Oregon Patent of the Month – June 2021
There is nothing more annoying than walking in the rain with an umbrella, and having the wind flip it inside out. This is a common issue due to the traditional design of the umbrella. The metal ribs that support the fabric canopy are expected to withstand wind as it swoops under the canopy, while also providing support in the opposing direction. ShedRain Corp. has been in the umbrella industry since 1947. They’ve recently designed an umbrella with an anti-inversion feature to prevent this inconvenience.
The anti-inversion umbrella is designed with a dual canopy, where both are anchored to the cap on the shaft. The first, larger canopy has a large center opening, and the second canopy covers this opening. They are not attached, allowing an air vent between the two canopies. This vent helps to reduce the strength of wind as it begins to push on the underside of the umbrella and reduces the likelihood of inversion. The opening and closing function is similar to traditional umbrella designs, where moving the runner up the shaft extends the ribs out, pulling the canopies into place. Along this structure, ShedRain has incorporated an anti-inversion wire that acts as a spring to apply counteractive force to resist umbrella inversions. The wire strength prevents the canopy from lifting upward and prevents the rib joints from breaking. This force helps to counter inversion forces and improves functionality in strong winds.
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