UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT

SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF FLORIDA

CASE NO.
TUUCI, LLC,
Plaintiff,
vs.
FIBERBUILT UMBRELLAS, INC.,
Defendant.
------------.....;/
COMPLAINT FOR PATENT INFRINGEMENT
Plaintiff TUUCI, LLC ("TUUCI") hereby sues Defendant Fiberbuilt Umbrellas,
Inc. ("Fiberbuilt") for patent infringement, and for its Complaint alleges as follows:
THE PARTIES
1. TUUCI is a limited liability company organized and existing under the
laws of the state of Florida with its principal place of business in Miami, Florida.
2. Fiberbuilt is a corporation organized and existing under the laws of the
State of Florida, with its principal place of business in Florida and is a competitor of
TUUCI.
JURISDICTION AND VENUE
3. This Court has federal question jurisdiction of this action under 28 U.S.C.
1331 and 1338(a) because TUUCI seeks relief under the Patent Act, 35 U.S.c. 271
et seq., including remedies for infringement of a United States Patent owned by TUUCI.
4. Fiberbuilt is subject to personal jurisdiction in this State under Section
48.193, Florida Statutes, because Fiberbuilt has transacted and continues to transact
business in this State, has contracted to supply services or products in this State, and/or
has caused tortious injury in this State.
5. Venue is proper pursuant to 28 U.S.C. 1391 and 1400(b) because a
substantial part of the events giving rise to these claims occurred in this judicial district, .
because TUUCI has suffered injury in this district, and because Fiberbuilt resides in this
district under the patent venue statute by having committed acts of alleged patent
infringement in this district.
GENERAL ALLEGATIONS
6. TUUCI is the owner of all right, title, and interest in United States Patent
No. 7,293,573 (the '''573 Patent") and United States Design Patent No. D478,416 (the
'''416 Patent") (collectively, the "TUUCI Patents"), which Fiberbuilt is infringing and/or
inducing others to infringe by making, using, offering to sell, and/or selling in the United
States, and/or importing into the United States, products or processes that practice one or
more inventions claimed in the TUUCI Patents.
7. Fiberbuilt has profited through infringement of the TUUCI Patents. As a
result of Fiberbuilt's unlawful infringement of the TUUCI Patents, TUUCI has suffered
and will continue to suffer damage. TUUCI is entitled to recover from Fiberbuilt the
damages suffered by TUUCI as a result of Fiberbuilt's unlawful acts.
8. Upon information and belief, Fiberbuilt's infringement of one or more of
the TUUCI Patents is willful and deliberate, entitling TUUCI to enhanced damages and
reasonable attorney fees and costs.
9. Upon information and belief, Fiberbuilt intends to continue its unlawful
infringing activity and TUUCI continues to and will continue to suffer irreparable harm -
2
for which there is no adequate remedy at law - from such unlawful infringing activity
unless Fiberbuilt is enjoined by this Court.
10. TUUCI gave Fiberbuilt written notice of the infringement.
11. Upon information and belief, Fiberbuilt generated profits based on its
infringement of the TUUCI Patents in an amount to be proven at trial.
12. TUUCI was damaged, and continues to be damaged, by Fiberbuilt's
infringement of the '573 Patent and the '416 Patent in an amount to be proven at trial.
COUNT I
INFRINGEMENT OF U.S. PATENT NO. 7,293,573
13. TUUCI re-alleges and incorporates by reference the allegations set forth in
paragraphs 1-12.
14. TUUCI is the owner of all right, title, and interest in the '573 Patent,
entitled "Umbrella Frame and Operating System," which was duly and properly issued by
the United States Patent and Trademark Office on November 13, 2007. A copy of the
'573 Patent is attached hereto as Exhibit "A." TUUCI owned the '573 Patent throughout
the period of Fiberbuilt's infringing acts, and still owns the patent.
15. Fiberbuilt has been and/or is directly infringing and/or inducing
infringement of and/or contributorily infringing the '573 Patent by, among other things,
making, using, selling, offering to sell, and/or importing products having a umbrella
frame that embodies the patented invention, without TUUCI's authorization or consent.
COUNT II
INFRINGEMENT OF U.S. PATENT NO. D478,416
16. TUUCI re-alleges and incorporates by reference the allegations set forth in
paragraphs ]-] 2.
3
17. TUUCI is the owner of all right, title, and interest in the '416 Patent,
entitled "Umbrella Canopy," which was duly and properly issued by the United States
Patent and Trademark Office on August 19, 2003. A copy of the '416 Patent is attached
hereto as Exhibit "B." TUUCI owned the '416 Patent throughout the period of
Fiberbuilt's infringing acts, and still owns the patent.
18. Fiberbuilt has been and/or is directly infringing and/or inducing
infringement of and/or contributorily infringing the '416 Patent by, among other things,
making, using, selling, offering to sell, and/or importing products having a design that
embodies the patented invention, without TUUCI's authorization or consent.
PRAYER FOR RELIEF
WHEREFORE, TUUCI prays for the following relief:
A. That the Court finds Fiberbuilt liable for infringement of United States
Patent No. 7,293,573 and United States Design Patent No. D478,416.
B. That the Court awards TUUCI compensatory damages as a result of
Fiberbuilt's infringement of the TUUCI Patents, together with interest and costs, and in
no event less than a reasonable royalty.
C. That the Court awards TUUCI the profits generated by Fiberbuilt's
infringement pursuant to 35 U.S.c. 289.
D. That the Court finds that Fiberbuilt's infringement of the TUUCI Patents
has been willful and deliberate.
E. That the Court awards TUUCI treble damages and pre-judgment interest
under 35 U.S.C. 284 as a result of Fiberbuilt's willful and deliberate infringement of the
TUUCI Patents.
F. That the Court finds this case IS exceptional and awards TUUCI its
4
expenses. costs, and attorney's fees in accordance with 35 U.S.C. 284 and 285 and
Rule 54(d) of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure.
G. That the Court awards TUUCI its taxable costs, expenses, and pre-
judgment and post-judgment interest.
H. That the Court grants a permanent injunction pursuant to 35 U.S.c. 283,
enjoining Fiberbuilt from further acts of infringement.
1. That the Court grants such other and further relief as the Court deems just
and proper.
JURY DEMAND
Pursuant to Rule 38(b) of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, TUUCI
respectfully requests a trial by jury on all issues so triable.
Dated: June 12,2014 Respectfully submitted,
sf Patrick E. Gonya, Jr.
Patrick E. Gonya, Jr.
Florida Bar No.1 00020
pgonya@careyrodriguez.com
Adam C. Underwood
Florida Bar No.190926
aunderwood@careyrodriguez.com
CAREY RODRIGUEZ O'KEEFE MILIAN
GONYA,LLP
1395 Brickell Avenue, Suite 700
Miami, Florida 33131
Telephone: (305) 372-7474
Facsimile: (305) 372-7475
Counsellor Plaint!f.fTUUCI, LLC
5
EXHIBIT "A"
11111111111111 11111111 11111111111111111111 1111111111 11111111111111111111111
US007293573B2
(12) United States Patent
Clarke
(10) Patent No.:
(45) Date of Patent:
US 7,293,573 82
*Nov. 13, 2007
(54) UMBRELLA FRAME AND OPERATING
SYSTEM
(75) Inventor: Dougan H. Clarke, Minll1i Beach. FL
(US)
(73) Assignee: Tuuci Engineuing & Design, Inc.,
Minmi, FL (US)
035.368 S *
760.598 A *
1.328.175 A *
D56,043 S *
1.801.913 A *
2.336.116 A
2.745.421 A
2.782,795 A
t2/190 I Sparry D9/656
5/1904 Wynegar 4031367
111920 Martin 135/29
8!J920 Weinberg el al. 03/5
4/1931 Frederick 135198
12/1943 Morando 135/30
5/1956 Russell 135/.18
21957 Small 135/20.3
(Continued)
FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS
( *) Notice: Subject to any disclaimer, the term of this
patent is extended or adjusted under 35
U.S.c. 154(b) by 0 days.
11lis patent is subject to a tenninal. dis-
claimer. .
EP 628264 12/1994
(21) AppJ. No.: 10/824,206
US 2004/0255994 Al
(22) Filed:
(05)
Apr. 14. 2004
Prior Publication Data
Dec. 23, 2004
(Cont inued)
Pril1UII:F Examiner Winnie Yip
(74) AI/omey. Agen!. or Firm Malloy & Malloy, 1'.1\.
An improved. durnble and versatile umbrella frame assem-
bly is provided to more readily endure abusive \veather
conditions and that may be quickly. easily amI inexpensively
repaired. In addition, the assembly is also easily modified to
accommodate umbrella canopies of di Il'erent sizes and
shapes. In addition. an improved umbrella operating system
is provided to permil simplc opening, positioning, and
locking of an umbrella while allowing the fnH1le to freely
rotate about the pole regardless of the degrec to which it is
opened, while the pole is held in a stalionary position. The
assembly includes a pair of hub members mounted about a
polc member wherein thc main hub member is slidablc up
and down the pole. A pulley system with a locking cmn
mcmber may be cmployed to allow the umbrelln 10 sali.'ly
and easily open to any desired position. A locking stabilizer
aml may be used to secure the main hub membcr in the fully
open position.
Related U.S. Application Data
(63) Continuation ofnpplication No. 10/008.530, f1led on
Nov. 13. 2001, now Pat. No. 6,889.699, which is n
continuation-in-part of application No. 09/433,881,
flied on Nov. 4. 1999. now Pnl. No. 0.386.214. nnd n
continuntion-in-part of application No. 09/330,600.
f1led on .Iun. 11. 1999. now Pat. No. 6,314.976.
(51) Int. CI.
A4JR 2J1J4 (2006.01)
(52) U.S. CI. 135/20.3: 135/10; 135/28;
135/98: 135/43
(58) Field of Classification Search 135/20.3.
135/28.3739,43, 9899, 10; 2111179;
248/533. 156
See application file Illr complete search history.
(56) References Cited
U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS
(57) ABS1R\CT
D25.368 S 4/[896 Spany 22 Chllms. 1J DI'awing Sheets
US 7,293,573 B2
Page 2
U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS
'" cited by examiner
FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS
I'D 950052 A
\VO 00!76356 AI
200 Iii 0164
911996
12/2000
9i2002
61l 997 Dubunsky 135/33.2
2/[998 Lin 135/29
5
1
1998 Samuel. Jr 135/16
11/1998 Lee 135125.2
2/1999 Vandenninden. Sr. .. 135/20.1
6'2000 Vou 135122
1/200 I MeJy 135/16
11/200I Clarke
5/2002 Clarke
5
i
2005 Clarke
5.640.9&4 A
5.715.853 A
5.749,386 A
5.836,328 A
5.871,024 A
(,.07(,.540 A
6.173,721 HI
6.314.976 HI
6,386.214 HI
6,889.699 132
IT
\VO
ZA
4i\965 Militano 135/28
1/1969 Giancarlo 135/28
1/1983 Lindler el al. 135/15.1
2/1986 Dubinsky 135/20,3
511989 Morgulis 135(16
5/1989 Sweet. Jr 135115.1
511990 Apple 135122
2/1991 Dubinsky 135/20.3
6i199 I Apple 135/15.1
12/1992 Chou el al. 135:20.3
VI993 Chen 135/28
2/l994 Liu
8/1994 Apple 248/519
10(1994 Haddad el al. 135/20.1
3/1995 Lee 135/28
3.177.882 A
3.424.180 A
4,368,749 A
4.567.907 A
4.832.304 A
4.834.126 A *
4.928,718 A
4.993.445 A
5.020.557 A *
5.174,319 A
5.193.566 :\
5.284.171 A
5.337.989 A
5,355.903 A
5.398,709 A
U.S. Patent
II If
12..
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I
Nov. 13, 2007
\7
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110
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Nov. 13, 2007 Sheet 2 of 11
36
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US 7,293,573 82
2
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is designed to address these and
other needs which remain in the art and relates primarily to
a durable outdoor umbrella frame structured to allow the
umbrella to be easily opened and adjusted to various desired
positions and then reliably maintained in place. Accordingly,
and as explained more in detail subsequently herein, the
present invention includes at least one hub member mounted
to an umbrella pole member and slidable betw<'Cn the top
and bottom ends thereof. In a preferred embodiment. the
invention comprises a pair of hub members. namely, one
secured to the pole member near the top end thereof and a
main hub member movably secured about the pole member
45 and slidable therealong to open and close the umbrella
canopy. In addition, the hub members are preferably
mounted on the umbrella pole member so as to both be
rotatable about the pole. and to generally assist in the smooth
operation of the umbrella frame. In this most preferred
embodiment. the hub members arc easily mounted to and
can be easily removed from the umbrella pole member It)r
repair andlor for replacement, if necessary. Further, the hub
members ideally are of a type stnlctured to include a
plurality of slots about their radial edges for receiving a
combination of hub connector joints. A matching number of
ribs and struts are pivotally secured to each hub by these
joints, and the stmts are pivotally secured to the ribs by
collar members as shown in at least one illustrated embodi-
ment. The hub connector joints and the collar members arc
easily mounted and replaced, and also assist in the smooth
operation of the umbrella frame. Additionally. the collar
members maintain a low profile so as to avoid contacting
and thereby potentially damaging a mounted canopy.
The present invention also provides a versatile umbrella
operating system which allows an umbrella to be salely and
easily Opelll.'d to almost any degree, easily rotated. and
securely stabilized. As such, the present invention includes
umbrella frames show the stmCl11re of the invention recited
subsequently herein nor the ~ n e n t s or ndvantages tbereby.
In addition to the t()regoing. many have tried to simplify
ilnd improve the operational feal11res of the umbrelln as well
as to add structural stability to the typical umbrella. How-
ever. many such efforts have required the use of a crank to
open and close the umbrella or require placing one's hand in
a compromising position in order to lock and unlock the
umbrella from its open position, Such action is ollen trouble-
to some and inconvenient, and can result in injury.
Accordingly, there remains a need in the art for a durable
outdoor umbrella having a frame which is stmctured to
allow the umbrella to be easily opened, and adjusted to
various desirable positions and then simply locked or oth-
15 erwise maintained in place. Preferably. any such umbrella
frame will be structured to withstand high winds and other
abusive weather, nnd in addition. to be quickly, easily and
inexpensively repairl.'d when that becomes necessary. 1f any
such umbrella were developed it would preferably include
2(1 an operating system for allowing the umbrella canopy to
rotate relative to a central pole member or other umbrella
pole. Further, if any such umbrella were developed, it would
preferably also be easily modified to accommodate canopies
of diJferent sizes and shapes. Finally, if any such umbrella
25 were developed it would prelerably also include n stabilizing
system for improving support of the umbrella and providing
~ l saleI', more effl.'Ctive way to lock and unlock the umbrella
in its fully extendl.'d position or other open or even closed
position.
CLAIM OF PRIORITY
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1
UMBRELLA FRAME AND OPlmATING
SYSTEM
This is a continuing patcnt application based on a U.S.
pate11l application having SCI'. No. 10/008,536, which was
filed on Nov. 13, 2001 now U.S. Pat. No. 6,889,699 and
which is a continuation-in-part patent application of a prior-
f11ed U.S. patent application. namely. Ser. No. 09/330.600
which was filed on Jun. I I, 1999 and which matured into
U.S. Pat. No. 6,314.976 on Nov. 13. 2001, and also of
another prior-liled U.S. patent application. namely, ScI'. No.
09/433,881 which was filed on Nov. 4, 1999 and which
matured into U.S. Pat. No. 6.386,214 BI on May 14,2002.
all of which arc incorporated herein in their entirety, by
reference.
1. Field of the Invention
'nlis invention relates generally to umbrellas, and more
particularly, to a durable and versatile umbrella frame
designl.'d to more readily endure abusive weather conditions.
The present invention also relates more specifically to an
umbrella operating system having improved stabilization
qualities and customization features.
2. Description of the Related Art
Outdoor umbrellas arc employed to shield people from
the sun, wind, rain, and other elements of nanlre. As such, 30
they are intentionally designed to withstand these elements.
Nevertheless. damage to the framework of an umbrella can
and does occur for many reasons, particularly to umbrellas
located in geographical areas of severe and unexpected
weather, as well as umbrellas which have been improperly 35
assembled andlor installed. Many prior art umbrellas suffer
the disadvantages of not being able to withstand gusts of
wind and other harsh weather as well as not being capable
of simple repair when damage does occur. For example, an
umbrella having static wire, rigid line and an unbalanced 4(1
construction at the rib and strut pivot point will wear and
often break when extreme forces are applied over time. Once
an umbrella is damaged, it is otten more expensive, time
consuming and diflicult to repair the umbrella than to just
have it replaced.
For umbrellas having individual pivotal connections
betwl.'Cn the upper rib and lower stnll assemblies. the
unba lanced nature 0 I' the movement at the pivot point in
relation to the upper and lower central hubs causes unnec-
essary wear on the pivot junction as well as to the static wire 511
or rigid line which connects the canopy rib assembly to the
central hub. This wear is undesirable and is aggravated over
time by the stresses of both man and nature.
For umbrellas having individual pivotal connections
between the upper rib and lower stnn assemblies by means 55
of a vertically configured bracket individually, the existing
brackets protrude over the top of the canopy assembly
providing a point of friction between the fabric ofthe canopy
and the rigid protrusion of the pivot brackets. 'nlis creates
excessive wear on a fabric canopy and often creates holes in 60
the fabric canopy.
Various umbrella frames are described, ft)r example, in
the following U.S. Pal. No.: D25,368 to Sparry: U.S. Pal.
No. D56.043 to Weinberg et a!.: U.S. Pat. No. 2.336.116 to
Morando: U.S. Pal. No.3, 177,882 to Militano: U.S. Pal. No. 65
4,368,749 to Lindleret a!.: U.S. Pat. No. 4,834,126 to Sweet,
Jr.: and U.S. Pat. No. 5,715,853 to Lin. None of these
US 7,293,573 B2
3 4
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE
PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
As shown throughout the various Figures, the present
invention relates to an improved umbrella frame and oper-
ating assembly.
With initial reference to FIGS. 1 through 8, an improved
35 umbrella frame assembly, generally indicated by reference
numeral ]0. according to the prcsent invention will now bc
described. The umbrella frame assembly 10 is intended for
use in easily and quickly suppotiing a variety of shapes and
sizes of nmbrella canopies, and is structured to be both
durable and we<lther resistant. As illustrated in these Figures,
the frame assembly 10 includes a longitudinally extending
pole member 12 which can be made of wood. aluminum or
other material. In one embodiment, the pole member 12 is
made of 40 gauge <Iluminum. -111e pole member 12 has a top
45 end 14 and a bottom end ]6. The bottom end 16 may be
easily secured to the ground or any means of vet1ical
aflixment. such as but not limited to a reinfixced concretc
base, which for example. might have a star knoh and hitch
pin. The bottom end ]6 of the pole mcmber 12 might also be
connected to a suitablc sl1lrdy base having one or morc
wheels incorporatcd therein so as to rcnder the overall
umbrella and frame movable between various locations.
The umbrella frame assembly 10 also comprises at least
one hub member. such as a main hub member 18. More
preferably, however, the frame assembly comprises pair of
hub members as best shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. l11e main hub
member ]8 may be stnlctnred to include a eentral cavity 20
extending axially therethrough. which is secured about the
pole member ]2 and which is slidablc betwecn the top end
14 and bottom end 16 of the pole member 12. '111e main hub
member] 8 is also capable of rotating about a longitudinal
axis of the pole member 12. In one embodiment of the
invention, as shown in the Figures, the main hub member 18
is provided with a substantially "hour glass" shaped base
65 portion 22 haVing an upper pot1ion 24 and a lower portion
26 and a waist portion 28 which is of smaller diameter than
the upper portion 24 and lower portion 26. The shape of the
invention, shown with stabilizer arm and support assembly
and with the open position of the umbrella shown in phan-
tom.
FIG. 11 is a pat1ial Iront elevational view of the present
invention. similar to that shown in FIG. 10, but shown with
a stabilizer arm and a pulley system.
FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view of a support
assembly which may be included \.,..ithin the umbrella oper-
ating system of the present invention.
FIG. 13 is a partial side elevational view of one embodi-
ment ofa pulley system of the umbrella openlting system of
the present invention.
FIG. 14 is a partial side elevational view of another
15 embodiment of a pulley system which may be utilized with
the umbrella operating system of the present invcntion.
FTG. 15 is a partial side eIevational view of one embodi-
ment of the pulley system of the umbrella operating system
of the present invention.
FIG. 16 is a partial side elevational view of another
embodiment of the pulley system of the umbrella operating
systcm of the present invention.
FIG. 17 is a perspective view in partial cutaway of yet
another embodiment of the present invention associated with
25 the pole member and secondary hub thereof.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. ] is a partial exploded front elcvational vicw in
partial cross-section of <lIl umbrella ITame assembly of the 50
present invention in an embodiment utilizing a retaining pin,
with the umbrella closed position shown in phantom.
FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a preferred
main hub member and a secondary hub member according
to the present invention and also illustrating preferred hub 55
COlll1ector joints.
FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of a preferred
collar member of the present invention.
FIGS. 4 through 8 are top schematic views showing
examples of dillerent canopy shapes which may be 60
employed with the present invention.
FIG. 9 is a partial front elevational view in partial
cross-section of the umbrella frame assembly similar to that
shown in FIG. L but in an embodiment utilizing a double
puIley system.
FIG. 10 is a partial fn1nt elevational view of another
embodiment of the umbrella operating system of the present
an operating system to allow the umbrella to be easily
adjusted to almost any degree of openness and simply
locked or otherwise maintained in place. In one embodi-
ment, the operating system comprises but is not limited to a
pulley system connecting or interconnected with the hub
members and stnIctured to move the main hub member up
and down a length of the pole towards the top end of the
pole, preferably relative to a top hub member disposed at the
top of the pole. -Dle operating system may include a stabi-
lizer ann to achieve the opening and/or closing of the 10
umbrella and/or to bolster suppot1 to the umbrella and
provide a safer, more ellective way to lock and unlock the
umbrella in its fully extendt..'C! position.
One primary object of the present invention is to provide
an umbrella frame is to provide an umbrella assembly
capable of being opened to a number of desired positions
along the umbrella pole member.
Another object of the present invention is to provide an
umbrella assembly which eliminates the need for and/or
does not have to rely upon a crdnk lilt to open and close the 20
umbrclla assembly.
It is yet another object of the prescnt invention to provide
an umbrella assembly which eliminates the m.'ed for and/or
which does not have to rely upon a st..'Curity pin beneath the
lower movable hub membcr to retain the umbrella in a
desircd veliical position.
Anoth<'r object of the prescnt invention is to provide an
umbrella frame capable of withstanding both hot and cold
temperatures, high wind conditions and other harsh weather.
It is another ohject of the prt..'sent invention in the prc- JIl
ferred embodiments to provide an umbrella frame having
easily replaceable and interchangeable parts.
Yet another object ofthe present invention is to provide an
umbrella assembly capable of being opcned to any dcsired
vertical position while at the same time being rotatable.
It is another object of the present invcntion to provide an
umbrella frame which can be casily manipulated to allow the
attaclullent of canopies of varying shapes and sizes.
'Ille foregoing list of objects for the invention is mcant to
be illustrative only and should not be considered to be 40
limiting in any sense. As such, these and other objccts.
features and advantages of the present invention will
bt..'Come more clear and/or may be gleaned from the detailed
description of the invention in various preferred embodi-
ment(s). set forth below.
US 7,293,573 B2
5
base portion 22 is more comfortably stmctured to allow for
simple hand manipulation of the hub member 18 up and
down the pole membel' 12.
As shown in FIG. 2. an upper or second<Jry hub member
30 is preferably provided and will be disposed near the top
end 14 of the pole member 12, as shown in FIG. I. TIle
secondary hub member 30 may be stmctured to include. but
does not necessarily have to include. a central cavity 32
extending axially therethrough. wherein the cavity includes
a pole receiving portion 34 and a narrower upper portion 36 \11
with an aperture fonlled therein. The upper portion 36 may
be denned by an interior wall 38 so as to maintain the
secondary hub 30 snugly in position at the top end
.14 of the pole member 12. The hub members 18.30 may be
made of injecting molded thermoplastic. such as DELRIN \5
with TEFLON. to mention a few examples only, or other
known or yet to be developed materials which resist mst. IN
degradation. dry rot. and water d<Jmage. Other rigid and/or
flexible materials may also be used.
As illustrated in FIG. 1, in the preferred emhodiment of 211
the present invention. a threaded boll 15 extends from the
top end 14 oCthe pole member 12 through the narrow upper
portion 36 of the secondalY hub member central cavity 32
such that the st.'Condary hub member 30 is hangably secured
to the pole member 12 ncar its top end 14. While the 25
secondary hub member 30 may be freely rotated about the
bolt 15 and the pole member .12 near its top end 14. a nut 17
may be tightened about the bolt 15 which is capable of
restricting the movement of and/or of maintaining the st.'C-
ondary hub member 30 in a SUbstantially snug and rigid 30
position about the pole member 12. When desired. the nut 17
may be loosened so as to allow the secondary hub member
30 to freely rotate about the longitudinal axis of the pole
member 12. As desctibed more in detail subsequently
herein, this feature allows the umbrella to rotate relative to 35
the pole. a feature which readily enables the umbrella and
fmme to endure windy conditions. A finial or end cap 40 is
preferably also secured to the bolt 15 for aesthetic purposes
once a canopy 2.1 has been positioned atop the umbrella
frame assembly 10. The end cap 40 also maintains the 41)
CilllOPY 21 in a secured ('entml position.
It is pointed out by the inventor hereof that the upper end
of the pole member 12 and/or the secondary hub member 30
can be stmctlll'ed to vary from that shown in thc drawings
and yet serve the intended purpose described above. For 45
example. in one possible alternate embodiment. the second-
ary hub member 30 may be structured to include a rigid bolt
member which extends axially downward through the pole
receiving portion 34 of the central cavity 32. In this embodi-
ment. at least the top end 14 of the pole member 12 should 51)
comprise a pnrtially hollow interior sufficiently sized to
receive the rigid bolt member of the seeondary hub member
30. Positioning the downwardly extending rigid bolt mem-
ber of the secondruy hub member 30 into the at least
partially hollow interior of the top end 14 of the pole 55
member 12 and the pole receiving portion 34 over the
exterior of the top end 14, also provides the capability for the
secondary hub member 30 to rotate about the longitudinal
axis of the pole member 12.
As shown in FIG. 2. the main hub member 18 and 60
secondary hub member 30 are preferably li.u1her provided
with slots 42 formed at intervals about their respective radial
edges 44. 'llle slots 42 are ideally three sided and include a
base 46. a back wall 48. and a pair ofside walls 50. The back
wall 48 faces radially outwardly from the hub members 18. 65
30 and the pair of side walIs 50 extend outwardly from the
back wall 48 at diverging angles. In one embodiment of the
6
invention. the slots 42 arc approximately 1/. inch in depth
and the back wall 48 is approxim<ltely .y" inches in width.
As is also shown in FIG. 2. the umbrella frmne nssembly
10 of the present invention preferably comprises hub con-
nector joints 52 that are insertable within the hub member
slots 42 and which may be st'Cured therein by screws 54. for
example. The hub connector joints 52 may be made of
injection molded thennoplastic or stamped metal. fbI'
example. 'llle hub connector joi11ls 52 are provided with a
base portion 56 and a pair ofsuhstantially parallel side walls
58 which define a 1mb connt.'Ctor joint apermre 60. The hub
connector joints 52 also have a back face 62 and a pair of
corner walls 64 which extend ntnwardlv from the back nIce
62 at diverging angles. The back 62 and the pair of
corner walIs 64 mate respt'Ctively with the back walI 48 and
pair 0 I' side walls 50. 'llms. the angles with which the comer
walIs 64 and pair of side walIs 50 diverge from the back faee
62 and the back wall 48. respectively. are substantially
identical. In one embodiment of the invention. this angle is
approximately 104 degrees. Providing the slots 42 with three
walls 48, 50 and a base portion 46 ensures n snug fit of the
hub connector joints 52 within the hub member slots 42 and
helps prevent ihe hub COllllt.'Ctor joints 52 from twisting or
displacing under stress. Further. the depth and width of the
slots 42 nllow the hub connector joints 52 to be readily
secured and removed from within the slots using a screw 54.
as shown in FIG. 2. While a screw member 54 is shown as
the means of attachment for the hub conut'Ctor joints 52
within the hub member slots 42. other fomls of attachment
may be employed. such as a machine thrended bolt. litted
notch or other element which allows the hub connector
joints 52 to be easily attached and removed. As shown in
FIG. 2. the interior surface 66 of the hub connector joints 52
may be rounded and substantially U-shaped so as to provide
clearance for rib and strut members, as described hereinafter.
In the embodiment of the invention as shown in FIG. 2, the
hub members 18. 30 are each provided with eight slots 42 so
as to accommodate up to eight hub connector joints 52.
Other numbers of slots may be utilized ns well.
As shown in FIGS. 1 and3. the umbrella frame assembly
10 of the present invention preferably also comprises lib
members 70. which may be pivotally secured to the huh
connector joints 52 of the second<Jry hub member 30. 111e tib
members 70 fonn the outer framework of the improved
umbrella frame assembly 10 of the present invention. StOlt
members 80 are pivotally secured at an inner end 82 to the
hub connector joints 52 of the main 1mb member 18 and are
pivotally secured <ll an oUler end 84 to the rib members 70
at a point near the approximate midpoint of the rib members
70. The stnlt members 80 provide support for the rib
members 70 when the umbrella frame assembly 10 is in the
extended or open position. thereby collectively providing a
means for supporting the umbrella canopy 21. Pivotal
attaclunent of the rib members 70 and the strut members 80
to their respective hub connector joints 52 may be exaeted
using a single screw 54 extending through the hub connector
joint 52 and rib member 70 or stOlt member 80. However.
a machine threaded bolt, a fitted notch or other like joinery
that allows the hub connector joints 52 to be easily replace-
able may be utilized. The rib members 70 and strut members
80 may be made ofa variety of materials such as. by way of
example only. aluminum or wood.
As shown in FIG. 3, the stOlt members 80 arc pivotally
secured to the rib members 70 by a collar member 90. The
collar member 90 includes a pair of substantially parallel
outer walls 92 and a central divider wall 94 which combine
to define an upper channel portion 96 and a lower slot
US 7,293,573 82
7
portion 98 on opposite sides of the divider wnll 94. The
upper portion 100 ofthe eollar member outer wnlls 92 which
define the channel portion 96 includes outwardly diverging
side edges 102 nnd a substantinlly nat top edge 104. The
channel portion 96 mny have n substantially rounded chan-
nel portion interior surface 106 adapted for receiving the rib
memhers 70. When the rih memhers 70 nre in a suhstantially
diffcrcnt shape. the channel portion 96 may be adapted to
match that shape. As shown in FIG. 3. the channel portion
interior surface 106 extends nround over one half the cir-
cumlercnce of the rib member 70. Also, as shown in FIG. 3.
the rih members 70 may he secured within the collar
memher channel portion 96 by a screw 91 and nut 93. The
suhstantially nat top edge 104 of the collar member 90
avoids contact with the umbrella canopy 2.1 which is posi-
tioned over thc rib mcmbers 70 and thcrcby helps prolong
the life of the canopy employed. 111e stmt memhers 80 are
pivotally secured to the slot portion 98 of the collar member
90 by a screw 91 and nut 93, as shown in FIG. 3. Also. as
shown in FIG. 3, a substantially cylindrical sleeve member
110 may he employed bel\veen the collar member 90 and the
rib member 70 to reinft)f(:e the support providt.'d by thc stnn
mcmber 80 to the rib mcmher 70. In one embodiment of the
invcntion, the sleeve mcmber I I II is made of aluminum.
As discussed morc fully later hercin with reference to
FIGS. 9 through 16. although the main hub memhcr 18 is
movably and axially attached to the polc membcr 12, such
as but not limitcd to via central cavity 20 and. thcrefore. frce
to both rotate about and slidc along it. the main hub membcr
18 may he maintained in a vertical position along the length
of the pole member 12 in scveral ways. For example, and as
shown in FIG. L one way utilizes a rctaining pin H2
attachcd to the main huh member 18 which can be placed
within a retaining pin slot 114 in the polc mcmber 12 in order
to maintain the vertical position of the main hub member 18
along the pole mcmber 12. As shown in FIG. 1, thc retaining
pin 112 Clm be maintained around thc waist portion 28 of the
main huh mcmber by a looped line 116 which allows the
main hub member 18 to rotate without binding the looped
line 116. Thus, the retaining pin 112 is secured to the main
hub member 18 in such a manner so as to allow the free
rotation of the hub members 18. 30 about the longitudinal
axis ofthc pole mcmbcr 12 evcn while the pin 112 is in place
within the pin rctaining slot 114. thercby maintaining the
vertical position of the main hub member 18 along the pole
member 12. The main hub mcmher 18 may also bc formed
of two pieces and may employ ball or roller bearings or the
like to allow the two pieces to move independcntly of one
another in a lateral direction. while still moving as a single
unit up and down the pole member 12. Such an arrangement
allows the retaining pin 1I2to remain within its slot 114 and
thereby maintain the main hub mcmber 18 in the upper.
frame extended, vertical position whilc allowing the remain-
ing components of the umbrella frame assembly 10 to be
frecly rotated about the longinldinal axis ofthe pole member
12.
In operation, any desired number and size of rib mcmbers
70 and strut mcmbers 80 may be employed, depending on
the particular size and shape of thc umbrclla canopy to be
a!1ached. Because the hub connector joints 52 and collar
member 90 are so easily installed, many difierent configu-
rations of the canopy can be achieved with little eHart by
either increasing or decreasing the number of hub connt.'Ctor
joints 52 present on the hub members 18,30. For example,
as shown in FIGS. 4 through 8, It1ur rib members 70 are
employed fbr the square shaped canopy 122 (FIG. 4), eight
rib members 70 are employed It1r the octagonal shaped
8
canopy 124 (FIG. 5), three rib mcmbers 70 are employed liJr
the triangular shaped canopy 126 (FIG. 6). six rib members
70 are employt.'(1 for thc rectangular shaped canopy 128
(FIG. 7) and five rib members 70 are employed for the
semi-octagonal shaped canopy 130 (FIG. 8). 111e number of
rib members 70 to be employed detenllines the number of
stnlt members 80, hub conm.'Ctor joints 52, and collar
members 90 to be employed. For examplc, with four rib
members 70, four strut members 80. eight hub connector
1(1 joints 52, and fl1ur collar 111CJllbers 90 nrc enlploycd. r:'or
proper operation. the hub connector joints 52 must be
secured within corresponding slots 42 in the main hub
membcr 18 and the sccondary hub member 30. Other
t5 g\.'(lllletrical shapes and sizes of canopies may also be
cmployed using the frame assemhly ofthe present invention.
Canopies of varying shapes and sizes are attached to the
umbrella frame by unscrewing the I1nial or end cap 40 from
the top end 14 of the pole member 12 and removing the
20 securing nut 17. '111e canopy opening is placed over the
threaded bolt 15 and the canopy cuns are placed nround the
outcr ends of the rib members 70. The securing nut 17 and
end cap 40 are then placed back onto the threaded bolt 15.
In one embodiment of the invention. the canopy members
25 are SUNBRELLA IO()% solution-dyed acrylic canopies or
any other shade-like or non-shadc like material.
When the frame is in the retracted position, as shown in
phantom in FIGS. I, 9. and II. the main hub member 18 is
30 near the middle or even bottom end 16 of the pole memher
12, dependent on its overall length. As the main hub member
18 is lifted up thc pole member 12, the strut members 80
extend outwardly, thcreby expanding the rib members 70
and opening the attached canopy 21. As the strut members
35 80 pass the point where they extend perpendicularly from
the pole mcmber 12, the strut members 80 may be locked
into place. such as against a hub stop member 120 secured
to the pole member 12. as shown in solid lines in FIG. I. The
retaining pin 112, described above, can then be placcd
40 within the pin retaining slot 114 formed on the pole member
12. and the hub membcr 18 may then be returned down-
wardly to rest against the pin 112. In this position, as shown
in the dashed lines in FIG. I. thc strut members 80 extend
in a substantially perpendicular fashion from thc pole mcm-
4'; ber 12 to provide substantial support to the rib members 70.
The hub connector joints 52 and the collar members 90
are also considered to be important inventive steps forward
which signil1cantly improve the stmctural and long ternl
integlity of the improved umbrella frame asscmbly 10. First,
50 the upper portion 100 of the collar member walls 92 remain
below the height of the rib members 70; thus. the collar
members 90 avoid contacting the canopy 21 during opera-
tion of the umbrella frame assembly 10. Such contact could
signil1eantly damagc the fabric of the canopy 21. Secondly,
55 the collar members 90 and the hub connector joints 52 help
maintain the rib members 70 1ll1d the strut members 80 in
perlect alignment so that the two independcnt hubs 18, 30
act in concert throughout the continual opening and closing
of the umbrella frame assembly 10. The upper channel
60 p0l1ions 96 of the collar members 90 cradle the rib members
70 and the slot pOJ1ions 98 of thc collar members 90 as well
as the hub connector joint apertures 60 straddle their respec-
tive cnds of the rib members 70 and strut members 80 and
allow ease of pivotal motion. Due to the interchangeable and
65 easily replaceable nature of the hub connector joints 52 and
collar members 90, a broken umbrclla frame assembly 10
may be repnired quickly. easily and with minimal cost to the
US 7,293,573 82
9 10
112 beneath the main hub member 18. The illustrated pulley
system 130 of the present invention allows the remote
locking of the main hub member 18 in a vertical position
along the pole member 12 while pennilling the rotation of
the entire umbrella thune assembly 10', including the main
hub member 18 and the secondary hub member 30. and the
associated rib members 70. stnn members 80, pulley system
130. and umbrella canopy 21 allached thereto, about the
longitudinal axis of the pole member 12.
In the embodiment of the invention as shown in FIG. 14.
the pulley system 130 includes a line member 132 having a
first end 134 secured to a bracket member 136 which is
secured to the top surface 25 of the main hub member 18.
The line member 132 maybe a length of rope. for example.
15 In this emhodiment. a pulley member 138 is sc.'Cllfed to the
bottom surfl1ce 23 of Ihe secondary hub member 30 and a
cam clent memher 140 is secured to an exteriorly exposed
surface of the b,lse portion 22 of the main hub member 18.
The pulley member 138 may be a typical pulley having a
grooved wheel 180 rotatably mounted to a collar member
182 wherein the collar member is movably secured to a
bracket member 184. The pulley system 130 of the present
invention allows the operator to open and maintain the
umbrella in any desired position along the pole member 12
without any additional locks. pins. or levers by simply
pulling the line 132 through the automatic locking cam cleat
m0mberl40.
As shown in FIG. 14. the cam cleat member 140 includes
a pair of cams 141 each having a toothed side edge 142, and
a retaining bracket portion 144. The pair of eams 141 arc
pivotally mounted to the exteriorly exposed surface of the
base portion 22 of the main hub member .18 and the retaining
bracket 144 is mounted to the pair of cams 141. In a rested
position. as shown in FIG. 14. the toothed side edges 142 of
the pair of cams 141 face one another. In tllis embodiment,
the line member 132 extends from the bracket member 136
through the pulley memher 138 and down through the pair
of cams 141. A handle may be secured to the second end of
the line member 132 to promote ease of operation.
Using the pulley system 130 when the umbrella is in its
closed position with the main hub member 18 near the
bottom end 16 of the pole member 12, the user can pull the
line member handle whereby the line member 132 will be
pulled through the pulley member 138 and the toothed side
edges 142. 'nlis will cause the pair of cams 14.1 to pivot such
that the line member 132 will continue to be pulkd against
the cams' smooth outer surfaces 145. This will pull the
braeketmember 136 and main hub member 18 upward so ,1S
to open the umbrella. When the user stops pulling the line
member 132, the cams 141 will reverse pivot and the toothed
side edges 142 will engage and prohibit the movement ofthe
line member 132 in either direction. TIle main huh memher
18 will thereby be maintained in a vertical position along the
pole member 12 while pemlilting rotation of the main hub
member 18 and the secondary hub member 30. and the
associated rib memhers 70, stmt members 80. pulley system
130. and umbrella canopy 21 attached thereto. about the
longitudinal axis of the pole member 12. In this way. the
umbrella can be quickly and easily opened to and main-
60 tained at any desired position without the use ofa hand crank
or the retaining pin 112 placed below the main hub member
18. When the umbrella is desired to be closed, the line
member D2 can be pulled outside of the grip of the toothed
side edges 142 and released. The retaining bracket 144
maintains the line member 132 in alignment with the toothed
side edges 142 such that the user can easily re-engage the
line member 132 with the toothed side edges 142 so as to
consumer. Different textures and colors of the hub members
18.30, the hub connector joints 52. and the collar members
90 are also available.
As noted previously herein, the umbrella frame assembly
10 may also be easily rotated about the longitudinal axis of
the pole member 12 such as by loosening the finial or end
eap 40 and the sL'Curing nut 17 from the pole member top end
14. at which point the hub members 18,30 are relatively free
to mtate in tandem. such as may he caused by light or stmng
wind. The umbrella frame assembly 10 may also employ a lil
pulley system. described more in detail below, such as that
shown in FIG. 9 at relerence numeral 130. to allow the user
to pull the pulley cord 132 to initiate the raising of the main
hub member 18 and thereby the opening the umbrella frame
assembly 10.
With reference now to FIGS. 9 through 16. the improved
operating system lor Ihe lIlnbrella frame assembly, generally
indicated by reference numeral 10'. of the present invention
will now be described. which is advantagL't1l1sly used in
stabilizing an umbrella and in easily and quickly opening, 20
closing and mtating an umbrella. As mentioned previously
herein, the main hub member 18 may be maintained in a
vertical position along the pole member 12 in several ways.
As an example, FIG. 9 illustrates the invention utilizing the
retaining pin 112 allachL-tl to the main hub member 18 which 25
can be placed within the retaining pin slot 114 in the pole
member 12 in order to maintain tlw VL'rtical position of the
main hub member 18 along the pole member 12, while
permitting the rotation of the main hub member 18 about the
longitudinal axis of the pole member 12. Alternatively. the 30
means for maintaining the main hub member 18 in the
vertical position along the pole member 12 may include a
stabilizer arm 150. as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, or a pulley
system, such as but not limited to that designated by
reference numeral 130 and shown in FIGS. 9 and 11, and in 35
detail in FIGS. 13 through 16.
As shown in FIG. 10. the main 1mb member 18 may be
maintained in a vertical position about the pole member 12
using a stabilizer aml ISO. The stabilizer ann ISO is secured
at a first end 152 to a stmt member 80 by a collar member 40
154 similar to collar member 90. 'nle second end 155 of the
stabilizer ann 150 is provided with a securing member 156
for operably coupling the second end 155 to the pole
member 12. In one embodiment of the invention, securing
member 156 is a set screw for insertion into a stahilizer 45
opening 13 on the pole memher 12. The securing member
156 may also be a pinchable clamp member or other
component capable of simple insertion and removal from the
stabilizer opening 13. The second end 155 of the stabilizer
ann .150 is also provided with a locking strap member 158 50
which can be positioned around the pole member 12 and
locked together such as by using a snap 159 for added
support and to ensure that securing member 156 does not
unintentionally slip out of position from within the stabilizer
opening D. Using the stabilizer ann 150. the umbrella main 55
hub member 18 can be lifted and lowered without having to
use a crank member or a retaining pin 112 at a location high
up on the pole member 12. This facilitates the overall ease
of use of the umbrella in quickly opening, securing, and
closing the umbrella frame assembly 10'.
As shown generally in FIGS. 9 and 11, and in detail in
FIGS. 13 through 16. the main hub member 18 may also be
moved up and down the pole member 12 using a pulley
system, such as hut not limited to. that which will be
described with regard to reference numeral 130. A pulley 65
system allows for an elTortless lift of the main hub member
18 and eliminates the need for a crank lift or the retaining pin
US 7,293,573 82
11 12
What is claimed is:
1. An umbrella frame comprising:
a) a pole member having a longitmlinal axis, a bottom end
and a top end;
b) a main hub member movably secured about said pole
member and capable of sliding between said bottom
end and said top end of said pole member. said main
hub member also capable of rowting about said longi-
tudinal axis of said pole member,
c) a secondary hub member secured to said pole member
ncar said top end of said pole member, said secondary
hub member capable of rotating about said longitudinal
axis of said pole member.
e1) a plurality of rib members pivotally secured to said
secondary hub member.
e) a plurality of stnn members eaeh having an inner end
and an ouler end, said inner ends being pivotally
secured to said main hub member. said outer end of
is hingedly secured to the base 126 such that, when the pole
member 12 is removed. the plate member 124 can cover the
base opening 131 so as to prevent rain, trash. 1t.'Ct and hands.
and other like clements Irom falling into the base opening.
131. Tn one embodiment of the invention. the pin membL'r
122 is a sci screw. In a further embodiment of the
the pin member 122 can be a pinchnble clamp member
insertable and removable from the pole opening by pinehing
the sides together. A strap member 129 may also be attached
to the plate member 124 and secured about the pole member
12 for added support. In one embodiment, as shown in FIG.
1.2, the strap member includes a snapping lock mechanism
137.
The rigidity and density of all the components described
herein can be tempered for a desired flexibility as needed.
For example, the pole member 12, rib members 70. and stmt
members 80 may be comprised of metal, wood or fiberglass
but their constmction would not be limited to these rigid
compositions. 111e nature of thermoplastic constmction with
materials like ABS. DELRIN. POLYPROPOLYNE and
other ACEIALS allow for a degree of flexibility in the hubs
connector joints 52. collar members 90. pulley members
138. and cam cleat members 140 of the umbrella frame.
Because these plastics have a degree of flexibility. the
energy that nonnally would be absorbed by a completely
static frame umbrella is distrihuted through all of the plastic
components of the umbrella in heavy wind conditions or
other harsh weather, and thus. use of such materials is
preferable as it should greatly increase the life of the static
frame of an outdoor umbrella. which is generally the more
costly portion of an umbrella unit.
The invention may be embodied in other specific fonns
without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics
thereof. '111e present embodiments are therefore to be con-
35 sidered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, the
scope of the invention being indicated by the appendcd
claims rather than by the foregoing description. and all
changes which come within the meaning and range of
equivalency of the claims are therefore intended to be
embraced therein.
Since many modiflcations. variations and changt's in
detail can be made to the described preferred embodiment of
the invention, it is intended that all matters in the foregoing
description and shown in the accompanying drawings be
interpretL'{1 as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. Thus.
the scope of the invention should be detennined by the
appended claims and their legal equivalents.
Now that the invention has been described,
lock the line member 132 at the desirtxl vertical position.
Only the intentional removal of the line member 132 from
the toothed side edges 142 with a delibernte sideways and
upward movement will nllow the umbrella to close. The
toothed side edges 142 thus prevents any unintentional
closing of the umbrella from wind gusts or other outside
forces.
As shown in FIG. 14. the pulley system 130 of the present
invention may include a single pulley member, such as but
not limited to, pulley member 138 secured to the bot1om to
surface 23 of the secondary hub member 30 and a bracket
member 136 which may be secured to the top surfhce 25 of
the main hub member 18. 111e pulley system 130 of the
present invention may also include first and second pulley
members 138 secnred to the secondary hub member 30. as 15
shown in FIG. 13. In this nrrangemenl. the line member 132
extends fi'om the bracket memher 136 thmugh a first pulley
member 138 on the secondary hnb member 30. through a
pulley member 138 on the main hub member 18. through a
second pulley memher 138 on the secondary hub memher 30 20
and down through the cam cleat member 140. Such an
arrangement provides a mechanical ndvnntage in balance
and lifting power to the device. In one embodiment of this
arrangement, the first and second pulley members 138 of the
s(..'Condnry hub member 30 are spnccd substnntially radinlly 25
equidistant from the axis of the secondary hub member 30.
Other variations on the number of pulley members 138
employed on each hub member 18. 30 may be used. Since
the hub members 18, 30 nre rotatabk about the longitudinal
nxis ofthe pole member 12, when the nut 17 is loosened, and 30
the pulley system 130 secured to the hub members 18. 30.
this arrangement provides the umbrella of the present inven-
tion with the ultimate in versatility. as the umbrella may be
rotated, and maintained in nny desired position
completely free of impediments.
As shown in FIG. 13, the line member 132 extends
downwardly from the pulley member 138 so as to be
substantially coplanar with a main hub member slot wall 44.
This keeps the line member 132 free from contact with a hub
connector joint 52 which could bind and cause unnecessary 40
wear on the line member 132. Also. as shown in FIG. 13. the
line member 132 may be retained on a hook member 190
s(..'Cured to the exteriorly exposed surface of the base portion
22 of the main hub member 18.
As shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, the secondary hub pulley 45
members 138 may optionally be secured directly to the pole
member 12 by bracket members 136 which can extend
substantially perpendicularly from the pole member 12. for
example. In this embodiment. the hub members 18, 30 are
prohibited from li'eely rotating about the pole member 12 50
because they are interconnected to the pulley system 130.
which is at least partially secured to the pole member 12 by
bracket members 136.
As shown in FIGS. 10 and .12, the pole member 12 may
be stabilized at its bottom end 16 of the pole member 12
llsing. a support assembly 120. The support assembly 120
includes a base 126 having a plate member 124 secured
thereto by a hinge member 123. wherein the plate member
124 has a pin member 122 extending from its inside surface
125. The pin member 122 is receivable by an opening on the 60
bottom end 16 orthe pole member .12. -1l1e base 126 includes
a substantially cylindrical tube portion 127 extending from
its bottom .128 and a base opening 131 extending
through the tube 127 lor r(..'Ceiving the pole member 12. In
one embodiment of the invention, the pole member 12 is 65
provided with a pair of axial slots 133 for mating with a
securing rod 135 within the tube 127. The plate member 124
US 7,293,573 82
13 14
linc member cooperatively engages said cam cleat as it
extends downwardly lI'om said at least one pulley
member.
5. 'n1C umbrella frame of claim 4 wherein said cam cleat
member has a rested position and includes a pair of cams
pivotally secured to said exteriorly exposed surface of said
main hub member. said pair of cams each having a toothed
side edge, said toothed side edgcs facing one another in said
rested position of said cam cleal member.
6. '111e umbrella frame of claim 5 whercin said cam cleat
member further includcs a retaining bracket securcd to each
of said pair of cams.
7. An umbrella frame comprising:
a) a pole member having an elongated configuration and
a longitudinal axis:
b) a hub assembly including a main hub member and a
secondary hub member both connected to said pole
meniber, said main hub member movable along a
length of said pole member relative to said secondary
hub member,
c) a canopy support assembly movably connected to said
hub assembly and sclectively disposable between open
and closed positions.
d) a pulley assembly and a single line member movably
connected thereto, said pulley assembly and said line
member operatively disposed relative to said hub
asscmbly to regulate movement of said canopy support
assembly between said open and closed positions, and
e) at least one cam cleat cooperatively disposed and
stmctured with said line mcmber to maintain said hub
assembly in a predelennincd position while pel1uining
rotation of said main hub member about said longitl1-
dinal axis of said pole membcr.
8. An umbrella frame as rccited in claim 7 whcrein said
3"
predetermined position of said hub assembly is at least
partially defined by a selected spacing between said main
hub member and said secondary hub member along said
polc member,
9. An umbrella frame as recited in claim 8 wherein said
40 predcterminL'd position of said hub assembly is at least
partially defined by mounting of said main hub member in
a selected vertical position along said pole member.
10. An umbrella frame as recited in claim 7 wherein said
predetermined position of said hub asscmbly is al least
partially defined by mounting of said main hub member in
a selected vertical position along said pole mcmber,
11. An umbrella frame as recited in claim 7 wherein said
cam cleat is cOlU1ected to said main hub member and
movable therewith relative to said pole member.
12. An umbrella frame as recited in claim 7 wherein said
single line memher is removably cOlUlccted to said cam cleat
and disposable into and out ora fixed engagement therewith.
13. An umbrella frame as recited in claim 7 wherein said
55 single line member is selectively disposed into a movable
cngagement or a fixed engagement with said cam cleat.
14. An umbrella frame as recited in claim 7 wherein said
cam cleat comprises at least two movably mounted cams
disposable between a rested position and a gripping position.
15. An umbrella frame as recited in claim 14 whcrein said
gripping position is at least partially definL'd by said single
line member disposed in a fixed engagcment between said
two cams,
Hi. An umbrella frame as recited in claim 15 wherein said
65 single line member is removably connccted to said cam cleat
and disposable into and out of said fixed engagement
therewith.
each of said stmt members being pivotally secured to a
respective one of said rib members. and
t) a cam cleat member for maintaining said main hub
member in a position along said pole member while
permitting rotation of said mnin hub member nbout said
longitudinn] axis of said pole member.
2. An umbrelln frame comprising:
a) a pole member having a longitudinal axis. a bottom end
and a top end,
b) snid pole member including n bolt extending from said 10
top end.
c) a secondary hub member supported on said pole
member ncar said top end thereof, said secondary hub
memher including a central cavity. said central cavity
having a first diameter sized to receive at least said top is
end of said pole member therein and having a second
diameter sized to receive said bolt therein such that said
secondary hub member is cnpable of rotating about said
longitudinal axis of said pole member.
d) a main hub member movably secured about said pole 2n
member and capable of sliding between said bottom
end and said top end of said pole member and further
capable of rotating about said longitudinal axis of said
pole member.
e) a plurality of rih members pivotally secured to said 25
secondary hub member.
1') n plurality of stmt members each having an inner end
nnd an outer end. said inner ends being pivotally
secured to said main hub memher, said outer end of
each of said stnllmcmbcrs being pivotally securcd to a }(l
respcctivc onc of said rib mcmbers. nnd
g) mcans for maintaining said main hub mcmbcr in
position along said polc membcr while pennitting
rotation of said main hub member about said longitu-
dinal axis of said polc mcmber.
3. Thc umbrella framc of claim 2 whcrcin said means tor
maintaining said main hub member in said position com-
prise a stabilizer ann having first and second ends. said first
end bcing secured to onc of said stmt mcmbcrs and said
second end bcing operably coupled to said pole member.
4. An umbrella frame, comprising:
a) a pole member having a longitl1dinal axis and a top cnd
and a bottom end.
b) a main hub mcmbcr secured about said pole member.
said main hub member capable of sliding betwccn said 45
bottom end and said top cnd,
c) a secondary hub membcr securcd to said pole member
near said top end of said pole member,
d) means 11)1' supporting a canopy member.
e) at least onc pulley member tor raising and lowering 50
said main hub membcr along said pole member,
t) a cam cleat member 11)1' maintaining said main hub
member in a position along said pole mcmber while
pennilting rotation of said main hub member about said
longitudinal axis of said pole member.
g) said main hub memher including a bracket member
secured thereto said main hub member,
h) said at least one pulley membcr secured to said
secondary hub member.
i) a single line member having a first end and a second 60
end, said first end being secured to said bracket mem-
ber. said single line member cooperatively engaging
said at least one pulley member and extending down-
wardly from said at least one pulley member towards
said bottom end of said pole member. and
j) said cam cleat member secured to an exteriorly exposed
surface of said main hub membcr, wherein said single
US 7,293,573 82
15
17. An umbrella frame as recited in claim] 6 wherein said
cam cleat further comprises a retaining bracket disposed and
structured to retain said single line member in a predeter-
mined relation to said two cams.
18. An umbrella frame as recited in claim 15 wherein said
predetermined position of said hub assembly is at least
partially def1ned by maintaining said main hub member in a
selected vertical position along said pole member.
19. An umbrella frame as recited in claim 15 wherein each
of said two cams comprises a toothed. surface; said gripping 10
position further defined by said toothed surfaces concur-
rently disposed in engaging relation with said single line
member.
20. An umbrella frame as recited in claim] 9 wherein each
of said two cam members comprises a smooth surface. said 15
smooth surfaces disposable in engaging relation with said
16
single line member and being stmctured to facilitate move-
ment of said single line member between said two cam
members.
21. An umbrella frame as recited in claim 7 wherein said
canopy support assembly comprises a plurality of rib mem-
bers and a plurality of strut members, said plurality of rib
members pivotally secured to said secondary hub member
and each of said plurality of stnH members movably inter-
cOI111l,'Cted between said main hub member and a corre-
sponding one of said plurality of rib members.
22. An umbrella frame as recited in claim 21 wherein said
plurality of stnlt members are movable with said main hub
member relative to said pole member between said open and
closed. positions of said canopy support assembly.
* * * * *
EXHIBIT "B"
11111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111I
USOOD478416S
(12) United States Design Patent (10) Patent No.:
Clarke (45) Date of Patent:
US D478,416 S
** Aug. 19, 2003
(54) UMBRELlA CANOPY (57) ClAIM
(75) Inventor: Dougan H. Clarke, Miami Beach, FI.
(US)
The ornamental designs for an umbrella canopy, as shown
and described.
cited by examiner
(73) A'isignee: Tuud Engineering & Design, Inc.,
Miami, FL (US)
(56) References Cited
U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS
Primary Examiner-Louis S. Zarfas
Assistant Examiner--Robert A. Delehanty
(74) A/lorney, Agent. or Firm-Malloy &. Malloy, P.A.
DESCRIPTION
1 Claim, 6 Dt'awing Sheets
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of Umbrella Canopy Design
according to my invention showing eight (8) rib and strut
members and a canopy that is nearly flat or level in the
operative position, and further showing in phantom lines an
optional stand and base therefor;
FIG. 2 is a front view of the Umbrella Canopy design shown
in FIG. 1 according to my invention;
FIG. 3 is a left side view thereof:
FIG. 4 is a top view thereof;
FIG. 5 is a right side view thercof;
FIG. 6 is a bottom view thereof;
FIG. 7 is a rear view thereof;
FIG. 8 is a side view taken at forty. live (45) from the front
view shown in FIG. 2; and
FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the Umbrella Canopy Design
according to my invention showing six (6) rib and stnH
members and a canopy that is also nearly flat or level in the
operative positon, and further showing in phantom lines an
optional stand and base therefor;
FIG. 10 is a front view of the Umbrella Canopy design
shown in FIG. 9 according to my invention;
FIG. 11 is a left side view thereof;
FIG. 12 is a top view thereof;
FIG. 13 is a right side view thereof;
FIG. 14 is a bollom view thereof; and
FIG. 15 is a rear view thereof; and,
FIG. 16 is a side view taken at forty-five (45) from the front
view shown in FIG. 10.
14 Years (H) Term:
D9,147 S 311876 Hirsh D3/5
Dt4.944 S 4/1884 Drown D3/5
D42,503 S 5/1912 Follmer D3/5
D47,559 S 7/1915 Henderson D3/5
D56,043 S 8/1920 Weinberg et al. D3/5
Dl&.',009 S 8/1959 Lorincz D3/5
D239,666 S 4/1976 Medlin D3/5
4.347,862 A 911982 Secon t35/20.1
D273,346 S 4/1984 Secon D3/5
6,196,241 B1 3/2001 Doolan 135/16
D467,066 S * 12/2002 You D3/5
(21) Appl. No.: 29/153,828
(22) Filed: .Tan. 11, 2002
(51) LOC (7) CI. 0303
(52) U.S. Cl. D3/5
(5g) Field of Search 0315-6, 10-14,
03/16-17; 135/98,16,19.5,20.1,22-48,
910,913; 3621102; 2971184.16
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US D478,416 S
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US D478,416 S
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