Modular Outdoor Umbrella Systems

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/687,396 filed on Aug. 27, 2024, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/742,056 filed on Jan. 6, 2025. Both the above-numbered provisional patent applications are incorporated by reference herein for all purposes in their entireties.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention is generally related to umbrella systems and more specifically to modular outdoor umbrella systems that can be adapted to provide a comfortable user experience for all seasons.

BACKGROUND ART

There is an abundance of prior art in the market of outdoor shade and sun-protection systems. There are many solutions with differences in usage, structure, styles of canopies, material composition of canopy fabrics and material, to name a few.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,798,427 to Sear discloses an apparatus in the form of an umbrella or parasol of a generally conventional construction that exemplifies a form in which the screen may be supported. The construction includes a central support member, a plurality of support rods, extending radially from one end of the support member and a sheet of material covering and secured to the support rods. The umbrella may be folded for storage or transport or erected for use in a conventional manner. The central support member is provided with a pointed end to facilitate insertion into, for example, a lawn or beach. Alternatively, a heavy disc-shaped base may be provided from which support member is upstanding in use so that the apparatus may be used on impenetrable ground such as a terrace or patio. The support member is hinged so that the upper part thereof may be directed towards the sun.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,401,737 B1 to Kloor III describes an umbrella with a detachable canopy or vent top. The umbrella includes: a canopy, where the canopy may be detachably coupled to a frame; and a vent top, wherein the vent top may be detachably coupled to the canopy. In the preferred embodiment, the canopy may be comprised of eight, sixteen, or twenty-four panels. The vent top may be comprised of multiple panels as well. Each of the individual panels of the canopy may have a different color, so that canopies with various patterns are provided. The individual panels of the vent top may be provided in the same manner. In the preferred embodiment, both the canopy and the vent top also comprise a border, which may also be provided with a different color. Thus, by varying the color combinations of the panels of the canopy, the panels of the vent top, and the borders around the canopy and vent top, umbrellas with different patterns are possible. In this manner, the consumer need not purchase an entirely new umbrella to replace damaged or overly worn part(s) of the umbrella, or to have a different patterned canopy and/or vent top.

U.S. Pat. No. 9,951,541 B1 to Gharabegian provides a modular umbrella shading system including a base module, a core module assembly and a first extension assembly, the first extension assembly connecting the base unit to the core umbrella assembly. The modular umbrella shading system further includes an arm expansion sensor module and a second extension assembly, the second extension assembly detachably connecting the core umbrella assembly to the arm expansion sensor module.

U.S. Patent Publication No. 2015/0129005 A1 to Heale discloses an improved umbrella comprising a shaft and a plurality of ribs spaced around the shaft arranged to be capable of extending outwardly of the shaft in a deployed condition. The umbrella further comprises a canopy supportable by the ribs and a tensioner comprising a filamentary material which extends around the perimeter of the umbrella. The filamentary material is arranged to tension the perimeter of the umbrella and resist inversion of the umbrella by pulling a distal end of each rib towards the shaft when in the deployed condition.

U.S. Patent Publication No. 2024/0315368 A1 Dueva-Koganov teaches a garment for blocking exposure of a subject to harmful solar irradiation while simultaneously permitting exposure of the subject to beneficial solar irradiation. The garment includes a fabric layer including a dual-purpose material composition that, by itself, blocks harmful solar irradiation while simultaneously permitting beneficial solar irradiation to an area of skin of a subject covered by the fabric layer when exposed to solar light. The harmful solar irradiation comprises ultraviolet A (UVA), ultraviolet B (UVB), and/or high-energy visible (HEV) light, and the beneficial solar irradiation comprises visible (VIS) and/or infrared (IR) light. The reference further teaches methods of using and making the garment, as well as a protective covering made from the dual-purpose material composition fabric layer. In certain embodiments, the protective covering can include, without limitation, beach blankets, other wearable coverings, umbrellas, parasols, awnings, canopies, curtains, shade cloths, window covers, tents, and other articles, materials, products, and the like.

UK Patent Publication No. GB 2323580 to Gordon describes a sun shield capable of protecting persons or plants against the harmful effects of incident radiation and being formed from a substantially transparent flexible material. The material at least substantially absorbs and/or reflects incident radiation in the ultraviolet and infrared frequency ranges and which may be repeatedly folded without becoming damaged. The supple, flexible and durable transparent material may be mounted on a framework to be attached to, for example, a child's car seat or pushchair or to serve as a parasol or canopy, or to protect plants from excessive ultra violet or infrared radiation.

Photek™ Sunbuster Umbrella Kit is a product for providing lighting for photoshoots in which a black/silver cover or shell can replace a white umbrella cover.

The Hedgehog™ Umbrella offers an umbrella product in which various umbrella canopies can be attached to the frame based on their colors and patterns.

Other products in the current outdoor umbrella market offer umbrellas with canopies that are meant to be replaced only in case of damage or malfunction. There are no solutions that exist in which the user is able to interchange canopies based on changing seasonal conditions and for year-round comfort. Thus, despite the plethora of prior art, there are no modular outdoor umbrella solutions with multiple canopies, transparent and opaque, that can be removably installed on the umbrella frame for year-round comfort of the user. There are also no solutions that provide a heatshield cover that can be deployed over an underlying transparent canopy.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

In view of the shortcomings of the prior art, it is an object of the invention to provide a modular outdoor umbrella system that can be seasonally adapted for year-round comfort.

It is also an object of the invention to provide a substantially transparent canopy that is initially and removably installed by the user and later interchanged with a substantially opaque canopy based on a number of factors.

It is further an object of the invention to provide a plurality of canopies with various performance attributes that can be removably installed by the user based on changing seasons and personal choices.

It is also an object of the invention to compose the substantially transparent canopy/canopies at least in part of photochromic, thermochromic and/or electrochromic materials.

It is also an object of the invention to compose the canopy/canopies at least in part of infrared-block nanoparticles.

It is also an object of the invention to provide a heatshield cover that can be deployed over a transparent/translucent canopy.

Still other objects and advantages of the invention will become apparent upon reading the summary and the detailed description in conjunction with the drawing figures.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The objects and advantages of the invention are achieved by apparatus and methods of a modular outdoor umbrella system with an umbrella frame and two canopies. Both the canopies have their own performance attributes or properties. These include their light or spectral transmission profiles or properties. Specifically, these include their visible light transmission (VLT) properties and infrared (IR) transmission (IRT) properties. For a given canopy, the former is a measure of how much visible light is transmitted through the canopy and the latter is a measure of how much IR light is transmitted through the canopy.

According to the chief aspects, the first canopy is a flexible and substantially transparent/translucent canopy with a VLT of greater than 15% and an IRT of greater than 20%. The performance attributes of the first canopy also include a haze value or a measure of its “cloudiness” of less than 10%. The second canopy is a substantially opaque canopy with a VLT of less than 15% and an IRT of less than 20%.

The first canopy, which is flexible and substantially transparent, is removably installed by a user on the umbrella frame. The canopy is particularly suitable in the cooler or colder months of the spring or winter seasons/timeframes because it allows visible light and warm IR rays to pass through while providing protection from the harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays of the sun. Preferably, the canopy allows the beneficial IR-A rays to pass through while blocking harmful IR-B and IR-C rays. It also provides a unique experience to the user because while enjoying the comfort of the umbrella, the user is able to view the surroundings and nature through the “see through” canopy, unlike typical umbrellas that block all visibility.

Then, as the season gets warmer and it becomes too warm to enjoy the comfort of the outdoors while being under the first substantially transparent canopy, the user switches or interchanges it with the substantially opaque canopy in reserve. More particularly, the user makes the decision or determination to interchange the canopies based on the specific performance attributes of the two canopies, the environmental or seasonal or climatic conditions where the instant outdoor umbrella system is located as well as the personal preference(s) of the user. This is because different users have different likenesses and tolerances for heat, warmth, ambience, airflow, sun versus shade, time-of-day usage, among other environmental conditions.

The interchange is easy and efficient to perform because the first canopy was removably installed/attached to the frame and more specifically its ribs. Preferably, the interchange can be performed manually in under 2 minutes. Once the interchange is complete, the user is able to enjoy the cooling effect and shade under the substantially opaque canopy in a manner that is more generally associated with umbrellas. The ability of the instant modular umbrella system that allows a user to interchange canopies based on the attributes/properties of the canopies, seasonal/environmental conditions and personal choices of the user, is a key contribution of the present technology. As a result, the system with its seasonally-selectable canopies can be seasonally adapted to provide year-round comfort or a comfortable user experience for all seasons.

In a preferred embodiment, the user retains an umbrella canopy on the frame for a minimum of one month based on their preference(s) and prevailing environmental conditions, before performing the interchange. Based on the instant modular design, in a highly preferred embodiment, a number of additional/multiplicity of canopies are provided, each with its own performance attributes attuned to specific climatic conditions. The user is thus able to select any canopy based on the attributes of the canopy, the environmental/seasonal conditions and on one or more personal preferences of the user.

In the same or a related embodiment, an IR-blocking canopy is removably installed by the user on the umbrella frame when the ambient temperature is below 75° F. and a light-blocking canopy is removably installed by the user when the ambient temperature is above 75° F. In the same or a related embodiment, one or both of the substantially transparent and substantially opaque canopies are photochromic, thermochromic and/or electrochromic. That is to say they alter one or more of their performance attributes in response to a light, a heat and an electric/electronic stimulus respectively. The altered performance attributes include especially their color or opacity or both.

In another preferred embodiment, one or both of the canopies are composed at least in part of a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) film. Such a TPU includes aliphatic polyether TPU and aliphatic polycaprolactone TPU. In the same or a related embodiment, the TPU film includes a hindered amine light stabilizer (HALS) and/or another UV-stabilizing additive. In the same or a related embodiment, at canopy least utilizes IR-blocking one nanoparticles that provide protection from harmful IR-B and IR-C rays. In the same or a related embodiment, the substantially transparent canopy is composed at least in part of an optically clear polymer sheet. In the same or a related embodiment, the substantially opaque canopy is composed at least in part of a fabric material such as woven material.

Of course, the performance attributes of the canopies include any number of properties, including VLT, IRT and haze value as discussed above. Other attributes include aesthetic properties, such as color/tint, shape/form, size, material composition i.e. the “look and feel” of the material, weight, wind resistance, among others. The tint or color include amber, sepia, blue, green, red, pink, grey, yellow, orange, violet, green and any other visually perceptible color. Thus, in a preferred variation, the substantially transparent canopy provides UV-protection while being tinted in one or more of the above colors. In the same or a related variation, at least one of the canopies blocks 98% or more of ultraviolet-A (UVA) and 98% or more of ultraviolet-B UVB radiation.

In a highly preferred set of embodiments, instant outdoor umbrella system comprises an umbrella frame, a flexible and a substantially transparent/translucent canopy as well as a heatshield cover or simply a heatshield that is deployed over the canopy. According to the chief aspects, the flexible and transparent/translucent canopy blocks 80% or more of UVA and 80% or more of UVB rays of the sunlight incident or falling on the umbrella system and specifically the flexible transparent canopy.

The heatshield cover is removably installed or attached over or onto the flexible transparent canopy. The heatshield cover blocks 70% or more of the visible portion of the sunlight incident on the umbrella system. By blocking we mean to include absorption or reflection or any other mechanism such that less than 30% of the visible portion of the sunlight is transmitted through the heatshield cover.

In the present embodiments, a user can thus enjoy the warmth and protection from the UV-protection offered by the transparent canopy in the cooler/colder periods/seasons. However, during the warmer periods/seasons the user can conveniently deploy the heatshield cover over the underlying translucent canopy. In a modular fashion, the user can thus turn the umbrella system into a cool and shade offering system from protection during the warmer periods.

The removable installation/attachment/deployment of heatshield cover over the substantially transparent canopy is possible in a number of ways and mechanisms. Thus, depending on the embodiment, these mechanisms include but are not limited to clips, button snaps, hook-and-loop fasteners, zippers, magnets, elastic bands, cord and eyelet systems, tension straps, buckles, clamps, hooks, adhesive strips, pressure-sensitive adhesive pads, channels or tracks, seam integration, snap-on panels, elastic hems, magnetic zippers, rotational fasteners, clip-on rings, sliding tabs, and interlocking sections.

Similarly to the earlier embodiments with multiple canopies, in the present heatshield cover embodiments also, the user can decide when to deploy the heatshield cover based on the performance attributes/properties of the substantially transparent canopy and the heatshield cover. The user can further base this decision on prevailing environmental/seasonal conditions and on one or more personal preferences of the user.

The methods of the present technology include a method of providing a modular umbrella system, said method comprising the steps of: (a) providing an umbrella frame; (b) providing a first umbrella canopy with a first set of performance attributes including a visible light transmission (VLT) of greater than 15%, an infrared light transmission (IRT) of greater than 20%, and a haze value of less than 10%; (c) providing a second umbrella canopy with a second set of performance attributes including a VLT of less than 15% and an IRT of less than 20%; and (d) removably installing by a user on said umbrella frame, one of said first umbrella canopy and said second umbrella canopy based on said first set of performance attributes and said second set of performance attributes, environmental conditions where said modular umbrella system is located, and in accordance with one or more personal preferences of said user.

The apparatus of the present technology include an outdoor umbrella system, comprising: (a) an umbrella frame; (b) a first umbrella canopy with a first set of performance attributes including a visible light transmission (VLT) of greater than 15%, an infrared light transmission (IRT) of greater than 20%, and a haze value of less than 10%; and (b) a second umbrella canopy with a second set of performance attributes including a VLT of less than 15% and an IRT of less than 20%; wherein one of said first umbrella canopy and said second umbrella canopy is removably installed on said umbrella frame by a user based on said first set of performance attributes and said second set of performance attributes, atmospheric conditions where said outdoor umbrella system is located, and in accordance with one or more personal preferences of said user.

The apparatus of the present technology further include an outdoor umbrella system, comprising: (a) an umbrella frame and a flexible translucent canopy, wherein said flexible translucent canopy blocks greater than or equal to 80% of ultraviolet-A (UVA) and greater than or equal to 80% of ultraviolet-B (UVB) portions of sunlight incident on said outdoor umbrella system; and (b) a flexible heatshield cover removably installed by a user onto said flexible translucent canopy, wherein said flexible heatshield cover one of absorbs and reflects at least 70% of visible and at least 70% of infrared portions of said sunlight. Clearly, the systems and methods of the invention find many advantageous embodiments. The details of the invention, including its preferred embodiments, are presented in the below detailed description with reference to the appended drawing figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING FIGURES

FIG. 1 illustrates a modular outdoor umbrella system of the present design with a substantially transparent canopy being removably installed on an umbrella frame, and a substantially opaque canopy in reserve.

FIG. 2 is a variation of FIG. 1 showing the umbrella stand used in conjunction with a table.

FIG. 3 illustrates an embodiment of an umbrella system of the present technology using a cantilever design.

FIG. 4 is a photograph of an instant substantially transparent “see through” canopy deployed in nature.

FIG. 5 is an embodiment with a plurality of canopies that may be removably installed on the umbrella frame as needed.

FIG. 6A-D show photographs of an instant substantially transparent umbrella canopy in the process of being deployed by a user.

FIG. 7 shows another variation of an outdoor umbrella system with an umbrella canopy and a frame of a different style.

FIG. 8A-C show various embodiments of innovative bases provided in the instant design.

FIG. 9A-C show instant heatshield cover embodiments in which the heatshield cover is being deployed over an underlying transparent/translucent canopy.

FIG. 9D-E show a fastening mechanism utilizing clips by which an instant heatshield cover is deployed over an underlying canopy.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The figures and the following description relate to preferred embodiments of the present invention by way of illustration only. It should be noted that from the following discussion, alternative embodiments of the structures and methods disclosed herein will be readily recognized as viable alternatives that may be employed without departing from the principles of the claimed invention.

Reference will now be made in detail to several embodiments of the present invention(s), examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying figures. The figures depict embodiments of the present invention for purposes of illustration only. One skilled in the art will readily recognize from the following description that alternative embodiments of the structures and methods illustrated herein may be employed without departing from the principles of the invention described herein.

The systems and methods of the present invention will be best understood by first reviewing a modular outdoor umbrella system or simply an outdoor umbrella system 100 as illustrated in FIG. 1. Outdoor umbrella system of the present technology has an umbrella frame containing support elements or ribs 102A and an umbrella stand 102B. That is to say that umbrella frame 102 consists of umbrella stand 102B and support elements or ribs 102A.

There is also a flexible and substantially transparent or translucent or a “sunglass” canopy 104A and a substantially opaque canopy 104B shown with the hatched pattern. Both canopies can be removably installed or attached onto canopy frame 102, and specifically canopy frame ribs 102A, by user 110 as shown. User 110 can make the determination as to which canopy to removably install on canopy frame 102 based on the performance attributes of the canopies, environmental conditions surrounding system 100 and on one or more personal preferences of user 110.

Explained further, user 110 make their selection or determination of which of canopies 104A and 104B to removably install on frame 102 based on a number of factors. These factors include the performance attributes or properties of the two canopies. These factors also include the atmospheric or environmental or ambient or seasonal conditions or surroundings where outdoor umbrella system 100 is located. These factors also include the personal preference(s) and choice(s) of user 110.

Furthermore, after a passage of time, user 110 make the determination to interchange the canopy that is already installed with the canopy in reserve. Exemplarily, if the user had initially installed substantially transparent canopy 104A, they can then decide when to interchange it with substantially opaque canopy 104B. The decision of user 110 as to when to do interchange the canopies is again based on the factors enumerated above, including the properties/attributes of the two canopies, environmental/seasonal conditions around system or umbrella 100, and preferences of user 110.

The diagram of FIG. 1 shows user 110 removably installing selected canopy 104A, which is a flexible and substantially transparent or sunglass canopy. By removably installing we mean that the user can later change, replace or interchange the selected canopies. In the example shown in FIG. 1, user 110 can later remove or uninstall canopy 104A and removably install canopy 104B in its place, which is a substantially opaque canopy. A number of fastening techniques may be employed for mechanically attaching, installing or mating canopies 104 to umbrella frame 102 and specifically its ribs 102A. These include pockets, sleeves, ties, straps, VELCRO® loops, hook-and-slot systems, magnetic systems, snaps or clip attachments, grommets and bolts, pins, among others.

The performance attributes of canopies 104A, 104B include their light transmission attributes or properties, also referred to as their spectral transmission profiles. These include their visible light and infrared light transmission properties. More specifically, canopy 104A has a visible light transmission (VLT) attribute/property or simply VLT of greater than 15% and an infrared transmission (IRT) or simply IRT of greater than 20%. What this means is that canopy 104A transmits through more than 15% of the visible light that is incident on its top surface and exits from is bottom surface.

Furthermore, canopy 104A transmits through more than 20% of the infrared (IR) light that is incident on its top surface and exits from is bottom surface. Conversely, canopy 104B has a VLT of less than 15% and an IRT of less than 20%. What this means is that canopy 104B transmits less than 15% of the visible light that is incident on its top surface and exits from is bottom surface. Furthermore, canopy 104B transmits less than 20% of IR light that is incident on its top surface and exits from is bottom surface.

Further, canopy 104A has a haze value of less than 10%. Haze is a measure of the scattered light that passes through a transparent or translucent material. Haze quantifies the diffusion or “cloudiness” or “milkiness” of the material. It is expressed as a percentage (%) of light that is diffusely scattered rather than transmitted directly. It is given by the following formula based on ASTM D1003—Standard Test Method for Haze and Luminous Transmittance of Transparent Plastics:

Haze ⁢ ( % ) = ( Diffuse ⁢ Transmittance / Total ⁢ Transmittance ) × 100 ,

where the denominator is the measurement of the total transmittance of direct and scattered light, while the numerator is the measurement of the transmittance of the scattered light only. Haze may be measured directly by a haze meter or spectrophotometer following ASTM D1003, ISO 14782, or other standards. In general, low haze means better clarity and is desirable for windows, solar panels, lenses, while high haze is more suitable for privacy panels, light diffusers, etc. Thus, a haze value of less than 10% of canopy 104A imputes a high degree of clarity for canopy 104A for user 110 to be able to enjoy visibility through instant umbrella 100 while benefiting from the transmitted warmth.

Performance attributes of canopies 104 are preferably attuned to various seasons. Exemplarily, the performance attributes including VLT and IRT of canopy 104A are particularly attuned to the winter and the colder months. Thus, canopy 104A is particularly suited to providing warmth and visibility while providing protection from the ultraviolet (UV) rays of the sun. Conversely, the performance attributes of canopy 104B are particularly attuned to the summer and hotter months. Thus, canopy 104B is suited to provide shade and protection from the sun.

Performance attributes of canopies 104A, 104B may also include other performance attributes or properties, such as color, tint, and other aesthetic attributes, including shape/form, size, material composition i.e. “look and feel” of the material, weight, wind resistance, among others. Based on the present design, user 110 can freely interchange canopies 104A and 104B anytime they wish based on the above performance or light transmission attributes or properties or capabilities of the canopies, changes in the environmental conditions of seasons where outdoor umbrella system 100 is located and on the personal preferences, likes and dislikes of user 110.

The ability of the user of an instant modular umbrella system to interchange/replace transparent/translucent canopies having the above-described light transmission properties, changes in seasons/conditions around the umbrella system and on varying or constant one or more personal preferences of the user, is a unique advantage of the present design over the prior art. The personal preference(s) of the user include a variety of likes and dislikes associated with the preference or tolerance level of the user for heat/temperature, sun and shade, air movement or airflow, ambience, time-of-day usage, among others.

Thus, the system with its seasonally-selectable canopies can be seasonally adapted to provide year-round comfort or a comfortable user experience for all seasons. Furthermore, the interchange or swap of canopies possible in the current design is very efficient. Exemplarily, the canopy interchange or swap can be accomplished from start to finish in under 2 minutes. Preferably, one of canopies 104A and 104B remains installed on umbrella frame 102 for a minimum of 1 month before an interchange takes place.

In the most preferred embodiment, it is substantially transparent or sunglass canopy 104A that is initially installed by the user. This is because canopy 104A is suitable for most climates in the northern hemisphere above a certain latitude at the start of the year, when the weather is dry but still cool. Canopy 104A with its VLT and IRT properties as described above provides a unique experience to user 110 during the cool/cold/winter season. It does so by providing warmth in the form of IR rays from the sun, unlike just the shade and the cooling effect of typical umbrellas that are designed to stop sunlight and its warmth. Conversely, in the southern hemisphere below a certain latitude, the cool season is in the middle of the year, making it suitable for the use of canopy 104A.

Moreover, canopy 104A also provides a unique experience to user 110 by providing visibility through canopy 104A itself while user 110 is under umbrella/system 100. In other words, unlike typical umbrellas that are meant to block visibility and provide shade only, canopy 104A is designed to allow user 110 to look through the canopy itself. User 110 can thus view the surroundings and nature i.e. the sky, the trees, the birds, etc. through the instant “see through” canopy while still enjoying the comfort of sitting or reclining underneath it. This is a key contribution of the present design over the prior art. As a result, the system provides year-round comfort or a comfortable user experience for all seasons.

Further, canopy 104A that is preferably initially installed is waterproof and stops any effects of rains or drizzles to interfere with the comfort of user 110 in the winter or colder or wetter months. However, once the weather starts to get warmer, the umbrella or outdoor system 100 may get too warm because of the IRT properties of canopy 104A. Hence, based on the instant design, user 110 is easily able to change or replace or interchange or swap canopy 104A with canopy 104B on umbrella frame 102.

Canopy 104B is substantially opaque because it has the above-taught VLT and IRT properties that substantially stop the visible light and heat of the warm weather. As a result, user 110 is able take advantage of the shade and the cooling attributes of canopy 104B that one associates with a typical umbrella. All the while, user 110 is able to switch the canopies anytime they wish based on their preferences, changing conditions and the properties of the canopies. This is a key innovation of the present design over the prior art.

In the preferred embodiment, substantially transparent or translucent canopy 104A is made out of an optically clear sheet of polymer. The polymer material for canopy 104A admits of anti-creasing properties, high clarity, and ease of cleaning, thus making it ideal for long-term outdoor use. Examples of such a polymer for instant outdoor system 100 include Transparent Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU) and Polyvinyl Butyral (PVB). 10 Table 1 summarizes key properties of these exemplary materials that are suitable for canopy 104A.

TABLE 1
	TPU (Thermoplastic	PVB (Polyvinyl
Feature	Polyurethane)	Butyral)
Transparency	Good to excellent	Excellent when
	(≥85% transmittance,	processed correctly
	low haze with clean	(low haze, >85%
	casting)	clarity)
Flexibility	Highly flexible,	Flexible but softer
	elastic, bendable	and more rubbery;
		not elastic
Form	Thermoplastic film	Soft film only;
	or sheet; can be	tacky and used as
	cast, extruded, or	interlayer in
	molded	laminates
Structural strength	Good tear and	Weak on its own;
	abrasion resistance;	always bonded
	self-supporting	between rigid layers
Optical Clarity	Can be very clear	Very high when dry
	(depending on	and defect-free
	thickness and
	formulation)
Haze	Typically low (<5%)	Very low (<1%) in
	in optical grades	high-quality grades

In the same or a related embodiment, canopy 104B comprises a fabric material. The fabric material is typically a textile product or a woven material and is preferably “breathable”. This gives user 110 a comfortable experience during hot weather by allowing air to pass through the fabric and over the shaded area under the umbrella. In the preferred embodiment, one or both of canopies 104A and 104B are highly durable and transparent.

In the same or related embodiment, one or both the canopies 104A-B utilize tinted thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) material designed for use in various outdoor shade products. This material offers superior UV protection by blocking at least 98% of ultraviolet-A (UVA) and/or 98% of ultraviolet-B (UVB) rays. This material also reduces glare by blocking 50-70% of visible light, and manages heat by blocking 40-60% of IR light. In a related embodiment, the material differentiates between infrared-A (IR-A), infrared-B (IR-B) and infrared-C(IR-C) rays and manages heat by allowing IR-A rays to pass through while blocking IR-B and IR-C rays. The TPU material is manufactured by blending specific additives with aliphatic polycaprolactone or aliphatic polyether TPU, followed by extrusion or molding into the desired shape and thickness (e.g. 0.4 mm).

FIG. 2 shows a modular outdoor umbrella system 120 as a variation of system 100 of FIG. 1, in which umbrella frame 122 is used in conjunction with a table 128. The outdoor umbrella system 120 of FIG. 2 shows canopy 124A in a rendering that emphasizes its transparent form. There is also a canopy 124B that is substantially opaque as shown. Canopy 124A is shown slightly above umbrella ribs 122A just prior to mating with them. Anyone of many techniques may be employed by user 126 to attach/install/mate canopies 124A and 124B of FIG. 2 with umbrella frame 122, and specifically its ribs 122A.

FIG. 3 shows a variation 130 of instant outdoor umbrella system illustrating a cantilever design. Cantilever system 130 of FIG. 3 shows a cantilever stand 132A with ribs or support structure 132B. Only one of umbrella frame ribs is explicitly marked with reference numeral 132B to avoid clutter. On ribs 132B, a substantially transparent canopy 134A is shown removably installed based on the present teachings. System 130 of FIG. 3 also shows a substantially opaque canopy 134B that can be removably installed or interchanged with canopy 134A by user 138 shown reclining under umbrella 130.

FIG. 4 shows an actual photograph of an instant umbrella system 140 in which a transparent canopy 144A is shown installed on umbrella frame ribs 142. Notice the trees and the surroundings visible through canopy 144A in outdoor umbrella system 140, unlike the umbrellas of the prior art. An instant opaque canopy that may be interchanged for transparent 144A is not explicitly shown in FIG. 4 but is presumed to exist.

In a set of highly preferred embodiments there more than two and preferably any number of removably installed canopies. The user can thus select from a large number or multiplicity or plurality of canopies and removably install them on the umbrella frame based on the properties/attributes of individual canopies, environmental conditions or seasons or atmospheric or seasonal conditions surrounding the system and on one or more personal preferences of the user. Such a modular umbrella system with multiple canopies is shown in FIG. 5.

More specifically, FIG. 5 shows an instant outdoor umbrella system 200 containing an umbrella frame 202 that comprises of an umbrella stand 202A and supporting elements or ribs 202B. User 210 is shown removably installing a canopy 204A on ribs 202A. Also shown is a multiplicity of canopies 204B, 204C, 204D, . . . 204N. Each of canopies 204 has specific properties/attributes including VLT, IRT properties and spectral transmission profiles. As such, these canopies can vary in transparency all the way from fully clear/transparent, to substantially transparent, to mildly transparent, to slightly transparent, to opaque. Based on these properties, environmental conditions and preference(s) of user 210, the user is able to select a canopy to be deployed on frame 202.

For example, in the summer, user 210 removably installs a canopy, e.g. canopy 204C that blocks 99% of UVA/UVB, 80% of visible light, 60% of IR-A, and 100% of IR-B/C. Conversely, in the winter, user 210 deploy a canopy, e.g. canopy 204D that blocks 99% of UVA/UVB, 40% of visible light, passes all IR-A, and blocks 50% of IR-B/C. Preferably, during check-out while purchasing the umbrella, the user/customer can choose the canopy that best fits their climate and personal preference(s). Per above, the canopy is easy to change seasonally if they wanted to purchase many of them.

Exemplarily, one of such canopies is an IR-blocking canopy that can be removably installed by the user on the umbrella frame when the ambient temperature of the atmospheric conditions is below 75° F. Exemplarily, another of such canopies is a light-blocking canopy that can be removably installed by the user on the umbrella frame when the ambient temperature is equal to or above 75° F.

In a preferred embodiment of the present umbrella systems, the various canopies comprise of a photochromic material. Photochromic materials change color and/or opacity in response to a light stimulus, particularly that of the UV radiation. This transformation is reversible i.e. when the light source is removed or its intensity decreases, the material returns to its original state.

Photochromic behavior is typically based on a reversible chemical reaction triggered by UV light. The UV light alters the molecular structure of the photochromic compound (often opening or rearranging a chemical bond), causing it to absorb visible light, and hence causing a color change. Once the UV light is removed, the molecules revert to their original state, and the color fades. Examples of photochromic organic compounds suitable for the present technology include spiropyrans, spirooxazines, naphthopyrans. These are typically deployed in eyewear, coatings, and inks, respond quickly and are adjustable in color and speed. Further examples of photochromic materials for the substantially transparent or sunglass canopies of the present design include inorganic compounds. These include silver halides (AgCl, AgBr) or transition metal oxides (e.g., WO₃).

In the same or a related embodiment, the instant canopies comprise of a thermochromic material. Thermochromic materials are materials that change color and/or opacity in response to temperature changes or heat stimulus. Although their color change is typically reversible, some types can be irreversible depending on the chemistry and use-case. The two key types of thermochromic materials that may be used in the present canopies include Liquid Crystal Thermochromics and Leuco Dye Thermochromics.

The former use cholesteric liquid crystals that reflect light selectively based on their molecular orientation, which changes with temperature. They produce vivid and iridescent colors. The latter are based on leuco dyes that switch between colored and colorless states. These are typically encapsulated in microcapsules for stability and applied as inks, coatings, or plastics.

In the same or a related embodiment, the instant canopies comprise of an electrochromic material. Electrochromic materials are substances that change color and/or opacity when an electrical voltage is applied or in response to electric stimulus. This color change is reversible and happens due to redox (oxidation-reduction) reactions within the material. In response to a low-voltage current, electrons and ions move into or out of the electrochromic layer. This causes a change in the electronic structure of the material, altering how it absorbs or reflects light. Reversing the voltage reverses the color change. Examples of such materials suitable for the instant canopies include transition metal oxides, such as tungsten oxide (WO₃) or nickel oxide (NiO), conductive polymers such as polyaniline and poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) and viologens, such as 1,1′-Disubstituted bipyridyls. In other embodiments, any combination of photochromic, thermochromic and electrochromic materials may be used in the composition of the instant canopies.

In various embodiments, one or more the canopies of the instant system provide UV protection per above teachings. Exemplarily, the UV protection includes at least 98% of ultraviolet-A (UVA) and/or ultraviolet-B UVB radiation protection. In other embodiments, the transparent canopies are tinted with a variety of visually appealing and perceptible colors. Exemplary colors include amber, sepia, blue, green, red, pink, grey, yellow, orange, violet, green, among others.

Each canopy of an instant umbrella system can be designed with specific tint levels, UV protection, and IR-blocking properties, thus enabling users to create tailored shade solutions that optimize comfort and performance in different environments. For example, users can choose a darker tint for intense sunlight or a lighter tint for overcast conditions while maintaining consistent UV protection. Moreover, users can customize the aesthetic appearance of their shade solutions, selecting from a variety of colors and patterns to suit their personal style. This flexibility adds value to the customer experience by offering a highly personalized and adaptable solution.

In regards to IR light, various options of the instant canopy material may block all of the IR light spectrum or none of it, depending on the climate and user preference. A key design goal of the material is to allow users to have sufficient UV protection underneath the material such that they do not need to wear topical sunscreen.

In still other embodiments, the UV-blocking properties of the instant canopies are achieved by the use of infrared-block nanoparticles in their composition. IR-blocking nanoparticles are engineered materials designed to selectively absorb or reflect IR radiation, particularly near-IR (NIR) and mid-IR (MIR) wavelengths, while remaining transparent to visible light. These particles are suitable for energy-saving coatings, smart windows, textiles, and electronics. These nanoparticles work as a result of one or more of a number of mechanisms including plasmonic absorption, bandgap engineering and refractive index contrast.

In plasmonic absorption, these nanoparticles (especially those of noble metals) resonate with IR wavelengths and absorb or scatter them. In bandgap engineering, materials like doped oxides have electronic band structures that interact selectively with IR, while in refractive index contrast, layered or embedded particles reflect IR based on dielectric mismatch. Exemplary nanoparticle materials suitable for the instant design include indium tin oxide (ITO), antimony tin oxide (ATO), doped tungsten oxide (e.g. Cs:WO3), gold and silver nanoshells, among others. Distinguishing features of the present outdoor umbrella systems include:

• • 1. Material composition: substantially transparent The canopies of the present umbrella systems are preferably composed of a custom formulation of TPU with additives including Tinuvin 5151® or titanium dioxide for ultraviolet (UV) protection, silica for anti-blocking, and other agents for visible light and infrared blocking.
  • 2. UV Protection: Instant canopies block 99% of harmful UVA and UVB rays.
  • 3. Visible Light Transmission (VLT): Instant canopies provide at least 15% VLT (Visible Light Transmission) in various color tints, such as charcoal or dark grey. The also reduce glare while maintaining clarity.
  • 4. Heat Management: The canopies of the present systems allow IR-A to pass through for health benefits while blocking IR-B and IR-C to reduce heat buildup.
  • 5. Durability: The canopies of the present systems are designed to withstand full sun exposure for 5-10 or more years without degradation.
  • 6. Anti-Creasing: The material composition of the canopies allows them to be folded and stored repeatedly without permanent creases.
  • 7. Ease of Cleaning: Instant canopies are resistant to bird droppings and tree sap, which can be cleaned with water alone.
  • 8. Versatility: The canopies of the present design are adaptable to various products, including patio umbrellas, beach umbrellas, awnings, and shade sails.

Other embodiments may use specific grades of TPU to construct the instant canopies. Examples of TPU suitable for the present technology include aliphatic polyether or aliphatic polycaprolactone for longevity. They may also use aromatic TPUs, vinyl films, or Polyvinyl Butyral (PVB) with Hindered Amine Light Stabilizers (HALS). They may also employ other light stabilizers as additives to increase the lifetime of the outdoor product. In still other variations, the substantially transparent/translucent canopy of the above teachings contains one or more of ethylene tetrafluoroethylene (EFTE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, carbon black, silica, aliphatic polyether, aliphatic polycaprolactone and another suitable vinyl compound.

Instant outdoor umbrella system is meant for multiple outdoor applications. The preferred embodiment includes its use as a 9-foot diameter or 10-foot diameter or 11-foot diameter patio umbrella with an auto-tilt mechanism. Such a system offers superior shade and UV protection for users.

Table 2 provides the target operating conditions of instant umbrella systems of the present teachings in various metropolitan areas of the USA.

TABLE 2
	Best Months for	Best Months
	Sunglass or	for Opaque or
	Substantially	Substantially
	Transparent	Opaque
	Canopy	Canopy
Metro Area	(Warmth Desired)	(Cooling Desired)	Notes
New York,	March-June,	July-August,	Huge seasonal
NY	September-November	maybe early	swings; strong
	(7-8 months)	September	case for both
Los Angeles,	January-June,	July-September	Prime Sunglass
CA	October-December		market; mild
	(9-10 months)		winters
Chicago, IL	March-June,	July-August	Short summers;
	September-October		Sunglass 9
	(6-7 months)		months
Dallas, TX	October-April	May-September	Split evenly;
	(6-7 months)		early spring
			can be hot
Houston, TX	October-March	April-September	Very hot
	(6 months)		summers,
			perfect
			Sunglass in
			winter
Washington,	March-June,	July-August	Mild winters;
DC	September-November		summer
	(7-8 months)		hot/humid
Philadelphia,	March-June,	July-August	Almost
PA	September-November		identical to
	(7-8 months)		NYC
Atlanta, GA	October-May	June-September	High humidity
	(7-8 months)		in summer, but
			mild winters
Miami, FL	November-April	May-October	Sunglass lets in
	(6 months)		warmth without
			UV risk year-
			round
Phoenix, AZ	October-April	May-September	Sunglass is
	(6-7 months)		amazing in
			winter; brutal
			summers

For completeness, FIG. 6A-D show photographs of an instant umbrella system 300 in the process or being deployed. More specifically, FIG. 6A is a photograph of an instant umbrella system with an instant canopy 304A that is substantially transparent. In the furled or folded or closed position 300A of the system represented by FIG. 6, user 310 is shown starting the unfurling or unfolding of the umbrella with canopy 304A. That means that canopy 304A had previously been removably installed on umbrella frame ribs 302A based on the instant design.

FIG. 6B shows the system in its partially unfurled position 300B and FIG. 6C shows the system in its fully unfurled or unfolded or extended position 300C. FIG. 6D shows a closeup view of ribs or supporting structure 302A, umbrella frame 302B and the transparent canopy. Notice the surrounding trees and the sky visible through the instant transparent canopy. Other removably installable canopies of system 300 are not explicitly shown in FIG. 6A-D to avoid clutter but are presumed to exists.

FIG. 7 shows yet another umbrella system 350 of the instant design with a transparent canopy 354A with a different style and shape/form. Sunglass or transparent canopy 354A is shown removably installed on the umbrella fame. Other canopies that may also be removably installed on the umbrella frame are not explicitly shown in FIG. 7 but are presumed to exists.

FIG. 8A-C illustrate another set of embodiments of the present technology with innovative and portable base that has long legs. In the example shown in FIG. 8A, there is an instant umbrella system 400 with an instant umbrella in the folded position 408A. In the example shown in FIG. 8A, the base of the umbrella has three legs. There may be any number of such legs. The three long legs of the umbrella unfold or fold out like a tripod to an unfolded or deployed or extended position 408B as shown. FIG. 8A also shows umbrella frame 402 consisting of ribs 402A, stand 402B and legs 402C. Only one of three legs of the umbrella are explicitly marked by reference numeral 402C to avoid clutter. FIG. 8A shows a substantially transparent canopy 404A of the instant design removably installed by user 410 onto ribs 402A.

For the operation of system 400 in a beach setting, user 410 would first deploy the three legs to create a large and stable base. User 410 would then cover these legs with sand and/or put a sandbag on each leg to weigh the umbrella down further. The user would then open the umbrella and enjoy the shade from the umbrella. Once done, the user would collapse the umbrella and fold up the three (or more) legs over the umbrella canopy. The style of the instant base allows the shade to be enjoyed anywhere, such as park, beaches, patios, lawns, backyards, even asphalt or at tailgate parties, and the like. This is because the design takes advantage of the longer levers/legs for greater stability than a typical 20-24 inches diameter plater/base.

In a variation 420 shown in FIG. 8B, there can be additional material affixed to support legs to weigh the umbrella down further. More specifically, FIG. 8B shows an instant umbrella with folded legs in its folded position 428A and in its opened, unfolded or extended position 428B. There is a substantially transparent canopy 424A of the instant design removably installed by user 430 onto ribs 422A of the umbrella frame that has a stand 422B and legs 422C. Once again, only one of the three legs of the umbrella are marked for clarity in the example shown in FIG. 8B. Based on the instant design, legs 422C are weighted down by material such as weights or sandbags. The example of FIG. 8B shows legs 422C being weighted down by sandbags 422D. Again, only one sandbag is marked by reference numeral 422D for clarity.

FIG. 8C shows still another variation of FIG. 8A-B where not all the like elements from FIG. 8A-B have been marked for brevity. In variation 440 of FIG. 8C a flexible material 442 is affixed to base legs such that weight (e.g. sandbags, personal items, beach chairs, sand, rocks, bricks, stones and the like) can be added on top of the space between the legs to act as a ballast. This material would open/close similar to an umbrella with ribs but inverted from the top canopy. FIG. 8C shows a substantially transparent canopy 444A removably installed on the umbrella frame based by user 446.

In the embodiment shown, the legs do not need to be hyper-extended as long as there is sufficient weight on the legs and flexible material between them. If umbrella system 440 and user 446 were on a beach, the user would put sand over flexible material 442. If they were in a park or semi-permanent setting, user 446 would use rocks, sandbags, stones, bricks, personal items, or any type of weight on flexible material 442 to use as ballast and to prevent the umbrella from tipping over in the wind.

In the embodiments shown in FIG. 8A-C, additional canopies based on the instant design are not explicitly shown but are presumed to exist. Thus, canopies 404A, 424A and 444A of FIG. 8A, FIG. 8B and FIG. 8C can be interchanged with the additional canopies by users 410, 430 and 446 respectively. Per above teachings, the users can interchange the canopies based on the specific properties/attributes of the canopies, current atmospheric, environmental or seasonal conditions and on one or more personal preferences of the users.

Flexible Heatshield Cover:

In a highly preferred set of embodiments of the instant outdoor umbrella system, there is a heat-shield or heatshield cover or simply a heatshield that is removably attached or affixed on top of an instant underlying flexible and transparent/translucent or sunglass canopy. Most advantageously, such a heatshield cover is removably installed or attached by the user on top of the substantially transparent canopy. The user does this installation of the heatshield cover seasonally or on a seasonal basis depending on the prevailing weather or climatic conditions, the properties of the canopy and the heatshield cover and on one or more personal preferences of the user.

In order to understand these embodiments, let us take advantage of FIG. 9A-E. FIG. 9A shows an umbrella system 500 with a flexible and substantially transparent/translucent or sunglass canopy 504A of the above teachings. Then, as shown in FIG. 9B, a user (not explicitly shown in FIG. 9A-C) conveniently and removably installs an instant heatshield cover 504B on underlying flexible and translucent canopy 504A during the hot summer periods or seasons. FIG. 9C shows system 500 with heatshield cover 504B fully installed/deployed on canopy 504A, and which is not visible in the view shown in FIG. 9C.

Flexible heat shield cover 504B is a lightweight, reflective or absorbing accessory designed to enhance the user comfort in extreme heat. It is made from a suitable material such as preferably aluminized polyester or silver-coated nylon that reflects/deflects or absorbs IR radiation and therefore reduces heat buildup underneath the umbrella. The cover attaches to the underlying canopy securely with durable fasteners, including clips, snap buttons or drawstrings, thus ensuring stability even in windy conditions. Heatshield cover 504B is compact and foldable and stores easily in a pouch attached to the umbrella. This versatile addon provides a customizable cooling solution, thus making the umbrella system adaptable to diverse climates while preserving its unique design and aesthetic appeal.

The material composition of heatshield cover 504B allows it to unfurl/furl or open/close or unfold/fold similarly to an umbrella with ribs. Depending on the variation, heatshield cover 504B contains one or more of metalized films, biaxially-oriented polyethylene terephthalate (BoPET), non-metalized polyester, acrylic, nylon, vinyl (PVC), polyurethane coated fabrics, polypropylene, cotton, silk, and canvas.

FIG. 9D and FIG. 9E show how heatshield cover 504 may be removably attached to underlying flexible and translucent canopy 504A using clips 506 in a preferred embodiment. Each clip 506A and 506B goes around either side of each umbrella rib so that the heatshield cover is securely held in place. Thus, for an umbrella with 8 ribs as shown in the example of FIG. 9D-E, there will be 16 such clips. Only two clips on either side of a rib are shown in FIG. 9D-E for clarity.

To deploy heatshield cover 504B, the user would put the heatshield over canopy 504A and then attach clips in each of the 8 corners. As a result of this approach, the instant heatshield cover can be attached to the underlying umbrella with a standard design, without modifications to either cover 504A, umbrella system 500 or canopy 504A.

Other mechanisms for removably installing/attaching/fastening the heatshield cover onto underlying flexible transparent/translucent canopy include but are not limited to button snaps, hook-and-loop fasteners, zippers, magnets, elastic bands, cord and eyelet systems, tension straps, buckles, clamps, hooks, adhesive strips, pressure-sensitive adhesive pads, channels or tracks, seam integration, snap-on panels, elastic hems, magnetic zippers, rotational fasteners, clip-on rings, sliding tabs, and interlocking sections.

In still other variations of the above-described embodiments, a canopy or a heatshield cover absorbs or reflects at least 70% of the IR wavelengths of the sunlight. Such a capability allows an instant outdoor system to provide shade and cooling effects for the user under the umbrella in the warmer months. In still other examples, in order to reduce the heat buildup under the umbrella system, one of the canopies or the heatshield cover of the instant outdoor umbrella system is configured to be used when the ambient temperature is in excess of 80° F. or 85° F.

Table 3 provides a comparison of a traditional umbrella of the prior art with an instant outdoor umbrella system of the present embodiments that employ a heatshield cover. As noted below, the headshield cover is deployed at temperatures starting at or above 75° F. The sunglass umbrella of the present design offers a better solution than the traditional umbrellas as evidenced below.

	TABLE 3
	Temperature	Sunglass	Traditional	Better
	(° F.)	Umbrella	Umbrella	Option

60°	F.	Allows light	Blocks all	Sunglass
		and warmth; no	sunlight,	Umbrella
		heat shield	feels too cold
		needed
65°	F.	Warm and	Shade feels	Sunglass
		pleasant; no	slightly	Umbrella
		heat shield	chilly
		needed
70°	F.	Perfect mix of	Comfortable	Sunglass
		light and	but cooler	Umbrella
		warmth; no	than ideal
		heat shield
		needed
75°	F.	Deploy	Comfortable	Tie
		heatshield	shade but
		cover: feels	lacks sunny
		balanced and	warmth
		comfortable
80°	F.	Heatshield	Cooler but	Sunglass
		cover provides	less inviting	Umbrella
		balanced
		sunlight and
		cooler shade
85°	F.	Heatshield	Provides	Sunglass
		cover reduces	cooler shade	Umbrella
		heat	with
		effectively	ventilation
90°	F.	Heatshield	Cooler and	Sunglass
		cover blocks	more	Umbrella
		heat and IR	breathable
			shade
95°	F.	Heatshield	Provides	Sunglass
		cover deflects	better relief	Umbrella
		IR; remains	with
		comfortable	ventilation
100°	F.	Heatshield	Offers cooler,	Sunglass
		cover keeps it	more	Umbrella
		cooler than	comfortable
		traditional	shade
		shade
60°	F.	Allows light	Blocks all	Sunglass
		and warmth; no	sunlight,	Umbrella
		heatshield	feels too cold
		cover needed

Thus, the various embodiments of seasonally selectable canopies and heatshield covers of the present technology provide year-round comfort to the user.

In view of the above teachings, a person skilled in the art will recognize that the methods of present invention can be embodied in many different ways in addition to those described without departing from the principles of the invention. Therefore, the scope of the invention should be judged in view of the appended claims and their legal equivalents.