WO2025085155A1 - Système de pare-soleil gonflable - Google Patents

Système de pare-soleil gonflable Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2025085155A1
WO2025085155A1 PCT/US2024/043523 US2024043523W WO2025085155A1 WO 2025085155 A1 WO2025085155 A1 WO 2025085155A1 US 2024043523 W US2024043523 W US 2024043523W WO 2025085155 A1 WO2025085155 A1 WO 2025085155A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
inflatable
edge
sun shading
canopy
shading system
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Pending
Application number
PCT/US2024/043523
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Jake Anthony WARREN
Luke HARDING
Richard Kodama Woodard
Scott Adam Garrison
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Yotrio Group Co Ltd
Original Assignee
Yotrio Group Co Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Yotrio Group Co Ltd filed Critical Yotrio Group Co Ltd
Publication of WO2025085155A1 publication Critical patent/WO2025085155A1/fr
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Pending legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04H—BUILDINGS OR LIKE STRUCTURES FOR PARTICULAR PURPOSES; SWIMMING OR SPLASH BATHS OR POOLS; MASTS; FENCING; TENTS OR CANOPIES, IN GENERAL
    • E04H15/00—Tents or canopies, in general
    • E04H15/003—Bathing or beach cabins
    • E04H15/005—Wind breakers, i.e. fabric stretched between posts anchored in the ground
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04H—BUILDINGS OR LIKE STRUCTURES FOR PARTICULAR PURPOSES; SWIMMING OR SPLASH BATHS OR POOLS; MASTS; FENCING; TENTS OR CANOPIES, IN GENERAL
    • E04H15/00—Tents or canopies, in general
    • E04H15/02—Tents combined or specially associated with other devices
    • E04H15/06—Tents at least partially supported by vehicles
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04H—BUILDINGS OR LIKE STRUCTURES FOR PARTICULAR PURPOSES; SWIMMING OR SPLASH BATHS OR POOLS; MASTS; FENCING; TENTS OR CANOPIES, IN GENERAL
    • E04H15/00—Tents or canopies, in general
    • E04H15/18—Tents having plural sectional covers, e.g. pavilions, vaulted tents, marquees, circus tents; Plural tents, e.g. modular
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04H—BUILDINGS OR LIKE STRUCTURES FOR PARTICULAR PURPOSES; SWIMMING OR SPLASH BATHS OR POOLS; MASTS; FENCING; TENTS OR CANOPIES, IN GENERAL
    • E04H15/00—Tents or canopies, in general
    • E04H15/20—Tents or canopies, in general inflatable, e.g. shaped, strengthened or supported by fluid pressure
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04H—BUILDINGS OR LIKE STRUCTURES FOR PARTICULAR PURPOSES; SWIMMING OR SPLASH BATHS OR POOLS; MASTS; FENCING; TENTS OR CANOPIES, IN GENERAL
    • E04H15/00—Tents or canopies, in general
    • E04H15/32—Parts, components, construction details, accessories, interior equipment, specially adapted for tents, e.g. guy-line equipment, skirts, thresholds
    • E04H15/34—Supporting means, e.g. frames
    • E04H15/36—Supporting means, e.g. frames arch-shaped type
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04H—BUILDINGS OR LIKE STRUCTURES FOR PARTICULAR PURPOSES; SWIMMING OR SPLASH BATHS OR POOLS; MASTS; FENCING; TENTS OR CANOPIES, IN GENERAL
    • E04H15/00—Tents or canopies, in general
    • E04H15/32—Parts, components, construction details, accessories, interior equipment, specially adapted for tents, e.g. guy-line equipment, skirts, thresholds
    • E04H15/58—Closures; Awnings; Sunshades
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
    • A45B—WALKING STICKS; UMBRELLAS; LADIES' OR LIKE FANS
    • A45B23/00—Other umbrellas
    • A45B2023/0025—Umbrellas or sunshades mounted laterally on a wall or on an apparatus
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
    • A45B—WALKING STICKS; UMBRELLAS; LADIES' OR LIKE FANS
    • A45B23/00—Other umbrellas
    • A45B2023/0093—Sunshades or weather protections of other than umbrella type
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04H—BUILDINGS OR LIKE STRUCTURES FOR PARTICULAR PURPOSES; SWIMMING OR SPLASH BATHS OR POOLS; MASTS; FENCING; TENTS OR CANOPIES, IN GENERAL
    • E04H15/00—Tents or canopies, in general
    • E04H15/32—Parts, components, construction details, accessories, interior equipment, specially adapted for tents, e.g. guy-line equipment, skirts, thresholds
    • E04H15/54—Covers of tents or canopies
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04H—BUILDINGS OR LIKE STRUCTURES FOR PARTICULAR PURPOSES; SWIMMING OR SPLASH BATHS OR POOLS; MASTS; FENCING; TENTS OR CANOPIES, IN GENERAL
    • E04H15/00—Tents or canopies, in general
    • E04H15/20—Tents or canopies, in general inflatable, e.g. shaped, strengthened or supported by fluid pressure
    • E04H2015/201—Tents or canopies, in general inflatable, e.g. shaped, strengthened or supported by fluid pressure with inflatable tubular framework, with or without tent cover

Definitions

  • the present disclosure relates generally to sun shading systems. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to an inflatable sun shading system and an inflatable sun shading kit.
  • Sun shading systems are commonly constructed using metal frame(s) to provide support and a canopy attached to the metal frame(s) to create shade on the surface of the ground.
  • the metal frame(s) typically have a plurality of sections.
  • the plurality of sections of a frame will be connected at both ends for end-to-end alignment every time that the shade system is used and then the same process in reversed every time the system is stored.
  • the existing systems using wind force to lift the canopy to provide shade have the potential for injury.
  • the dense, rigid metal structures in these systems have been known to uproot and collide into victims causing serious injuries and in some rare cases even death.
  • Some existing shade systems may also be quite cumbersome. While they typically collapse to a smaller profile than when in the opened position, some of these systems can be quite heavy and large in there collapsed positions making them unwieldy and difficult to transport to and from the location of use and storage.
  • the inflatable sun shading system includes: (1) an inflatable frame configured to, when inflated, extend from ground to form a support structure, wherein the inflatable frame comprises an inflatable inner tube and an outer protective sleeve configured to wrap around the inflatable inner tube; and (2) a canopy having a first edge attachable to the inflatable frame and a second edge opposite the first edge, the second edge provided with at least two slots configured to receive an additional support.
  • the canopy is configured to be installed to: (1) provide shade in a first configuration in which the first edge is supported by the support structure and the second edge is lifted without support under a wind condition; and (2) provide shade in a second configuration in which the first edge is supported by the support structure and the second edge is supported by an additional support structure.
  • the inflatable sun shading kit includes: (f ) an inflatable frame configured to, when inflated, extend from ground to form a support structure, wherein the inflatable frame comprises an inflatable inner tube and an outer protective sleeve configured to wrap around the inflatable inner tube; and (2) a canopy having a first edge attachable to the inflatable frame and a second edge opposite the first edge, the second edge provided with at least two slots configured to receive an additional support.
  • the canopy is configured to be installed to: (1) provide shade in a first configuration in which the first edge is supported by the support structure and the second edge is lifted without support under a wind condition; and (2) provide shade in a second configuration in which the first edge is supported by the support structure and the second edge is supported by an additional support structure.
  • FIG. 1 shows an example inflatable sun shading system, in accordance with some embodiments
  • FIG. 2A shows a first configuration of the inflatable sun shading system shown in FIG. 1;
  • FIG. 2B shows a second configuration of the inflatable sun shading system shown in FIG. 1, in which two ground poles are used to support the rear edge of the canopy;
  • FIGS. 2C and 2D show a variation of the second configuration of the inflatable sun shading system shown in FIG. 2B, in which the canopy is supported at a folded edge;
  • FIGS . 2E and 2F show another variation of the second configuration of the inflatable sun shading system shown in FIG. 2B, in which one or more anchor points on a permanent or movable structure are used to support the rear edge of the canopy;
  • FIG. 3A shows an inflatable frame in an example inflatable sun shading system, in accordance with some embodiments
  • FIG. 3B shows an inflatable inner tube and an outer protective sleeve of an inflatable frame that can be used for an inflatable sun shading system, in accordance with some embodiments;
  • FIGS. 3C and 3D show various shapes of a cross-section of the inflatable frame of an inflatable sun shading system, in accordance with some embodiments
  • FIG. 3E shows the Bernoulli’s Principle that could be leveraged by the various shapes in FIGS. 3C and 3D.
  • FIGS. 3F and 3G show a variation of the inflatable frame shown in FIG. 3 A and a matching canopy, in accordance with some embodiments.
  • FIG. 4A shows a fastener for an inflatable sun shading system that can attach the inflatable frame to a stake
  • FIG. 4B shows a weight for fastening the inflatable frame of an inflatable sun shading system to the ground
  • FIG. 6 shows a plurality of anchor lines attaching to the inflatable frame of an inflatable sun shading system
  • FIG. 9 shows a serrated edge that can be provided to the canopy in an inflatable sun shading system
  • FIG. 10 shows an alternative embodiment of an inflatable sun shading system having a double sail configuration attachable to an inflatable frame
  • FIG. 11 shows an alternative embodiment of an inflatable sun shading system having a full coverage configuration
  • FIG. 12 shows an alternative embodiment of an inflatable sun shading system having a tunnel canopy configuration using a plurality of inflatable frames.
  • the system includes an inflatable frame that includes an outer protective sleeve comprising of minimally stretching fabric tube that is cut to a desired shape.
  • the outer protective sleeve houses an inner airbladder with an air valve. As the inner airbladder is inflated via the air valve it fills the space within the outer cover and forms its intended, rigidized shape to form a support structure.
  • the system includes a canopy that can be attached to the inflatable frame and provide shade on the ground surface.
  • the canopy can operate in a first configuration under a wind condition, where the canopy can be configured to be lifted under the wind condition to provide the shade.
  • the canopy can also operate in a second configuration under non-optimal wind conditions or when there is little to no wind. In such case, the canopy can be configured to be supported by ground poles or other support structure and provide the shade.
  • the system is configured to perform optimally on sand, grass, rocky terrain, and hard ground such as pavement or tile. This is accomplished by leveraging its separate connection points (located, for example, on the feet, center, mid height portion of the inflatable air structure, as well, as on the canopy) paired with corresponding componentry (e.g., weighted forms, such as donut-shaped weighted forms, stakes, ground poles with attachable rubber feet, and quick connect anchor lines). By attaching specific componentry on specific connection points, the sun shading system becomes optimized as a functioning shade on sand, grass, rocky terrain, and hard ground such as pavement or tile.
  • componentry e.g., weighted forms, such as donut-shaped weighted forms, stakes, ground poles with attachable rubber feet, and quick connect anchor lines.
  • the various embodiments of the inflatable sun shading system described above and further herein have advantages over existing systems.
  • the frame does not have a plurality of sections that are cumbersome to assemble/disassemble as in existing systems.
  • the inflatable structure is simple, soft, lightweight that is constructed of non-corroding and soft materials, thus, does not have the problems of existing systems that have a plurality of points of failure, are prone to corrosion and can cause bodily injury.
  • the inflatable sun shading system has the built in flexibility to be securely anchored to any terrain and under different wind conditions to function optimally.
  • FIGS. 1-3B show an example embodiment of an inflatable sun shading system 10.
  • the system includes an inflatable frame 12 and a canopy 14.
  • the inflatable frame 12 has an inflatable inner tube 22 and an outer protective sleeve 24 configured to wrap around the inflatable inner tube 22.
  • the inner tube 22 is an inner air bladder that is constructed of a sealed plastic sheet or other suitable materials.
  • the outer protective sleeve 24 is constructed of durable fabric in some embodiments.
  • An air valve 26 is provided on the inflatable inner tube 22 to inflate and deflate the inflatable inner tube.
  • the outer protective sleeve 24 is provided an opening 28 (e.g., a hole) to allow the air valve 26 to extend therethrough. When inflated, the inflatable frame 12 extends from ground to form a support structure for the canopy.
  • inflatable frame 12 can be built in a different configuration.
  • inflatable frame 12 may be a single tube (without inner tube) that is made of inflatable, air holding material and can be rigidized into a shape on its own.
  • the air valve 26 may be provided directly on the inflatable frame 12.
  • the canopy 14 may be of any suitable materials.
  • canopy may be formed of fabric or other suitable materials.
  • Canopy 14 has a front edge 32 and a rear edge 34 opposite the first edge.
  • the front edge is attachable to the inflatable frame 12.
  • the front edge 32 is a looped end that allows the inflatable frame 12 to be pulled through.
  • the canopy 14 provides shade with the front edge 32 being supported by the supported structure (inflated frame 12) and the canopy being lifted by wind without other support.
  • the first configuration requires fewer componentry (for example, the ground poles are not needed), allowing the user to quickly set up the system.
  • the rear edge 34 is supported by at least two ground poles 38 respectively received in the at least two slots 36, where the ground poles 38 are anchored to the ground (to be further described).
  • each of the at least two slots 36 is a stitched buttonhole sized to fit the end of the respective ground pole, as such, the rear edge 34 of the canopy can be secured to the ground poles 38 and supported therefrom.
  • the second configuration can operate in little to no wind conditions, allowing the system to be versatile to accommodate various environmental conditions. It is appreciated that the second configuration may also be used in a windy condition.
  • the canopy 14 can be permanently affixed to the inflatable frame 12.
  • the front edge 32 of the canopy 14 can be sewn onto the outer protective sleeve 24 of the inflatable frame 12. This reduces the cost of making and the number of components for the system.
  • the canopy 14 can be removably attached to the inflatable frame 12, for example, allowing replacement of the canopy 12 or different types of canopies to be installed.
  • FIGS. 2C and 2D show a variation of the second configuration, in which the canopy is supported at a folded edge. As shown, two additional slots (e.g., 36-3, 36-4) proximate to edge
  • the two additional slots 36-3, 36-4 may receive two respective ground poles 38 to provide support to the canopy 14 at the folded edge 35. In such configuration, while the canopy is supported by the ground poles 38, edge portion 37 of canopy 14 may drop at edge
  • the edge portion 37 functions to block the sun coming from the rear side of the sun shading system and thus provide more shade coverage.
  • the overall footprint is also minimized.
  • FIGS. 2E and 2F show another variation of the second configuration of the inflatable sun shading system in which one or more anchor points on a permanent structure (e.g., a house in FIG. 2E) or a movable structure (e.g., a vehicle in FIG. 2F) are used to support the real' edge of the canopy.
  • a permanent structure e.g., a house in FIG. 2E
  • a movable structure e.g., a vehicle in FIG. 2F
  • the at least two slots on the rear edge of the canopy may be anchored (e.g., via anchor lines) to one or more anchor points on the house, vehicle, or other suitable structures.
  • the canopy may be shaped to accommodate different variations.
  • the side edges of the canopy may be tapered inward from the front edge to the rear edge by an angle (e.g., 1-5 degrees, or other suitable angles).
  • the rear corners where the side edges meet the rear edge may be rounded corners.
  • the rounder corners may have a radius of 10cm or other suitable radiuses.
  • the support structure 16 which is formed when the inflatable frame 12 is inflated, has a particular shape suited to accommodate the canopy 14 to provide maximum area of shade.
  • the outer protective sleeve 24 of the inflatable frame 12 can be made of minimally or non- stretchable fabric that is cut to a desired shape such that, when the inflatable frame 12 is inflated, the support structure 16 has an arched gate shape.
  • the support structure 16 formed by a singular inflatable frame in construction has first and second leg portions 20, and a transom portion 18 extending between the first leg portion and the second leg portion 20.
  • the outer protective sleeve 24 may be cut in a manner such that the support structure 16 can be any suitable shape.
  • the singular inflatable frame may be cut in a manner such that, when inflated, the shape of the support structure 16 (or other shapes as shown in FIGS. 3F and 3G) can be properly formed.
  • the inner tube 22 is similar in length and diameter to the outer protective sleeve 24, which is sleeved over the inner tube 22, where the air valve 26 is pushed through the hole 28.
  • the outer protective sleeve 24 is then sewn closed, encasing the inner tube 22.
  • the outer protective sleeve 24 has a zipper 30 (e.g., a full-length zipper) allowing for the inner tube 22 to be removed and replaced.
  • the inflatable frame construction which instead of the commonly used plurality of metal components, uses a minimally stretching fabric tube (outer protective sleeve) which is cut to its desired shape and houses an inner tube with an air valve. As the inner tube is inflated via the air valve, it fills the space within the outer protective sleeve and forms its intended, rigidized shape, such as the shape in FIG. 3A.
  • a minimally stretching fabric tube outer protective sleeve
  • the outer protective sleeve 24 as shown acts as a protective barrier for the inner tube 22 to help protect the inner tube 22 from being punctured and being exposed to direct UV radiation, thus increasing its longevity. Additionally, the inner tube 22 is enclosed within the outer protective sleeve 24 that is a shaped fabric, resulting in a cost-effective and easily assembled structure with fewer components.
  • the inflatable frame 12 can be deflated, flattened, and folded similarly to the fabric canopy and is singular in its construction. This allows the structure to not need to be disassembled from the canopy, where the canopy can remain attached to the inflatable frame and, when deflated, rolled up and stored together. This further eliminates time-intensive steps in the setup and storage process associated with existing systems.
  • the inner tube 22 could be made or cut to its desired inflated shape so that it does not need an outer protective sleeve to form its intended shape.
  • the inner tube 22 may be made of drop stitched Hypalon or pvc inflatable construction.
  • the cross-section of the inflatable frame 12 is round.
  • the cross-section of the inflatable frame 12 could be any shape.
  • FIGS. 3C and 3D show various profiles of a cross-section of the inflatable frame of an inflatable sun shading system that is configured to guide the canopy 14 to have an increased lifting force from the wind. Both profiles leverage the Bernoulli’s Principle as shown in FIG. 3E, where the airflow towards the narrow side 44 of the shape 46 creates a difference of air pressure above and below the shape.
  • FIG. 3C shows that the cross-section of at least a portion of the inflatable frame 12, e.g., the transom portion 18 (FIG. 3A), has a tear drop shape with the narrow side 42 orienting towards pail of the canopy 14 that is disposed downstream of the inflatable frame 12.
  • FIG. 3D shows that the cross-section has an ellipse shape with the narrow side 43 orienting towards part of the canopy 14 downstream of the inflatable frame 12.
  • FIGS. 3F and 3G further show a variation of the inflatable frame, in accordance with some embodiments.
  • inflatable frame 13 when inflated, provides a support structure that has a different shape than that of the inflatable frame 12 (FIG. 3A).
  • the support structure may include two vertical portions 132 and a top portion 134 (e.g., a horizontal portion) meeting the vertical portions 132.
  • the top portion 134 may meet the vertical portions 132 at its respective ends via a respective chamfered corner, e.g., 136.
  • the inflatable frame may be constructed in other various configurations such that the support structure formed by the inflatable frame (when inflated) may be of any other suitable shape.
  • a matching canopy 138 is shown that can be attached to the inflatable frame 13 (FIG. 3F).
  • the canopy 138 may be made of a plurality of sections stitched together, where the sizes of the plurality of sections match those of the sections of the inflatable frame.
  • canopy sections 138-1, 138-5 may correspond to vertical portions 132 (partially); canopy section 138-3 may correspond to the top portion 134; and canopy sections 138-2, 138-4 may correspond to the chamfered corners 136.
  • the configuration shown in FIGS. 3F and 3G optimizes the overall footprint of the system, allowing for more volume, e.g., giving more head room and usable space under the canopy.
  • the inflatable sun shading system 10 is provided with various fasteners to anchor the inflatable frame 12 to the ground and/or stabilize the system.
  • the inflatable frame 12 has two ends 50, each of which is provided with a respective fastener configured to fasten the end of the inflatable frame 12 to soft ground (e.g., beach, grass) or hard ground (e.g., cement, pavement).
  • FIGS. 4A-4C show various examples of fasteners that can be attached to the ends 50 of the inflatable frame 12.
  • the end 50 of the inflatable frame 12 is provided with a strap 52 that is attachable to a stake or anchor 54 staked in ground (e.g., soft ground, such as beach and grass).
  • a strap 60 is provided at the end 50 of the inflatable frame 12 and configured to be attached to a weight 58 that may be placed on hard ground (e.g., cement or pavement).
  • a webbing ring 62 e.g., D-ring
  • the webbing ring 62 is removably attached to a band 64 which can be fastened to the weight 58, e.g., via a fastener 66.
  • strap 60 is looped through the webbing ring 62 and both sides of the strap are fixedly fastened together on to the inflatable frame 12.
  • the inflatable sun shading system (e.g., system 10) may be provided with one or more anchor lines to further stabilize the system.
  • the inflatable frame 12 is provided with one or more fasteners configured to, when the inflatable frame is inflated, receive a respective guy line or anchor line extending from the ground to provide stability to the support structure.
  • FIGS. 5A and 5B show an anchor line 72 attached to the inflatable frame 12 of an inflatable sun shading system.
  • one end of the anchor line 72 is tied onto a webbing loop 74 (e.g., a D-ring) rotatably attached to the inflatable frame 12 and threaded through the opening 76 in the canopy.
  • the other end of the anchor line 72 may be attached to an anchor device (e.g., 76 in FIG. 6) on the ground.
  • the anchor line is further described in FIG. 6.
  • one end of the anchor line 72 is attached to the middle portion of the inflatable frame 12, the other end of anchor line 72 is attached to an anchor device, e.g., weight 76, such as a sand bag, on the ground.
  • the anchor device to which the anchor line 72 is attached can also be a stake that is staked in soft ground (such as shown in FIG. 4A).
  • This configuration provides a three-point anchoring (one anchor line and two feet) for anchoring the sun shading structure to the ground, which can stabilize the inflatable frame even without the canopy installed.
  • the support structure formed by the inflatable frame (when inflated) can stand vertically on its own.
  • the fastening of the anchor line to the webbing loop (FIGS. 5A-5B) is a unique feature in that it prevents the anchor line from sliding down either side of the inflatable frame which could cause failure or damage to the canopy.
  • Additional anchor lines may be provided to further stabilize the system.
  • one or more additional anchor lines 78 can be attached to other portion(s) of the inflatable frame, for example, at mid-height of each leg portion of the inflatable frame, in a similar manner as anchor line 72 is provided to stabilize the inflatable frame.
  • the number of anchor lines may depend on the support structure of the inflatable frame (when inflated).
  • additional anchor lines may be provided on the vertical portions 132 to provide stability to the inflatable frame shown in FIG. 3F.
  • additional anchor lines may be used to stabilize the ground poles. For example, as shown in FIG.
  • anchor line 80 may be attached to the ground pole 38 or the canopy 14, such that, when the canopy is supported by the ground poles 38, it may be further stabilized by the anchor line(s) 80. This feature allows the system to be used in any environment whether it be a windless beach, in dirt, mud, or grass.
  • Anchor line(s) 80 may be attached to the ground poles 38 or the canopy 14 in a similar manner as anchor line 72 is attached to the inflatable frame, such as using webbing loops.
  • the anchor line(s) 80 can also be anchored to the ground in a similar manner as anchor line 72 is anchored to the ground, such as using a weight or a stake.
  • one or more fasteners are provided on the front edge of the canopy of an inflatable sun shading system for removably affixing the canopy in place relative to the inflatable frame.
  • the front looped edge 32 of the canopy 14 is attached to the inflatable frame 12 and overlaps with a portion of the inflatable frame 12, including the transom portion 18.
  • fasteners can be provided on the canopy 14 at each end of the front edge 32 to secure the front edge 32 of the canopy 14 to the inflatable frame 12 and thus prevent the canopy 14 from shifting relative to the inflatable frame 12.
  • a fastener is provided at one end 90-1 of the front edge 32 of the canopy 14, and a second fastener is provided at the other end 90-2 of the front edge 32 of the canopy 14.
  • the nylon webbing 88 of the webbing bucket 82 can be attached to the webbing loop 86 by pulling the nylon webbing 88 through the webbing loop 86 when the inflatable frame 12 is deflated, in some examples. While deflated, the inflatable frame 12 is pulled through the looped end (e.g., front edge 32) of the canopy 14. Once in position, one end of the webbing buckle 82 is pushed through the webbing loop 86 on the inflatable frame 12 (FIG. 7B) and then buckled on the other end (FIG. 7C). The process is the same for both fasteners at positions 90-1, 90-2 (see FIG. 6).
  • Fasteners 82 as described above can be used to fasten the canopy to the inflatable frame and keep the canopy affixed in a correct position relative to the inflatable frame. Further, the canopy can also remain attached to the inflatable frame while the sun shading system is stored. This eliminates time-consuming steps for assembling and disassembling the system as in existing systems. This configuration also allows for different canopy (sail) options to be detached and attached to the inflatable frame as will be described further herein with reference to FIGS. 8-12.
  • FIG. 8 shows an alternative embodiment that has an integrated visor 92 extending from the canopy 14 of the inflatable sun shading system 10.
  • the integrated visor 92 extends from the front edge 32 of the canopy 14 that is attached to the inflatable frame 12.
  • the integrated visor 92 extends from the canopy 14 and blocks light from the front end of the sun shading system 10.
  • the visor 92 has a downward angle that significantly cuts down the direct light that can enter the front of the sun shading system.
  • the visor 92 can be made of any suitable materials that have rigidity.
  • the visor can be made of tinted plastic film or fabric wrapping around cardboard.
  • FIG. 9 shows an alternative embodiment of the canopy 14, where the rear edge 34 of the canopy has a serrated edge.
  • the serrated trailing edge geometry can be used to reduce the flapping noise caused to the canopy in the configurations as previously described (e.g., FIGS. 2A-2B) in a windy condition.
  • FIG. 10 shows an alternative embodiment of an inflatable sun shading system 100 having a double canopy or sail 94 attachable to an inflatable frame 102. Comparing system 100 with system 10 in FIG. 2B, canopy 94 doubles the footprint of the canopy 14.
  • the inflatable frame 102 is constructed in a similar manner as inflatable frame 12 and attached to the middle of the canopy 94.
  • FIG. 11 shows an alternative embodiment of an inflatable sun shading system 104 having a full coverage configuration, where the canopy 106 forms an enclosed shade structure when the system is installed.
  • FIG. 12 shows an alternative embodiment of an inflatable sun shading system 108 having a tunnel canopy configuration 110 using a plurality of inflatable frames 112.
  • This configuration can be adapted to provide a larger area of shade.
  • the configuration also provides unobstructed space under the canopy, making it easy to accommodate arrangements, such as tables for a party.
  • FIGS. 10-12 may be applicable to the variations shown in FIGS. 10-12.
  • the inflatable frame in FIGS. 10-12 can be constructed in a similar manner with respect to inflatable frame 12 in system 10.
  • the fasteners, stakes, weights that are used to fasten the inflatable frame to the ground, and anchor lines and fasteners, as described above can also be used in the embodiments in FIGS. 10- 12.
  • the canopies 94, 106, 110 can also be constructed in a similar manner as canopy 14 is constructed.
  • the various embodiments of the inflatable sun shading system in FIGS. 1-12 provide advantages over conventional systems in that a canopy is affixed to provide shade on a surface in various environments, whether under a wind condition or when there is little to no wind, whether on hard ground surface or on soft ground surface or even in muddy ground.
  • the system in particular, the singular inflatable frame construction, will not rust, kink, snap, or dent overtime and has fewer points of failure compared to existing systems. Further, the inflatable system has non-metal construction thus can be light-weight.
  • an inflatable sun shading kit includes an inflatable frame and a canopy attachable to the inflatable frame as described above.
  • the inflatable frame includes an inflatable inner tube and an outer protective sleeve configured to wrap around the inflatable inner tube.
  • the canopy can operate in one of two configurations. In the first configuration, with the front edge of the canopy attached to the inflatable frame, the rear edge of the canopy is lifted using the wind current without any other support. In the second configuration, the rear edge of the canopy is supported using ground poles.
  • Various fasteners, rubber feet, and/or anchor lines are included in the kit and can be used to anchor the sun shading system to the ground and/or stabilize the system, in the manners as described above.
  • donut-shaped weights are also included in the kit.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Architecture (AREA)
  • Civil Engineering (AREA)
  • Structural Engineering (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Fluid Mechanics (AREA)
  • Tents Or Canopies (AREA)

Abstract

Un système de pare-soleil gonflable comprend un cadre gonflable et un auvent pouvant être fixé au cadre gonflable au niveau d'un bord avant. Le cadre gonflable comprend un tube intérieur gonflable et un manchon de protection extérieur conçu pour s'enrouler autour du tube intérieur gonflable. Lorsqu'il est gonflé, le cadre gonflable s'étend à partir du sol pour former une structure de support. L'auvent fonctionne pour fournir de l'ombre dans deux configurations. Dans la première configuration, l'auvent est soulevé par un courant de vent sans support supplémentaire. Dans la seconde configuration, l'auvent est supporté au niveau du bord arrière par une structure de support supplémentaire. Divers éléments de fixation et lignes d'ancrage sont prévus pour fixer le système au sol et/ou stabiliser le système. Ainsi, le système de pare-soleil gonflable peut être portable et léger, et peut fonctionner dans diverses conditions de vent, notamment sans vent, et peut être installé sur diverses surfaces de sol.
PCT/US2024/043523 2023-10-17 2024-08-23 Système de pare-soleil gonflable Pending WO2025085155A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US202363590852P 2023-10-17 2023-10-17
US63/590,852 2023-10-17

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2025085155A1 true WO2025085155A1 (fr) 2025-04-24

Family

ID=95449218

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/US2024/043523 Pending WO2025085155A1 (fr) 2023-10-17 2024-08-23 Système de pare-soleil gonflable

Country Status (1)

Country Link
WO (1) WO2025085155A1 (fr)

Citations (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US1964818A (en) * 1933-03-25 1934-07-03 Robert A Hood Air-inflated collapsible structure
DE1684972A1 (de) * 1967-05-29 1971-05-13 Steinthal & Co Inc M Bogenfoermiger Schlauch und Verfahren zu seiner Herstellung
US20100212709A1 (en) * 2007-09-14 2010-08-26 Charles Peter Sotirkys Tailgator/sunshade protective cover
US20190017287A1 (en) * 2016-09-01 2019-01-17 Tepui Outdoors, Inc. Inflatable Rooftop Tent System for Vehicles
AU2020100586A4 (en) * 2020-04-17 2020-05-28 Mark Andrew Fraser A shelter
WO2020197415A1 (fr) * 2019-03-28 2020-10-01 Flow Imports Limited Abri portable et construction correspondante
US20230126867A1 (en) * 2021-10-21 2023-04-27 Shibumi Shade, Inc. Sun shading systems
US20230151636A1 (en) * 2021-11-17 2023-05-18 Jingqi Li Canopy system

Patent Citations (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US1964818A (en) * 1933-03-25 1934-07-03 Robert A Hood Air-inflated collapsible structure
DE1684972A1 (de) * 1967-05-29 1971-05-13 Steinthal & Co Inc M Bogenfoermiger Schlauch und Verfahren zu seiner Herstellung
US20100212709A1 (en) * 2007-09-14 2010-08-26 Charles Peter Sotirkys Tailgator/sunshade protective cover
US20190017287A1 (en) * 2016-09-01 2019-01-17 Tepui Outdoors, Inc. Inflatable Rooftop Tent System for Vehicles
WO2020197415A1 (fr) * 2019-03-28 2020-10-01 Flow Imports Limited Abri portable et construction correspondante
AU2020100586A4 (en) * 2020-04-17 2020-05-28 Mark Andrew Fraser A shelter
US20230126867A1 (en) * 2021-10-21 2023-04-27 Shibumi Shade, Inc. Sun shading systems
US20230151636A1 (en) * 2021-11-17 2023-05-18 Jingqi Li Canopy system

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US10364588B2 (en) Shelter system
EP0368626B1 (fr) Tente tendue et méthode pour son érection
US6478038B1 (en) Collapsible shade for a towel mat
US9482024B2 (en) Collapsible shelter anchor
US9051756B1 (en) Collapsible sunshade
US5570544A (en) Inflatable structure
US20220325553A1 (en) Self inflating canopy tent
US4355650A (en) Portable shelter
US5036874A (en) Tensioned tent structure and erection method therefor
US4506688A (en) Portable shelters
US6050280A (en) Sports shade
WO2009049056A2 (fr) Tente portable
US20070271854A1 (en) Catapult Air Beam With Permanently Affixed Laceloops
US7059660B1 (en) Truck bed mounted sunshade
US20070295380A1 (en) Pavilion
US7938134B2 (en) Protective shelter
US7178537B2 (en) Ring and pole connector assembly for a tent corner
CN210598386U (zh) 便携式遮阳组件
US20160290002A1 (en) Shelter deployment handles
US5970531A (en) Portable, modular, wooden, pool cover frame
GB2295629A (en) Awning for umbrella or sunshade
WO2015009738A1 (fr) Abri autoporteur réglable
US11091930B2 (en) Portable tent platform
GB2378925A (en) Inflatable caravan awning
GB2284437A (en) Sun umbrella with awning

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application

Ref document number: 24880349

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1