U.S. patent application number 17/474412 was filed with the patent office on 2021-12-30 for enhanced awning canopy assembly.
The applicant listed for this patent is Carefree/Scott Fetzer Company. Invention is credited to Gregory Keith Heimbuck, David Thomas McMillan, SCOTT THOMPSON.
Application Number | 20210404187 17/474412 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005839977 |
Filed Date | 2021-12-30 |
United States Patent
Application |
20210404187 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
THOMPSON; SCOTT ; et
al. |
December 30, 2021 |
ENHANCED AWNING CANOPY ASSEMBLY
Abstract
An awning assembly and method of construction is disclosed
herein. The awning assembly comprising a first main arm for
coupling to a dwelling, a second main arm rotatably coupled to the
first main arm at a first end and supportingly coupled to a roll
bar at a second end, the roll bar coupled to a canopy, and a hard
wire connection housed within the first main arm for coupling to a
power source. The awning assembly further comprising a detachable
attachment module coupled to the first end of the second main arm
and functionally coupled to the hard wire connection, the
detachable attachment module comprising a plurality of electrical
components, the plurality of electrical components comprising at
least one of a microphone, a heating element, an input/output port,
an image capture device, a speaker, an illumination source, and a
transceiver.
Inventors: |
THOMPSON; SCOTT; (Aspen,
CO) ; Heimbuck; Gregory Keith; (Arvada, CO) ;
McMillan; David Thomas; (Louisville, CO) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Carefree/Scott Fetzer Company |
Broomfield |
CO |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000005839977 |
Appl. No.: |
17/474412 |
Filed: |
September 14, 2021 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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15948769 |
Apr 9, 2018 |
11124970 |
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17474412 |
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62483018 |
Apr 7, 2017 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E04F 10/0629 20130101;
E04F 10/0625 20130101; E04F 10/0666 20130101; F21W 2131/107
20130101; H04R 1/028 20130101; E04F 10/0659 20130101; E04F 10/0648
20130101; E04F 10/0614 20130101; H04R 1/023 20130101 |
International
Class: |
E04F 10/06 20060101
E04F010/06 |
Claims
1. (canceled)
2. (canceled)
3. (canceled)
4. (canceled)
5. (canceled)
6. (canceled)
7. (canceled)
8. (canceled)
9. (canceled)
10. (canceled)
11. (canceled)
12. (canceled)
13. (canceled)
14. (canceled)
15. (canceled)
16. A method of assembling an awning assembly comprising: forming a
first main arm for coupling to a dwelling; rotatably coupling a
second main arm to the first main arm at a first end of the second
main arm; supportingly coupling a second end of the second main arm
to a roll bar, the roll bar coupled to a canopy; housing a hard
wire connection within the first main arm for coupling to a power
source; and forming a detachable attachment module for coupling to
the first end of the second main arm and the hard wire connection,
the forming the detachable attachment module further comprising:
forming a housing; forming a first securing arm and a second
securing arm, the first and second securing arms secured to and
extending away from the housing, the first arm spaced from the
second arm by the housing; and forming first and second slots on
the first and second securing arms.
17. The method of claim 16, wherein the forming the first main arm
comprises forming the first main arm to have a first length less
than or equal to a second length of the second main arm.
18. The method of claim 16, wherein the forming the detachable
attachment module comprises forming at least one of: an insect
repellant housing comprising a heating element functionally
connectable to the hard wire connection; a speaker housing
comprising a speaker functionally connectable to the hard wire
connection; and an illumination housing comprising one or more
illumination sources functionally connectable to the hard wire
connection.
19. The method of claim 16, wherein the forming the detachable
attachment module comprises forming a tension clip coupled to the
housing that is configured to act in conjunction with the first and
second securing arms to frictionally secure the detachable
attachment module to the second main member.
20. (canceled)
21. The method of claim 16, wherein the forming the detachable
attachment module comprises housing plurality of electrical
components in the housing, the plurality of electrical components
comprising at least one of a microphone, a heating element, an
input/output port, an image capture device, a speaker, an
illumination source, and a transceiver.
22. The awning assembly of claim 21, wherein the forming the awning
assembly comprises functionally attaching a motor to the roll bar
to extend or retract the canopy.
23. The awning assembly of claim 22, wherein the forming the awning
assembly comprises electrically linking the plurality of electrical
components with the motor, and wherein responsive to a voice
command detected by the microphone, the actuating the motor to
extend or retract the canopy.
24. The method of claim 16, wherein the forming the first and
second securing arm comprises forming the first securing arm
axially across from the second securing arm within the housing.
25. The method of claim 16, wherein the forming the first and
second securing arm comprises defining the slots within the first
and second securing arms.
26. A method of assembling an awning assembly comprising: forming a
first main arm for coupling to a dwelling; rotatably coupling a
second main arm to the first main arm at a first end of the second
main arm; supportingly coupling a second end of the second main arm
to a roll bar; housing a hard wire connection within the first main
arm for coupling to a power source; and forming a detachable
attachment module for coupling to the first end of the second main
arm and the hard wire connection, the forming the detachable
attachment module further comprising: forming a housing; forming a
first securing arm axially across from a second securing arm within
the housing, the first and second securing arms secured within and
extending away from the housing; and forming a tension clip coupled
to the housing that is configured to act in conjunction with the
first and second securing arms to frictionally secure the
detachable attachment module to the second main member.
27. The method of claim 26, wherein the forming the detachable
attachment module comprises forming first and second slots on the
first and second securing arms, the first and second slots
extending away from the housing.
28. The method of claim 26, wherein the forming the detachable
attachment module comprises defining first and second slots within
the first and second securing arms, the first and second slots
defined on a first end of the first and second securing arms,
wherein a second end of the first and second securing arms is
attached to the housing, the first end opposite the second end.
29. The method of claim 26, wherein the forming the detachable
attachment module comprises housing a plurality of electrical
components in the housing, the plurality of electrical components
comprising a microphone.
30. The method of claim 26, wherein the forming the awning assembly
comprises: functionally attaching a motor to the roll bar to extend
or retract the canopy; and electrically linking the plurality of
electrical components with the motor, and wherein responsive to a
voice command detected by the microphone, actuating the motor to
extend or retract the canopy.
31. The method of claim 26, wherein the forming the detachable
attachment module comprises forming an insect repellant housing
comprising a heating element functionally connectable to the hard
wire connection.
32. The method of claim 26, wherein the forming the detachable
attachment module comprises forming a speaker housing comprising a
speaker functionally connectable to the hard wire connection.
33. The method of claim 26, wherein the forming the detachable
attachment module comprises forming an illumination housing
comprising one or more illumination sources functionally
connectable to the hard wire connection.
34. A method of assembling an awning assembly comprising: forming a
first main arm for coupling to a dwelling; rotatably coupling a
second main arm to the first main arm at a first end of the second
main arm; supportingly coupling a second end of the second main arm
to a roll bar; housing a hard wire connection within the first main
arm for coupling to a power source; and forming a detachable
attachment module for coupling to the first end of the second main
arm and the hard wire connection, the forming the detachable
attachment module further comprising: forming a housing; forming a
first securing arm and a second securing arm; defining first and
second slots extending away from the housing within the first and
second securing arms; and forming a tension clip coupled to the
housing that is configured to act in conjunction with the first and
second slots to frictionally secure the detachable attachment
module to the second main member.
35. The method of claim 34, the forming the first and second
securing arms comprises forming the first securing arm axially
across from the second securing arm within the housing.
36. The method of claim 34, the forming the first and second
securing arms comprises forming the first and second securing arms
within and extending away from the housing
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application claims priority under 35 U.S.C.
.sctn. 119(e) to currently pending U.S. Provisional Patent
Application Ser. No. 62/483,018 filed Apr. 7, 2017 entitled
ENHANCED AWNING CANOPY ASSEMBLY. The above-identified application
is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all
purposes.
FIELD OF THIS DISCLOSURE
[0002] The present disclosure relates to an enhanced awning canopy
assembly, and more particularly, an awning assembly allowing for
wireless control options integrated into the awning assembly and
providing communications and interaction between the awning
assembly and a remote user.
BACKGROUND
[0003] An awning is a welcome addition to a house, recreational
vehicle, or other dwelling. The awning typically provides increased
enjoyment of an outdoor area surrounding the dwelling. The awning
can cast a shaded area that creates an escape from direct sunlight,
thereby providing a space in which an occupant of the dwelling may
relax. The shaded area created by the awning contributes to the
relaxation of the occupant in that there is a perceived decrease in
temperature and, thus, generally becomes more comfortable. The
awning as well advantageously protects occupants underneath from
precipitation.
[0004] Known awning structures generally consist of a base that is
permanently affixed to the dwelling, and a canopy that is removably
attached to the base. Conventional awning structures are discussed
in detail further in U.S. Pat. No. 6,971,433 assigned to
Carefree/Scott Fetzer Company. U.S. Pat. No. 6,971,433 is
incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all
purposes.
SUMMARY
[0005] One aspect of the present disclosure comprises an awning
assembly comprising a first main arm for coupling to a dwelling, a
second main arm rotatably coupled to the first main arm at a first
end and supportingly coupled to a roll bar at a second end, the
roll bar coupled to a canopy, and a hard wire connection housed
within the first main arm for coupling to a power source. The
awning assembly further comprising a detachable attachment module
coupled to the first end of the second main arm and functionally
coupled to the hard wire connection, the detachable attachment
module comprising a plurality of electrical components, the
plurality of electrical components comprising at least one of a
microphone, a heating element, an input/output port, an image
capture device, a speaker, an illumination source, and a
transceiver.
[0006] Another aspect of the present disclosure comprises a method
of assembling an awning assembly comprising forming a first main
arm for coupling to a dwelling, rotatably coupling a second main
arm to the first main arm at a first end of the second main arm,
and supportingly coupling a second end of the second main arm to a
roll bar, the roll bar coupled to a canopy. The method further
comprising housing a hard wire connection within the first main arm
for coupling to a power source and forming a detachable attachment
module for coupling to the first end of the second main arm and the
hard wire connection, the detachable attachment module comprising a
plurality of electrical components, the plurality of electrical
components comprising at least one of a microphone, a heating
element, an input/output port, an image capture device, a speaker,
an illumination source, and a transceiver.
[0007] Yet another aspect of the present disclosure comprises an
awning assembly comprising a first main arm for coupling to a
dwelling, a second main arm rotatably coupled to the first main arm
at a first end and supportingly coupled to a roll bar at a second
end, the roll bar coupled to a canopy, and a hard wire connection
housed within the first main arm for coupling to a power source.
The awning assembly further comprising a detachable attachment
module coupled to the first end of the second main arm and
functionally coupled to the hard wire connection, the detachable
attachment module comprising a plurality of electrical components,
the plurality of electrical components comprising at least one of a
microphone, a heating element, an input/output port, an image
capture device, a speaker, an illumination source, and a
transceiver. The detachable attachment module is located a first
distance away from the roll bar when the awning is in an extended
position, the roll bar is a second distance from the dwelling in
the extended position, and the first distance is less than seventy
percent of the second distance.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] The foregoing and other features and advantages of the
present disclosure will become apparent to one skilled in the art
to which the present disclosure relates upon consideration of the
following description of the disclosure with reference to the
accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals, unless
otherwise described refer to like parts throughout the drawings and
in which:
[0009] FIG. 1 is a side elevation view of an awning canopy assembly
in a retracted position in accordance with one example embodiment
of the present disclosure;
[0010] FIG. 2 is a left side elevation view of an awning canopy
assembly in a partially expanded or partially open position in
accordance with one example embodiment of the present
disclosure;
[0011] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an awning canopy assembly in
an open or expanded position in accordance with one example
embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0012] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an awning canopy assembly
support system constructed in accordance with one example
embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0013] FIG. 5 is a second perspective view of an awning canopy
assembly support system in accordance with another example
embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0014] FIG. 6 is a side elevation view of FIG. 4;
[0015] FIG. 7 is a side elevation view of FIG. 3;
[0016] FIG. 7A is a magnified section view of FIG. 7 taken along
section lines 7A-7A;
[0017] FIG. 7B is a magnified section view of FIG. 7 taken along
section lines 7B-7B;
[0018] FIG. 8 is a side perspective view of an awning canopy
assembly support system comprising a detachable attachment module
in accordance with another example embodiment of the present
disclosure;
[0019] FIG. 9A is a front perspective view of an insect repellent
holder for use in the insect repellant housing of FIGS.
10A-10B;
[0020] FIG. 9B is a rear perspective view of an insect repellent
holder for use in the insect repellant housing of FIGS.
10A-10B;
[0021] FIG. 10A is a front perspective view of an attachment module
comprising an insect repellant housing for attachment to an awning
canopy assembly support system in accordance one example embodiment
of the present disclosure;
[0022] FIG. 10B is a rear perspective view of an attachment module
comprising an insect repellant housing for attachment to an awning
canopy assembly support system in accordance one example embodiment
of the present disclosure;
[0023] FIG. 11A is a front perspective view of an assembled
attachment module comprising an insect repellant housing housing an
insect repellent holder for attachment to an awning canopy assembly
support system in accordance one example embodiment of the present
disclosure;
[0024] FIG. 11B is a rear perspective view of an assembled
attachment module comprising an insect repellant housing housing an
insect repellent holder for attachment to an awning canopy assembly
support system in accordance one example embodiment of the present
disclosure;
[0025] FIG. 12 is a rear perspective view of an attachment module
comprising a speaker housing attached to an awning canopy assembly
support system in accordance one example embodiment of the present
disclosure;
[0026] FIG. 13 is a front perspective view of an attachment module
comprising a speaker housing for attachment to an awning canopy
assembly support system in accordance one example embodiment of the
present disclosure;
[0027] FIG. 14 is an exploded side perspective view of an
attachment module comprising a speaker housing for attachment to an
awning canopy assembly support system in accordance a second
example embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0028] FIG. 15A is a rear perspective view of an attachment module
comprising an illumination housing for attachment to an awning
canopy assembly support system in accordance one example embodiment
of the present disclosure; and
[0029] FIG. 15B is a front perspective view of an attachment module
comprising an illumination housing for attachment to an awning
canopy assembly support system in accordance one example embodiment
of the present disclosure.
[0030] Skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the
figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not
necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of
some of the elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to
other elements to help to improve understanding of embodiments of
the present disclosure.
[0031] The apparatus and method components have been represented
where appropriate by conventional symbols in the drawings, showing
only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the
embodiments of the present disclosure so as not to obscure the
disclosure with details that will be readily apparent to those of
ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description
herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0032] Referring now to the figures generally wherein like numbered
features shown therein refer to like elements having similar
characteristics and operational properties throughout unless
otherwise noted. The present disclosure relates to an enhanced
awning canopy assembly, and more particularly, an awning assembly
allowing for wireless control options integrated into the awning
assembly and providing communications and interaction between the
awning assembly and a remote user and/or device.
[0033] Now referring to FIGS. 1-5, an awning assembly 20 is
illustrated. The awning assembly 20 includes a flexible awning
canopy 26 that is mounted to a vertical support surface 24, which
might be for example, the side wall of a recreational vehicle,
mobile home, a recreational vehicle slide-out, or more permanent
building structure. The flexible awning canopy 26 includes an inner
or proximal edge 28 secured to a support rail 22 and an outer edge
30 secured to a roll bar 32, which can be motor, manual, or spring
driven by one or more motors 34, gears, or springs that are
operatively connected to, and maintained by, a support system 36 in
the form of arms, such as pair of scissor-type arms 38,
horizontally extending arms, or the like.
[0034] In the illustrated example embodiment of FIG. 1, the motors
34 (e.g., one or more motors) are hidden or enclosed to be
protected from the elements in respective housings or covers 35.
The covers 35 are typically made from plastic or metal. In the
illustrated example embodiment, the scissor-type arms 38 are
constructed of metal, such as aluminum, but could be made of other
materials of similar weight and strength. It would be appreciated
by one having ordinary skill in the art, that various other types
of extensions arms are contemplated and would likewise be
constructed of metal, such as aluminum, but could be made of other
materials of similar weight and strength
[0035] An example support system 36 is shown in further detail in
FIGS. 4-6 including one of two scissors-type arms 38 (that support
the awning assembly 20 only one of the two arms is shown in FIGS.
4-6) mounted on a vertical track 40 that during use would attach to
the support surface 24. It would be appreciated that different arm
structures would function with various connections means to a
dwelling. The support system 36 is shown extended in FIGS. 3 and 5
with the awning assembly 20 in the extended position. While the
assembly 20 is fully retracted, as illustrated in FIG. 1, it will
be appreciated that the support system 36 is vertically disposed
and in close adjacent relationship with the track 40 during use. As
will be appreciated, and as shown in the illustrated example
embodiment of FIG. 1, as the motors 34 are driven in a first or
second direction, represented by arrows C and D, respectively, the
awning canopy 26 is rolled onto or unrolled from the roll bar 32,
causing the awning 20 to retract or extend, respectively. The
awning 20 retracts or extends in cooperation with gas springs 42
associated with the respective support arms 38. Responsive to the
roll bar 32 being rotated in the first direction C to retract the
awning assembly 20 by wrapping the awning canopy 26 about the roll
bar, the support arms 38 are forced to retract in direction A
against the bias of the gas springs 42 until the awning is in the
fully retracted first position illustrated in FIG. 1.
[0036] To open the awning assembly 20, the roll bar 32 is rotated
as shown in FIG. 2 in the second direction D to extend the awning
in direction B by unwrapping the awning canopy 26 from the roll
bar. The support arms 38 are assisted in extending by the bias of
the gas springs 42 until fully extended to the second position
illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 5.
[0037] It would be appreciated by one having ordinary skill in the
art that additional example embodiments of the awning assembly 20
are contemplated. In one such example embodiment, the awning
assembly 20 has support arms 38 that retract up and/or rotate
inwards such as towards the roll bar 32 indicated by arrows E in
FIG. 1 by a fixture assembly (not shown). Stated another way, the
support system 36 when in the contracted position (see FIG. 1) can
rotate such that the support system 36 that includes the vertical
tracks 40 are parallel with the roll bar 32.
[0038] As shown in the example embodiments of FIGS. 4-6, the
support system 36 of the awning canopy assembly 20 is illustrated.
In one example embodiment, the support system 36 comprises a first
support of a first side of the awning 20, wherein a mirror image of
the support system 36 comprises a second support of a second side
of the awning. The support system 36 comprises first and second
main members 50, 52 and first and second supplemental members 54,
56, respectively. Each of the members 50-56 in the illustrated
example embodiment are formed from metal, plastic, or the like. In
one example embodiment, the members 50-56 are formed from extruded
aluminum channeling.
[0039] In the illustrated example embodiment, the first member 50
is rotatably attached to the vertical track 40 by a fixed pin 58
that passes through both the first member and track at a first end
72 of the first member. At a second end 74 of the first main member
50, a rotating pin 60 couples the first main member to the second
main member 52, such that the two main members have relative
rotation about the pin 60 as the awning assembly 20 moves between
the fully retracted first position illustrated in FIG. 1 to the
fully extended the second position illustrated in FIGS. 3 and
5.
[0040] A slideable pin 62 allows for translation of the first
supplemental member 54 about and within the vertical track 40 in
the directions of arrows F in FIG. 4. The slideable pin 62 further
allows for rotational pivoting of the first supplemental member 54
at a first end 76. At a second end 78 of the first supplemental
member 54 a rotating pin 64 couples the first supplemental member
to the second supplemental member 56, such that the two
supplemental members have relative rotation about the pin 64 as the
awning assembly 20 moves between the first and second positions.
The opposite end of the second supplemental member 56 is rotatably
coupled to a rotatable pin 70 that is fixedly attached to the
second main member 52. Additional information about the support
structure 36 can be found in U.S. Published Patent Application No.
US2017/0275885 entitled Awning Canopy Assembly, which is assigned
to CAREFREE/SCOTT FETZER COMPANY, the Applicant of the subject
application (hereinafter "the '885 Publication). The '885
Publication is incorporated herein in its entirety and for all
purposes.
[0041] Located substantially about the medial point along the first
main member 50 and the first supplemental member 54 is a hinge pin
68. The hinge pin 68 allows for relative rotation of the first
members 50, 54 during the opening and closing of the awning canopy
assembly 20.
[0042] Illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 6, but omitted from FIG. 5 as
part of the support system 36 is gas spring 42. The gas spring 42
is rotatably connected to the vertical track 40 by a fixed pin 92
at a first end 94 of the gas spring. The gas spring 42 is also
rotatably connected to the hinge pin 68 at a second end 96 of the
gas spring. The gas spring 42 acts as an assist to more readily
move the awning assembly 20 between the fully retracted first
position (see FIG. 1) to the fully expanded second position (see
FIG. 3) with the assistance of the motor 34.
[0043] As shown in the illustrated example embodiment of FIGS. 7,
7A, and 7B, the second main member 52 comprises electrical
components such as a microphone 102, a input/output port 104 (e.g.,
a USB port, a charging port, etc.), an image-capture device 105
(e.g., a camera, video recorder, etc.), a speaker 106, and/or a
transceiver 108 located in an attachment module 100. It would be
appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art that the electrical
components could be located in the first main member 52, the first
supplementary member 54, the second supplementary member 56, or
some combination thereof. In one example embodiment, the electrical
components are in electrical communication with a controller 107.
The controller 107 comprising a processor, a circuit board, a
memory module, or the like. The controller 107 is in communication
with a motor transceiver 110 that is communication with a motor
controller 34a of the motor 34, wherein the motor controller
instructs the motor to retract or extend the awning. In one example
embodiment, a signal from the transceiver 108 or a connected
secondary device 109 (e.g., a smart phone, a tablet, a computer,
etc.) is received by the motor transceiver 110, which instructs the
motor 34, via the motor controller 34a, to partially extend, fully
extend, partially retract, or fully retract the awning 20. The
modular design (e.g., first and second main members 50, 52, and
first and second supplemental member 54, 56) allows for easy
installation, or removal of different electrical components, to
enable various functionalities, such as the functionalities
discussed below.
[0044] It would be appreciated by one having ordinary skill in the
art that the controller 107 may be in direct electrical
communication with the motor 34 (e.g., via a hard line connection).
It would further be appreciated by one having ordinary skill in the
art that the connected secondary device 109 may be connected via a
short wave wireless interconnection (e.g., Bluetooth), a wireless
signal (e.g., WIFI), or a direct connection, such through the
input/output port 104. The input/output port 104 comprises a
charging port as well as a connection port (e.g., a USB charging
port such as for portable electronic devices). The input/output
port 104 comprises the charging port when connected to a hard wire
connection 111 coupled to a power source (e.g., such as in a
dwelling, motor home, etc.) or connected to a power supply 113
(e.g., such as a battery) comprised in the awning assembly 20.
[0045] In one example embodiment, the microphone 102, and/or a
microphone located on the connected secondary device 109, detects a
first audio signal (e.g., retract awning), wherein the microphone
transmits the first verbal signal to the controller 107, which
interprets the signal as an instruction (e.g., to retract the
awning). The transceiver 108 then instructs the motor 34 via the
path disclosed above, to retract the awning 20. In another example
embodiment, the microphone 102 listens for weather conditions and
may retract the awning assembly 20, based on, for example, high
wind noises or thunder. The image-capture device 105 may confirm an
all clear (i.e. no obstructions that would interfere with movement
of the awning 20) for such autonomous retractions. In another
example embodiment, the image-capture device 105 functions as a
surveillance camera for security purposes.
[0046] Various audio signals are programmed for recognition in the
controller 107 once received by an input of the controller coupled
to the microphone. The various audio signals instruct the
controller 107 to perform a particular operation or provide a
specific output. Such operations include, but are not limited to,
varying from instructions about the awning retraction and
extension, to activating the speaker 106 or activating the image
capture device 105. In one example embodiment, the speaker 106 may
play audio from the secondary connected device 109, a radio station
signal, a satellite signal, or the like received from the
input/output port 104 or the transceiver 108.
[0047] In another example embodiment, the speaker 106 emits audio
to instruct a user of an intended action. For example, the
controller 107 after receiving the first audio signal from input
104, transceiver 108, and/or microphone 102, the speaker 106 can
emit the audio signal comprising "awning retracting," or confirm
the instruction, "did you request the awning be retracted" to which
the user states "yes" or "no". A statement of "yes" in this example
would result in the awning assembly 20 retracting. Additionally,
the user can activate the image capture device 105 via an audio
signal or through the connected secondary device 109, for example
to take a photo of the user under the awning, or to confirm no
obstacles are present, thus allowing the awning 20 to retract.
[0048] In one example embodiment, the image capture device 105
comprises a proximity sensor, wherein the presence of a user is
detected. The image capture device 105 can be programmed to extend
the awning in the presence of a user, and retract the awning when
no users are present, or some other functionality.
[0049] FIG. 8 illustrates an attachment module 100 for detachably
attaching to the second main arm 52. The attachment module 100 is
connectable to the hard wire connection 111 and/or to the power
supply 113. One or more different attachment modules 100 are
attachable and detachable, as well as interchangeable, with regard
to attachment to and detachment from the second main arm, and
attachment to and detachment from the hard wire connection 111.
[0050] Turning to FIGS. 9-11, the attachment module 100 comprising
an insect repellant housing 100a is illustrated. The insect
repellent housing 100a is connected to the hard wire connection 111
and/or to the power supply 113. The hard wire connection 111 and/or
the power supply 113 provides power to a heating element 173, which
activates a repellent pad 161. One example repellant pad 161 is an
allethrin (e.g., synthetic pyrethroids) pad, other insecticides
include Citronella oil or extract, N,N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide
(DEET), or the like. The insect repellent housing 100a comprises an
insect repellent holder housing 166 for holding an insect repellent
holder 150. The insect repellent holder 150 is removably housed
within the insect repellent holder housing 166 via a repellant
opening 167 and a support 168 and first and second guides 170a,
170b. The support 168 extending from a first side 115a of the
repellant opening 167 to a second side 115b of the repellant
opening and comprises an upper surface of the heating element 173.
The first and second guides 170, 172 are located axially across
from each other within the insect repellant housing 100a. The
insect repellant housing 100a comprises a plurality of vents 174
that ventilate the insect repellant after the repellent pad is
heated. The insect repellent holder 150 is inserted into the
repellant opening 167 along direction A, and interacts with the
support 168 and first and second guides 170, 172, such that the
insect repellent holder is retained within the insect repellant
housing 100a. Although the insect repellant housing 100a is
illustrated with first and second guides 170, 172, other types of
supports and/or guides that are configured to support the insect
repellent holder 150 are contemplated.
[0051] In the illustrated example embodiment of FIGS. 9A-9B, the
insect repellent holder 150 comprises a lid 163 and a base 165 that
close along a hinge 167 to form a partially enclosed space. The lid
163 comprises a repellant pad clip 162 that, in conjunction with
the lid, retains the repellant pad over a venting opening 180 and a
plurality of vents 164. The lid 163 comprises a closing clip 158a,
and first and second lid sidewalls 149, 151 comprising one or more
vents 152a, 152b, respectively.
[0052] The base 165 comprises a heating indent 160 that aligns with
the repellant pad clip 162 when the insect repellant holder 150 is
closed to orient the repellant pad toward the heating element 173.
The base 165 comprises a front wall 156 comprising one or more
vents 156 and a closing clip indent 158b that frictionally attached
to the closing clip 158a to releasably secure the insect repellant
holder 150 in a closed position. The base 165 further comprises
first and second base sidewalls 181, 185 having one or more vents
154a, 154b, respectfully. Further, wherein the one or more vents
152a, 1525b of the first and second lid sidewalls 149, 151 align
with the one or more vents 154a, 154b of the first and second base
sidewalls 181, 185 when in the closed position. The insect
repellant holder 150 comprises one of plastic, metal, or some
combination thereof. The insect repellant holder 150 comprises
dimensions that are configured to fit within the insect repellent
holder housing 166.
[0053] A repellant pad 161 is inserted into the repellant pad clip
162 and the insect repellant holder 150 is closed. The closed
insect repellant holder 150 is inserted into the insect repellent
holder housing 166, wherein the repellent pad 161 is aligned with
the heating element 173. Responsive to the repellant pad 161 being
exhausted, the insect repellent holder 150 is removed from the
insect repellent holder housing 166. The insect repellent holder
150 is opened, the exhausted repellant pad is removed and a new
repellant pad 161 is inserted between the lid 163 and the repellant
pad clip 162. The insect repellant holder 150 is closed and
inserted into the insect repellant holder housing 166 for use as an
insect repellant.
[0054] Turning to FIGS. 12-14, an attachment module 100 comprising
a speaker housing 100b is illustrated. The speaker housing 100b is
connected to the hard wire connection 111 and/or to the power
supply 113. The speaker housing 100b houses the speaker 106, a
speaker cover 180 and comprises first and second securing arms 170,
172. The first and second securing arms 170, 172 comprise first and
second slots 170a, 172a that interact with and pivot around the
rotating pin 60 during extension and retraction of the awning
canopy assembly 20. The speaker cover 180 protects the speaker 106
from weather, debris, and the like, wherein the speaker is
functionally connected to the hard wire connection 111 and/or to
the power supply 113. The speaker housing 100b further comprises
auditory venting 174, and 178. In the illustrated example
embodiment, the speaker 106 audio output surface is positioned to
face the auditory venting 178 to increase the sound quality output
by the speaker. The speaker housing 100b additionally comprises a
tension clip 186 that in conjunction with the first and second
securing arms 170, 172 secures the speaker housing 100b to the
second main member 52.
[0055] Turning to FIGS. 15A-15B, an attachment module 100
comprising an illumination housing 100c is illustrated. The
illumination housing 100c is connected to the hard wire connection
111 and/or to the power supply 113. One or more illumination
sources 190 are positioned around the illumination housing 100c, to
shine light underneath the awning 20 (e.g., illumination source
190a), in a forward direction away from the vertical track 40
(e.g., illumination source 190d), in a rearward direction toward
the vertical track (e.g., illumination source 190b), and/or away
from the awning (e.g., illumination source 190c) when the awning is
extended.
[0056] The addition of the electrical components to the awning 20,
increases usability for various users. The audio signal activation
allows visually impaired users to easily use the awning 20.
Further, the speaker 106 can increase enjoyment by incorporating
audio output (songs, stories, news, etc.) into the awning 20
experience. The user advantageously can host a group, or singular
telephone/cellular call through the microphone 102 and the speaker
106, while enjoying the shade of the awning 20.
[0057] Further, the various embodiments of the attachment module
100, 100a, 100b, 100c, are ideal because the location on the second
main member 52 places the component(s) in an optimal or near
optimal spot for operation when the awning 20 is in the extended or
retracted positions. The location of the attachment module 100,
100a, 100b, 100c is more convenient to run power to (e.g., the hard
wire connection 111 is shorter in length) than typical attachments
(see U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2014/0262070A1 to Lippert Components, Inc.
incorporated herein by reference for all purposes in its entirety),
and allows for the various attachment modules to be easily swapped
out for one another, and/or replaced. Thus, one attachment module
100, 100a, 100b, 100c of the same or different function can be
attached and detached in a modular fashion.
[0058] The benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any
element(s) that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to
occur or become more pronounced are not to be construed as a
critical, required, or essential features or elements of any or all
the claims. The disclosure is defined solely by the appended claims
including any amendments made during the pendency of this
application and all equivalents of those claims as issued.
[0059] Moreover in this document, relational terms such as first
and second, top and bottom, and the like may be used solely to
distinguish one entity or action from another entity or action
without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such
relationship or order between such entities or actions. The terms
"comprises," "comprising," "has", "having," "includes",
"including," "contains", "containing" or any other variation
thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that
a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises, has,
includes, contains a list of elements does not include only those
elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or
inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. An element
proceeded by "comprises . . . a", "has . . . a", "includes . . .
a", "contains . . . a" does not, without more constraints, preclude
the existence of additional identical elements in the process,
method, article, or apparatus that comprises, has, includes,
contains the element. The terms "a" and "an" are defined as one or
more unless explicitly stated otherwise herein. The terms
"substantially", "essentially", "approximately", "about" or any
other version thereof, are defined as being close to as understood
by one of ordinary skill in the art, and in one non-limiting
embodiment the term is defined to be within 10%, in another
embodiment within 5%, in another embodiment within 1% and in
another embodiment within 0.5%. The term "coupled" as used herein
is defined as connected, although not necessarily directly and not
necessarily mechanically. A device or structure that is
"configured" in a certain way is configured in at least that way,
but may also be configured in ways that are not listed.
[0060] The Abstract of the Disclosure is provided to allow the
reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure.
It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to
interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. In addition,
in the foregoing Detailed Description, it can be seen that various
features are grouped together in various embodiments for the
purpose of streamlining the disclosure. This method of disclosure
is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the
claimed embodiments require more features than are expressly
recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect,
inventive subject matter lies in less than all features of a single
disclosed embodiment. Thus the following claims are hereby
incorporated into the Detailed Description, with each claim
standing on its own as a separately claimed subject matter.
* * * * *