodiments of
the systems, devices and related methods described herein provide
particularly versatile systems and devices which do not require
disassembly when retracting and storing the awning.
[0010] Some embodiments described herein are directed to bow
systems well adapted to prevent the accumulation of water and other
debris on the surface of an awning sheet or canopy. Embodiments of
these bow systems and related methods may provide particularly
versatile systems which flex automatically when the awning sheet is
extended for use and relax automatically when the awning sheet is
retracted for storage.
[0011] According to one embodiment, a bow system for a retractable
awning structure may be summarized as including a pair of couplers,
each coupler having a base portion configured to engage a portion
of a respective one of a pair of extendible arms of the awning and
having a bow support portion coupled to the base portion to move
relative the base portion during extension and retraction of the
awning; and a bow coupleable at intermediate positions along a
longitudinal length thereof to the pair of extendible arms of the
awning by the pair of couplers, the bow including a bow member
configured to flex into a curved configuration as the awning moves
from a retracted position to an extended position, and the bow
including a tension device coupled between opposing ends of the bow
member to assist in moving the bow member to the curved
configuration as the awning moves toward the extended position.
[0012] The base portion of each coupler may include a saddle sized
and shaped to closely receive the portion of the respective one of
the pair of extendible arms of the awning. The saddle may be
configured to snap-fit onto the portion of the respective one of
the pair of extendible arms of the awning. The base portion of each
coupler may further include at least one fastener for fixing the
base portion to the respective extendible arm of the awning. Each
coupler may include a joint between the base portion and the bow
support portion to enable the bow support portion to pitch and yaw
relative to the base portion when the awning moves between the
retracted position and the extended position. The joint may include
at least one of a ball and socket joint, a universal joint and a
clevis joint. The bow support portion of each coupler may include a
tubular support section sized and shaped to slidably receive the
bow member. The bow member may be a cylindrical tube and the bow
support portion of each coupler may include a cylindrical tubular
support section. The bow member may be a flat bar and the bow
support portion of each coupler may include a rectangular tubular
support section. The tension device may include a tension adjuster
to adjust an amount of tension between the opposing ends of the bow
member. The tension device may be coupled to each of the pair of
couplers such that, at each of opposing ends of the bow system, the
bow member, the tension device and the respective coupler resemble
a triangular configuration when the bow system is in operation and
the awning is in the extended position. During operation, the bow
member may automatically flex toward the curved configuration as
the awning moves toward the extended position. The bow member may
include a plurality of bow member sections coupled together in an
abutting relationship. The bow system may be packaged as an awning
accessory kit.
[0013] The bow system may further include a supplemental bow
coupleable at intermediate positions along a length thereof to one
of the pair of extendible arms of the awning and a third extendible
arm of the awning, the supplemental bow including a tension device
coupled between opposing ends thereof to move a bow member of the
supplemental bow to a curved configuration. One of the pair of
couplers may be configured to support each of the bow and the
supplemental bow.
[0014] According to another embodiment, a bow system for an awning
structure may be summarized as including a pair of couplers, each
coupler configured to engage a portion of a respective one of a
pair of arms of the awning in a mounting region located beneath an
area corresponding to a leading portion of the awning sheet
adjacent a lead member of the awning when the awning is in a
deployed configuration; and a bow member coupleable between the
pair of couplers, the bow member configured to align generally
parallel to the lead member and flex upwardly to elevate a portion
of the awning sheet when the awning is in the deployed
configuration.
[0015] Each coupler may include a base portion sized and shaped to
closely receive the portion of the respective one of the pair of
arms of the awning. The base portion may be configured to snap-fit
onto the portion of the respective one of the pair of arms of the
awning. The base portion of each coupler may further include at
least one fastener for fixing the base portion to the respective
one of the pair of arms of the awning. Each coupler may include an
upper portion configured to receive one of opposing ends of the bow
member. Each coupler may include an upper portion which defines a
channel to receive one of opposing ends of the bow member, the
channel including a series of apertures to selectively adjust a
mounting location of the bow member. Each coupler may include an
upper portion which defines a channel to receive a respective
intermediate bow adjustment device, each intermediate bow
adjustment device pivotally coupled to the coupler at a first end
and coupled to the bow member at a second end. The channel of each
coupler may include a series of apertures to selectively adjust a
mounting location of the respective intermediate bow adjustment
device. Each intermediate bow adjustment device may further include
a series of apertures to selectively adjust a mounting location of
the bow member.
[0016] According to another embodiment, an awning system may be
summarized as including an awning having an awning sheet coupled
between a base member and a lead member to form a canopy structure
when the awning is in a deployed configuration in which the lead
member is spatially offset from the base member, the lead member
supported in space at least in part by a pair of arm members when
the awning is in a deployed configuration; and a bow system coupled
between the pair of arm members in a mounting region located
beneath an area corresponding to a leading portion of the awning
sheet adjacent the lead member when the awning is in the deployed
configuration, the bow system including a bow member aligned
generally parallel to the lead member and configured to flex
upwardly to elevate a portion of the awning sheet when the awning
is in the deployed configuration.
[0017] The pair of arms may be extendible and wherein the bow
member may automatically flex upwardly during operation to elevate
the portion of the awning sheet when the pair of arms move toward
an extended position to transition the awning to the deployed
configuration. The bow system may include a pair of couplers, each
coupler having a base portion configured to engage a portion of a
respective one of the pair of arms of the awning and having a bow
support portion coupled to the base portion to move relative the
base portion as the awning moves between the deployed configuration
and a retracted configuration. The bow system may include a pair of
couplers, each coupler configured to engage a portion of a
respective one of the pair of arms of the awning and to receive one
of opposing ends of the bow member, a distance between the couplers
being less than a length of the bow member such that, when the bow
member is received in the couplers and tensioned, the bow member
flexes upwardly to elevate the portion of the awning sheet.
[0018] The awning system may further include a prop device
configured to couple to at least one of the arm members of the
awning, the prop device having a sheet support structure with a
generally convex upper surface to interface with the awning sheet
when the prop device is installed for use.
[0019] According to another embodiment, an awning sheet support
device is provided for preventing the accumulation of water on an
awning sheet of an awning. The awning sheet support device may be
summarized as including a prop device having a coupler to couple
the prop device to at least one arm member of the awning and having
a sheet support structure with a generally convex upper surface to
interface with a portion of the awning sheet when the prop device
is installed for use. The coupler of the prop device may have an
engagement portion configured to selectively engage the arm member
of the awning and may be configured to support the sheet support
structure in an upwardly directed orientation. The sheet support
structure of the prop device may be pivotably supported to enable
an orientation of the generally convex upper surface thereof to
adjust in response to contact with the awning sheet during
installation. The sheet support structure of the prop device may be
a convex, dome-shaped shell. The prop device may further include a
prop rod to support the sheet support structure at a distance
offset from the coupler. A manipulable joint may be provided to
couple the sheet support structure to an end of the prop rod. The
prop rod may be adjustably positionable to support the sheet
support structure at a desired distance offset from the coupler.
One or more complementary prop devices may be provided to
cooperatively displace the awning sheet during use.
[0020] The awning sheet support system may further include a
crossbar configured to span between the arm members of the awning,
and the coupler of the prop device may couple the prop device to
the arm members via the intermediary of the crossbar. The sheet
support system may further include a bow system coupled between a
pair of arm members of the awning, the bow system including a bow
member aligned generally parallel to the lead member and being
configured to flex upwardly to cooperatively support the awning
sheet with the prop device. In some other instances, a pair of bow
systems may be provided, each bow system coupled between a
respective pair of overlapping pairs of arm members of the awning,
and each bow system including a bow member aligned generally
parallel to the lead member which is configured to flex upwardly to
cooperatively support the awning sheet with the prop device.
[0021] According to another embodiment, a free-standing prop device
is provided for preventing the accumulation of water on an awning
sheet of an awning. The prop device may be summarized as including
an elongated support member having a lower end and an upper end to
span generally between a foundation and the awning sheet when the
prop device is setup for use; a base at the lower end of the
elongated support member to assist in stabilizing the prop device
when the base is positioned on the foundation; and a sheet support
structure at the upper end of the elongated support member having a
generally convex upper surface to interface with the portion of the
awning sheet and displace the portion of the awning sheet upwardly
from a neutral unsupported position. The prop device may further
include a manipulable joint provided between the sheet support
structure and the upper end of the elongated support member to
enable pivotable adjustment of the sheet support structure as the
sheet support structure engages the awning sheet during setup. The
elongated support member may be adjustable in length to enable
selective height adjustment of the sheet support structure. The
sheet support structure may be a convex, dome-shaped shell.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
[0022] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a conventional awning
structure showing an accumulation of water thereon.
[0023] FIG. 2 is a side elevational view of the conventional awning
structure of FIG. 1 showing the accumulation of water thereon.
[0024] FIG. 3 is a side elevational view of an awning system
including a bow system for preventing the accumulation of water or
debris thereon, according to one embodiment. An awning sheet
thereof is shown transparent to reveal the bow system.
[0025] FIG. 4 is an isometric view of the awning system of FIG. 3
showing the awning sheet thereof transparent to reveal the bow
system.
[0026] FIG. 5 is an isometric detail view of a portion of the
awning system of FIG. 4.
[0027] FIG. 5A is a cross-sectional view of a coupler of the bow
system of FIG. 5 attached to an arm of the awning system.
[0028] FIG. 6 is a front elevational view of the awning system of
FIG. 3 shown with arms of the awning in a retracted
configuration.
[0029] FIG. 7 is a front elevational view of the awning system of
FIG. 3 shown with arms of the awning in an expanded
configuration.
[0030] FIG. 8 is an isometric view of an awning system, according
to one embodiment, including a pair of bow systems for preventing
the accumulation of water or debris on a conventional awning
structure. An awning sheet thereof is shown transparent to reveal
the bow systems.
[0031] FIG. 9 is an isometric detail view of a portion of the
awning system of FIG. 8.
[0032] FIG. 10 is an isometric view of another conventional awning
system showing an accumulation of water thereon.
[0033] FIG. 11 is a side elevational view of an awning system
including a bow system for preventing the accumulation of water or
debris thereon, according to another embodiment.
[0034] FIG. 12 is an isometric detail view of a portion of the bow
system of FIG. 12 coupled to an arm of the awning structure.
[0035] FIG. 13 is an isometric detail view of a portion of a bow
system, according to another embodiment, coupled to an arm of an
awning structure.
[0036] FIG. 14 is an isometric detail view of a portion of a bow
system, according to yet another embodiment, coupled to an arm of
an awning structure.
[0037] FIG. 15 is an isometric detail view of a portion of a bow
system, according to still yet another embodiment, coupled to an
arm of an awning structure.
[0038] FIG. 16 is side elevational view of an awning system
including an awning sheet support system having prop devices to
prevent the accumulation of water or debris thereon, according to
one embodiment. An awning sheet thereof is shown transparent to
reveal the prop devices.
[0039] FIG. 17 is an isometric view of the awning system of FIG. 16
showing the awning sheet thereof transparent to reveal the prop
devices.
[0040] FIG. 18 is an isometric detail view of a portion of the
awning system of FIG. 17.
[0041] FIG. 19 is an isometric view of an awning system including
an awning sheet support system having a prop device to prevent the
accumulation of water or debris thereon, according to another
embodiment. An awning sheet thereof is shown transparent to reveal
the prop device.
[0042] FIG. 20 is an isometric view of an awning system including a
prop device to prevent the accumulation of water or debris thereon,
according to yet another embodiment. An awning sheet thereof is
shown transparent to reveal portions of the prop device.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0043] In the following description, certain specific details are
set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of various
disclosed embodiments. However, one skilled in the relevant art
will recognize that embodiments may be practiced without one or
more of these specific details. In other instances, well-known
structures associated with awning systems may not be shown or
described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring descriptions
of the embodiments. Furthermore, it will be appreciated by those of
ordinary skill in the relevant art that the systems, devices and
related methods described herein for preventing the accumulation of
water and/or debris on an awning sheet may be used with or
practiced in connection with a wide variety of awning structures
other than those illustrated herein.
[0044] Unless the context requires otherwise, throughout the
specification and claims which follow, the word "comprise" and
variations thereof, such as, "comprises" and "comprising" are to be
construed in an open, inclusive sense, that is as "including, but
not limited to."
[0045] Reference throughout this specification to "one embodiment"
or "an embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure or
characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is
included in at least one embodiment. Thus, the appearances of the
phrases "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" in various places
throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to
the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features,
structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable
manner in one or more embodiments.
[0046] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the
singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless
the content clearly dictates otherwise. It should also be noted
that the term "or" is generally employed in its sense including
"and/or" unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.
[0047] FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate a conventional awning structure 10
having a pool of water 20 accumulated thereon. The awning structure
10 includes a retractable awning sheet 12 coupled between a base
member 14 and a lead member 16. The lead member 16 is retractably
extendable to move between an extended position in which the awning
sheet 12 is supported between the base member 14 and the lead
member 16 in a cantilevered manner from a house structure 22, as
shown in FIG. 1, and a retracted position in which the awning sheet
12 is collected within the base member 14. The lead member 16 is
coupled to the base member 14 by a pair of extendable arms 18 which
articulate between a collapsed configuration and an expanded
configuration to move the lead member 16 between the retracted
position and the extended position, respectively. Further details
of this type of conventional awning structure 10 can be found in
U.S. Pat. No. 6,957,679, the entire content of which is
incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
[0048] FIGS. 3 through 7 show an awning system 100, according to
one example embodiment, including the aforementioned awning
structure 10 and a bow system 110 installed thereon to prevent
water or debris from accumulating on the awning sheet 12 in a
particularly efficient manner. The bow system 110 is mounted in a
leading portion 112 of the awning structure 10 adjacent the lead
member 16. For example, the bow system 110 may be coupled to each
of a pair of leading arm members 24 of the pair of extendible arms
18 within a mounting region located beneath an area corresponding
to a leading third of the awning sheet 12 which is adjacent the
lead member 16 when the awning system 100 is in a deployed
configuration. The bow system 110 is configured to flex upwardly
during use to elevate a portion of the awning sheet 12. The bow
system 110 is aligned generally parallel to the lead member 16 in a
direction that is generally perpendicular to the direction of
extension and retraction of the awning system 100. The bow system
110 flexes in a generally arched shape to direct water or debris
toward the perimeter of the awning sheet 12. The bow system 110 may
flex such that a peak 114 (FIGS. 3, 4 and 7) thereof is generated
in a central region of the awning sheet 12 with respect to a
direction corresponding to a longitudinal length of the bow system
110. According to the illustrated configuration, the bow system 110
is surprisingly effective in clearing water from the awning sheet
12 in a relatively simple form factor.
[0049] As shown best in FIGS. 4, 5, 6 and 7, the bow system 110
includes a bow member 120 coupleable to the leading arm members 24
of the awning structure 10 at intermediate positions along the
longitudinal length of the bow member 120. The bow system 110
further includes end caps 121 at opposing ends 122 of the bow
member 120. The opposing ends 122 of the bow member 120 are
tethered together via a tensioning device 126 in the form of a
tensioning cord coupled to eyelets 124 at the opposing ends 122.
The tension in the tensioning device 126 may be readily adjusted by
a tension adjustment mechanism 128. In this manner, a tension
between the opposing ends 122 of the bow member 120 may be adjusted
to increase or decrease the vertical displacement of the awning
sheet 12 (FIGS. 3 and 4) to optimize a surface of the awning sheet
12 to shed water or debris. In some embodiments, the tension may be
set such that a central portion of the bow member 120 displaces in
a vertical direction at least four inches when transitioning
between a relaxed configuration R (FIG. 6) and a flexed
configuration F (FIG. 7) as the awning sheet 12 extends from a
stowed configuration to a deployed configuration.
[0050] The bow member 120 of the bow system 110 is coupled to the
leading arm members 24 of the awning structure 10 at each of
opposing locations by respective couplers 130. More particularly,
the couplers 130 each include a base portion 131 which is
configured to engage a portion of a respective one of the pair of
leading arm members 24 of the awning structure 10. For instance, as
shown best in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 5A, the coupler 130
may include a base portion 131 in the form of a saddle having a
cross-sectional profile which nests with the leading arm member 24.
In some embodiments, the base portion 131 may couple to the leading
arm member 24 by a snap-fit. For example, opposing legs 132 of the
base portion 131 may be resilient and flex to receive the leading
arm member 24 and snap back toward an initial state when the
leading arm member 24 is fully received therein. Barbs 133, flanges
or other features may be provided to assist in securing the base
portion 131 to the leading arm member 24. Although the base portion
131 is shown as a generally u-shaped saddle structure, it is
appreciated that the shape and size of the base portion may vary.
Advantageously, the base portion 131 of the couplers 130 may be
sized and shaped to nest closely with the leading arm members 24 in
a relatively slender, yet robust form factor.
[0051] In some embodiments, fasteners, such as, for example, thumb
screws 134 may be provided in addition to or in lieu of other
attachment mechanisms to secure the base portion 131 to the leading
arm member 24 and prevent the base portion 131 from shifting during
use. The provision of thumb screws 134 enables rapid attachment and
detachment of the couplers 130 to the leading arm members 24,
although other fastening devices, such as, for example,
conventional nuts and bolts, clamps and adhesives may be used. In
some embodiments, including the example embodiment of FIGS. 3
through 7, the couplers 130 may enable attachment to the leading
arm members 24 without requiring modifications thereto.
[0052] With reference to FIGS. 5, 6 and 7, the couplers 130 further
include a bow support portion 136 that is coupled to the base
portion 131 to move relative the base portion 131 during extension
and retraction of the awning system 100. In some embodiments, the
bow support portion 136 may include a tubular structure shaped to
slidably receive the bow member 120. For example, as shown best in
the detail view of the portion of the awning system 100 shown in
FIG. 5, the bow support portion 134 may include a cylindrical tube
shaped to closely receive a round, tubular bow member 120. In other
embodiments, the bow support portion 136 may include a rectangular
tube that is shaped to closely receive a bow member 120 having a
rectangular cross-sectional profile. The bow support portion 136
may be coupled to the base portion 131 by one or more manipulable
joints 138, such as, for example, a ball and socket joint, a
universal joint and/or a clevis joint. As shown best in FIG. 5, the
bow support portion 136 may be rotatable with respect to the base
portion 131 about a vertical axis Z and a transverse axis X such
that the bow support portion 136 is able to pitch and yaw relative
to the base portion 131 when the awning system 100 moves between
the retracted configuration and the deployed configuration. This
functionality enables the bow member 120 to maintain a generally
parallel relationship with the lead member 16 of the awning system
100 despite changes in direction of the base portion 131 during
extension and retraction of the extendable arms 18 and hence
leading arm members 24. In addition, it allows the bow member 120
to flex to a curved configuration and return to a relatively flat,
relaxed configuration.
[0053] With reference to FIG. 5, the couplers 130 may further
include an eyelet 140, an aperture or other feature through which
the tensioning cord or other tensioning device 126 is routed. This
can assist in keeping the bow system 110 in proper alignment
throughout operation and prevent inadvertent binding. The eyelet
140 or other routing feature may be rotatably coupled to the
coupler 130 as represented by the arrow labeled 142. In operation,
at each of opposing ends of the bow system 110, the bow member 120,
the respective coupler 130, and the tensioning device 126 up to the
eyelet 140 or other routing feature may resemble a generally
triangular configuration.
[0054] FIGS. 6 and 7 show the bow member 120 in a relaxed
configuration R and a flexed configuration F, respectively. More
particularly, FIG. 6 shows a partial front elevational view of the
awning system 100 with the leading arm members 24 in a generally
retracted configuration slightly before a fully retracted
configuration. In this configuration, the couplers 130 on the
leading arm members 24 are relatively close together which relieves
tension between the opposing ends 122 of the bow member 120,
allowing the bow member 120 to straighten into the generally
relaxed configuration R. In contrast, FIG. 7 shows a partial front
elevational view of the awning system 100 with the leading arm
members 24 in a generally extended configuration. In this
configuration, the couplers 130 on the leading arm members 24 are
relatively further apart which imparts greater tension between the
opposing ends of the bow member 120, forcing the bow member 120 to
curve into the flexed configuration F. Advantageously, the bow
member 120 may transition automatically between the relaxed
configuration R and the flexed configuration F as the extendible
arms 18 and hence leading arm members 24 extend and retract.
Further, the bow system 110 may remain attached to the awning
structure 10 throughout operation of the awning system 100.
Accordingly, detachment of the bow system 110 is unnecessary when
storing the awning sheet 12.
[0055] As further shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the bow member 120 may
comprise several sections 120a, 120b, 120c coupled together in an
abutting relationship with adapters 144 or other connection devices
therebetween. In this manner, the bow member 120 may be broken down
into smaller sections 120a, 120b, 120c to facilitate handling and
packaging. In some embodiments, for example, the bow member 120 may
be broken down into sections 120a, 120b, 120c and packaged together
with the couplers 130 in a relatively small form factor to be sold
as an awning accessory kit.
[0056] FIGS. 8 and 9 show an awning system 200, according to
another example embodiment, including a conventional awning
structure 10' and a pair of cooperating bow systems 210 installed
thereon to prevent water or debris from accumulating on the awning
sheet 12' in a particularly efficient manner. The bow systems 210
are mounted in a leading portion 212 of the awning structure 10'
adjacent a lead member 16' thereof. For example, the bow systems
210 may be coupled between overlapping pairs of leading arm members
24' of corresponding extendible arms 18' within a mounting region
located beneath an area corresponding to a leading third of the
awning sheet 12' which is adjacent the lead member 16' when the
awning system 200 is in a deployed configuration. The bow systems
210 are configured to flex upwardly during use to cooperatively
elevate portions of the awning sheet 12' in an overlapping manner.
The bow systems 210 are aligned generally parallel to the lead
member 16' in a direction that is generally perpendicular to the
direction of extension and retraction of the awning system 200. In
addition, the bow systems 210 are nested in close proximity to each
other such that, when the awning system 200 is in the retracted
configuration, the bow systems 210 may be stored above the leading
arm members 24' in a compact arrangement. The bow systems 210 may
remain coupled to the awning structure 10' throughout deployment
and retraction of the awning structure 10' without
interference.
[0057] Other features and aspects of the awning system 200 are
similar to those described above. However, one notable difference
is that the ends 214 of the bow systems 210 which overlap are shown
as coupling to a leading arm member 24' via a common coupler 230.
In other embodiments, however, it is appreciated that the common
coupler 230 may be replaced with two separate, distinct couplers
each dedicated to a respective one of the bow systems 210.
[0058] The common coupler 230 of the example embodiment of FIGS. 8
and 9 includes a base portion 231 which is configured to engage a
portion of the leading arm member 24'. For instance, the coupler
230 may include a base portion 231 in the form of a saddle having a
cross-sectional profile which nests with the leading arm member
24', including, for example, by way of a snap-fit. In some
embodiments, fasteners, such as, for example, thumb screws 234 may
be provided in addition to or in lieu of other attachment
mechanisms to secure the base portion 231 to the leading arm member
24' and prevent the base portion 231 from shifting during use.
Similar to the earlier discussion, the provision of thumb screws
234 enables rapid attachment and detachment of the coupler 230 to
the leading arm member 24', although other fastening devices, such
as, for example, conventional nuts and bolts, clamps and adhesives
may be used. In some embodiments, including the example embodiment
of FIGS. 8 and 9, the coupler 230 may enable attachment to the
leading arm member 24' without requiring modifications thereto.
[0059] With continued reference to FIGS. 8 and 9, the common
coupler 230 further includes a respective bow support portion 236
for each of bow members 220 of the bow systems 210. The bow support
portions 236 are movably coupled to the base portion 231 to adjust
relative the base portion 231 to enable movement of the bow members
220 received therein relative to the leading arm member 24'. In
some embodiments, the bow support portions 236 may include a
tubular structure shaped to slidably receive the bow members 220.
Similar to earlier discussions, the bow support portions 236 may be
coupled to the base portion 231 by one or more manipulable joints
238, such as, for example, a ball and socket joint, a universal
joint and/or a clevis joint. As depicted best in the detail view of
the portion of the awning system 200 shown in FIG. 9, each of the
bow support portions 236 are rotatable with respect to the base
portion 231 about a vertical axis Z and a transverse axis X such
that each of the bow support portions 134 are able to pitch and yaw
relative to the base portion 231. This functionality enables the
bow members 220, throughout operation, to maintain a generally
parallel relationship with the lead member 16' of the awning system
200 and allows the bow members 220 to flex to a curved
configuration and return to a relatively flat, relaxed
configuration.
[0060] It is appreciated that some of the leading arm members 24'
of the awning structure 10' may operate in a parallel relationship
with the attachment locations of the bow system 210 being
maintained at the same distance throughout extension and retraction
of the awning structure 10'. In this scenario, tension may be
released manually from the bow system 210 prior to retraction of
the awning structure 10' by utilizing a tension adjuster 240 to
flatten out the corresponding bow member 220 for storage. The bow
system 210, however, may remain fully assembled and attached to the
awning structure 10' throughout operation. In this manner, a user
may conveniently deploy the awning structure 10' and erect the bow
systems 210 with minimal effort by re-tensioning the bow member 220
when the awning structure 10' is deployed.
[0061] FIGS. 11 and 12 show an awning system 300, according to yet
another example embodiment, including a conventional awning
structure 10'' and a bow system 310 installed thereon to prevent
water or debris from accumulating on an awning sheet 12'' thereof
in a particularly efficient manner. The bow system 310 is mounted
in a leading portion 312 of the awning structure 10'' adjacent a
lead member 16''. For example, the bow system 310 may be coupled to
each of a pair of arms 18'' of the awning structure 10'' within a
mounting region located beneath an area corresponding to a leading
third of the awning sheet 12'' which is adjacent the lead member
16'' when the awning system 300 is in a deployed configuration. The
bow system 310 is configured to flex upwardly during use to elevate
a portion of the awning sheet 12''. The bow system 310 is aligned
generally parallel to the lead member 16'' in a direction that is
generally perpendicular to the direction of extension and
retraction of the awning system 300. The bow system 310 flexes in a
generally arched shape to direct water or debris toward the
perimeter of the awning sheet 12''. The bow system 310 may flex
such that a peak 314 (FIG. 11) thereof is generated in a central
region of the awning sheet 12'' with respect to a direction
corresponding to a longitudinal length of the bow system 310.
According to the illustrated configuration, the bow system 310 is
surprisingly effective in clearing water from the awning sheet 12''
in a relatively simple form factor.
[0062] As shown in FIG. 12, the bow system 310 includes a bow
member 320 having an elongated structure with each of opposing ends
322 thereof receivable in a respective mounting device 330 secured
to a corresponding arm 18'' of the awning structure 10''. Each
mounting device 330 may include a cup-structure or other cavity 332
for receiving the end 322 of the bow member 320 in a secure, yet
unfixed manner. In this way, a user may readily remove the bow
member 320 with minimal effort. The mounting device 330 may further
include opposing legs 334 which form a saddle-like portion having a
profile corresponding to the arm 18'' of the awning structure 10''.
Barbs 336, flanges or other features may be provided to assist in
securing the opposing legs 334 of the mounting device 330 to the
arm 18''. Although the opposing legs 334 of the mounting device 330
are shown as forming a generally u-shaped saddle structure, it is
appreciated that the shape and size of the mounting device 330 may
vary. Advantageously, the mounting device 330 may be sized and
shaped to nest closely with the arms 18'' of the awning structure
10'' in a relatively slender, yet robust form factor.
[0063] In some embodiments, fasteners, such as, for example, thumb
screws 338 may be provided in addition to or in lieu of other
attachment mechanisms to secure the mounting devices 330 to the
arms 18'' of the awning structure 10'' and prevent the mounting
devices 330 from shifting during use. The provision of thumb screws
338 enables rapid attachment and detachment of the mounting devices
330 to the arms 18'' of the awning structure 10'', although other
fastening devices, such as, for example, conventional nuts and
bolts, clamps and adhesives may be used. In some embodiments,
including the example embodiment of FIGS. 11 and 12, the mounting
devices 330 may enable attachment to the arms 18'' of the awning
structure 10'' without requiring modifications thereto. In other
embodiments, the arms 18'' of the awning structure 10'' may be
modified to receive the mounting devices 330.
[0064] For example, FIG. 13 shows a variation of the embodiment of
FIGS. 11 and 12 in which the arms 18'' of the awning structure 10''
have been modified to include mounting apertures to receive
fasteners 344 for fixedly securing mounting devices 340 thereto.
The fasteners 344 may be bolts, clevis pins or other fasteners. In
one particular embodiment, the fasteners 344 may be clevis pins and
may be secured to the arms 18'' of the awning structure 10'' with
hairpins or other quick release devices which facilitate rapid
disassembly of the mounting devices 340 from the arms 18'' of the
awning structure 10''. The mounting devices 340 of this embodiment
may likewise include a cup-structure or other cavity 342 for
receiving the end 322 of the bow member 320 in a secure, yet
unfixed manner. In other embodiments, the bow member 320 may be
fixedly attached to the mounting devices 340.
[0065] For example, FIG. 14 illustrates a variation of a bow system
410 in which a round, tubular bow member 420 is fixedly secured at
opposing ends 422 thereof to mounting devices 430 with fasteners
432. The mounting devices 430 in turn are secured to the arms 18''
of the awning structure 10'' with fasteners 434. The fasteners 432,
434 may be bolts, clevis pins or other fasteners. The mounting
devices 430 may include a series of apertures 436 to enable
selective adjustment of the ends 422 of the bow member 420 to vary
a height thereof. In this manner, the profile of the awning sheet
which is elevated by the bow member 420 during use may be adjusted
to improve runoff or to accommodate variations between various
types of conventional awning structures. Furthermore, in some
applications, a user may advantageously adjust the height of one
end 422 of the bow member 420 higher than the other to route runoff
in a particular direction so as to avoid walkways or other areas in
which it may be undesirable to direct the runoff. For example, one
end 422 of the bow member 420 may be elevated one inch or more
higher than the other end 422 such that water and/or debris tends
to flow to the side of the awning structure 10'' adjacent the end
422 that is lower.
[0066] FIG. 15 illustrates yet another variation of a bow system
510 in which mounting devices 530 are secured to the arms 18'' of
the awning structure 10''. An upper portion of the mounting devices
530 each define a channel 532 to receive a respective intermediate
bow adjustment device 540 which is pivotally coupleable to the
mounting device 530. More particularly, each intermediate bow
adjustment device 540 is rotatably secured within the channel 532
of the corresponding mounting device 530 with a fastener 534
extending through one of a series of apertures 536 therein. In
turn, an end 522 of the bow member 520 is secured within a channel
542 of the intermediate bow adjustment device 540 with a fastener
544 extending through one of a series of apertures 546 therein.
This linkage arrangement of the mounting devices 530 and
intermediate bow adjustment devices 540 enables a wide breadth of
flexibility in positioning each of the opposing ends 522 of the bow
member 520 to achieve a desirable loft of the awning sheet elevated
thereby. In addition, similar to the discussion above, in some
applications, a user may advantageously adjust the height of one
end 522 of the bow member 520 higher than the other to route runoff
in a particular direction so as to avoid walkways or other areas in
which it may be undesirable to direct the runoff.
[0067] In accordance with the various awning systems described
herein, corresponding methods of using bow systems 110, 210, 310,
410, 510 to prevent the accumulation of water or debris on awning
structures are provided. For instance, in some embodiments, a
method of preventing the accumulation of water or debris on an
awning sheet of an awning structure may include coupling an
elongated bow system between extendible arms of the awning
structure such that a bow member thereof is positioned below a
leading portion of the awning sheet and aligned generally
perpendicular to a direction of extension of the awning structure.
The method may further include setting a tension between opposing
ends of the bow member such that the bow member flexes a determined
amount from a generally straight configuration as the awning
structure is deployed. The method may further include selectively
adjusting a tension between opposing ends of the bow member to
modify an amount of flex thereof. The method may also include
selectively adjusting a height of at least one of the opposing ends
of the bow member such that water impinging on the awning sheet is
routed to one side of the awning more than the other. The method
may also include storing the bow system automatically with storage
of the awning sheet. These and other aspects of methods of
preventing the accumulation of water or debris on an awning sheet
will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the relevant art
upon a review of the present disclosure.
[0068] FIGS. 16 through 18 show an awning system 600, according to
another example embodiment, which includes the aforementioned
awning structure 10 and an awning sheet support system 610
installed thereon to prevent water and/or debris from accumulating
on the awning sheet 12. The awning sheet support system 610 may be
mounted in a leading portion 612 of the awning structure 10
adjacent the lead member 16. For example, the awning sheet support
system 610 may be coupled to leading arm members 24 of the pair of
extendible arms 18 within a mounting region located beneath an area
corresponding to a leading third of the awning sheet 12 which is
adjacent the lead member 16 when the awning system 600 is in a
deployed configuration.
[0069] As best shown in FIG. 17, the awning sheet support system
610 includes a pair of prop devices 614 that are positioned during
use to collectively elevate a portion or portions of the awning
sheet 12. In some embodiments, the awning sheet support system 610
may include more or fewer prop devices 614. Each of the prop
devices 614 may be identical to each other and may be adjustable in
height to displace the portion or portions of the awning sheet 12
to a greater or lesser degree. In addition, an upper portion of the
prop device 614 may be pivotally adjustable to interface with the
awning sheet 12 in a dynamically adaptive manner and may have a
convex upper surface to with the awning sheet 12 during use.
[0070] Further details of the prop device 614 are shown best in
FIG. 18. As shown, the prop device 614 includes a coupler 616 to
couple the prop device 614 to an arm member 24 or other structure
of the awning 10 and a sheet support structure 618 with a generally
convex upper surface 620 to interface with a portion of the awning
sheet 12 when the prop device 614 is installed for use. The coupler
616 of the prop device 614 has an engagement portion 622 configured
to selectively engage the arm member 24 or other structure of the
awning 10 and another portion 624 to receive and support the sheet
support structure 618 in an upwardly directed orientation when the
engagement portion 622 is attached to the awning 10. The engagement
portion 622 may be in the form of a saddle having a cross-sectional
profile which nests with the leading arm member 24 or other
structure of the awning 10. In some embodiments, the engagement
portion 622 may couple to the leading arm member 24 by a snap-fit.
For example, opposing legs of the engagement portion 622 may be
resilient and flex to receive the leading arm member 24 and snap
back toward an initial state when the leading arm member 24 is
fully received therein. Barbs, flanges or other features may be
provided to assist in securing the engagement portion 622 to the
leading arm member 24. Although the engagement portion 622 is shown
as a generally u-shaped saddle structure, it is appreciated that
the shape and size of the engagement portion 622 may vary.
Advantageously, the engagement portion 622 of the coupler 616 may
be sized and shaped to nest closely with the leading arm member 24
or other structure in a relatively slender, yet robust form
factor.
[0071] In some embodiments, fasteners, such as, for example, thumb
screws 624 may be provided in addition to or in lieu of other
attachment mechanisms to secure the engagement portion 622 to the
leading arm member 24 and prevent the engagement portion 622 and
hence prop device 614 from shifting during use. The provision of
thumb screws 624 or similar fasteners enables rapid attachment and
detachment of the coupler 616 to the leading arm member 24,
although other fastening devices, such as, for example,
conventional nuts and bolts, clamps and adhesives may be used. In
some embodiments, including the example embodiment of FIGS. 16
through 18, the couplers 616 of the prop devices 614 may enable
attachment to the leading arm members 24 or other structures of the
awning 10 without requiring modifications thereto.
[0072] The other portion 624 of the coupler 616 may be provided in
the form of a tubular structure for slidably receiving a prop rod
630 which is attached directly or indirectly to the sheet support
structure 618. The tubular structure may be sized and shaped to
closely receive the prop rod 630 and may be provided with selective
engagement features or fasteners 632, such as, for example, a
spring loaded pin or thumb screw, for selectively engaging the prop
rod 624 at various adjustable heights, as represented by the arrow
labeled 634. A series of apertures 636, depressions or other
features may me provided along the length of the prop rod 630 to
interoperate with the engagement features or fasteners 632 to
securely hold the prop rod 630 at the various adjustable heights.
In this manner, a user may quickly extend or retract the prop rod
630 and hence the sheet support structure 618 to impart or relieve
pressure on the awning sheet 12 there above. Although the prop rod
630 is illustrated as having a circular cross-section, the prop rod
630 may vary in shape and include both open and closed
cross-sectional profiles.
[0073] The prop rod 630 may be attached directly to the sheet
support structure 618 with fasteners or may be integrally formed
therewith. Alternatively, the prop rod 630 may be attached
indirectly to the sheet support structure 618, such as, for
example, by the intermediary of a manipulable joint 640. The
manipulable joint 640 may be a ball and socket joint which is free
to rotate about each of three primary axes of rotation as
illustrated by the arrows labeled 642, 644 and 646. In this manner,
the sheet support structure 618 may adjust orientation in response
to contact with the awning sheet 12 during installation. More
particularly, as a generally convex upper surface 620 of the sheet
support structure 618 is forced into the awning sheet 12 with
increasing pressure during installation or setup, the sheet support
structure 618 may pivot to align with a surface of the displaced
awning sheet 12. In other embodiments, a manipulable joint 640 may
be provided having fewer or different degrees of freedom than a
ball and socket joint, such as, for example, a hinge structure
which is rotatable only about a single rotational axis.
[0074] Although the combination of the prop rod 630 and sheet
support structure 618 may resemble a mushroom-like structure, the
prop rod 630 and sheet support structure 618 may have different
shapes and configurations. Further, in some embodiments, the upper
surface 620 of the sheet support structure 618 may be relatively
flat or have a generally shallow convex surface, or in other
embodiments, may have a generally steep convex surface. Still
further, in some embodiments the upper surface 620 may be sized
such that the expected area of contact between the upper surface
620 and the awning sheet 12 is relatively small, such as, for
example, four square inches or less. In other embodiments, the
upper surface 620 may be sized such that expected area of contact
may be relatively large, such as, for example, twenty square inches
or more.
[0075] In some embodiments, additional supplementary support
structures may be provided to enable one or more prop devices to be
positioned in a particularly advantageous region beneath the awning
sheet 12. For example, FIG. 19 illustrates an embodiment of an
awning sheet support system 710 in which a single prop device 714
is supported in a central region between arm members 24 of an
awning structure 10 by a crossbar 720 spanning therebetween. The
crossbar 720 is coupled to the arm members 24 with couplers 722
having structures similar to other couplers described herein for
coupling to arm members 24 without modifications thereto. In other
embodiments, the crossbar 720 may be coupled to the arm members 24
or other structures of the awning 10 with other attachment devices,
including, for example, conventional fasteners.
[0076] The crossbar 720 may clip, snap, slide-over or otherwise
interface with the couplers 722 and/or prop device 714 in a quick
release fashion to facilitate assembly and disassembly of the
awning sheet support system 710. In other embodiments, the crossbar
720 may be bolted or otherwise fastened in a more secure manner to
the couplers 722 and/or prop device 714. In still other
embodiments, the crossbar 720 may be integrally joined or formed
together with the couplers 722 and/or prop device 714.
[0077] Irrespective of the connection methods or mechanisms, the
components of the awning sheet support system 710 shown in FIG. 19
interoperate to allow flexibility in positioning and locating a
prop device 714 beneath a desired location of the awning sheet 12
and are advantageous in adapting the prop device 714 for use with
various conventional awning structures 10 which may not have
support members in such desired locations. For example, it is
appreciated that various supplemental support structures, including
cross members 720, may be arranged among and connected to existing
structures of all types of conventional awnings to position one or
more prop devices 714 in desired locations. The prop devices 714
may be selectively located on existing structures of the
conventional awnings and/or supplemental support structures
connected thereto, such as, for example, a supplemental crossbar
720. Accordingly, prop devices 714 may be located in those regions
most efficient for shedding water and/or debris from the awning
sheet 12 or for routing water and/or debris to a desired location,
such as, for example, locations remote from walkways or
pathways.
[0078] In some embodiments, prop devices 614, 714 may be coupled to
an awning structure together with one or more of the bow systems
110, 210, 310, 410, 510 described herein. For example, in the
illustrated embodiment of FIG. 8, a prop device 614, 714 may be
positioned near where the pair of bow systems 210 overlap to
displace a central area of the awning sheet 12' within the leading
portion 212 of the awning structure 10'. In this manner, the prop
device 614, 714 and bow systems 210 may cooperate to impart a
particularly efficient displaced shape of the awning sheet 12 for
shedding water and/or debris therefrom.
[0079] Still further, according to some embodiments, a prop device
may be provided which is not attached or otherwise secured to an
awning structure 10 but is nevertheless configured to displace a
portion of an awning sheet 12 thereof to prevent the accumulation
of water and/or debris. For example, as shown in FIG. 20, a prop
device 814 may be provided having an elongated support member 816
with a lower end 818 and an upper end 820 spanning generally
between a foundation 822 (e.g., ground, floor, deck, etc.) and the
awning sheet 12 when the prop device 814 is setup for use. The prop
device 814 may further include a base 824 at the lower end 818 of
the elongated support member 816 to assist in stabilizing the prop
device 814 when the base 824 is positioned on the foundation
822.
[0080] The prop device 814 may also include a sheet support
structure 830 at the upper end 820 of the elongated support member
816 with a generally convex upper surface to interface with the
portion of the awning sheet 12 and displace the portion of the
awning sheet 12 upwardly from a neutral unsupported position. The
sheet support structure 830 may be a convex, dome-shaped shell or
frisbee-like structure. In some embodiments, the upper surface of
the sheet support structure 830 may be sized such that the expected
area of contact between the upper surface and the awning sheet 12
is relatively small, such as, for example, four square inches or
less. In other embodiments, the upper surface of the sheet support
structure 830 may be sized such that the expected area of contact
may be relatively large, such as, for example, twenty square inches
or more. In some embodiments, the sheet support structure 830 may
be formed as an umbrella-like structure which is selectively
retractable and deployable. In this manner, the sheet support
structure 830 may be provided with a relatively large profile
during use while retaining the ability to collapse to relatively
small profile for storage.
[0081] In some embodiments, the prop device 814 may further include
a manipulable joint 832 provided between the sheet support
structure 830 and the upper end 820 of the elongated support member
816 to enable pivotable adjustment of the sheet support structure
830 as the sheet support structure 830 engages the awning sheet 12.
The manipulable joint 832 may be, for example, a ball and socket
joint which is free to rotate about each of three primary axes of
rotation or another type of joint having more or fewer or different
degrees of freedom.
[0082] The elongated support member 816 is preferably adjustable in
length to enable selective height adjustment of the sheet support
structure 830. For example, the elongated support member 816 may be
formed of telescoping members as illustrated in FIG. 20. In other
embodiments, the elongated support member 816 may comprise a
plurality of interconnected segments which can be combined in
different quantities to support the sheet support structure 830 at
different selectable heights during use.
[0083] According to the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 20, the prop
device 814 provides a particularly efficient means of supporting an
awning sheet 12 in a displaced manner to shed water and/or debris
without requiring physical attachment to the existing awning
structure 10. The prop device 814 can be deployed and stored
quickly with minimal effort and presents only a minor obstruction
to the usable space beneath the awning sheet 12. While only one
prop device 814 is illustrated in FIG. 20, two or more prop devices
814 may be provided to cooperatively displace a portion or portions
of the awning sheet 12.
[0084] Again, in the foregoing description, certain specific
details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding
of various disclosed embodiments. However, one skilled in the
relevant art will recognize that embodiments may be practiced
without one or more of these specific details. Moreover, the
various embodiments described above can be combined to provide
further embodiments. These and other changes can be made to the
embodiments in light of the above-detailed description. In general,
in the following claims, the terms used should not be construed to
limit the claims to the specific embodiments disclosed in the
specification and the claims, but should be construed to include
all possible embodiments along with the full scope of equivalents
to which such claims are entitled.
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