Patent ID: 6296001
Filing Date: 2001-10-02
Classification: A45B

Abstract:
A rib assembly for multiple-fold umbrella comprising:a top rib pivotally secured to an upper notch formed on a top portion of a central shaft;a stretcher rib pivotally connected between the top rib and a lower runner slidably held on said central shaft;an intermediate rib having a cross section of H shape and pivotally connected to said top rib;a connecting rib pivotally connected between said stretcher rib and said intermediate rib;an outer rib pivotally secured to said intermediate rib; anda spring rib made of light-weight materials including plastic and aluminum alloy and pivotally connected between said top rib and said outer rib, said spring rib slidably coupled with said intermediate rib by a ring member, with said ring member fastened on said intermediate rib for passing said spring rib through said ring member;each said top rib, said stretcher rib and said connecting rib made of aluminum alloy;the improvement which comprises:said intermediate rib made of materials capable for resisting deformation, bending and twisting, including plastic, engineering plastic, and reinforced plastic material, and composite reinforced with plastic material; said ring member firmly fastened on said intermediate rib for passing said spring rib within said ring member for slidably coupling said spring rib to said intermediate rib.