Abstract:
The present invention relates to an umbrella system, substantially comprising an umbrella with elements that include a hollow shaft, a cover, as well as a frame consisting of ribs and stretchers mounted on the exterior of the hollow shaft. When retracted, the cover is stowed inside the shaft. When deployed, the umbrella&#39;s cover is supported by ribs and stretchers as well as by the shaft. Ribs and stretchers slide along the hollow shaft&#39;s exterior as the invention&#39;s cover is deployed and retracted. 
     This configuration of deployment elements is not seen in the prior art of umbrella construction. It allows use of accouterments that expand the invention&#39;s use and convenience. 
     The umbrella may be constructed using materials having low coefficients of electrical conductivity such fiberglass, plastics, or composites, thereby reducing shock risks. The manner of the invention&#39;s construction also enhances its ability to resist damage due to excessive wind as well as unwanted transfer of moisture from its retracted cover.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    (Not Applicable) 
       STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT 
       [0002]    (Not Applicable) 
       REFERENCE TO A SEQUENCE LISTING. 
       [0003]    (Not Applicable) 
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0004]    Many types of umbrellas are in use worldwide. Outdoor experiences are enhanced by their availability for the interdiction of adverse environmental factors. Umbrella sizes range from small handheld models to large mounted structures capable of shielding several people. 
         [0005]    Along with known benefits of umbrellas, it is generally acknowledged that some vexing issues may compromise their use. Excessive wind is a particular bane. Handheld models are often subject to irreversible damage during high wind events. It is not unusual to see many wrecked and discarded umbrellas along sidewalks-after windy storms. While the delicate linkages in many handheld umbrellas are particularly subject to wind damage, even the more substantial “garden” varieties may also suffer. 
         [0006]    In addition to concerns about survivability of umbrellas in wind, the possibility of electrocution during lightning storms is also an issue. Furthermore, after rain ceases, furled wet and dripping handheld umbrella covers can be a nuisance. Although umbrellas are often purchased with supplementary sleeves for storage, in practice these accessories tend to be misplaced and unused. 
         [0007]    The present invention solves important umbrella issues including 1) secure storage of cover, 2) durability, 3) control of moisture from the stored cover, and 4) reduction of potential for injury from electric hazards. 
       FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
       [0008]    United States Patent Class 135/15.1; 19.5; 135/20; 135/22; 135/25.1; 25.33; 25.41; 28; 31; 33.2; 33.7 
       DESCRIPTION OF RELATED ART 
       [0009]      
         [0000]    
       
         
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                   
               
             
             
               
                 139,295 
                 May 1873 
                 Chevers 
                   
               
               
                 429,160 
                 June 1890 
                 Sprague 
               
               
                 892,813 
                 July 1908 
                 Dolles 
               
               
                 1,885,968 
                 November 1932 
                 Wedemann 
               
               
                 2,164,242 
                 August 1938 
                 Henry 
                 135/33 
               
               
                 3,534,752 
                 October 1970 
                 Vanzini 
                 135/20 
               
               
                 4,202,363 
                 May 1980 
                 Watts et al 
                 135/98 
               
               
                 4,422,468 
                 December 1983 
                 Wilson 
                 135/97 
               
               
                 5,188,137 
                 February 1993 
                 Simonelli 
                 135/19.5 
               
               
                 5,385,162 
                 January 1995 
                 Wu 
                 135/48 
               
               
                 5,690,131 
                 November 1997 
                 Voigt 
                 135/19.5 
               
               
                 6,273,111 
                 August 2001 
                 Weiss et al 
                 135/25.41 
               
               
                 6,338,353 
                 January 2002 
                 Chen 
                 135/20.3 
               
               
                 6,345,637 
                 February 2002 
                 Ko 
                 135/22 
               
               
                 6,571,814 
                 June 2003 
                 You 
                 135/33.7 
               
               
                 6,672,323 
                 January 2004 
                 Gupta et al 
                 135/136 
               
               
                 6,701,947 
                 March 2004 
                 Ramos 
                 135/34 
               
               
                 6,766,814 
                 July 2004 
                 Perreault 
                 135/31 
               
               
                 6,805,144 
                 October 2004 
                 Usui et al 
                 135/34.2 
               
               
                 7,178,535 
                 February 2007 
                 Eder 
                 135/28 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
         [0010]    Striving to provide reliable and efficient deployment, support, and retraction of umbrella covers, inventors have proposed many solutions. 
         [0011]    FOR EXAMPLE, U.S. Pat. No. 139,295, to Chevers, May 27, 1873 teaches a combination umbrella and cane with hollow shaft, having detachable cap and ferrule to adapt the invention for alternate use as a cane. Cover, ribs, and stretchers are stored within the hollow shaft during use as a cane. For use as an umbrella, stowed elements are removed from an opening at one end of the shaft and screwed onto the shaft&#39;s opposite end, thereby enabling the device&#39;s function as an umbrella. While the invention&#39;s main advantage is optional use as either cane or umbrella, internal storage of the cover has serendipitous advantages including reducing moisture transfer to external surfaces. 
         [0012]    FOR EXAMPLE, U.S. Pat. No. 429,160, to Sprague, Jun. 3, 1890 describes an eye and “U” loop method of connecting ribs and stretchers of an umbrella canopy allowing relatively easy replacement of broken rib and stretcher components. Today, frame breakage due to excessive wind remains a common correlate of umbrella use. 
         [0013]    An enduring source of vexation for umbrella users is the tendency of wet umbrella covers, stowed externally around folded frame and shaft, to drip on surfaces such as clothing, luggage, floors, interiors of vehicles, and furniture. Deposition of such moisture can result in unsightliness, discomfort, perhaps even permanent damage. 
         [0014]    Concerns, both practical and esthetic are related to externally stowed umbrella covers. Such covers allow transfer of water to surfaces that normally are dry. 
         [0015]    In teaching internal containment of umbrella covers several of the inventors cited below refer to internal storage as it relates to the dripping cover issue. References are also seen to the appearance of unkempt, wet umbrella covers furled outside folded umbrella frames. 
         [0016]    Concerns associated with the containment of umbrella covers have long engaged inventors. 
         [0017]    FOR EXAMPLE, U.S. Pat. No. 892,813, to Dolles, Jul. 7, 1908 teaches an umbrella whose cover, ribs, stretchers, and stick, when collapsed, are capable of being retracted into a hollow shaft. 
         [0018]    FOR EXAMPLE, U.S. Pat. No. 1,885,968, to Wedemann, Nov. 1, 1932, describes an umbrella cover somewhat similar to that of Dolles, with added provision for a telescoping stick and segmented, folding ribs. 
         [0019]    FOR EXAMPLE, U.S. Pat. No. 2,164,242, to Henry, Jun. 27, 1939, teaches an umbrella comprised of a hollow shaft constructed and assembled to provide means for housing the umbrella cover and frame in said shaft. 
         [0020]    Rather than enclosing conventually downward folded umbrella rib and stretcher linkages within a hollow shaft, alternate solutions have been proposed involving upward folding. 
         [0021]    FOR EXAMPLE, U.S. Pat. No. 3,534,752, to Vanzini, Oct. 20, 1970, teaches internal storage of an umbrella cover, as well as upwardly folded ribs and stretchers within a hollow umbrella shaft. Furthermore a method of twisting said elements during closing of the umbrella is described. 
         [0022]    FOR EXAMPLE, U.S. Pat. No. 5,188,137, to Simonelli, Feb. 23, 1993, teaches an umbrella consisting of a hollow shaft with open top, a collapsible cover mounted on said shaft, and a mechanism for operating said cover so that when it is placed in a closed position it is stored within the hollow shaft. When this invention&#39;s cover is to be opened, a plurality of ribs is said to urge it outward from the open top above the hollow shaft. No stretchers are indicated in this invention. 
         [0023]    FOR EXAMPLE, U.S. Pat. No. 5,690,131 to Voigt, Nov. 25, 1997, also teaches an umbrella cover stowed within a hollow shaft, as well as a plurality of flexible strips that pass between roller bearings as they urge the cover during deployment. As in the above example, no stretchers are included in this invention. 
         [0024]    FOR EXAMPLE, U.S. Pat. No. 6,273,111, to Weiss et al, Aug. 14, 2001, teaches a retractable umbrella including a cover, a plurality of ribs, and a plurality of stretchers. Said cover is supported at its center by an extended shaft, and on its periphery by attachment to tips of said ribs. No additional cover support is indicated. Said cover and frame elements are contained within a hollow shaft when folded. 
         [0025]    The additional issue of potential damage to umbrella mechanisms while deployed has been considered by a number of inventors. 
         [0026]    FOR EXAMPLE, U.S. Pat. No. 6,345,637, Feb. 12, 2002, to Ko teaches an automatic opening, wind resistant, umbrella structure made of fiberglass reinforced plastics. It describes an improved and simplified construction having enhanced strength. 
         [0027]    A particularly resilient material having potential for use with umbrella frame construction is seen in the following teaching. 
         [0028]    EXAMPLE, U.S. Pat. No. 6,672,323, to Gupta, et al, Jan. 6, 2004, describes a multipurpose self-erecting structure providing advanced insect protection and storage characteristics. It is primarily designed to provide military sleeping accommodations for individual soldiers while also having folded dimensions that allow containment and transportation within a soldier&#39;s rucksack. Gupta proposes use of a material composed of vinyl polyester and fiberglass in combination, with trade name “vinylester”, for use in flexible extended elements of the invention&#39;s frame. An additional advantage of employing non-metallic materials, having low intrinsic coefficients of electrical conductivity, in umbrella construction is that such use reduces the risk associated with use during electric storms. 
         [0029]    Prior art provides examples of attempts to devise forms of enclosure, other than within a hollow shaft, for shielding umbrella covers when said covers are in retracted modes. 
         [0030]    FOR EXAMPLE, U.S. Pat. No. 6,805,144, to Usui et al, proposes a set of telescoping thin walled cylinders, each concentric with the umbrella&#39;s stick. These cylinders, graded in a sequence of diameters, extend to form a substantially conical envelope enclosing the furled cover and rib system of a handheld umbrella. 
         [0031]    Other solutions include: 
         [0032]    FOR EXAMPLE, U.S. Pat. No. 6,701,947 B1, Mar. 9, 2004, to Ramos, who describes a flexible bag for containment of a wet umbrella, additionally providing means for later disposal of water accumulated from said umbrella. 
       REFERENCES TO SPECIFIC PROBLEMS OF RELATED ART 
       [0033]    Extensive and varied examples of umbrella prior art beg the question of why many of the solutions taught are not commonly seen actualized in the marketplace. Certain umbrella concerns remain issues because devices, including many of those referenced above apparently have innate disadvantages. Examination of several teachings addressing concerns about the tendency of umbrella coverings to drip while furled reveal pervasive problems. 
         [0034]    FOR EXAMPLE, U.S. Pat. No. 139,295, May 27, 1873, to Chevers teaches a combination umbrella and cane with hollow shaft, with detachable cap and ferrule to adapt it for use as a cane. While this invention offers protection to its stowed cover, the sequence of manual operations required appears to be cumbersome for convenient transitions between cane and umbrella modes. 
         [0035]    Concerns about broken canopy deployment and support elements have been addressed. 
         [0036]    FOR EXAMPLE, U.S. Pat. No. 429,160, Jun. 3, 1890 to Sprague describes an improved eye and “U” loop method of connecting ribs and stretchers of an umbrella canopy. It was noted that the invention allows relative ease of replacement of broken rib and stretcher components. Today, over a century later, fragile structural elements of many handheld umbrellas remain vulnerable to wind damage. Furthermore, in today&#39;s economy, the labor intensive process of repairing umbrella mechanisms is not cost effective. 
         [0037]    FOR EXAMPLE, U.S. Pat. No. 6,338,353, Jan. 15, 2002, to Chen, teaches a handheld four segment umbrella comprising a shank, rib assembly, opening spring, control mechanism, and a plurality of rib linkage elements. Structures taught are complex and fragile. Components are in the tradition of umbrella deployment structures vulnerable to irreversible damage from excessive wind forces. This invention exemplifies the evolution of rib and stretcher deployment and support mechanisms that provide for compactness at the price of increased fragility. The plethora of delicate metal parts taught in this invention allows considerable risk for permanent damage from deforming forces including those associated with wind. Examination of urban sidewalks after wind storms can provide ample demonstrations of umbrella wreckage, attesting to the need for innovative, more durable umbrella construction. 
         [0038]    FOR EXAMPLE, U.S. Pat. No. 7,174,906, Feb. 13, 2007, to Ko teaches a folding umbrella frame having sets of six ribs, arranged as linkages. It further exemplifies ubiquitous, fragile construction of some contemporary handheld umbrella deployment mechanisms. Use of materials having increased strength to weight ratio compared to metals are also taught. Although large outdoor umbrellas of the “garden” variety are often constructed of wood having relatively low coefficients of electrical conductivity, many umbrellas, particularly handheld models, are substantially made of metal. Such construction increases dangers from ambient high voltage electricity such as that associated with lightning storms. 
         [0039]    FOR EXAMPLE, U.S. Pat. No. 6,345,637, Feb. 12, 2002, to Ko teaches an automatic opening wind resistant umbrella structure made of fiberglass reinforced plastics. It describes an improved and simplified construction, reinforced combination strength, plus reduced opportunity for conduction of electricity. However the invention still contains fragile linkage joints susceptible to high wind events that might exceed elastic limits of plastic elements, possibly resulting in permanent damage to the umbrella. 
         [0040]    Further examples of internal storage of umbrella cover such as those of covers as taught. 
         [0041]    For Example, U.S. Pat. No. 2,164,242, Aug. 6, 1938, to Henry, teaches an umbrella with a two segment telescoping shaft that may be extended to encompass a furled covering and retracted frame. However the covering, when deployed, is kept in place exclusively by ribs. As is inherent in such arrangements, gusts of winds tend to invert frames consisting only of ribs that lack the reinforcement provided by stretchers. 
         [0042]    FOR EXAMPLE, U.S. Pat. No. 5,188,137, to Simonelli, Feb. 23, 1993, teaches an umbrella cover deployed and supported by a set of flexible arching elongated elements. As in the previous example, a significant difficulty with this system is relatively low rigidity provided to its deployed cover. In order to provide sufficient flexibility during cover deployment, minimally supported ribs may prove to be too flexible for effective service in windy conditions. Umbrella ribs unsupported by stretchers appear capable of responding with considerable flexure to external forces including those induced by a walking umbrella user. 
         [0043]    FOR EXAMPLE, U.S. Pat. No. 5,690,131 to Voigt, Nov. 25, 1997, Although use of roller bearings appears to facilitate deployment of an internally stowed cover, when actually deployed this invention&#39;s cover would appear to suffer the same lack of rigidity seen in the teaching of Simonelli. In practice, it remains hard to imagine an elongated member capable of bending from an essentially vertical orientation during cover storage, then curling to a radial configuration, while also being capable, without additional support, of resisting compromising effects of wind and other potentially deforming forces. 
         [0044]    FOR EXAMPLE, U.S. Pat. No. 6,273,111, Aug. 14, 2001, to Weiss et al takes note of the above limitations. In an attempt to eliminate issues of cover flopping during deployed modes, Weiss et al teaches use of a set of radial extending arms supported from above by a corresponding support arm. The umbrella&#39;s cover is in turn centrally supported by an extended shaft, and peripherally by tips of essentially horizontal extending arms. At least two concerns with the invention are apparent. It&#39;s cover appears free to vibrate in the wind inasmuch as it is not attached to any support member between said cover&#39;s center and the cover&#39;s periphery. This configuration appears to be unable to enforce ample congruency between cover and extended ribs. That condition, in turn, would allow reduced cover tautness compared to that commonly seen in umbrella covers that are fully deployed. Furthermore, by their inherent rigidity, extending ribs of this disclosure appear rather vulnerable to excessive winds that could exceed structural limitations, thereby resulting in permanent deformation. Such unfortunate results are commonly seen in damaged umbrellas. Although apparently more resistant to inversion than the two previous examples., the cover of this invention does appear to be subject to excessive floppiness. An additional concern relates to the manner in which this invention&#39;s center shaft extends downwards from the containment chamber during cover retraction. Rather than a more conventional example, where a compact umbrella&#39;s stick retracts by telescoping into a wider upper member, here we see taught a stick extension during retraction that doubles the in-service length of this umbrella. It appears to be a rather cumbersome solution. 
         [0045]    Another issue of umbrella construction is a tendency of wet covers on handheld models to drip after being furled. Clothing, contents of brief cases, purses, flooring, and furniture all may be compromised by coming into contact with wet retracted umbrellas. Internal storage of covers have been proposed in the these examples as solutions to this issue. 
         [0046]    FOR EXAMPLE, U.S. Pat. No. 6,701,947 B1, Mar. 9, 2004, to Ramos, describes a flexible bag used to contain a wet umbrella while providing means for later disposal of water accumulated from said umbrella. 
         [0047]    In order to shield a furled cover and cooperating deployment and support elements external attached coverings are taught. 
         [0048]    FOR EXAMPLE, U.S. Pat. No. 6,805,144, Oct. 19, 2004, to Usui et al, proposes a set of nesting thin walled cylinders concentric with the shaft of an umbrella. These extend in a series, forming an essentially conical envelope enclosing the retracted cover and rib system of a handheld umbrella. Such cylinders appear to present a somewhat unwieldy package when retracted on an umbrella stick. 
       BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0049]    From the descriptions above, advantages of our umbrella deployment, support, and containment system become evident. Accordingly, several objects and advantages of the present invention are: 
         [0050]    (a) The invention provides enclosed storage space for an umbrella&#39;s retracted cover, thereby substantially preventing wet covers from transferring liquid water to exterior surfaces. The invention provides means to collect unwanted interior moisture in absorbant material and subsequently allowing passage of this moisture, by the process of evaporation, through orifices to the outside air. 
         [0051]    (b) Internal storage of said cover also has the advantage of mitigating potential damage to the cover while said cover is not in active service. 
         [0052]    (c) The umbrella cover is deployed and supported by externally mounted ribs. Ribs are in turn substantially stabilized and reinforced by means of cooperation with a plurality of stretchers thereby forming essentials of a truss system. These structures obviate several inherent instabilities associated with certain examples of internally stowed umbrella canopies and rib elements seen in prior art. 
         [0053]    (d) The ribs and stretchers substantially slide along the exterior of the umbrella&#39;s hollow shaft as they serve to urge the cover relative to the hollow shaft. 
         [0054]    (e) Allowance for umbrella construction with materials having low coefficients of electric conductivity to minimize potential electrical dangers. 
         [0055]    Further objects and advantages of the present invention include the following. The invention&#39;s deployment of covers via connections among elongated elements including ribs and stretchers are specifics not seen in prior art. This invention is simple to operate and cost effective to manufacture. Such factors encourage the invention&#39;s use with umbrellas having a variety of sizes and applications. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING 
         [0056]    These and other features, and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following descriptions and drawings. Like reference numerals represent like elements in the several views, and in which: 
         SHEET 1/6 
         [0057]      FIG. 1  partial sectional view of a typical embodiment with its cover deployed. 
           [0058]      FIG. 2  plane indication, of partial sectional view  FIG. 1   
         SHEET 2/6 
         [0059]      FIG. 3  plane indication, of partial sectional view  FIG. 4   
           [0060]      FIG. 4  enlarged partial sectional view of upper portion of a typical embodiment, cover deployed 
         SHEET 3/6 
         [0061]      FIG. 5  plane indication, of partial sectional view  FIG. 6   
           [0062]      FIG. 6  enlarged partial sectional view of upper portion of a typical embodiment, cover retracted 
         SHEET 4/6 
         [0063]      FIG. 7  elevation view of an alternate embodiment with a moisture release cap at upper end, and track slot gasket in place at track slot, umbrella cover retracted 
           [0064]      FIG. 8  elevation of another alternate embodiment with a helical track slot,.umbrella cover retracted 
           [0065]      FIG. 9  top view of cap, showing sectional plane  FIG. 10   
           [0066]      FIG. 10  sectional view of cap 
           [0067]      FIG. 11  sectional view of yet another alternate embodiment showing cover-rib tether and tether link 
         SHEET 5/6 
         [0068]      FIG. 12  partial sectional view, an additional alternate embodiment with sleeve storage vessel 
           [0069]      FIG. 13  plane indication, sectional view  12   
           [0070]      FIG. 14  elevation showing deployed sleeve 
         SHEET 6/6 
         [0071]      FIG. 15  elevation showing yet another additional alternative embodiment with handle cylinder retracted. 
           [0072]      FIG. 16  elevation showing yet another additional alternative embodiment with handle cylinder extended. 
           [0073]      FIG. 17  elevation showing support elements of a large, embodiment, with supports in extended mode 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS UTILIZED IN THE DRAWING 
       [0074]      10  hollow shaft 
         [0075]      20  upper transition element 
         [0076]      30  cover 
         [0077]      40  cover hub slider 
         [0078]      45  cover-cover hub attachment devices 
         [0079]      50  rib 
         [0080]      60  rib collimator 
         [0081]      70  stretcher 
         [0082]      80  cover-rib-stretcher fastener 
         [0083]      90  stretcher-rib slider 
         [0084]      100  deployment slider 
         [0085]      110  deployment slider upper fastener 
         [0086]      120  deployment slider lower fastener 
         [0087]      130  track slot 
         [0088]      140  deployment slider-cover hub slider slot link 
         [0089]      150  membrane support 
         [0090]      160  cap 
         [0091]      170  orifices 
         [0092]      180  vapor permeable membrane 
         [0093]      190  absorbant material 
         [0094]      200  track slot gasket/internal moisture barrier 
         [0095]      210  cover-rib tether 
         [0096]      220  tether link 
         [0097]      230  sleeve storage vessel 
         [0098]      240  sleeve 
         [0099]      250  handle cylinder 
         [0100]      260  support elements 
       DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       [0101]    A typical embodiment of this invention is shown on SHEET 1/6,  FIG. 1 , as an umbrella with a hollow shaft  10 , providing means for containment, deployment, support, and retraction of a cover  30 . Cover  30  is urged relative to the hollow shaft  10 , and subsequently supported in cooperation with a frame substantially consisting of a plurality of externally mounted ribs  50  and stretchers  70 . 
         [0102]    The invention&#39;s ribs and stretchers are in turn supported and guided by elements including a deployment slider  100  and a plurality of rib collimators  60 . These provide means for orderly urging of ribs and stretchers relative to the hollow shaft. Said urging results from forces applied directly to slider  100 , or by means of alternate methods such as turning a crank, pulling a cord, or activating a motor, the umbrella&#39;s cover  30  is transported from within the hollow shaft  10  to its deployed configuration. When deployed, cover  30  is substantially supported by said ribs  50 , stretchers  70 , and cooperating elements. The invention&#39;s cover deployment elements are additionally guided by one or more track slots  130  located along the invention&#39;s hollow shaft  10 . 
       Description of Components 
       [0103]    The invention is distinct from configurations and mechanisms seen in prior art. Its cover storage, deployment, and support system is unique in the field of umbrella construction and usage. The essence of this distinction may be seen in a typical embodiment of the invention, shown in sheets 1/6, 2/6 and 3/6. 
         [0104]    In this particular example the invention includes a hollow shaft  10  sufficiently rigid to support attached elements and also serve as a handle. The upper end of said hollow shaft  10  terminates with upper transition element  20 . The disclosed invention also includes a plurality of cooperating deployment elements including the following. A plurality of ribs  50 , are each sufficiently flexible to be guided by rib collimators  60  that are, in turn, attached near the top of hollow shaft  10 . The lower ends of ribs  50  connect to deployment slider  100 . Additionally, each of a plurality of stretchers  70  is attached at its lower end to a stretcher-rib slider  90 . Individual stretchers  70  are additionally attached at their upper ends to a rib  50  by means of an intervening cover-rib-stretcher fastener  80 . Cover  30 , when deployed, is supported by the plurality of ribs  50  in cooperation with said plurality of stretchers  70  and hollow shaft  10 . 
         [0105]    Components of a typical embodiment generally comprise materials having low coefficients of electrical conductivity for enhanced safety, especially during lightning storms. Dimensions of embodiments are fundamentally predicated by the size of cover  40 . 
       Storage Component Connections 
       [0106]    SHEET 2/6,  FIG. 4  illustrates an upper portion of hollow shaft  10 . In a typical embodiment of the present invention, said hollow shaft  10  provides an internal storage site for umbrella cover  30 . 
         [0107]    Hollow shaft  10  additionally provides means for the support of a plurality of elements constituting the invention&#39;s deployment system. System elements include ribs  50 , rib collimators  60 , deployment slider  100 , and stretchers  70 . Each rib  50  is anchored in, and extends from, deployment slider  100 . When fully deployed, ribs  50  and stretchers  70  form cantilevers, extending radially from said hollow shaft  10  in support of cover  30 . 
         [0108]    In this disclosed typical embodiment each stretcher  70  is attached at its lower end to a stretcher-rib slider  90 . Stretchers  70  extend upward joining ribs  50  via a plurality of cover-rib-stretcher fasteners  80 . 
         [0109]    While in their retracted mode, the invention&#39;s ribs  50  and stretchers  70 , nest adjacent to the outer surface of hollow shaft  10 . 
       Cover Deployment 
       [0110]    In a typical embodiment of the invention, deployment of umbrella cover  30  is accomplished by applying urging force to deployment slider  100  via direct manual contact. In a typical embodiment upper transition element  20  provides means to ease frictional forces acting on cover  30  during its retraction. 
         [0111]    Each of the plurality of ribs  50  is attached at its upper tip to the periphery of cover  30 . Said ribs  50  thereby convey urging forces that displace cover  30  upward and outward relative to hollow shaft  10 . Subsequently, ribs  50  transmit tensile forces to cover  30 , thereby substantially maintaining the tautness of said cover. This combination of forces, acting on the periphery of cover  30  provide means to substantially urge cover  30  into its fully deployed configuration. 
         [0112]    During urging of ribs  50  upward and radially relative to hollow shaft  10 , forces are also applied to the lower ends of the plurality of stretchers  70  via contact between deployment slider  100  and stretcher-rib sliders  90 . As a result, stretchers  70  also slide upward along the exterior of hollow shaft  10  thereby helping to maintain ribs  50  and cover  30  in alignment. When cover  30  is fully deployed said stretchers assist in maintaining the configuration, substantially resisting deforming forces including those of gravity and wind. Engagement of deployment slider  100  with deployment slider upper fastener  110 , located near upper end of said track slot  130 , substantially secures elements in their deployed positions. 
       Cover Retraction 
       [0113]    Retraction of cover  30  is accomplished by releasing deployment slider upper fastener  110  and applying downward force to deployment slider  100 . In addition to relaxing tensile forces acting on cover  30 ; downward motion of deployment slider  100  urges cover hub slider  40  by means of intervening deployment slider-cover hub slider slot link  140 . As a result, cover hub slider  40  is urged downward within hollow shaft  10 , thereby substantially retracting said cover  30  into said hollow shaft  10 . Engagement of deployment slider  100  with deployment slider lower fasteners  120  near the bottom end of track slot  130  substantially secures cover  30  and cooperating elements in their retracted configurations. 
       Alternate Embodiments 
       [0114]    Several forms of alternate embodiments are shown on sheets 4/6, 5/6, and 6/6. 
         [0115]    One alternate embodiment of the invention seen in  FIGS. 7 ,  9 , and  10 , provides a cap  160  that can substantially enclose either one or both ends of hollow shaft  10  while cover  30  is stowed. Cap  160  substantially prevents liquid water from escaping hollow shaft  10  while simultaneously allowing dispersal of moisture from stowed cover  30  by means of evaporation. Cap  160  contains a plurality of orifices  170 , vapor permeable membranes  180 , and absorbant material  190 . Track slot gasket/internal moisture barrier  200 , located along track slot  130  allows passage of the deployment slider-cover hub slider slot link  140  while also substantially blocking liquid water, introduced on retraced cover  30 , from exiting hollow shaft  10 . Track slot gasket/internal moisture barrier  200  may also, in extended form, provide a substantially copious, fully encompassing barrier stationed between retracted cover  30  and pluralities of additional slots or other orifices in hollow shaft  10 , that may be provided in various alternate embodiments of the invention. 
         [0116]    Sheet 4/6 shows other alternate embodiments including  FIG. 8 , a helical configuration of track slot  130  providing an angled longitudinal retraction range for ribs  50  and stretchers  70 , thereby allowing use of a shorter hollow shaft  10 . 
         [0117]    Another alternate embodiment, seen in  FIG. 11 , provides a plurality of cover-rib tethers  210 . Each tether is anchored at one end to a medial point along a corresponding rib  50 . The other end of each tether is attached at a medial point along the interior of the invention&#39;s hollow shaft  10 . Furthermore, each of a plurality of cooperating tether links  220 , situated on the surface of cover  30 , encircles one of the tethers  210  while allowing said cover-rib tether  210  to slide through the link  220 . As a result, a pulley-like system is established. When cover  30  is fully deployed, it is, by means of tether links  220 , drawn into substantially tighter contact with ribs  50 . 
         [0118]    Sheet 5/6,  FIG. 12  and  FIG. 13  shows yet another alternate embodiment. An expandable sleeve  240  is provided. Contained in sleeve storage vessel  230  when not in service, the sleeve is capable of expanding and enclosing hollow shaft  10 , ribs  50 , and stretchers  70  when cover  30  is fully stowed. 
         [0119]    Sheet 6/6  FIG. 14  and  FIG. 15  shows yet another additional alternative embodiment. In this embodiment a handle cylinder  250  mounted on the hollow shaft while the umbrella is not in use, may subsequently slide longitudinally along said hollow shaft to provided service as a handle. While retracted said cylindrical vessel substantially encompasses the invention&#39;s retracted ribs and stretchers. 
         [0120]    In a large embodiment of the invention a set of support elements  260  are capable of being substantially retracted along the exterior of the hollow shaft and cooperating elements. Support elements  260  enable free standing use of this embodiment. 
         [0121]    The words “horizontal”, “vertical”, “up”, “down”, “in”, “out”, “top”, “bottom”, upper, lower, and similar expressions are to be interpreted as relative to the embodiments discussed and cooperating components of the invention and are not intended to be otherwise limiting. Embodiments described herein are included for example only. Additional variations of the claimed invention&#39;s concepts will be obvious to those skilled in the art. Adaptation or inclusion of known alternative devices and materials, present and future is also contemplated. Range of the invention is defined by the following claims. 
         [0122]    Accordingly, the reader will see that this invention, serves to efficiently deploy, retract, and store umbrella covers. Furthermore, a typical embodiment of the invention has other advantages in that: 
         [0123]    In addition to providing means for internal storage of its cover within a hollow shaft, and use of deployment elements mounted externally on said hollow shaft, the invention&#39;s use of trusses formed by cooperation between ribs and stretcher elements provide means for encouraging substantially enhanced stability of said cover. The invention&#39;s rib and stretcher elements&#39; provide enhanced resilience against wind damage compared to examples of umbrellas featuring internal cover storage seen in prior art. This invention&#39;s externally mounted cover support trusses may take various forms such as triangles, bows, orthogonals, or combinations thereof. 
         [0124]    Furthermore the invention&#39;s plurality of ribs largely slide into position rather than rotate on hinges or rivets. This is a significant advantage to this invention because hinges and rivets are especially vulnerable elements when used in frames of conventional umbrellas. 
         [0125]    Internal storage of the umbrella cover, combined with structural advantages of the invention&#39;s externally mounted deployment elements, reduces potential damage to said cover as well as unwanted transfer of liquid water to surrounding surfaces. Means may be provided for elimination of unwanted moisture. 
         [0126]    The invention encourages use of non-metallic components, thereby reducing potential for injury from electric shock, especially during lightning storms. 
         [0127]    Furthermore, versions of the invention are applicable to a range of umbrella sizes and configurations, including handheld sizes as well as beach and patio models. 
         [0128]    Although the above descriptions contain numerous specifics, none of these should be construed as limiting the scope of the invention. They merely serve to provide illustrations of several embodiments of the present invention. For example, dimensions may vary and the hollow shaft may have various shapes, including conical or progressively stepped. Elements may have varied profiles in planes defined by various coordinates. Additionally, the hollow shaft may be constructed with either solid walls or perforated by a plurality of orifices. Such openings may have various dimensions, configurations, shapes, and orientations. Materials used in the invention, may have varied ability to bend, expand, or compress. In other words elastic moduli of the invention&#39;s elements may vary within limits defined by necessity of maintaining the invention&#39;s structural and functional integrity. For example, the hollow shaft may be constructed with one or more relatively rigid components that function as primary support, analogous to the relationship between frame poles to fabric in a tent, or mesh in a basket. Such construction thereby allows use of a less massive hollow shaft, albeit sufficiently copious and rigid to support cooperating elements of the invention. Invention elements may be opaque, translucent, transparent, or any combination thereof. 
         [0129]    Furthermore, deployment and support elements may be attached at various sites on the invention. Urging forces may be transmitted from one element to another via various modes, for example direct contact through a slot, or by means of flexible extended members and pulleys. Specifications of deployment slider fasteners may include alternate forms of locking devices. The invention&#39;s elements may have various colors, hardness, surface textures, densities, and permeabilities. Elements may have continuous or perforated surfaces. Furthermore, the number of the invention&#39;s individual elements may vary from that shown in disclosed embodiments. 
         [0130]    Deployment mechanisms, storage space, and ancillary parts may be composed of various materials consistent with their cooperative functions. Parts may be brought to deployed and retracted positions by alternate means, rather than direct manual force. Such means may, for example, include use of intervening elements urged by hand or motor, such as application of urging force via cranks and pulleys, gear and pulley combinations, or by means of various forms of linkage mechanisms. Alternate devices may be used for attachment, removal, and interchange of covers. Covers having assorted compositions, textures, and surface details may be used. 
         [0131]    The present invention has been illustrated in part as embodied as a handheld umbrella, but it is not limited to that particular disclosure. For example, in variously sized alternate embodiments, the umbrella system may also function while semi-permanently mounted at a patio table, on a pedestal, or in a self-supporting configuration. It will be understood that various omissions, and changes in the shapes and specifics of the illustrated invention and its operation can be made without altering the fundamental character of the invention. Descriptions of this invention have been made for purposes of revealing particularly useful embodiments, they are not intended to limit the invention to only disclosed forms. 
         [0132]    The scope of this invention should be determined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents, rather than by the examples given. 
         [0133]    Embodiments of the invention range from small handheld versions to larger free standing umbrellas capable of transport and service in conjunction with vehicles, and embodiments semi-permanently or permanently mounted.