Patent ID: 8082935
Filing Date: 2011-12-27
Classification: A45B,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A connector capable of connecting a first portion of a shade structure to a second portion of the structure, the connector comprising: a first end being configured to be mechanically coupled with the first portion; a second end capable of being mechanically coupled with the second portion of the structure, the second end comprising a reinforced portion and an engagement member extending from a first side of the reinforced portion, the reinforced portion extending in a longitudinal direction between the first end and the second end of the connector, the reinforced portion being provided for enhancing the strength of the connector, the engagement member extending from the reinforced portion in a direction generally transverse relative to a longitudinal direction of the connector, the engagement member being movable into and out of the reinforced portion of the connector from a first position in which a first end of the engagement member extends from the reinforced portion such that the first end of the engagement member engages with the second portion of the shade structure to a second position in which the first end of the engagement member is stowed into the reinforced portion to permit the second portion to be disengaged from the first portion of the shade structure, wherein the engagement member moves towards a central longitudinal axis of the connector in a direction generally transverse relative to the longitudinal axis of the connector in order to be stowed into the reinforced portion.