Patent ID: 7882846
Filing Date: 2011-02-08
Classification: A45B

Abstract:
1. An umbrella, comprising: a vertical support member; a plurality of ribs each of which has a first end pivotably mounted to an upper portion of said vertical support member and a second free end; a corresponding plurality of end caps, one of said end caps being fixedly attached to said free end of each of said ribs in stationary position with respect thereto; a corresponding plurality of elongated flexible members, each of said flexible members having an inner end fixedly attached to a corresponding one of said end caps in stationary position with respect thereto, and an outer end extending outward from said free end of a corresponding one of said ribs; each of said end caps maintaining said inner end of said corresponding flexible member in fixed relation to the free end of an associated rib and in stationary position with respect thereto; a canopy supported by said plurality of ribs and having a periphery extending beyond said free ends of said ribs, said canopy having an inner surface; a plurality of receptacles disposed on the inner surface of said canopy, each of said receptacles located at a point proximate the periphery thereof and in substantial alignment with a corresponding one of said plurality of ribs, each of said plurality of flexible members engaging a corresponding one of said plurality of receptacles, said canopy and said flexible members being configured such that said canopy exerts a tension on said flexible member that causes it to flex inward and downward.