U.S. patent application number 15/628433 was filed with the patent office on 2018-01-11 for canopy structure.
The applicant listed for this patent is ShelterLogic Corp.. Invention is credited to Mark Groenhuyzen, Joseph C. Klingl, Jack B. Lovley, II.
Application Number | 20180010360 15/628433 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 48905838 |
Filed Date | 2018-01-11 |
United States Patent
Application |
20180010360 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Lovley, II; Jack B. ; et
al. |
January 11, 2018 |
CANOPY STRUCTURE
Abstract
A canopy structure can comprise a frame comprising a base
portion and a top portion. The top portion can comprise a plurality
of support members configured to facilitate transition of the top
portion between an extended position and a collapsed position. The
top portion can comprise a low-friction bearing coupled to a first
support member and a second support member so that the first
support member and second support member are rotatable relative to
one another. The bearing can comprise PTFE.
Inventors: |
Lovley, II; Jack B.; (Lake
Forest, CA) ; Groenhuyzen; Mark; (Huntington Beach,
CA) ; Klingl; Joseph C.; (Los Angeles, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
ShelterLogic Corp. |
Watertown |
CT |
US |
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|
Family ID: |
48905838 |
Appl. No.: |
15/628433 |
Filed: |
June 20, 2017 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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13892132 |
May 10, 2013 |
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15628433 |
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PCT/US2013/024186 |
Jan 31, 2013 |
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13892132 |
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61594626 |
Feb 3, 2012 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E04H 15/50 20130101 |
International
Class: |
E04H 15/50 20060101
E04H015/50 |
Claims
1. A collapsible canopy structure comprising: a plurality of
vertical support members; a top portion comprising a first
plurality of support members and a second plurality of support
members, the first plurality and second plurality of support
members configured to facilitate transition of the top portion
between an extended position and a collapsed position; and a
low-friction bearing coupled to a first support member of the first
plurality of support members and a second support member of the
second plurality of support members so that the first support
member and the second support member are rotatable relative to one
another.
2. The collapsible canopy structure of claim 1, wherein the
low-friction bearing is configured to allow the first support
member and the second support member to be rotatable relative to
one another even when the low-friction bearing is tightened.
3. The collapsible canopy structure of claim 2, wherein the
low-friction bearing comprises PTFE.
4. The collapsible canopy structure of claim 1, further comprising:
a first plurality of horizontal support members, a first horizontal
support member of the first plurality of horizontal support members
comprising a first and second end, the first end of the first
horizontal support member coupled to a first vertical support
member of the plurality of vertical support members; a second
plurality of horizontal support members, a second horizontal
support member of the second plurality of horizontal support
members comprising a first and second end, the first end of the
second horizontal support member coupled to a second vertical
support member of the plurality of vertical support members; and a
connector coupled to the second end of the first horizontal support
member and the second end of the second horizontal support
member.
5. The collapsible canopy structure of claim 4, wherein the
low-friction bearing comprises PTFE.
6. The collapsible canopy structure of claim 4, wherein the
connector is configured in a first state to couple the first
horizontal support member to the second horizontal support member
in a substantially level line.
7. The collapsible canopy structure of claim 4, wherein the
connector is configured in a second state to allow the first
horizontal support member to move relative to the second horizontal
support member.
8. The collapsible canopy structure of claim 6, further comprising
drapes hung from the first and second horizontal support
members.
9. The collapsible canopy structure of claim 8, wherein the
connector is further configured to allow the drapes to slide
substantially smoothly without snagging from the first horizontal
support member to the second horizontal support member when the
connector is in the first state.
10. The collapsible canopy structure of claim 9, wherein the
low-friction bearing comprises PTFE.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 13/892,132, filed May 10, 2013, which is a continuation of
International Application No. PCT/US2013/024186, filed Jan. 31,
2013, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent
Application Ser. No. 61/594,626, filed Feb. 3, 2012, the entire
contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND
Field of the Invention
[0002] The inventions disclosed herein relates generally to canopy
structures, including tent canopy structures, and collapsible
support structures. The inventions disclosed herein also relate
generally to collapsible chairs.
SUMMARY
[0003] In some embodiments, a canopy structure generally comprises
a frame comprising a plurality of support members; and a top cover
configured to cover the frame comprising a center mesh portion and
a perimeter fabric portion. The center mesh portion can comprise a
peak of the cover. The perimeter fabric portion can comprise a
lower perimeter of the cover. The center mesh portion can comprise
about 50 percent or more of a surface area of the cover.
Alternatively, the center mesh portion can comprise about 80
percent or more of a surface area of the cover. The center mesh
portion can be permeable to air but not to water.
[0004] In some embodiments, the canopy structure can further
comprise a rain fly comprising a fabric not permeable to water, the
rain fly configured to cover the center mesh portion. The canopy
structure can further comprise a plurality of D rings configured to
connect the rain fly to the canopy structure. The rain fly can be
configured to be partially removable. Alternatively, the rain fly
can be configured to be completely removable.
[0005] In some embodiments, a canopy structure generally comprises
a plurality of vertical support members; a first plurality of
horizontal support members, each of the first plurality of
horizontal support members comprising a first and second end,
wherein the first end of each of the first plurality of horizontal
support members is configured to be supported by one of the
plurality of vertical support members; a second plurality of
horizontal support members, each of the second plurality of
horizontal support members comprising a first and second end,
wherein the first end of each of the second plurality of horizontal
support members is configured to be supported by one of the
plurality of vertical support members; and a plurality of
connectors, one of the plurality of connectors between the second
end of each of the first plurality of horizontal support members
and the second end of each of the second plurality of horizontal
support members; wherein each of the plurality of connectors can be
configured in a first state in which one of the first plurality of
horizontal support members and one of the second plurality of
horizontal support members are joined in a substantially smooth and
level line; and wherein each of the plurality of connectors can be
configured in a second state in which one of the first plurality of
horizontal support members and one of the second plurality of
horizontal support members are rotatable with respect to each
other. The canopy structure further can comprise drapes configured
to be hung from the first and second plurality of horizontal
support members. The drapes can be configured to slide smoothly
from the first plurality of horizontal support members across one
of the plurality of connectors to one of the second plurality of
horizontal support members when the one of the plurality of
connectors is in the first state.
[0006] In some embodiments, a canopy structure can comprise a
plurality of vertical support members; a plurality of horizontal
X-member supports, wherein each of the plurality of horizontal
X-member supports can be configured in an unfolded state and a
folded state; a cover configured to cover the plurality of vertical
support members and plurality of horizontal X-member supports; and
a first side vertical support bar supported by at least one of the
plurality of horizontal X-member supports, wherein the first side
vertical support bar is configured to support a first portion of
the cover in a raised position. In some embodiments, the first side
vertical support bar can be located in a center of a side of the
canopy structure. The canopy structure can further comprise a
second side vertical support bar supported by at least one of the
plurality of horizontal X-member supports, wherein the second side
vertical support bar is configured to support a second portion of
the cover in a raised position.
[0007] In some embodiments, a canopy structure comprises a frame
comprising a base portion and a top portion, the base portion
comprising a first plurality of vertical frame support members, the
top portion comprising a second plurality of frame support members,
wherein each of the second plurality of frame support members
comprises a first end portion and a second end portion, the first
end portions of each of the second plurality of frame support
members joined proximate to a peak of the frame; and a cover
configured to cover the top portion of the frame comprising a
center cover portion and one or more perimeter cover portions,
wherein the center cover portion is configured to adjust between a
first position configured to provide a first ventilation air flow
and a second position configured to provide a second ventilation
air flow, wherein the second ventilation air flow is greater than
the first ventilation air flow. At least one of the one or more
perimeter cover portions can be configured to adjust between a
third position configured to provide a third ventilation air flow
and a fourth position configured to provide a fourth ventilation
air flow, wherein the fourth ventilation air flow is greater than
the third ventilation air flow. Each of the one or more perimeter
cover portions can be configured to adjust between a third position
configured to provide a third ventilation air flow and a fourth
position configured to provide a fourth ventilation air flow,
wherein the fourth ventilation air flow is greater than the third
ventilation air flow. The canopy structure can further comprise a
plurality of cover support members configured to support the center
cover portion in the second position. The center cover portion can
comprise a fabric, wherein a tautness in the fabric supports the
center cover portion in the second position. The canopy structure
can further comprise a plurality of spring members configured to
support the center cover portion in the second position. A bottom
portion of the center cover portion can be configured to overlap
with an upper portion of the one or more perimeter cover portions
when the center cover portion is in the first position. The center
cover portion can comprise an edge, wherein the edge of the center
cover portion is configured to face in a substantially horizontal
direction when the center cover portion is in the second position.
The center cover portion can comprise an edge, wherein the edge of
the center cover portion is configured to face in a
downward-sloping direction when the center cover portion is in the
second position. The center cover portion additionally can be
configured to adjust to a third position configured to provide a
third ventilation air flow, wherein the third ventilation air flow
is greater than the second ventilation air flow. The center cover
portion can comprise an edge, wherein the edge of the center cover
portion is configured to face in a substantially horizontal
direction when the center cover portion is in the third position,
and the edge of the center cover portion is configured to face in a
downward-sloping direction when the center cover portion is in the
second position. The first plurality of vertical frame support
members can be configured to be adjustable between a first height
in an extended state and a second height in a collapsed state,
wherein the second height is less than the first height. The canopy
structure can further comprise a first plurality of cover support
members configured to support the center cover portion in the
second position and a second plurality of cover support members
configured to support the at least one of the one or more perimeter
cover portions in the fourth position. The canopy structure can
further comprise a first plurality of cover support members
configured to support the center cover portion in the second
position and a second plurality of cover support members configured
to support each of the one or more perimeter cover portions in the
fourth position. At least one of the one or more perimeter cover
portions can comprise a fabric, wherein a tautness in the fabric
supports the at least one of the one or more perimeter cover
portions in the fourth position. Each of the one or more perimeter
cover portions can comprise a fabric, wherein a tautness in the
fabric supports each of the one or more perimeter cover portions in
the fourth position. The canopy structure can further comprise a
plurality of spring members configured to support the at least one
of the one or more perimeter cover portions in the fourth position.
The canopy structure can further comprise a plurality of spring
members configured to support each of the one or more perimeter
cover portions in the fourth position.
[0008] In some embodiments, a collapsible chair generally comprises
a plurality of legs configured to be adjustable between a folded
state and an unfolded state; a fabric seat portion configured to
form a substantially horizontal surface when the plurality of legs
are configured in the unfolded position; a plurality of fabric
stops configured to support the fabric seat portion, each of the
plurality of fabric stops connected to each of the plurality of
legs, wherein each of the plurality of fabric stops comprises a
chamfered edge configured to distribute force to the fabric seat
portion.
[0009] In some embodiments, a telescoping canopy leg generally
comprises a lower telescoping leg portion having a first
cross-sectional area, an upper end of the lower telescoping leg
portion comprising a first pin; a middle telescoping leg portion
comprising a first hollow interior region having a second
cross-sectional area, a lower end of the middle telescoping leg
portion comprising a first hole and an upper end of the middle
telescoping leg portion comprising a second pin; and an upper
telescoping leg portion comprising a second hollow interior region
having a third cross-sectional area, a lower end of the upper
telescoping leg portion comprising a second hole; wherein the first
cross-sectional area is less than the second cross-sectional area
and the second cross-sectional area is less than the third
cross-sectional area, the lower telescoping leg portion configured
to slide within the middle telescoping leg portion, the middle
telescoping leg portion configured to slide within the upper
telescoping leg portion, the first pin configured to fit within the
first hole, the second pin configured to fit within the second
hole; and wherein the telescoping canopy leg is configured to be
adjustable between an extended state and a collapsed state, the
extended state being in which the first pin is positioned within
the first hole and the second pin is positioned within the second
hole, and a collapsed state being in which the lower telescoping
leg portion is telescoped within the middle telescoping leg portion
and the middle telescoping leg portion is telescoped within the
upper telescoping leg portion.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] FIGS. 1A-1B illustrate perspective views of embodiments of a
canopy structure comprising a top mesh portion.
[0011] FIGS. 2A-2F illustrate views of embodiments of a canopy
structure comprising connectors configured for drapes to be
hung.
[0012] FIGS. 3A-3F illustrate views of embodiments of a canopy
structure that comprise a side vertical support bar.
[0013] FIGS. 4A-4J illustrate views of embodiments of a canopy
structure that comprises canopy vents.
[0014] FIGS. 5A-5C illustrate embodiments of a collapsible
chair.
[0015] FIG. 6 illustrates an embodiment of telescoping canopy
legs.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0016] For the purpose of understanding particular embodiments,
reference will be made to the drawings.
[0017] FIGS. 1A-1B illustrate perspective views of embodiments of a
canopy structure 100. A canopy structure 100 that is configured to
be placed on a substantially horizontal surface can include a
canopy frame comprising a plurality of vertical members that
support a top canopy cover. The top canopy cover can comprise a
bottom fabric portion 110 and a top mesh portion 120. The bottom
fabric portion 110 can comprise a lower perimeter portion of the
top canopy cover. The top mesh portion 120 can comprise a center
portion of the top canopy cover. For example, the top mesh portion
120 can comprise a peak of the top canopy cover.
[0018] The bottom fabric portion 110 can comprise solid fabrics,
including polyester and ballistic nylon, for example. The top mesh
portion 120 can comprise any mesh materials and fabrics. For
example, the top mesh portion 120 can comprise a mesh material that
is permeable to air but not permeable to water. For example, the
mesh can comprise nylon, polyester, and/or other super fine fiber
material and include a relatively small pore size and a hydrophobic
coating to achieve air permeability and water impermeability. In
preferred embodiments, the top mesh portion 120 can comprise about
50% or more of the surface area of the canopy portion. In other
embodiments, the top mesh portion 120 can comprise about 80% or
more of the surface area of the canopy portion. In alternative
embodiments, the top mesh portion 120 can comprise less than 50% of
the surface area of the canopy portion.
[0019] Some canopy structures comprise canopy covers that are
formed solely from solid fabrics. In such canopy structures, the
top of the canopy cover can reach relatively high temperatures. For
example, under certain weather conditions, the space near the top
of the canopy cover can include a temperature gradient with a peak
temperature of 135.degree. F. By replacing a top portion of the
canopy cover with a mesh portion, as illustrated by the canopy
embodiments in FIGS. 1A-1B, the peak temperature at the top of the
canopy cover can be reduced. For example, in some embodiments, the
peak temperature at the top of the canopy cover can be reduced to
about 90.degree. F. The top mesh portion 120 advantageously can
provide improved air flow.
[0020] In some embodiments, the canopy cover additionally can
include a rain fly (not illustrated). The rain fly can comprise a
solid fabric portion that covers the top mesh portion 120. The rain
fly can be tied down or otherwise affixed to the canopy structure
100 and/or canopy cover. For example, the rain fly can be connected
using D-rings located at the corners of the canopy cover. The rain
fly can provide a barrier that prevents rain, snow, and other
elements from passing through the top mesh portion 120. Optionally,
the rain fly can be partially or completely removed to expose some
or all of the mesh portion 120.
[0021] FIGS. 2A-2F illustrate views of embodiments of a canopy
structure. The canopy structure 200 can include a plurality of
vertical support members 205, a first plurality of horizontal
support members 210, a second plurality of horizontal support
members 218, and a plurality of connectors 220. The plurality of
vertical support members 205 can provide support to the first and
second pluralities of horizontal support members 210 and 218.
[0022] Each of the first plurality of horizontal support members
210 can comprise a first and second end. Similarly, each of the
second plurality of horizontal support members 218 can comprise a
first and second end. The first end of each of the first plurality
of horizontal support members 210 can be configured to be supported
by one of the plurality of vertical support members 205. Similarly,
the first end of each of the second plurality of horizontal support
members 218 can be configured to be supported by one of the
plurality of vertical support members 205.
[0023] The plurality of connectors 220 can be provided between the
first plurality of horizontal support members 210 and the second
plurality of horizontal support members 218. For example, one of
the plurality of connectors 220 can be between the second end of
each of the first plurality of horizontal support members 210 and
the second end of each of the second plurality of horizontal
support members 218. The first and second pluralities of horizontal
support members 210 and 218 can comprise a structure that forms a
perimeter of the canopy.
[0024] As illustrated in FIGS. 2A-2F, the plurality of connectors
220 can be configured in a first state in which the plurality of
connectors 220 join the first plurality of horizontal support
members 210 and second plurality of horizontal support members 218
in a substantially smooth level line. In some embodiments, the
plurality of connectors 220 can lock the first plurality of
horizontal support members 210 and second plurality of horizontal
support members 218 into place so as to form a single horizontal
support member that can be configured to hang drapes 250. For
example, as illustrated in FIGS. 2E-2F, drapes 250 can hang from
the first and second pluralities of horizontal support members 210
and 218. The connectors 220 can be configured so that an interface
between the first plurality of horizontal support members 210, the
connectors 220, and second plurality of horizontal support members
218 is substantially smooth and level. A smooth and level interface
from the first plurality of horizontal support members 210 to the
second plurality of horizontal support members 218 across the
connectors 220 can allow the drapes 250 to slide smoothly from the
first plurality of horizontal support members 210 to the second
plurality of horizontal support members 218 across the plurality of
connectors 220 without any points of substantially increased
resistance at the connectors 220 that could substantially slow or
stop the drapes 250 from sliding.
[0025] The plurality of connectors 220 can also be configured in a
second state for transportation and storage. In the second state,
the plurality of connectors 220 is configured to allow the first
plurality of horizontal support members 210 and the second
plurality of horizontal support members 218 to rotate with respect
to each other. For example, when the plurality of connectors 220 is
in the second state, the first plurality of horizontal support
members 210 and the second plurality of support members 218 can be
folded to be approximately parallel and adjacent to each other.
Accordingly, when the plurality of connectors 220 is in the second
state, the canopy structure 200 can be collapsed for transportation
and storage.
[0026] FIG. 2D illustrates one of the plurality of connectors 220
configured in the first state. The connector 220 comprises a left
member 222, a right member 224, and connecting screws 226 and 228.
The left member 222 can be rotatable about screw 226, and the right
member 224 can be rotatable about screw 228. When the left member
222 is rotated about screw 226, and the right member 224 is rotated
about screw 228, the connector 220 can transition to a second state
in which the first horizontal support member 210 is movable and/or
rotatable with respect to the second horizontal support member 218.
Although screws are used in the illustrated embodiments, other
suitable rotational supports could also be used, such as rivets,
axles, shafts or any other rotational support member disclosed
herein, for example.
[0027] The canopy structure 200 can comprise several roof support
members that support the canopy. As illustrated in FIGS. 2B and 2C,
the canopy structure 200 can comprise a first roof support member
230, a second roof support member 232, a third roof support member
236, and a fourth roof support member 238. Pivot 231 can be
provided to connect the first roof support member 230 and the
second roof support member 232. Pivot 231 can allow the first roof
support member 230 to be rotatable with respect to the second roof
support member 232 to facilitate transition between an extended
position and a collapsed position. Pivot 237 can be provided to
connect the third roof support member 236 and the fourth roof
support member 238. Pivot 237 can allow the third roof support
member 236 to be rotatable with respect to the fourth roof support
member 238 to facilitate transition between an extended position
and a collapsed position. Pivots 234 can be provided to connect the
first roof support member 230 and the fourth roof support member
238 and to connect the second roof support member 232 and the third
roof support member 236.
[0028] As shown in FIGS. 2B and 2C, in an extended position, the
first roof support member 230 and second roof support member 232
can form a crisscross pattern similar to the shape of an "X."
Similarly, the third roof support member 236 and fourth roof
support member 238 can form a crisscross pattern similar to the
shape of an "X." Accordingly, the first roof support member 230 and
second roof support member 232 can be referred to as
"X-members."
[0029] The pivots used to connect X-members can comprise PTFE
and/or Teflon bearings or bearings comprising other materials. For
example, pivots 231 and 237 can comprise PTFE and/or Teflon
bearings or bearings comprising other materials. By comprising PTFE
and/or Teflon, the bearings can be tightened down while still
allowing the X-members to slide with respect to each other. For
example, if pivot 231 is comprised of a PTFE and/or Teflon bearing,
the PTFE and/or Teflon bearing can be tightened down to securely
connect the first roof member 230 and second roof member 232 while
allowing the first roof member 230 and second roof member 232 to
sufficiently slide with respect to each other so as to be
rotatable. In other embodiments, pivots 231 and 237 can comprise
non-PTFE or Teflon bearings.
[0030] In preferred embodiments, the canopy structure 200 can have
four sides. Alternatively, the canopy structure 200 can have any
other number of sides, including five sides to form a pentagon and
eight sides to form an octagon. In addition, the canopy structure
200 can be configured as a gazebo.
[0031] FIGS. 3A-3F illustrate views of embodiments of a canopy
structure 300 that comprise a side vertical support bar. The canopy
structure 300 comprises a plurality of vertical support members,
support members 310 and 320, pivots 312 and 332, side vertical
support bar 330, and slider 322. Sets of support members 310 and
320 can be connected at pivot 312 to form an X-member support. The
support members 310 and 320 can be movable about the pivot 312 to
facilitate transition between a folded position and an unfolded
position. One end of support member 310 can be connected to the
base of the vertical support bar 330 at the pivot 332. One end of
support member 320 can be connected to the vertical support bar 330
through a slider 322. The slider 322 can be attached to the
vertical support bar 330 and can comprise a hollow portion to
facilitate movement of the slider 322 along the vertical support
bar 330.
[0032] In some embodiments, the side vertical support bar can be
located in a center of sides of the canopy structure. In some
embodiments, additional side vertical support bars can be supported
by the plurality of horizontal X-member supports.
[0033] FIG. 3A illustrates an embodiment of a canopy structure 300
that comprises a vertical support bar in an open, unfolded
position. A peak in the side of the canopy structure can be
provided. The peak can increase the slope of the canopy surface so
as to facilitate runoff of rain and other condensation.
[0034] FIG. 3B illustrates an embodiment of a canopy structure 300
that comprises a vertical support bar 330 in a partially folded
position.
[0035] FIG. 3C illustrates an embodiment of a canopy structure 300
that comprises a vertical support bar 330 in an open, unfolded
position. Both support bars 310 connect at pivot 332 to the base of
the vertical support bar 330. Both support bars 310 provide
vertical support to the vertical support bar 330. The top end of
the vertical support bar 330 can be connected to the socket 334.
The socket 334 can be sewn into the canopy top. The top end of the
vertical support bar 330 can be permanently attached at the socket
334. Alternatively, the top of the vertical support bar 330 can be
removable from the socket 334. When the X-members are in an
unfolded opened position that provides support to the vertical
support member 330, the vertical support member 330 pushes upwards
on the canopy surface to raise its height. For example, the
vertical support member 330 can facilitate raising the slope of the
canopy surface to facilitate runoff of rain and other
condensation.
[0036] In some embodiments, one vertical support bar is provided
for each side of the canopy structure and can be located
approximately half way between vertical frame members. In other
embodiments, two or more vertical support bars can be provided for
each side of the canopy structure.
[0037] FIGS. 4A-4J illustrate views of embodiments of a canopy
structure that comprises canopy vents. The canopy structure 400 can
include a base canopy portion 410, a first canopy vent 420, and a
second canopy vent 430. For example, the second canopy vent 430 can
correspond to a center cover portion, the first canopy vent 420 can
correspond to a first perimeter cover portion, and the base canopy
portion 410 can correspond to a second perimeter cover portion.
[0038] The base canopy portion 410, the first canopy vent 420, and
the second canopy vent 430 can be supported by a plurality of
canopy frame members. For example, canopy frame members 440 and
450, as well as two other canopy frame members, support the base
canopy portion 410, the first canopy vent 420, and the second
canopy vent 430. Canopy frame members 440 and 450 each can comprise
a first end portion and a second end portion. The first end
portions of each of the canopy frame members 440 and 450 can be
joined proximate to a peak of the canopy frame.
[0039] The canopy vents can be configured to be alterable between a
first, closed position and a second, open position. In the closed
position, the bottom surface of the canopy vents can be adjacent to
the top surface of the nearest canopy portion below, whether
another canopy vent or the base canopy portion. In the closed
position, the canopy vents can block passage of wind similar to the
performance of a unitary canopy top. In the closed position, the
canopy vents can provide a reduced ventilation air flow.
[0040] In an open position, the canopy vents can be flipped up to
provide ventilation to the canopy structure. For example, the
canopy vents can comprise an edge configured to face in a
substantially horizontal direction when the canopy vents are in an
open position. In the open position, warm air underneath the canopy
surfaces can rise relative to cooler surrounding air. When the
canopy vents are in a closed position, the warm air remains
underneath the canopy surfaces. When the canopy vents are in an
open position, the warm air can escape out of the canopy structure.
In the open position, the canopy vents can provide an increased
ventilation air flow relative to the closed position.
[0041] FIG. 4A illustrates an embodiment of the canopy structure
400 showing the first canopy vent 420 and second canopy vent 430 in
an open position. Support member 442 connects the canopy frame
member 440 with a corner of the first canopy vent 420. Support
member 442 is rotatable with respect to the canopy frame member
440. When the first canopy vent 420 is in an open position, support
member 442 props up a corner of the first canopy vent 420. An end
of the support member 442 may be sewn into a pocket in the corner
of the first canopy vent 420. In some embodiments, the tautness of
the material comprising the first canopy vent 420 when the support
member 442 props up a corner of the first canopy vent 420 helps to
maintain the first canopy vent 420 in an open position. In other
embodiments, a spring-loaded plastic cap may be used to prop up a
corner of the first canopy vent 420 in an open position. Just as
the support member 442 connects to the canopy frame member 440 to
prop up one corner of the first canopy vent 420 in an open
position, other support members connect to the other canopy frame
members to prop up the other corners of the first canopy vent 420
when in an open position. For example, support member 452 connects
the canopy frame member 450 with another corner of the first canopy
vent 420. When the first canopy vent 420 is in an open position,
support member 452 props up the other corner of the first canopy
vent 420. Raising each corner of the first canopy vent 420 can
facilitate in creating the tautness in the material of the first
canopy vent 420 that helps to maintain the first canopy vent 420 in
an open position. Similarly, support members can connect to the
plurality of canopy frame members to prop up the second canopy vent
430 in an open position.
[0042] In some embodiments, the canopy vents can be configured to
be held open in other positions. For example, the canopy vents can
be configured to be held open in a downward sloping position that
prevents the canopy vents from holding water and reduces rain water
from being carried into the canopy interior by wind. The
downward-sloping position can provide a ventilation air flow
between the closed position and the open position.
[0043] In some embodiments, the canopy vents can be opened and
closed when the canopy structure is in a collapsed or
partially-collapsed state. For example, one side of the canopy,
comprising two supporting legs, can be lowered, and a user can open
and close a canopy vent by hand. In other embodiments, the canopy
structure can comprise a system of cables, levers, push-rods, or
other mechanical means to allow a user to adjust the canopy vents
between an opened and closed state when the canopy vents are out of
reach when the canopy structure is fully assembled. For example, a
push-rod can be used to push the canopy vents from a closed to an
open state. In addition, the push rod can include a hook at one end
that interfaces with a loop in the canopy vent to allow the user to
pull the canopy vents from an open state to a closed state.
[0044] FIG. 4B illustrates an embodiment of the canopy structure
400 showing the first canopy vent 420 in a closed position and the
second canopy vent 430 in an open position.
[0045] FIG. 4C illustrates an embodiment of the canopy structure
400 in which the first canopy vent 420 is in an open position.
[0046] FIG. 4D illustrates an embodiment of the canopy structure
400 in which the first canopy vent 420 is in a closed position.
[0047] FIG. 4E illustrates an embodiment of the canopy structure
400 showing the first canopy vent 420 and second canopy vent 430 in
a closed position.
[0048] FIG. 4F illustrates an embodiment of the canopy structure
400 showing a canopy vent in a partially collapsed state.
[0049] FIG. 4G illustrates an embodiment of a canopy structure 400
comprising vents in a partially collapsed state.
[0050] FIGS. 4H-4J illustrate embodiments of a canopy structure 400
comprising vents in a collapsed state.
[0051] In some embodiments, the canopy vents can be pre-attached to
the frame members. In other embodiments, a user can attach the
canopy vents to the frame members when setting up the canopy.
[0052] In some embodiments the canopy vents can be permanently
attached to the canopy frame members. In other embodiments, the
canopy vents can be removable with respect to the canopy frame
members.
[0053] Although the Figures illustrate embodiments that include a
first canopy vent and a second canopy vent, any number of canopy
vents may be provided. For example, in some embodiments the canopy
structure can comprise a base canopy portion and one canopy vent.
Alternatively, the canopy structure can comprise a base canopy
portion and three or more canopy vents.
[0054] Canopy vents, as described with respect to FIGS. 4A-4J, and
mesh fabric portions, as described with respect to FIGS. 1A-1B,
each can be used to facilitate air ventilation in a canopy
structure. In other embodiments, canopy vents can additionally
comprise mesh fabric portions for improved air ventilation.
[0055] FIG. 5C illustrates a collapsible chair. FIGS. 5A-5B
illustrate a close-up view of a leg of a collapsible chair. A
collapsible chair 500 can comprise a leg 510 and a fabric stop 520.
A screw 530 can help to attach the fabric stop 520 to the leg 510.
A fabric can be used to form a seat of the collapsible chair 500.
When the chair fabric is loaded with weight to support, the fabric
stop 520 provides a supporting force to the chair fabric. To
minimize stress on the fabric that can result in a fabric chair,
the fabric stop 520 can comprise a chamfered edge 522. The
chamfered edge 522 can be rounded and sloped to distribute the
supporting force more evenly so as not to tear the chair
fabric.
[0056] FIG. 6 illustrates an embodiment of telescoping canopy legs.
FIG. 6 illustrates the telescoping canopy legs in various views
from a telescoped state to a fully extended state. For reference
purposes, description of the telescoping canopy legs will be made
with reference to the numerals that show the telescoping canopy
legs in an extended state. The telescoping canopy legs can comprise
a base telescoping leg portion 610, a middle telescoping leg
portion 620, and a top telescoping leg portion 630. The base
telescoping leg portion 610, middle telescoping leg portion 620,
and top telescoping leg portion 630 can comprise different
cross-sectional areas and hollow interiors. For example, the top
telescoping leg portion 630 can comprise a larger cross sectional
area than the middle telescoping leg portion, and the middle
telescoping leg portion 620 can comprise a larger cross sectional
area than the base telescoping leg portion 610. The different cross
sectional areas and hollow interiors of the telescoping leg
portions allow the telescoping leg portions to telescope with
respect to each other. For example, the top telescoping leg portion
630 can slide down the exterior of the middle telescoping leg
portion 620. Similarly, both the top telescoping leg portion 630
and the middle telescoping leg portion 620 can slide down the base
telescoping leg portion 610.
[0057] The pins 640 and 650 can support the telescoping leg
portions in an extended position. For example, the pin 640 can
support the middle telescoping leg portion 620 on the base
telescoping leg portion 610. The pin 640 can be attached near the
top of the base telescoping portion 610. The middle telescoping leg
portion 620 can include a hole near its bottom end that is
configured to receive the pin 640. When the bottom end of the
middle telescoping leg portion 620 is slid over the location of pin
640, the pin 640 can spring into the hole near the bottom end of
the middle telescoping portion 620, fixing its position and
providing vertical support. Alternatively, a user can press the pin
640 in to allow the middle telescoping portion 620 to slide past
the base telescoping portion 610.
[0058] Similarly, the pin 650 can support the top telescoping leg
portion 630 on the middle telescoping leg portion 620. The pin 650
can be attached near the top of the middle telescoping portion 620.
The top telescoping leg portion 630 can include a hole near its
bottom end that is configured to receive the pin 650. When the
bottom end of the top telescoping leg portion 630 is slid over the
location of the pin 650, the pin 650 can sprint into the hole near
the bottom end of the top telescoping portion 630, fixing its
position and providing vertical support. Alternatively, a user can
press the pin 650 in to allow the top telescoping portion 630 to
slide past the middle telescoping portion 620.
[0059] If the pins 640 and 650 were the same size, it may be
possible for the hole near the bottom of the top telescoping leg
portion 630 to become attached to the pin 640 near the top of the
base telescoping leg portion 610. Advantageously, the pin 640 may
be a larger size than the pin 650. The smaller size of the pin 650
would not permit the hole near the bottom of the top telescoping
leg portion 630 be able to inadvertently attach to the pin 640 near
the top of the base telescoping portion 610. So, varying the sizes
of the pins 640 and 650, and, in particular, making the size of pin
640 larger than the size of pin 650, can prevent the wrong
telescoping leg portion from inadvertently being attached to the
wrong pin.
[0060] The features and attributes of the specific embodiments
disclosed above may be combined in different ways to form
additional embodiments, all of which fall within the scope of the
present disclosure. Although this invention has been described in
terms of certain preferred embodiments, other embodiments that are
apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art, including
embodiments which do not provide all of the benefits and features
set forth herein, are also within the scope of this invention.
Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is defined only by
reference to the appended claims.
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