Hands-Free Umbrella-Receiving Garment Device

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

The present application claims priority to, and the benefit of, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/710,063, which was filed on Oct. 22, 2024, and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to the field of garments. More specifically, the present invention relates to an upper body garment featuring an integrated umbrella receiving area designed to securely hold an umbrella shaft and handle in a hands-free configuration above a user. Accordingly, the present disclosure makes specific reference thereto. Nonetheless, it is to be appreciated that aspects of the present invention are also equally applicable to other like applications, devices, and methods of manufacture.

BACKGROUND

Outdoor exposure during unfavorable weather conditions presents a series of practical and physiological challenges. Individuals may be required to remain outside for extended periods due to work, travel, or other obligations, even in the presence of heavy rain or intense sunlight. When it rains, users are typically required to hold an umbrella manually, which not only limits their mobility but also results in inconvenience and potential exposure to water if the umbrella is not adequately positioned. Personal belongings such as phones and wallets may also be at risk of water damage if protective storage is not available. During high heat and sun exposure, users may experience sunburn, overheating, or dehydration, especially when suitable garments are not worn. Clothing alone often lacks the adaptability needed to respond to rapid weather changes. Hands-free protection is currently limited, and existing solutions do not typically integrate both environmental shielding and functional storage.

Therefore, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a hands-free umbrella-receiving garment device that enables users to remain protected from rain without the need to manually hold an umbrella. There also exists a long-felt need in the art for a hands-free umbrella-receiving garment device that shields users from excessive sunlight while maintaining wearer comfort. Moreover, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a hands-free umbrella-receiving garment device that includes integrated storage features to safeguard personal items from environmental exposure.

The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises a hands-free umbrella-receiving garment device. The device is comprised of a wearable upper body garment configured with an integrated umbrella receiving area located along a rear surface of the garment. The body of the garment comprises lightweight, breathable, and weather-resistant material. The umbrella receiving area is dimensioned to accept an umbrella shaft and handle and may be reinforced with a support frame. The receiving area is further lined with conformable materials to ensure frictional stability of the umbrella during use. Additional components include elastic cuffs for weather insulation, a padded back panel for structural reinforcement and user support, and multiple storage compartments with various closure fasteners for secure containment of personal effects. The garment further comprises a front fastener assembly concealed beneath a protective flap and may include a dedicated umbrella storage pocket for retaining the umbrella when not in use. A protective flap with fastening elements covers the umbrella receiving area when inactive, preventing ingress of debris or moisture into the same.

In this manner, the hands-free umbrella-receiving garment device of the present invention accomplishes all the foregoing objectives and provides a wearable device that permits users to operate an umbrella without manual involvement, thereby maintaining mobility and task efficiency in inclement weather. Furthermore, the inclusion of securely fastened storage compartments addresses the need to protect personal items such as phones and wallets from damage. These combined features allow users to remain outdoors for extended periods under various weather conditions with increased comfort, convenience, and utility, effectively resolving the identified problems of manual umbrella use, weather vulnerability, and lack of portable item protection.

SUMMARY

The following presents a simplified summary to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosed innovation. This summary is not an extensive overview, and it is not intended to identify key/critical elements or to delineate the scope thereof. Its sole purpose is to present some general concepts in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises a hands-free umbrella-receiving garment device. The device is a wearable garment designed to provide hands-free weather protection through the integration of an umbrella support system. The garment is comprised of a rear-mounted umbrella receiving area that enables secure placement and deployment of an umbrella above a user's head without manual assistance, facilitating mobility and environmental shielding during outdoor activities.

The garment is comprised of a body that may be configured as various upper body clothing types, including shirts, jackets, hoodies, or raincoats. The body may be made from breathable, lightweight, and weather-resistant materials. Elastic cuffs may be positioned at various regions of the body, including the waist and sleeves, to enhance fit, minimize wind ingress, and improve thermal insulation.

The garment body may be further comprised of one or more storage compartments positioned internally or externally on the body. Each compartment is comprised of a closure fastener. The garment body may also be comprised of a front fastener to secure the garment around a user's torso. The front fastener may be concealed by a protective flap.

The umbrella receiving area is positioned on the rear surface of the garment. The area is tubular in shape and dimensioned to receive a variety of collapsible or telescoping umbrella shafts and handles. In one embodiment, the umbrella receiving area may include a structural support frame that provides vertical alignment, load transfer, and stabilization of the umbrella. A conformable material may line the interior of the umbrella receiving area to generate a frictional interface that stabilizes the umbrella shaft and handle. A rear surface of the garment may be further comprised of a padded panel that functions as a back brace and structural reinforcement for the umbrella. The umbrella receiving area may also include a protective flap configured to cover the opening when the umbrella is not in use.

When the device is worn, the umbrella may be operated in a hands-free mode by inserting the shaft or handle into the umbrella receiving area, allowing the canopy to open above the head of the user for protection against environmental elements.

Accordingly, the hands-free umbrella-receiving garment device of the present invention is particularly advantageous as it provides a wearable device that permits users to operate an umbrella without manual involvement, thereby maintaining mobility and task efficiency in inclement weather. Furthermore, the inclusion of securely fastened storage compartments addresses the need to protect personal items such as phones and wallets from damage. These combined features allow users to remain outdoors for extended periods under various weather conditions with increased comfort, convenience, and utility, effectively resolving the identified problems of manual umbrella use, weather vulnerability, and lack of portable item protection. In this manner, the hands-free umbrella-receiving garment device overcomes the limitations of existing methods of umbrella use known in the art.

To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, certain illustrative aspects of the disclosed innovation are described herein in connection with the following description and the annexed drawings. These aspects are indicative, however, of but a few of the various ways in which the principles disclosed herein can be employed and are intended to include all such aspects and their equivalents. Other advantages and novel features will become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The description refers to provided drawings in which similar reference characters refer to similar parts throughout the different views, and in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates a front view of one potential embodiment of a hands-free umbrella-receiving garment device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

FIG. 2 illustrates a rear view of one potential embodiment of a hands-free umbrella-receiving garment device of the present invention while an umbrella is deployed in accordance with the disclosed architecture; and

FIG. 3 illustrates a rear view of one potential embodiment of a hands-free umbrella-receiving garment device of the present invention while an umbrella is deployed in accordance with the disclosed architecture.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The innovation is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding thereof. It may be evident, however, that the innovation can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form to facilitate a description thereof. Various embodiments are discussed hereinafter. It should be noted that the figures are described only to facilitate the description of the embodiments. They are not intended as an exhaustive description of the invention and do not limit the scope of the invention. Additionally, an illustrated embodiment need not have all the aspects or advantages shown. Thus, in other embodiments, any of the features described herein from different embodiments may be combined.

As noted above, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a hands-free umbrella-receiving garment device that enables users to remain protected from rain without the need to manually hold an umbrella. There also exists a long-felt need in the art for a hands-free umbrella-receiving garment device that shields users from excessive sunlight while maintaining wearer comfort. Moreover, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a hands-free umbrella-receiving garment device that includes integrated storage features to safeguard personal items from environmental exposure.

The present invention, in one exemplary embodiment, is comprised of a hands-free umbrella-receiving garment device. The device is a wearable garment configured to deliver hands-free weather protection through the integration of an umbrella support system. More specifically, a rear-mounted umbrella receiving area is incorporated into the garment, enabling secure placement and deployment of an umbrella above the user's head without requiring manual assistance. This configuration supports user mobility and environmental shielding during various outdoor activities.

The garment is comprised of a body that may take the form of multiple upper-body clothing types, such as shirts, jackets, hoodies, or raincoats. The body may be manufactured from materials that are breathable, lightweight, and resistant to weather. To improve fit, minimize wind ingress, and enhance thermal insulation, elastic cuffs may be positioned at various locations, including the waist and sleeves.

One or more storage compartments may be integrated into the body of the garment, located either internally or externally. Each compartment is comprised of a closure fastener to ensure secure containment of personal items. Additionally, the garment may feature a front fastener for securing the body around the user's torso, which may be concealed beneath a protective flap.

The umbrella receiving area is positioned along the rear surface of the garment that is dimensioned to accommodate various types of collapsible or telescoping umbrella shafts and handles. In certain embodiments, a structural support frame may be included to facilitate vertical alignment, load transfer, and umbrella stabilization. A conformable material may also be applied to the inner lining of the receiving area to create a frictional interface, anchoring the umbrella shaft and handle securely. The rear surface may be further comprised of a padded panel that acts as both a back brace and structural reinforcement for the umbrella. A protective flap may be incorporated to cover the umbrella receiving area when not in use.

During use, the umbrella may be operated in a hands-free configuration by inserting the handle or shaft into the receiving area, allowing the canopy to deploy above the user's head to provide protection from environmental elements.

As a result, the device enables users to operate an umbrella without manual engagement, thereby preserving mobility and allowing task performance in inclement weather. In addition, the inclusion of securely fastened storage compartments provides protection for personal items such as phones and wallets. These combined features enable prolonged outdoor usage under varying weather conditions with enhanced comfort, convenience, and functionality. Therefore, the device effectively addresses the limitations associated with manual umbrella usage, weather exposure, and unsecured storage, offering an improved solution over existing methods.

Referring initially to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates a front view of one potential embodiment of a hands-free umbrella-receiving garment device 100 of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture. The device 100 is a garment designed to provide hands-free weather protection. To achieve this functionality, the device 100 may be comprised of an integrated umbrella receiving area 120 positioned along a rear surface 105 of the garment. The area 120 enables a user to deploy and secure an umbrella 150 above a user's head without manual holding or stabilizing. This configuration may be particularly advantageous for individuals who require both mobility and protection from environmental elements during outdoor tasks, travel, or commuting in inclement weather.

The device 100 is comprised of a garment body 102. In different embodiments, the body 102 may be in the form of but not limited to a long sleeve shirt, short sleeve shirt, jacket, hoodie, vest, raincoat, or upper body garment type. The body 102 may be made from any textile or non-textile material selected based on performance requirements. In one embodiment, the body 102 may be comprised of lightweight, breathable, and weather-resistant (i.e., waterproof or water-resistant) materials such as but not limited to nylon, polyester, ripstop fabric, mesh-reinforced composites, or laminated waterproof membranes.

In a further embodiment, any area of the body 102, such as but not limited to a waist region and a sleeve region, may be comprised of at least one elastic cuff 104, as seen in FIG. 1. The elastic cuff 104 may be comprised of materials such as but not limited to any combination of elastane, neoprene, or rubberized textiles to improve garment fit, minimize wind ingress, and enhance thermal insulation of the body 102. In some configurations, the elastic cuff 104 may be adjustable via a cuff fastener 109 such as but not limited to any combination of hook-and-loop straps, drawcords, snap fasteners, etc.

The body 102 may be further comprised of at least one storage compartment 106. The storage compartment 106 may be positioned either internally or externally on the body 102 and may be in the form of a pocket. The storage compartment 106 may be comprised of at least one closure fastener 108. The closure fastener 108 may include but is not limited to any combination of snaps, zippers, waterproof fasteners, hook-and-loop strips, magnetic elements, or roll-top closures to ensure secure containment of stored items within the compartment 106 during motion or exposure to adverse weather.

The body 102 may also be comprised of a front fastener 110 (as seen in FIG. 1) that enables the body 102 to be secured around a user's torso. The front fastener 110 may include but is not limited to any combination of zippers, buttons, magnetic strips, waterproof fasteners, hook-and-loop assemblies, or a combination thereof. The front fastener 110 may be concealed beneath a protective flap 112. The protective flap 112 may be affixed to an exterior surface 103 of the body 102 using at least one flap fastener 114. The flap fastener 114 may include but is not limited to any combination of snaps, magnets, hook-and-loop strips, etc.

The body 102 may be further comprised of an umbrella receiving area 120, as seen in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3. The umbrella receiving area 120 may be positioned on a rear surface 105 of the body 102 and may be configured to receive an umbrella shaft 152 and/or umbrella handle 153. The umbrella receiving area 120 may be tubular in shape and dimensioned to accommodate a variety of collapsible or telescoping umbrella shafts 152 and/or handles 153.

In one embodiment, the umbrella receiving area 120 may be internally and/or externally reinforced with a support frame 122, as seen in FIG. 2. The support frame 122 may be made of materials such as but not limited to carbon fiber rods, plastic struts, fiberglass members, or lightweight aluminum segments. The structural support frame 122 may be integrated into or affixed to the umbrella receiving area 120 and/or to the rear surface 105 of the body 102 to ensure vertical alignment, load transfer, and support when the umbrella 150 is placed in position within the area 120.

In a further embodiment, the umbrella receiving area 120 may be internally lined with a conformable material 124, as seen in FIG. 2. The conformable material 124 may be comprised of but is not limited to any combination of a memory foam, elastomeric padding, or other pressure-responsive media that deforms upon insertion of the umbrella shaft 152 and/or handle 153. This deformation may produce a frictional interface that stabilizes the shaft 152 and/or handle 153 and prevents unintentional movement, anchoring the umbrella 150 within the receiving area 120 during use such that the umbrella 150 can be opened such that a canopy 154 of the umbrella covers a user.

The rear surface 105 of the body 102 may be further comprised of a padded panel 107, as seen in FIG. 2. The padded panel 107 may function as a back brace that enhances spinal support for the user and provides additional structural reinforcement for the deployed umbrella 150. The padded panel 107 may be comprised of materials such as but not limited to high-density foam, gel-cushioned inserts, layered thermoplastic materials, or other rigid and/or padded structures to deliver both comfort and rigidity.

The umbrella receiving area 120 may be further comprised of a protective flap 123, as seen in FIG. 3. The protective flap 123 may be positioned to cover an opening 121 of the umbrella receiving area 120 when the umbrella 150 is not in use. The protective flap 123 may be secured using fastening elements 125. The fastening elements 125 may include but are not limited to any combination of hook-and-loop strips, magnetic closures, waterproof fasteners, snap buttons, or zippers to provide a closure that prevents the ingress of dirt, moisture, or debris into the umbrella receiving area 120.

While wearing the device 100, an umbrella 150 may be operable in a hands-free mode by inserting the shaft 152 and/or handle 153 into the umbrella receiving area 120 and allowing a canopy 154 to open above the user's head. This configuration may enable protection from rain, sunlight, or other environmental conditions without requiring the user to hold the umbrella 150 manually.

The umbrella 150 may also be storable in a designated umbrella storage pocket 140 when not in use, as seen in FIG. 3. The umbrella storage pocket 140 may be positioned on the body 102 and dimensioned to accommodate the folded or collapsed umbrella 150. The umbrella storage pocket 140 may be comprised of a closure fastener 142 to secure the umbrella 150 within the pocket. The closure fastener 142 may be comprised of zippers, hook-and-loop strips, waterproof fasteners, buckles, magnetic closures, drawcords, or other sealing mechanisms.

Certain terms are used throughout the following description and claims to refer to particular features or components. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, different persons may refer to the same feature or component by different names. This document does not intend to distinguish between components or features that differ in name but not structure or function. As used herein “hands-free umbrella-receiving garment device” and “device” are interchangeable and refer to the hands-free umbrella-receiving garment device 100 of the present invention.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, the hands-free umbrella-receiving garment device 100 of the present invention and its various components can be of any suitable size and configuration as is known in the art without affecting the overall concept of the invention, provided that they accomplish the above-stated objectives. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the size, configuration, and material of the hands-free umbrella-receiving garment device 100 as shown in the FIGS. are for illustrative purposes only, and that many other sizes and shapes of the hands-free umbrella-receiving garment device 100 are well within the scope of the present disclosure. Although the dimensions of the hands-free umbrella-receiving garment device 100 are important design parameters for user convenience, the hands-free umbrella-receiving garment device 100 may be of any size, shape, and/or configuration that ensures optimal performance during use and/or that suits the user's needs and/or preferences.

Various modifications and additions can be made to the exemplary embodiments discussed without departing from the scope of the present invention. While the embodiments described above refer to particular features, the scope of this invention also includes embodiments having different combinations of features and embodiments that do not include all the described features. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variations as fall within the scope of the claims, together with all equivalents thereof.

What has been described above includes examples of the claimed subject matter. It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable combination of components or methodologies for purposes of describing the claimed subject matter, but one of ordinary skill in the art may recognize that many further combinations and permutations of the claimed subject matter are possible. Accordingly, the claimed subject matter is intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications, and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, to the extent that the term “includes” is used in either the detailed description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as “comprising” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.