Patent Document

BACKGROUND  
       [0001]     1. Field  
         [0002]     This invention is concerned with shade structures, such as umbrellas, particularly large free-standing umbrellas, which have variable geometry. In preferred embodiments, the invention provides umbrellas that comprise multiple sets of ribs supporting a canopy structure and having a mechanism associated with each set of ribs for influencing the angle or elevation of the rib sets.  
         [0003]     2. Description of the Related Art  
         [0004]     Shade structures, and in particular umbrellas, have long been known that comprise a pole supporting a set of ribs to which is attached a fabric canopy and having a mechanism mounted to the pole that operates to extend or retract the ribs and thereby raise or lower the canopy.  
         [0005]     As use of outdoor restaurants, patios and gardens and the like becomes more popular, so there is an increasing demand for shade structures that are more flexible, visually appealing or offer enhanced features or ease of operation.  
       SUMMARY  
       [0006]     According to one embodiment the invention there are provided shade structures, preferably umbrellas, comprising a pole assembly having an upper hub from which extends in generally radial directions a plurality of ribs for supporting a canopy structure. The ribs form a plurality of rib sets. In one embodiment of the invention, the shade structure comprises a plurality of mechanisms associated with the pole assembly that affect the angle of the ribs with respect to the pole assembly. Preferably, at least one of the mechanisms is adapted to operate at least one rib set independently of or to a different extent from at least another rib set. In a preferred embodiment, the pole assembly comprises a main upright pole having the mechanisms attached thereto.  
         [0007]     In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the pole comprises a plurality of channels in its outer surface extending generally parallel to the axis of the pole. The mechanisms preferably comprise a handle mounted to move up and down the pole and connected to an actuator in the respective channel to operate a respective rib set. More preferably, the invention provides an umbrella having two such mechanisms and two such channels, with one mechanism per channel. In a preferred embodiment, a first mechanism is coupled to raise and lower an upper hub and a second mechanism is coupled to raise and lower a lower hub.  
         [0008]     Another embodiment of the invention provides an umbrella, comprising a support pole assembly comprising a lower pole and an upper pole translatable relative to the lower pole, the support pole further comprising an outer surface and an elongate channel recessed in the outer surface. The umbrella further comprises a canopy support frame comprising a first hub coupled with the upper pole, a second hub disposed beneath the first hub, and a plurality of ribs, each rib having a first end coupled with the first hub and a second end disposed away from the first hub, the canopy support frame having an open position in which the second end of each of the ribs is disposed away from the support pole assembly at a first elevation. A canopy is coupled with the canopy support frame and movable therewith. The umbrella also comprises an actuating handle and an elongate member disposed in said elongate channel, the elongate member being coupled with the first hub and with the actuating handle, wherein after the canopy has been moved to the open position, the actuating handle can be movable to move the second hub to raise the second end of the ribs to a second elevation that is higher the first elevation.  
         [0009]     Another embodiment of the invention provides an umbrella, comprising a support pole assembly comprising an outer surface and an elongate channel recessed in the outer surface and a canopy support frame comprising a first hub coupled with the upper pole and with a plurality of ribs and a second hub disposed beneath the first hub and coupled with the plurality of ribs. The umbrella further comprises a canopy coupled with the canopy support frame and movable therewith, an actuating handle and an elongate member disposed in said elongate channel, the elongate member being coupled with the first hub, wherein after the canopy has been moved to an open position, the actuating handle can be movable to move the second hub to alter the configuration of the canopy.  
         [0010]     Another embodiment of the invention provides an umbrella comprising a support pole; a first hub attached to the support pole and having a plurality of ribs extending from the hub, the ribs supporting a canopy and being movable from or stowed position in which the canopy is substantially closed to an extended position in which the canopy is substantially open; at least one additional hub extending around the support pole at a location below the first hub, the additional hub comprising: a first hub component having a plurality of ribs extending therefrom; a second hub component having a plurality of ribs extending therefrom; first and second hub components being movable with respect to each other from a position in which they are nested or embedded together to another position in which they are separated; an actuating handle; and an elongate member disposed in said elongate channel, the elongate member being coupled with the first hub; wherein the actuating handle can be movable to move the first hub component of the second hub to alter the configuration canopy.  
         [0011]     The ribs of the first and second hub components may be connected to their respective hub components by connectors that permit the ribs to pivot about a pivot point and where the pivot points of the ribs of the front hub component and second hub component be in substantially the same place where the hub components are nested or embedded together.  
         [0012]     Each of the first and second hub components may have at least one projection element and at least one recess, so that the first and second hub components can be nested or embedded together by interaction of the respective projection(s) and recess(es).  
         [0013]     The first hub component may be in the upper position with respect to the second hub component when the umbrella is erected and the first hub component has fewer ribs than the second hub component. For example, the first hub component may have two ribs and the second hub component may have four ribs.  
         [0014]     Another embodiment of the invention provides an umbrella comprising a pole having an upper hub having a plurality of ribs extending therefrom to support a fabric canopy thereon the pole having a longitudinal axis and at least two channels formed in the outer surface thereof extending substantially parallel to that axis, an actuator slideably movable in each channel to effectuate a change in the configuration of the canopy; whereby raising a first of the actuator in its respective channel causes the canopy to open; and raising a second of the actuators in its respective channel causes the canopy to change its shape. Raising and lowering the first actuator may cause the umbrella canopy to open and close and raising and lowering the second actuator may cause every other rib to be raised with respect to adjacent ribs. 
     
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
       [0015]     The abovementioned and other features of the inventions disclosed herein are described below with reference to the drawings of the preferred embodiments. The illustrated embodiments are intended to illustrate, but not to limit the inventions. The drawings contain the following figures:  
         [0016]      FIG. 1  is a perspective view of an umbrella according to the invention;  
         [0017]      FIG. 2  is a plan view of an umbrella according to the invention, partly cut away and showing the umbrella in a closed position  
         [0018]      FIG. 3  is plan view of an umbrella according to the invention, showing the umbrella in a first open position;  
         [0019]      FIG. 4  is a plan view of an umbrella according to the invention, showing the umbrella in a second open position;  
         [0020]      FIG. 5  is a cross-sectional view of the umbrella shown in  FIG. 3 , taken along the lines  5 - 5 ;  
         [0021]      FIG. 6  is a cross-sectional view of the umbrella shown in  FIG. 2 , partly broken away; and  
         [0022]      FIG. 7  is a plan view of the umbrella shown in  FIG. 1 , showing detail around the lower hub thereof.  
         [0023]      FIG. 8  is a bottom perspective view of a second hub illustrating a nested arrangement of first and second runners of the hub, in accordance with an embodiment.  
         [0024]      FIG. 9  is a side cross-sectional view of the hub shown in  FIG. 8 .  
         [0025]      FIG. 10A  is a top perspective view of the second runner of the hub shown in  FIG. 8 .  
         [0026]      FIG. 10B  is a side view of the second runner shown in  FIG. 10A .  
         [0027]      FIG. 10C  is a top view of the second runner shown in  FIG. 10A .  
         [0028]      FIG. 11A  is a top perspective view of the first runner of the hub shown in  FIG. 8 .  
         [0029]      FIG. 11B  is a top view of the first runner shown in  FIG. 11A . 
     
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION  
       [0030]     Referring now to the drawings, which illustrate some preferred embodiments of the present invention, and are not for limiting the same, a uniquely configured umbrella  10  is provided. As will be shown with reference to the drawings, a preferred embodiment of the umbrella  10  can be adjusted between a closed position, an open position, and an extended position utilizing innovative mechanisms and techniques which are discussed in greater detail below.  
         [0031]     According to an embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 1 , the umbrella  10  can include a support pole assembly  12 . The support pole assembly  12  can be configured to include at least one pole, and preferably comprises a lower pole  16  and an upper pole  18 . The upper pole  18  can be translatable relative to the lower pole  16 . In addition, the lower pole  16  can be configured to include at least one first elongate channel  20 . Although it is contemplated that the first elongate channel  20  can be formed separately from the lower pole  16 , the elongate channel  20  can be at least partially recessed in an outer surface  22  of the lower pole  16 , as shown in  FIGS. 1, 4 , and  5 .  
         [0032]     Referring still to  FIG. 1 , the umbrella  10  can further include a canopy support frame  14  that can be configured to include a first hub  30 , a second hub  32 , and an intermediate hub  34 . Additionally, the canopy support frame  14  can include a first plurality of ribs  40  that can each define a first end  42  and a second end  44 . According to an implementation of the present invention, the first ends  42  of the first plurality of ribs  40  can be coupled with the first hub  30  such that the second ends  44  are disposed away from the first hub  30 . Furthermore, the canopy support frame  14  can further include a second plurality of ribs  50 . Each of the second plurality of ribs can define a first end  52  and a second end  54 . In this regard, it is contemplated that the first ends  52  of the second plurality of ribs  50  can be coupled to the second hub  32 . Additionally, the second ends  52  of the second plurality of ribs can each be coupled to a respective rib of the first plurality of ribs  40  such that the first plurality of ribs  40  can be operatively coupled to the second plurality of ribs  50  in forming the canopy support frame  14 , according to an implementation of the present invention.  
         [0033]     In accordance with an aspect of the present invention, the canopy support frame  14  of the umbrella  10  can be moved from a closed position  60  (shown in  FIG. 2 ) to an open position  62  (shown in  FIGS. 1 and 3 ). In some implementations, the canopy support frame  14  can be operative to move to an extended position  64  (shown in  FIG. 4 ). Additionally, as shown in hidden lines in  FIG. 1 , the canopy support frame  14  can be used to support a canopy  66 , which can be coupled to the canopy support frame  14  in such a manner as to ensure that the canopy  66  can be manipulated in shape in response to the movement of the canopy support frame  14 . In this regard, the canopy  66  can comprise one or more individual canopy portions that collectively form the canopy  66 . It is contemplated that the canopy  66  can therefore have a variety of possible configurations, shapes, and other features that may be beneficial in using the umbrella  10 . Such modifications are contemplated as being within the scope of embodiments of the present invention.  
         [0034]     Referring still to  FIG. 1 , the umbrella  10  can comprise at least a first actuating handle  70  that is operative to manipulate the configuration of the canopy support frame  14 . According to an implementation, movement of the first actuating handle  70  can produce a corresponding movement of the canopy support frame  14  from the closed position  60  to the open position  62 . For example, the first actuating handle  70  can be vertically translated along the lower pole  16  in order to effectuate movement of the canopy support frame  14  from the closed position  60  to the open position  62 . In this regard, according to an embodiment of the present invention, it is contemplated that the first actuating handle  70  can be at least partially disposed within the first elongate channel  20  of the lower pole  16  in order to facilitate translatable vertical movement of the first actuating handle  70  along the lower pole  16 . The lower or main pole  16  extends downwardly into a base (not shown).  
         [0035]     According to another aspect of the present invention, the umbrella  10  can further comprise a second actuating handle  72 . As illustrated in  FIG. 1 , the second actuating handle  72  can be separate from the first actuating handle  70 . For example, the first actuating handle  70  can be disposed opposite the second actuating handle  72 . In an implementation of the present invention, movement of the second actuating handle  72  can produce a corresponding movement of the canopy support frame  14  from the open position  62 , shown in  FIGS. 1 and 3 , to the extended position  64 , shown in  FIG. 4 .  
         [0036]     Similar to the first actuating handle  70 , although the movement of the second actuating handle  72  can be any one of a variety of movements, it is contemplated that the second actuating handle  72  can be configured to be vertically translatable in order to effectuate the corresponding movement of the canopy support frame  14  from the open position  62  to the extended position  64 . In particular, the lower pole  16  can further include a second elongate channel  74 .  
         [0037]     Similar to the first elongate channel  20 , the second elongate channel  74  can be separate from the lower pole  16 . In an implementation of the present invention, the second elongate channel  74  can be at least partially recessed in the outer surface  22  of the lower pole  16 . Therefore, in accordance with an aspect of the present invention, the second actuating handle  72  can be sized and configured to be at least partially disposed within the second elongate channel  74  in order to facilitate translatable movement of the second actuating handle  72  along the lower pole  16 .  
         [0038]     Referring now to  FIG. 2 , the umbrella  10  is shown in the closed position  60 . Further,  FIG. 2  provides a partial cross-sectional view along an axis of the support pole assembly  12 . As shown therein, the umbrella  10  can further include a first elongate member  80 . The first elongate member  80  can be disposed in parallel relation relative to the support pole assembly  12 . However, the first elongate member  80  can preferably be at least partially disposed within the first elongate channel  20 .  
         [0039]     According to an implementation of the present invention, the first elongate member  80  can define an upper end  82  and a lower end  84 . The lower end  84  of the first elongate member  80  can be coupled with the first actuating handle  70 , and the upper end  82  of the first elongate member  80  can be coupled to the first hub  30 . The first elongate member  80  can be made of a variety of materials, such as metal, plastic, and can be elastic or inelastic. However, in a preferred embodiment, the first elongate member  80  can be fabricated from a substantially rigid material such that a position of the first hub  30  can be fixed relative to a position of the first actuating handle  70 .  
         [0040]     Therefore, as illustrated in  FIG. 2 , and as further described below with reference to  FIG. 5 , the first elongate member  80  can preferably be a compression member such as a cylindrical or other shaped rod that provides a coupling between the first hub  30  and the first actuating handle  70  in order to ensure that the distance between the first hub  30  and the first actuating handle  70  is relatively constant. In this regard, vertical displacement of the first actuating handle  70  can therefore result in a corresponding vertical displacement of the first hub  30 . As described further below, upon translating the first actuating handle  70  downwardly along the lower pole  16 , the first hub  30  can likewise be translated downwardly, and due to the configuration of the canopy support frame  14 , the canopy support frame can be moved from the closed position  60  to the open position  62 .  
         [0041]     According to another aspect of the present invention, the upper pole  18  of the support pole assembly  12  can be configured to provide stability to the first hub  30  and to ensure that the first hub  30  translates axially relative to the support pole assembly  12 . As illustrated in  FIG. 2 , the upper pole  18  can define an upper end  86  and a lower end  88 . The upper end  86  can be coupled to the first hub  30  and the lower end  88  can be slidable within a central passage  90  of the lower pole  16 . In this regard, the upper pole  18  is preferably sized and configured to ensure that the lower end  88  is maintained within the central passage  90  of the lower pole  16  during all translational movement of the first hub  30 .  
         [0042]     According to yet another aspect of the present invention, the umbrella  10  can further comprise a pulley assembly  100 . The pulley assembly  100  can be used to operatively interconnect the second actuating handle  72  with the second hub  32  in order to facilitate movement of the canopy support frame  14  from the open position  62  to the extended position  64 . As shown in  FIG. 2 , the second actuating handle  72  can be interconnected to the second hub  32  via a tension member  102 . The tension member  102  can define a first end  104  that can be coupled to the second actuating handle  72 , and a second end  106  that can be coupled to the second hub  32 . According to an implementation of the present invention, the tension member  102  can be a wire or other flexible cord and can extend upwardly from the second actuating handle  72  to engage the pulley assembly  100  and then descend downwardly toward the second hub  32 . A more detailed description of an exemplary configuration and operation of the pulley assembly  100  and the tension member  102  are provided below.  
         [0043]     Referring still to  FIG. 2 , the umbrella  10  can further comprise a second elongate member  82 . The second elongate member  82  can define an upper end  108  and a lower end  110 . As mentioned above with respect to the first elongate member  80 , the second elongate member  82  can also be fabricated from a similar variety of materials. Preferably, the second elongate member  82  is fabricated from a material. Thus, as shown in  FIG. 2 , the second elongate member  82  can be utilized to ensure that an axial position of the pulley assembly  100  is in fixed relation relative to at least a portion of the second hub  32 .  
         [0044]     In this regard, the lower end  110  of the second elongate member  82  can be coupled to at least a portion of the second hub  32  and the upper end  108  of the second elongate member  82  can be coupled to the pulley assembly  100 . As described in greater detail below, such an embodiment of the present invention can be beneficially used with a “split” or “nested” second hub  32 , which will be described further below. Nevertheless, it is contemplated that other embodiments of the present invention can be fabricated without the use of the second elongate member  82 . Further, in such alternative embodiments, the pulley assembly  100  can be fixed relative to the lower pole  16  in order to ensure that the second hub  32  can be moved in response to the movement of the second actuating handle  72 .  
         [0045]     As illustrated in  FIG. 2 , it is contemplated that at least one of the first hub  30 , the second hub  32 , and the intermediate hub  34  can be sized and configured to be vertically translatable relative to the support pole assembly  12 . For example, as mentioned above, the first hub  30  can be vertically translatable relative to the lower pole  16  of the support pole assembly  12 , with the upper pole  18  tending to ensure that the first hub  30  can be stabilized and axially translated with respect to the lower pole  16 . In addition, it is contemplated that at least a portion of the second hub  32  can be vertically translatable along the lower pole  16 . As will be described in greater detail below, various embodiments of the present invention can incorporate different configurations of the second hub  32  which can provide varying degrees of relative movement of portions of the second hub  32 .  
         [0046]     According to a preferred embodiment, the intermediate hub  34  can be positioned in a fixed relationship relative to the lower pole  16 . For example, the intermediate hub  34  can be coupled to a top end  112  of the lower pole  16 . Nevertheless, it is contemplated that other configurations of the umbrella  10  can provide that the intermediate hub  34  be vertically translatable with respect to the lower pole  16 . Exemplary operation of the first hub  30 , the second hub  32 , and the intermediate hub  34  are described in greater detail below.  
         [0047]     Referring now to the front plan view of  FIG. 3 , the umbrella  10  is shown in the open position  62 . The view of the umbrella in  FIG. 3  provides only a partial illustration of the canopy support frame  14 . In accordance with an aspect of the present invention, the canopy support frame  14  can be configured such that the first and second pluralities of ribs  40 ,  50  can combine to form a non-uniform configuration.  
         [0048]     In this regard, as shown in  FIG. 3 , the canopy support frame  14  can be configured to include at least one up member  120  and at least one down member  130 . Each of the up and down members  120 ,  130  can be individually comprised of at least one of the first plurality of ribs  40  and at least one of the second plurality of ribs  50 . In one implementation, the canopy support frame  14  can include two up members  120  (both shown in  FIG. 3 ) and six down members  130  (wherein only two are visible in  FIG. 3 ). As shown in  FIG. 3 , in the open position  62 , the second ends  44  of each of the up members  120  can be positioned at a same or greater height or elevation than the second ends  44  of the down members  130 .  
         [0049]     According to an aspect of the present invention, movement of the first actuating handle  70  can cause the canopy support frame to move from the closed position  60  to the open position  62  illustrated in  FIG. 3 . For example, upon being raised to the open position  62 , the second ends  44  of the first plurality of ribs  40  can be raised to a first elevation  132 . The term “first elevation  132 ” can refer broadly to the general positioning of the second ends  44  of the canopy support frame  14  when the canopy support frame  14  is in the open position  62 .  
         [0050]     With regard to the first elevation  132 , where the canopy support frame  14  is configured in a uniform fashion, each of the second ends  44  of the first plurality of ribs  40  can be raised to substantially the same elevation or height. However, in another embodiment, which has been described above, the canopy support frame  14  can be configured in a non-uniform fashion, wherein the second ends  44  of the respective ones of the up members  120  and the down members  130  can be positioned at different heights. In this regard, although the second ends  44  of the up members  120  and the down members  130  may be positioned at different heights when the canopy support frame  14  is in the open position  62 , each of these second ends  44  can be considered to be at the first elevation  132 . Additional description and comparison will be provided below with regard to the extended position  64  of the canopy support frame  14 .  
         [0051]     With reference now to the side plan view of  FIG. 4 , the umbrella  10  is illustrated as being in the extended position  64 . As shown therein, each of the second ends  44  of the first plurality of ribs  40  can be positioned at a second elevation  134 . The term “second elevation  134 ” can refer broadly to the general positioning of the second ends  44  of the canopy support frame  14  when the canopy support frame  14  is in the extended position  64 . According to one implementation of the present invention, the second ends  44  of the first plurality of ribs  40  can be positioned at approximately the same height when in the extended position  64 . Further, the first plurality of ribs  40  can collectively define a common plane when in the extended position  64 .  
         [0052]     Similar to the first elevation  132 , the second elevation  134  is not limited to a configuration wherein each of the second ends  44  are at exactly the same height. However, when in the extended position  64 , each of the second ends  44  can preferably be at approximately the same height at the second elevation  134 . Nevertheless, other configurations are contemplated, wherein the second ends of the first plurality of ribs  40  can be positioned at substantially different heights when positioned at the second elevation  134 . Such a concept is similar to that discussed above with respect to the first elevation  132 .  
         [0053]     According to an aspect of the present invention, it is contemplated that the second elevation  134  can be generally higher than the first elevation  132 . Thus, when the canopy support frame  14  moves from the open position  62  to the extended position  64 , at least one of the second ends  44  of the canopy support frame  14  should be raised from the first elevation  132  to the second elevation  134 . Preferably, each of the second ends  44  can be moved from the first elevation  132  upwardly to the second elevation  134  when the canopy support frame  14  moves from the open position  62  to the extended position  64 .  
         [0054]     Referring still to  FIG. 4 , it is contemplated that the canopy support frame  14  can further comprise at least one support strut  140 . The support strut can define a first end  142  and a second end  144 . The first end  142  of the support strut  140  can be coupled to the intermediate hub  34 , as illustrated in  FIG. 4 . The second end  144  of the support strut  140  can be coupled to one of the second plurality of ribs  50 .  FIG. 4  is an exemplary illustration wherein two support struts  140  can operatively interconnect two of the second plurality of ribs  50  with the intermediate hub  34 .  
         [0055]     Additional configurations can be provided, wherein more than two support struts  140 , such as four or six, can be used in the canopy support frame  14 . Thus, more than two of the second plurality of ribs  50  can be interconnected to the intermediate hub  34 . In this regard, the combination of one of the second plurality of ribs  50  with one of the support struts  140  can be collectively referred to as a strut pair  150 .  
         [0056]     As illustrated in  FIG. 4 , it is contemplated that the second hub  32  can comprise at least a first hub component or runner  152  and a second hub component or runner  154 , in what was previously referred to as a “split” or “nested” second hub  32 . According to an implementation of the present invention, the first and second runners  152 ,  154  can each be coupled to at least one of the second plurality of ribs  50  at the first ends  54  thereof. As mentioned above, although it is contemplated that the second plurality of ribs  50  can be coupled to a common second hub  32 , the first and second runners  152 ,  154  can be provided such that selected ones  156  of the second plurality of ribs  50  are coupled to the first runner  152  and remaining ones  160  of the second plurality of ribs  50  are coupled to the second runner  154 . The selected ones  156  can be those of the second plurality of ribs  50  that are not coupled to the second runner  154 , and are shown in hidden lines in  FIG. 4 .  
         [0057]     In  FIG. 4 , an embodiment is illustrated wherein two remaining ones  160  of the second plurality of ribs  50  are coupled to the second hub component or runner  154 . As illustrated in  FIG. 4 , the two remaining ones  160  can each respectively be part of the illustrated strut pairs  150  coupled to the second runner  154 , the intermediate hub  34 , and a respective one of the first plurality of ribs  40 . Such a configuration can be repeated for additional strut pairs  150 . Thus, as shown in  FIG. 4 , at least two strut pairs can be operatively connected in such a manner.  
         [0058]      FIG. 4  also illustrates that the first hub component or runner  152  can be coupled to the remaining ones  160  of the second plurality of ribs  50 . With reference to  FIG. 4  and to  FIG. 3 , it is contemplated that the selected ones  160  of the second plurality of ribs  50  can be respectively coupled to the up members  120  and the down members  130 . Various other configurations can be implemented utilizing the teachings herein.  
         [0059]     With reference now to  FIGS. 2 and 3 , it is contemplated that the first actuating handle  70  can be moved from a first position  166  to a second position  168  in order to move the canopy support frame from the closed position  60  to the open position  62 . Referring now to  FIGS. 3 and 4 , it is contemplated that the second actuating handle  72  can be moved from a first position  170  to a second position  172  in order to move the canopy support frame  14  from the open position  62  to the extended position  64 , respectively. In this regard, it is contemplated that the first positions  166 ,  170  of the respective ones of the first and second actuating handles  70 ,  72  can be higher than the second positions  168 ,  172 , respectively. Thus, the first and second actuating handles  70 ,  72  can be vertically translatable along the lower pole  16  and can be at least partially disposed within the respective ones of the first and second elongate channels  20 ,  74 , according to an implementation of the present invention.  
         [0060]     Referring now to  FIG. 5 , an exemplary cross-section of the lower pole  16 , as called out in  FIG. 2 , is illustrated. As mentioned previously, the lower pole  16  can define a substantially circular cross-sectional periphery. Further, the first and second elongate channels  20 ,  74 , can be at least partially recessed in the outer surface  22  of the lower pole  16 . The first and second elongate channels  20 ,  74  can define substantially rectangular cross-sections that can be sized and configured to retain at least a portion of the respective ones of the first and second actuating handles  70 ,  72  therewithin while permitting the first and second actuating handles  70 ,  72  to be translatable therewithin.  
         [0061]     The position of the cross-section illustrated in  FIG. 5 , as called out in  FIG. 2 , is adjacent the top end  112  of the lower pole  16 . Therefore, the cross-sectional illustration of  FIG. 5  further illustrates a cross-section of the first elongate member  80 , which can be sized and configured to be translatable within the first elongate channel  20 . Further,  FIG. 5  also illustrates a cross-section of the upper pole  18  that can be disposed within the central passage  90  of the lower pole  16 . As shown, the upper pole  18  can have a substantially rectangular cross-section. Nevertheless, the configurations and sizes of the elements shown in the embodiment of  FIG. 5  can be variously modified and can further include additional features that compliment and/or facilitate the implementation of such an embodiment of the present invention.  
         [0062]     Referring now to  FIG. 6 , a cross-section of the umbrella  10 , as called out in  FIG. 2 , is provided.  FIG. 6  illustrates an exemplary configuration of the pulley assembly  100 . As shown, the pulley assembly  100  can include a pulley block  180  and at least a first roller  182 . In the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 6 , the pulley assembly  100  can further include a second roller  184 . The first and second rollers  182 ,  184  can be rotatably coupled to the pulley block  180 . Further, the pulley block  180  can be sized and configured such that the tension member  102  can be introduced therethrough and disposed onto the first and second rollers  182 ,  184 .  
         [0063]     As shown in  FIGS. 2 and 6 , in an exemplary embodiment, the first end  104  of the tension member  102  can be coupled to the second actuating handle  72 . The tension member  102  can then extend upwardly from the second actuating handle  72  toward the pulley assembly  100 . As shown in  FIG. 6 , the tension member  102  can then engage the first roller  182  and extend downwardly toward the second hub  32 . The tension member  102  can then engage a third roller (not shown) that is rotatably coupled to the second hub  32  (such as on the first runner  152 ) and then extend upwardly again toward the pulley assembly  100 . Finally, the tension member can then engage the second roller  184  and extend downwardly toward the second hub  32 , where the second end  106  of the tension member  102  can be coupled. Thus, in such a configuration, with the pulley assembly  100  being fixed relative to the second runner  154  of the second hub  32 , the first runner  152  can be vertically translated along the lower pole  16  upon vertical translation of the second actuating handle  72 .  
         [0064]     According to another aspect of the present invention, the pulley assembly  100  can be sized and configured to be vertically translatable along the lower pole  16 . In this regard, it is contemplated that the second elongate channel  74 , or another channel similarly disposed, can be disposed along the lower pole  16  at least intermediate the second hub  32  and the intermediate hub  34 , such that the pulley assembly  100  can be vertically translatable along the channel. In such a configuration, as described below, the second runner  154  and the pulley assembly  100  can both move along the lower pole  16  in response to the movement of the first actuating handle  70 . In some embodiments, the second runner  154  and the pulley assembly  100  can move together along the lower pole  16 . For example, the space between the second runner  154  and pulley assembly  100  can remain constant as the translation occurs.  FIG. 6  illustrates an exemplary spacing and configuration of the first elongate member  80 , the upper pole  18 , and the second elongate member  82 .  
         [0065]     Referring now to  FIG. 7 , it is contemplated that the second hub  32  can be configured such that the first and second runners  152 ,  154  can be nested. As shown in  FIG. 7 , a plurality of coupling pins can be used to couple the second plurality of ribs  50  to the second hub  32 . Preferably, when in a nested position, the coupling pins  190 ′ of the first runner  152  can be disposed at substantially the same height as the coupling pins  190 ″ of the second runner  154 . In this regard, as shown in  FIG. 7 , the second runner  154  can be configured to include a pair of opposing shoulders  192  whereat the respective ones of the second plurality of ribs  50  can be coupled to the second runner  154 . The shoulders  192  preferably can be sized and configured with the coupling pins  190 ″ disposed therein being at substantially the same height as the coupling pins  190 ′ of the first runner  152  when the second hub  32  is in the nested position. The first and second runners  152 ,  154  can be variously configured and modified utilizing the teachings herein.  
         [0066]     In accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention, it is contemplated that the first and second actuating handles  70 ,  72  can further define an engagement surface and include a tightening element that allows the engagement surfaces of the first and second actuating handles  70 ,  72  to frictionally engage the lower pole  16 . For example, the tightening element can be a clamp or screw that allows the first and second actuating handles  70 ,  72  to clamp onto the outer surface  22  of the lower pole  16 , such as onto a ridge formed by the first and second elongate channels  20 ,  74 .  
         [0067]     Additionally, the tightening element can cause the first and second actuating handles  70 ,  72  to expand within the first and second elongate channels  20 ,  74  to thereby frictionally engage the lower pole  16 . Thus, the first and second actuating handles  70 ,  72  can be positioned in a fixed position relative to the lower pole  16 . Using this feature, once the umbrella  10  has moved to the open position  62  and the extended position  64 , the frictional engagement of the first and second actuating handles  70 ,  72  can maintained the position of the first and second actuating handles  70 ,  72  at the respective second positions  168 ,  172 .  
         [0068]     As discussed above with respect to  FIGS. 4 and 7 , the second hub  32  can comprise at least the first hub component or runner  152  and the second hub component or runner  154 . As such, the second hub  32  can be referred to as a “split”, “nested” or “embedded” hub. As shown in a bottom perspective view of  FIG. 8 , the second hub  32  is “split” in that it comprises more than one component, and is “nested” in that at least a portion of the second runner  154  can be fitted to within a cavity or recess of the first runner  152 . Alternatively, the second hub  32  can be configured such that the first runner  152  fits to within a recess of second runner  154 . Further, the first and second runners  152 ,  154  can each include cavities or recesses into which certain portions of the other respective runners  152 ,  154  can be received.  
         [0069]     This type of fitting between the first and second hub components or runners  152 ,  154  can have several aesthetic and mechanical advantages. For example, not only will the first and second runners  152 ,  154  create a streamlined and integrated appearance, but the integrated fit of some embodiments can tend to create greater structural rigidity of the umbrella rib structure.  
         [0070]     Referring now to  FIG. 9 , a side cross-sectional view of the second hub  32  of  FIG. 8  is shown. As illustrated therein, the second runner  154  can include a pair of opposing shoulders  192 , which can be diametrically opposed on the second runner  154 . The opposing shoulders  192  can be received to within a nesting cavity  210  of the first runner  152 . Accordingly, the first runner  152  can include a corresponding number of nesting cavities  210  such as required by the configuration of the second runner  154 . The nesting cavities  210  and the opposing shoulders  192  can be configured to provide a very close fit when the second runner  154  is nested with the first runner  152 .  
         [0071]     Although sides of the nesting cavity  210  and opposing shoulders  192  are illustrated in the embodiment of  FIG. 9  as being straight, it is contemplated that other interlocking features can be present in the configurations of the nesting cavity  210  and the shoulders  192 . Further, as shown in  FIG. 9 , the first runner  152  can include opposing abutments  212  that can be configured to abut top surfaces  214  of the opposing shoulders  192 . In some embodiments, the top surfaces  214  of the opposing shoulders  192  can be configured to include features that mate with corresponding features of the opposing abutments  212 . Other various modifications can be implemented in order to facilitate interconnection and stability of the second hub  32 .  
         [0072]     In accordance with some embodiments, the second hub component or runner  154  and the first hub component or runner  152  can include corresponding surfaces that mate in order to facilitate nesting of the first and second runners  152 ,  154  with each other. These structures can maintain a generally fixed orientation of the second runner  154  with respect to the first runner  152  when in the nested position. For example, as discussed above, the top surface  214  of the second runner  154  can mate with the opposing abutment  212  when the opposing shoulders  192  are received to within the nesting cavities  210 .  
         [0073]     In other embodiments, the nesting cavities  210  can be configured with a depth corresponding to a height of the opposing shoulders  192 . Accordingly, the top surface  214  can mate with the abutment  212  and a lower surface  216  of the first runner  152  can abut an upper surface  218  of the second runner  154  when the first and second runners  152 ,  154  are in the nested position.  
         [0074]     In such embodiments, the first and second runners  152 ,  154  can be configured to allow vertical forces to be evenly distributed intermediate the first and second runners  152 ,  154 . As such, some embodiments can therefore provide that when the second runner  154  is in a fixed position along the pole of the umbrella, the weight or downward force exerted by the first runner  152  can be evenly born along the upper surface  218  and the top surface  214  of the second runner  154  rather than creating point loads at discrete locations on the second runner  154 . Failure and warpage of the components of the umbrella can thereby be mitigated and/or prevented.  
         [0075]     FIGS.  10 A-C illustrate an exemplary embodiment of the second runner  154 . As shown in the perspective view of  FIG. 10A , the opposing shoulders  192  can be configured to include a pair of vertical side walls  230 . Each of the opposing side walls can include an aperture  232  configured to receive a pin in order to interconnect an umbrella rib with one of the opposing shoulders  192 . Although the embodiment illustrated in FIGS.  10 A-B shows the apertures  232  disposed along an upper area of the opposing side walls  230 , the apertures  232  can be disposed at any appropriate location based on the configuration of the opposing shoulders  192 .  
         [0076]     In some embodiments, the opposing shoulders can also include tapered sections  240 . As discussed above, the tapered sections can represent a feature of the opposing shoulders  192  that can assist in maintaining a generally fixed orientation of the second runner  154  relative to the first runner  152  when in the nested position. The tapered sections  240 , as noted further below, can mate with a corresponding structure of the first runner  152 . As shown in  FIG. 10B , the tapered sections can extend generally vertically along an interior area of the opposing shoulders  192 . As shown in  FIG. 10C , in some embodiments, the tapered sections  240  can be generally flat and can extend generally perpendicularly from a perimeter  250  of a center  252  of the second runner  154 .  
         [0077]     In accordance with other embodiments, the opposing shoulders  192  can include recesses  260  for accommodating distal ends of the ribs connected thereto. The recesses  260  preferably correspond to the width of the ribs received therein. Furthermore, the recesses  260  should further be configured to allow the distal end of the rib to pivot with respect to the pin. It is also contemplated that embodiments can be provided wherein the distal ends of the rib can be shaped as fork members whereinto the opposing shoulders  192  can be pivotably coupled.  
         [0078]     Furthermore, as shown in  FIG. 10C , the second runner  154  can also include a guide  270  for coupling the second runner  154  to the pole of the umbrella. In some embodiments, the guide  270  can be used to generally fix at least one of the vertical or rotational orientations of the second runner  154  relative to the pole. For example, as discussed above, some embodiments of the umbrella can be configured such that the second runner  154  is fixed relative to the pole. Alternatively, the guide  270  could be used to effectuate movement of the second runner  154  therealong.  
         [0079]     As shown in the embodiment of  FIG. 10C , the guide  270  can be configured as a T-shaped member and can optionally include a connection aperture  272 . The connection aperture  272  can be configured to receive a screw, bolt, a vertical rod, or other structure to secure the guide  270  to within the pole of the umbrella. As such, depending on the configuration of the pole, which may include a longitudinal slot or an aperture through which the guide  270  can be received, and further depending on whether the second runner  154  is fixed, the attachment means can fix the longitudinal position and/or the rotational position of the second runner  154  relative to the pole.  
         [0080]     Referring now to FIGS.  11 A-B, an exemplary embodiment of the first runner  152 , as illustrated in  FIG. 8 , is shown. The first runner  152  can include a coupling aperture  280 . The coupling aperture  280  can be disposed adjacent the inner perimeter of the first runner  152 . As such, as described above, when the first runner  152  slides relative to the pole, the coupling aperture  280  can be used to receive a guide pole or rod that can be used to maintain the relative axial orientation of the first runner  152  relative to that of the pole to maintain the relative axial or rotational orientation substantially constant relative to that of the pole. However, in other embodiments, it is contemplated that the inner perimeter  282  can include a guide such as that illustrated with respect to the second runner  154  or other means in order to maintain the structural rigidity and alignment of the first runner relative to the pole.  
         [0081]     As shown best in  FIG. 11B , the bottom view of the first runner  152  illustrates that the nesting cavity  210  can tend to be larger than rib connection cavities  290  in order to accommodate the size of the opposing shoulders  192 . Further, the nesting cavities  210  can also include tapered sections  292  configured and corresponding to the tapered sections  240  of the second runner  154 . Further, as discussed above, with respect to  FIG. 9 , the opposing abutments  212  and the lower surface  216  preferably include a sufficient surface area to mate with the respective ones of the top surfaces  214  and the upper surface  218  of the second runner  154 . In such embodiments, the configuration of the opposing abutments  212 , the opposing shoulders  192 , and the general configuration of the top and bottom mating areas of the first and second runners  152 ,  154  can tend to reduce stress concentrations in any portion of the first and second runners  152 ,  154 .  
         [0082]     Now, according to a first embodiment and operation of embodiments discussed herein, the umbrella  10  can be configured to include only the first actuating handle  70 . The first actuating handle  70 , as taught herein, can be utilized to move the canopy support frame  14  from the closed position  60  to the open position  62 . In such an embodiment, the first actuating handle  70  can be vertically translatable along the first elongate channel  20 , and in response to the vertical translation of the first actuating handle  70 , at least the first hub  30  can experience a corresponding vertical translation in order to move the canopy support frame  14  from the closed position  60  to the open position  62 .  
         [0083]     According to a second embodiment and operation of the present invention, the umbrella  10  can include both the first and second actuating handles  70 ,  72 . In such an embodiment, vertical displacement of the first actuating handle  70  can cause a corresponding vertical translation of the first hub  30  to move the canopy support frame  14  from a closed position  60  to an open position  62 . Further, vertical translation of the second actuating handle  72  can cause a corresponding vertical translation of the second hub  32  in order to move the canopy support frame  14  from the open position  62  to the extended position  64 . The first and second actuating handles  70 ,  72  can travel along the lower pole  16  and be at least partially disposed within the respective ones of the first and second elongate channels  20 ,  74 .  
         [0084]     According to a third and preferred embodiment and operation, the umbrella  10  can comprise the first and second actuating handles  70 ,  72 . As with the second embodiment, vertical translation of the first and second actuating handles  70 ,  72  can cause corresponding vertical translation of the respective ones of the first and second hubs  30 ,  32 . However, in the third and preferred embodiment, the second hub  32  can comprise the first and second runners  152 ,  154 . Thus, vertical translation of the second actuating handle  72  can cause relative movement between the first and second runners  152 ,  154 . For example, the first runner  152  can rise at a faster rate than the second runner  154  during movement of the second hub  32 .  
         [0085]     The third and preferred embodiment can also include the first and second elongate members  80 ,  82 . As mentioned above, the first elongate member  80  can be coupled to the first hub  30  and the first actuating handle  70  in order to ensure that the position of the first hub  30  is fixed relative to the position of the first actuating handle  70 . Thus, downward vertical translation of the first actuating handle  70  can directly result in corresponding downward vertical translation of the first hub  30 . Such exemplary movement can be made when moving the canopy support frame  14  from the closed position  60  to the open position  62 .  
         [0086]     In accordance with another aspect of the third and preferred embodiment, the second elongate member  82  can be coupled to the pulley assembly and the second hub  32 . It is contemplated that the lower end  110  of the second elongate member  82  can be coupled to either the first or second runners  152 ,  154  of the second hub  32 . However, in the third and preferred embodiment, the second elongate member  82  can be coupled with the second runner  154 . Thus, the position of the pulley assembly  100  can be fixed relative to the position of the second runner  154 , and allow the first runner  152  to be vertically translated along the lower pole  16  upon vertical translation of the second actuating handle  72 .  
         [0087]     Furthermore, the third and preferred embodiment can also include two strut pairs  150  which can be coupled to the second runner  154 , the intermediate hub  34 , and respective ones of the first plurality of ribs  40 . When the first actuating handle  70  is downwardly vertically translated, the first hub  30  can be correspondingly downwardly vertically translated which can result in the expansion of the canopy support frame  14  from the closed position  60  toward the open position  62 . During this expansion, the first ends  42 ,  54  of the first and second pluralities of ribs  40 ,  50  can be moved towards each other (with the second ends  44 ,  54  thereof moving radially outwardly) due to the coupling of the strut pair  150  with the intermediate hub  34 , which can be fixedly mounted to the lower pole  16 . Thus, the first hub  30  and the second hub  32  can tend to relatively converge toward each other during the movement of the canopy support frame  14  from the closed position  60  to the open position  62 . Additionally, during this expansion, the position of the pulley assembly  100  can be fixed relative to the position of the second hub  32 . Thus, the upward vertical translation of the second hub  32  can be at least partially limited by the size of the second elongate member  82  which can interconnect the pulley assembly  100  and the second hub  32  and the distance between the pulley assembly  100  and the intermediate hub  34 . In operation, the open position  62  can be achieved once the pulley assembly  100  has been moved to a position adjacent to or just lower than the intermediate hub  34 .  
         [0088]     In the third embodiment, when the canopy support frame  14  has reached the open position  62 , the second actuating handle  72  can be downwardly vertically translated in order to draw the tension member  102  through the pulley to thereby raise the first runner  152  from the nested position of the second hub  32 . This movement of the first runner  152  can cause a corresponding movement of the remaining ones  160  of the second plurality of ribs  50 . Such movement can cause the first plurality of ribs  40  has to be raised to the extended position  64 . Finally, the first and second actuating handles  70 ,  72  can be fixed in position relative to the lower pole  16  using the tightening elements.  
         [0089]     Although these inventions have been disclosed in the context of certain preferred embodiments and examples, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present inventions extend beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or uses of the inventions and obvious modifications and equivalents thereof. In addition, while several variations of the inventions have been shown and described in detail, other modifications, which are within the scope of these inventions, will be readily apparent to those of skill in the art based upon this disclosure. It is also contemplated that various combination or sub-combinations of the specific features and aspects of the embodiments may be made and still fall within the scope of the inventions. It should be understood that various features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments can be combined with or substituted for one another in order to form varying modes of the disclosed inventions. Thus, it is intended that the scope of at least some of the present inventions herein disclosed should not be limited by the particular disclosed embodiments described above.

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