Apparatus for protecting an object and/or displaying information

Abstract

An apparatus includes a flexible frame connected to a membrane. The apparatus also includes a coupler configured to couple the apparatus to an object. The apparatus can be self-deploying and used in conjunction with many objects, such as cars, boats, machinery, places, structures, etc. which are desirous of protecting for a longer and lasting lifetime. The coupler can be configured to adhere to any surface, such as glass, metal, fiberglass, plastic, vinyl, etc. The cover can be collapsed by simply pulling two sides of the membrane or frame together at which point the flexible frame collapses on to itself An information bearing unit can be attached to the collapsed or partially-collapsed apparatus to display information. When deployed, the apparatus creates an airspace between an object and its membrane provides a shaded space which operates to decrease environmental effects, such as from rays from the sun, hail, acid rain, etc. The apparatus can also be convertible with a replaceable membrane wherein a different material can be deployed according to environmental conditions at the place of deployment.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/688,808, filed Jun. 9, 2005.

BACKGROUND

Objects such as motor vehicles, boats, airplanes, pet houses, etc. are susceptible to being rendered uncomfortable and damaged by periodic exposure to the sun, weather, man-made elements, and other things. One especially vexing problem for the typical owner of a car is that when parked temporarily in the sun, the passenger compartment quickly becomes quite hot (greenhouse effect). This is very uncomfortable to passengers upon returning to the vehicle. It is also potentially damaging to the car and its contents, including pets and children that may have been left in the vehicle. Plastic and leather fabric and coverings are more rapidly aged or dried by exposure to heat or to ultraviolet light entering the car. Certain personal property commonly carried in cars, such as navigation devices, handheld devices, magnetic audiotapes, compact discs, DVDs, etc. are also quite susceptible to damage from heat and sunlight. Other environmental hazards which are desirable to avoid include dust, dirt, rain, snow, frost and ice formation on vehicle windows, wiper blades, and other areas.

Covers have been developed to protect vehicles and other objects from these and other conditions. Some are full body covers, that is, covers which envelope or cover an entire vehicle body. Others are designed specifically to cover only the window area, since both heat and window fouling hazards impinge principally on the cab termed a cab cover. A full body cover can be awkward and unwieldy to install, unattractive, and may occupy a large amount of space when stored. In particular, a full body cover must generally be exactly shaped to conform to the vehicle body in order to avoid unsightly bulges and to keep from being blown off the vehicle by the wind.

Previous covers have not found a wide market, principally because they are difficult to put on the vehicle. Even a cab cover must be unfolded, placed around the cab, and secured in place at the same time that the cover has a tendency to move around on the cab or slip off the cab. A full body cover is even more difficult to install, because of the size of the vehicle. The cover has a tendency to slip off the first end while the other end is being secured.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

Each publication, patent, and/or patent application mentioned in this specification is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety to the same extent as if each individual publication and/or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates an apparatus according to an embodiment.

FIG. 1a shows a detail of a swivel connecting to a fastener, according to the embodiment of FIG. 1.

FIG. 2 illustrates an apparatus according to an embodiment.

FIG. 2A shows a detail of a composite material rod used for the frame member which has been molded to a shape, according to the embodiment of FIG. 2.

FIG. 3A illustrates a detail of a clamp and how it secures to a frame member and bolt.

FIG. 3B illustrates a clamp and how it secures to a frame member, according the embodiment of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 4A-4C illustrate a user collapsing the apparatus from a deployed configuration, to a partially collapsed configuration, and then to a collapsed configuration.

FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary affixing member for securing the apparatus.

FIGS. 6A-6B depict partial top and side views of an exemplary cover member including a clamp and bolt.

FIGS. 7A-7B depict an apparatus in a deployed state, according to an embodiment.

FIGS. 8A-8B depict an apparatus in a collapsed state, according to the embodiment of FIGS. 7A-7B.

FIGS. 9A-9B depict an apparatus in a deployed state, according to yet another embodiment.

FIG. 10 depicts an affixing member attached to the frame according to an embodiment of the apparatus.

FIG. 11 depicts an affixing member attached to the frame according to an embodiment of the apparatus.

FIG. 12 depicts a frame member and support, under an embodiment.

FIG. 13A depicts a frame and means for displaying information using the frame, under an embodiment.

FIG. 13B depicts a frame in a semi- or partially-collapsed fastened state for displaying information, under an embodiment.

FIG. 13B depicts a frame in a semi- or partially-collapsed state, under an embodiment.

FIG. 14 depicts multiple deployed apparatus', under an embodiment.

FIG. 15A depicts multiple apparatus' for displaying information, under an embodiment.

FIG. 15B depicts a semi- or partially-collapsed and secured apparatus, under an embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments provide an apparatus which can be used for protecting an object. Various embodiments provide an apparatus which can be used for covering and protecting an object, and for displaying information. In an embodiment, the apparatus includes a flexible frame coupled to a membrane. For example, the flexible frame can be coupled to the membrane by stitching, velcroing, gluing, snap buttons, etc. The apparatus can include a coupler that is configured to affix or couple the apparatus to an object. For example, the apparatus can include a coupler, such as a suction cup, magnet, or other means for affixing the apparatus to an object, such as a motor vehicle, boat, plane, animal shelter, or other structure.

For example, the apparatus can be deployed and used in conjunction with cars, boats, places, objects, etc. which are desirous of protecting for a longer and lasting lifetime. The coupler can be designed to adhere to any surface, such as glass, metal, fiberglass, plastic, vinyl, etc. The apparatus can self deploy in seconds and can then be collapsed, by folding for example, by simply pulling two sides together at which point the flexible frame collapses on to itself In one embodiment, the collapsed frame reduces to approximately one third of the deployed size and makes the apparatus easy to store and use. In an embodiment, an information bearing unit, such as a cover, can be coupled with the collapsed frame and membrane and used to display information, such as an announcement, advertisement, etc. The apparatus is also capable of collapsing to a partially collapsed state. In an embodiment, an information bearing unit, such as a cover, can be coupled with the partially collapsed frame and membrane and used to display information, such as an announcement, advertisement, etc. The apparatus can create a shaded airspace between an object, such as a vehicle, and the membrane to thereby provide a shaded space or volume which operates to decrease environmental effects, such as from rays from the sun, hail, acid rain, etc and thereby protecting the object. The apparatus can also be convertible wherein a different material can be used for the membrane and deployed according to environmental conditions at the place of deployment.

Various embodiments provide an apparatus which can be used for covering and protecting an object, and as an information bearing medium. In an embodiment, the frame is configured to provide an amount of rigidity or structural integrity when the apparatus is reduced to a collapsed or partially-collapsed state, and a separate information bearing unit, such as an enclosure, cover, or bag for example, can be used with the collapsed or partially-collapsed apparatus. The information bearing unit can include various advertising or other indicia which is displayed when used in conjunction with the collapsed or partially-collapsed apparatus. In another embodiment, a information bearing unit, such as a separate membrane, letters, etc., can include various advertising or other indicia which is displayed when the information bearing unit is coupled with the apparatus. The separate membrane can be coupled with the apparatus while in a deployed, collapsed, partially collapsed, or other state. In an embodiment, multiple apparatus' can be used together to advertise across a large space.

In the following description, numerous specific details are introduced to provide a thorough understanding of, and enabling description for, embodiments of the invention. One skilled in the relevant art, however, will recognize that the invention can be practiced without one or more of the specific details, or with other components, systems, etc. In other instances, well-known structures or operations are not shown, or are not described in detail, to avoid obscuring aspects of the invention.

Referring now to the drawings, in which like numerals represent like elements, various aspects of the present invention will be described.

FIG. 1 illustrates a protective apparatus 100 according to an embodiment. The apparatus 100 can be made to be self-deploying and is shown in FIG. 1 in a deployed state or configuration. The apparatus 100 includes a flexible frame member 110, affixing or coupling member 120, such as a suction cup or magnet for example, flexible membrane 130, bolt 140 (e.g. stainless), tether 150, hook 151, and clamp 141 (see FIGS. 3A-3B), and lock cable 160.

Frame member 110 can be composed of various types of materials. In an embodiment, the frame member 110 is composed of a non-corrosive spring steel approximately 0.062″×0.25″. Frame member 110 can be fastened to the coupling member 120 via the bolt 140 being screwed into an alloy swivel 116. FIG. 1a shows a detail of the swivel 116 connecting to the bolt 140, according to an embodiment. The membrane 130 can be an elastic material able to fold and open numerous times without undue wear. Exemplary materials for the membrane 130 include, but are not limited to: nylon, fabric, rubber, plastic, cloth, nanomaterials, etc. Based on the desired application, the material of membrane 130 can have properties for reflecting or absorbing sunlight, including different material types, thicknesses, and/or colors.

FIG. 2 illustrates an apparatus 200 according to yet another embodiment. According to this embodiment, a composite material rod 115, such as fiberglass, is used for the frame member 110. The composite material rod 115 is approximately 10 mm in diameter, and in similar fashion to the steel frame member 110, is operable to coil onto itself. The composite material rod 115 can be molded in the same shape 122 as the alloy swivel 116 and can affix to the coupling member in similar fashion as the alloy swivel 116. FIG. 2a shows a detail of a composite material rod 115 comprising the frame member which has been molded to a swivel shape 122, according to the embodiment of FIG. 2.

FIG. 3A illustrates a detail of the clamp 141 and how it can be secured to the frame member 110 and bolt 140 of FIG. 1. The clamp 141 secures first and second ends 147 and 149 of the frame member 110. As shown on FIGS. 3A-3B, in an embodiment, the clamp 141 is about three to about five inches in length. However, it will be appreciated that the clamp 141 is dimensioned to provide rigidity and strength to the frame member 110 which can be based on the deployed circumferential dimension of frame member 110, for example.

FIG. 3B illustrates the clamp 141 and how it secures the frame member 110. The ends 147 and 149 are located in the interior 151 of the clamp 141. Once located, the first and second edge members 153 and 155 are pressed over the frame member 110 securing the ends 147 and 149 therein. As shown in FIG. 3A, the bolt 140 can be welded to the clamp 141. However, a through-bolt and associated nut and other affixing methods can be used as well to secure the bolt 140 to the clamp 141. The bolt can then be screwed tight into the female receptacle of the swivel 116. FIG. 11 shows the clamp 141 in use.

FIGS. 4A-4B illustrate a user collapsing the apparatus 404 to a collapsed configuration. According to an embodiment, the user only has to grasp first and second portions 400 and 402 when collapsing the apparatus 404. The apparatus 404 can be collapsed by bringing the first and second portions 400 and 402 towards the interior 406 of the apparatus 404 in a folding motion. FIG. 4C illustrates the apparatus 404 in a collapsed state, allowing the apparatus 404 to be readily stored. As shown in FIG. 4C, the apparatus 404 has been collapsed to now define first and second portions 408 and 410. To deploy the apparatus 404, a user only has to grasp a part of first and/or second portions 400, 402 and unfold. The elasticity of the frame and membrane enables the apparatus 404 to be opened with little effort.

FIG. 5 illustrates an affixing or coupling member 120, under an embodiment. The affixing member 120 comprises a suction cup 123, alloy swivel 116, lever 117, rubber pad 118 and lock cable 160. Suction is achieved by placing rubber pad 118 onto a surface, and depressing lever 117. Alloy swivel 116 pivots, and is secured by screw bolt 121. Lock cable 160 is rubber coated and can be locked in the trunk, hood, door, or other enclosure. The end of the cable 160 can be shaped or included with an element such as a hook, rod, etc., to prevent removal of the apparatus unless the trunk or other enclosure is opened. One exemplary affixing member 120 is manufactured by Veribor of Germany. It will be appreciated the swivel 116 can be connected to the frame member 110 without the use of a bolt. The embodiments and examples described herein are not intended to limit the invention.

FIGS. 6A-6B depict partial top and side views of an apparatus including a clamp 141 and bolt 140, under an embodiment.

FIGS. 7A-7B depict an apparatus 700 deployed over a vehicle cab, according to an embodiment. As shown, the frame 702 and membrane 704 extend at an angle from the affixing member 706 in a cantilever orientation. An angle is also formed between the affixing member 706 and the deployment surface. The angles are from about 35° to about 150°. The frame 702 and affixing member 706 have sufficient structural integrity to support the weight of the apparatus 700 in the deployed cantilever state. The apparatus 700 is spaced a distance (e.g. about 5-30 inches) from the area to be protected.

FIGS. 8A-8B depict an apparatus in a collapsed state, according to the embodiment of FIGS. 7A-7B. FIGS. 8A-8B illustrate how easy it is for a user to collapse and store the apparatus 700.

FIGS. 9A-9B depict an apparatus 900 in a deployed state, according to yet another embodiment. The apparatus 900 includes a first affixing member 902, such as a suction cup or magnet for example, and a second affixing member 904, such as a suction cup, magnet, or hook for example, for securely attaching the apparatus 900 to an object, such as the vehicle shown in FIGS. 9A-9B. For this embodiment, one portion of the apparatus 900 includes the first affixing member 902. A second portion of the apparatus 900 includes the second affixing member 904. The first and second affixing members 902 and 904 are sufficiently spaced apart and oriented to sufficiently secure the apparatus 900 in various environmental conditions when deployed.

FIG. 10 depicts an affixing or coupling member 1000 according to an embodiment of the apparatus 1002. The affixing member 1000 includes a swivel member 1004 which is attached to a bolt 1009 which in turn is fastened to frame 1005. The swivel member 1004 is movably engaged to a blind bore 1007 of the affixing member 1000. The swivel member 1004 includes a female receptacle 1011 for receiving the male portion of the bolt 1009. The other end of the bolt can be attached to the frame 1005 by numerous methods, including welding, fastening, gluing, etc. (see FIG. 11 for an alternative embodiment). The affixing member 1000 also includes a tightening mechanism 1006 for securing the swivel member 1004 and orienting the apparatus 1000 in a desired orientation. The affixing member 1000 further includes an attachment member 1008 for attaching the apparatus 1000 to an object. A lever 1010 is included for releasing and engaging the attachment member 1008. For example, the lever 1010 can be used to control the suction properties (release and engage) of a suction attachment member. As further example, the lever 1010 can also be used to control the magnetic properties (release and engage) of a magnetic attachment member. The lever 1010 is shown in an engaged state in FIG. 10.

FIG. 11 depicts an affixing member 1100 attached to the frame 1102 according to an embodiment. In an embodiment, the frame 1102 is coupled, as be welding, etc. to a bolt device 1109. The affixing member 1100 includes a swivel member 1104 attached to the bolt device 1109 which is attached to clamp 141. The clamp 141 is secured to the frame and bolt device 1109 as described in conjunction with FIGS. 3A-3B. The swivel member 1104 is movably engaged to a blind bore 1107 of the affixing member 1100. The swivel member 1104 includes a female receptacle 1111 for receiving the male portion of the bolt device 1109. The affixing member 1100 also includes a tightening mechanism 1106 for securing the swivel member 1104 and orienting the apparatus in a desired orientation. The affixing member 1100 further includes an attachment member 1108 for attaching the apparatus to an object. A lever 1110 is included for releasing and engaging the attachment member 1108.

FIG. 12 depicts the frame construction under an embodiment. As shown in FIG. 12, a steel wire, fiberglass rod, or other flexible material comprises the frame 1200 that is about 4-6 mm thick and is coupled to a support 1201 with a fastener 1202, such as a M6 bolt for example. For example, the frame 1200 can be welded, glued, bolted to, or otherwise fastened to the support 1201. Shown in blowup subset bolt is part of a welded material, such as stainless steel, fiberglass rod, or other non-corrosive material.

FIG. 13A depicts a frame member 1300 in a collapsed configuration or state. In this state, the frame member 1300 is considerably more rigid as compared to the deployed state. One or more removable information bearing means or units 1301, 1302, and 1303 can be used for displaying information, such as an announcement, advertisement for a product or service, or other information, and can be coupled to the frame 1300 and/or membrane. A cover 1301 having a zipper and for securing the cover 1301 to the frame 1300 and for including information is shown. For example, when the frame 1300 is in its collapsed or partially-collapsed state, the zippered membrane 1301 is easily removable to allow for changes in a display, such as a logo, trademark, copyright, or other indicia, without the need to replace the whole apparatus. A membrane 1302 which is substantially flat and has Velcro sewn in around the edges wherein the receiving end can be sewn onto the frame 1300 or attached to the frame using the Velcro or other means can also be used to display information. A cover or membrane 1303 having male/female buttons can be used to secure to the frame 1300, wherein the complimentary receiving buttons can be located in like manner on the frame 1300. Other means for displaying information using the frame 1300 and/or membrane are also available, as well as means to secure the display to the frame 1300. The frame 1300 and/or information bearing unit can be made in many different shapes and sizes to accommodate any number of desired results.

FIG. 13B depicts a frame 1300 in a semi- or partially-collapsed and fastened state allowing more surface area for displaying information, such as an advertisement for a product or service or other information. A wire or other means 1304 can be fastened in the center on both sides of the support to hold the shape of the frame 1300. An information bearing means or unit 1305, such as a removable cover, letters, or other indicia, can be coupled to the frame 1300 using a zipper, Velcro, buttons, or other securing means, to display desired information. The frame 1300 and/or information bearing unit 1305 can be made in many different shapes and sizes to accommodate any number of desired results.

FIG. 14 depicts multiple protective apparatus' 1404 deployed on the tailgate of a SUV. In this embodiment, two protective apparatus 1404 are utilized and connected with a separate membrane 1403 with Velcro, or other means. This embodiment provides a large amount of protection and shade. Each apparatus 1404 can be secured using a tether strap 1401 to a tent stake or similar means 1402. Moreover, display indicia can be coupled to the apparatus 1404, such as by Velcro, stitching, glue, or other means for displaying information while the apparatus 1404 is in the deployed state or configuration.

FIG. 15A depicts multiple apparatus' wherein the frame 1300 is in a collapsed state and the affixing member 120 (FIG. 5) is used to couple the apparatus to a vehicle. This embodiment is useful for larger displays of information, such as an announcement, advertising or some other promotion, etc.

FIG. 15B depicts a semi- or partially-collapsed and secured apparatus 1350. With the affixing member 120 securing it to a vehicle or other object for displaying information using an information bearing unit 1305. An information bearing unit, such as a cover or other means can be attached to the frame for displaying the information.

Embodiments provide a multi-part and multi-function apparatus for selective portions of an object, such a vehicle, boat, airplane, structure etc. The apparatus includes a membrane that covers select portions of an object or structure, such as a roof. The apparatus includes an affixing or coupling member operable to fasten the apparatus to select portions of an object. An exemplary affixing member, a suction cup device, can be used to secure the apparatus to glass or other materials, such as a rear window of a vehicle. A storage device, such as a vinyl bag, can be used to store the apparatus when not in use. The storage device can also be used as an information bearing unit for displaying information. The apparatus can include a clasp or other securing means to secure the apparatus to a second portion of the object, such as the front fender of the vehicle, the hood of the vehicle, a rear quarter panel, a trunk lid, and/or at least one door of the vehicle. The apparatus can be used to cover and protect an object. For example, when the apparatus is deployed with respect to a vehicle, the apparatus can cover and protect the vehicle roof, front and/or rear windows, and/or at least one side window of the vehicle. As an additional deployment example, when the vehicle is a convertible and the roof of the vehicle is down, the apparatus can function to protect the exposed interior of the vehicle.

The apparatus can function as a sun visor to cover from the sun and elements for use in picnics, tailgate parties, etc. The apparatus can also be extended to cover the hood of the car, the front windshield or either side of the car. The apparatus can be made of acrylic fabric with a steel rod inserted and sewn into the edge of the cover. The apparatus can be made to withstand winds of about 40 miles per hour. In an embodiment, the size of the cover is between about three and about ten feet long when deployed. The cover can self-deploy into a shape, such as oval, circular, square, etc. The apparatus also can include a cover, including a display cover such as a zip up carrying bag.

The apparatus according to an embodiment is self-deploying cover with an internal frame that provides sufficient rigidity to properly orient the apparatus. The apparatus can be deployed over an object, such as a vehicle's cab, by one person and remains over the cab without sliding off the vehicle. The apparatus includes a semi-rigid frame that is foldable so that the cover takes up a minimum amount of room for storage. Although the cover can be used with automobiles, it will also find use on trucks, airplanes, boats, snowmobiles, all-terrain vehicles, personal watercrafts, animal dwellings, agricultural equipment, etc.. When deployed, the apparatus will sufficiently cover and shade any object subject to environmental extremities.

The apparatus described herein can be fabricated in various shapes/forms according to the type of deployment. For example, the apparatus can be designed in various sizes and shapes for conforming to a multitude of objects having varying sizes and shapes. The apparatus can be oval, elliptical, circular, square, polygonal, or any other shape designed for the intended deployment. The apparatus has a shape which provides shade for preferred areas of an object. Furthermore, the swivel member described above allows a user to orient the apparatus at various angles to most efficiently deflect or absorb sunlight. The cover creates an airspace between an object, such as a vehicle, and its membrane providing a shaded space which tends to greatly decrease environmental effects, such as from rays from the sun, hail, acid rain, etc.

In alternative embodiments, the apparatus can also be convertible with a replaceable membrane wherein a different material can be deployed according to environmental conditions at the place of deployment. In another alternative embodiment, the affixing member can be replaced with legs or support features which extend from the frame member. The legs or support features according to this alternative embodiment are adjustable, removable, and/or deployable without complicated steps. The membrane of the apparatus can be made of various materials which would have a reflective quality in warm climates or a collecting quality in which the material would radiate heat which would protect against frost or snow caking on the exterior windows.

Exemplary embodiments provide a cover or shelter apparatus. The apparatus can include a flexible frame connected to a membrane (such as by stitching, velcroing, gluing, etc.). The apparatus also includes an affixing member, such as a suction cup or other attachment means, for affixing the apparatus to an object, such as a car, etc. In an embodiment, the connecting member is a manually operated suction cup. The apparatus can be self-deploying and used in conjunction with cars, boats, places, objects, etc. which are desirous of protecting for a longer and lasting lifetime. The affixing member is designed to adhere to any surface, such as glass, metal, fiberglass, plastic, vinyl, etc. The apparatus can self deploy in seconds and also be folded by simply pulling two sides together at which point the flexible frame collapses on to itself. In one embodiment, the collapsed frame reduces to approximately one third of the deployed size and tends to make the apparatus easy to store and use. The apparatus creates an airspace between an object, such as a vehicle, and the lower surface of the membrane providing a shaded space (air volume having ambient properties which differ from outside of the apparatus) which tends to greatly decrease environmental effects, such as from rays from the sun, hail, acid rain, etc. The apparatus can also be convertible wherein a different material can be deployed according to environmental conditions at the place of deployment.

Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims, the words “comprise,” “comprising,” and the like are to be construed in an inclusive sense as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in a sense of “including, but not limited to.” Words using the singular or plural number also include the plural or singular number respectively. Additionally, the words “herein,” “hereunder,” “above,” “below,” and words of similar import refer to this application as a whole and not to any particular portions of this application. When the word “or” is used in reference to a list of two or more items, that word covers all of the following interpretations of the word: any of the items in the list, all of the items in the list and any combination of the items in the list.

The above description of illustrated embodiments of the invention is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed. While specific embodiments of, and examples for, the invention are described herein for illustrative purposes, various equivalent modifications are possible within the scope of the invention, as those skilled in the relevant art will recognize.

The elements and acts of the various embodiments described above can be combined to provide further embodiments. These and other changes can be made to the invention in light of the above detailed description. Aspects of the invention can be modified, if necessary, to employ the systems, functions and concepts of the various patents and applications described above to provide yet further embodiments of the invention.

In general, in the following claims, the terms used should not be construed to limit the invention to the specific embodiments disclosed in the specification and the claims. Accordingly, the invention is not limited by the disclosure, but instead the scope of the invention is to be determined entirely by the claims.

While certain aspects of the invention are presented below in certain claim forms, the inventor contemplates the various aspects of the invention in any number of claim forms. Accordingly, the inventor reserves the right to add additional claims after filing the application to pursue such additional claim forms for other aspects of the invention.

Claims

1. An apparatus having at least one of a collapsed configuration and a deployed configuration, the apparatus comprising:

a flexible membrane having an upper surface including an associated surface area, a lower surface including an associated surface area, an outer boundary, and a thickness;

a flexible frame coupled with and to support the flexible membrane, wherein the flexible frame encompasses a portion of the outer boundary of the flexible membrane; and,

a coupler coupled with the flexible frame and configured to releasably couple the flexible frame and membrane to an object, wherein the coupler is operable to be removably coupled to the object.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus is configured to provide an area of shade to an object located under the lower surface of the flexible membrane when in the deployed configuration.

3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the flexible frame and flexible membrane are configurable to be positioned in at least one of the collapsed configuration, a partially-collapsed configuration, and the deployed configuration.

4. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising an information bearing unit coupled with the flexible frame and membrane, wherein the information bearing unit includes information to display when coupled to the flexible frame and membrane.

5. The apparatus of claim 3, further comprising a removable information bearing unit removably coupled with the flexible frame and membrane, wherein the removable information bearing unit includes information to display when coupled with the flexible frame and membrane and when the flexible frame and membrane are configured in at least one of the collapsed configuration and the partially-collapsed configuration.

6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the removable information bearing unit comprises a removable cover including indicia for displaying information.

7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the coupler is selected from at least one of a suction cup and a magnet.

8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the flexible membrane is configured to protect the object when in the deployed configuration.

9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the flexible membrane can be replaced with a different flexible membrane according to conditions at a place of deployment.

10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the flexible frame and flexible membrane are configured to deploy in at least one of an oval shape, circular shape, square shape, polygonal, and shape of a portion of the object.

11. An apparatus having at least one of a collapsed configuration and a deployed configuration, the apparatus comprising:

protecting means having an upper surface including an associated surface area, a lower surface including an associated surface area, an outer boundary, and a thickness, wherein the protecting means is for protecting an object when in the apparatus is in the deployed configuration;

support means for supporting the protecting means and coupled thereto, wherein the support means encompasses a portion of the outer boundary of the protecting means;

coupling means for coupling the support means and the protecting means to an object, wherein the coupling means is configured to releasably couple the support means to the object; and,

cover means for covering the support means and protecting means when the apparatus is in the collapsed configuration.

12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the coupling means comprises a suction means or magnet means for coupling the support means to the object.

13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the coupling means further comprises a swivel support for orienting the apparatus in a desired orientation to maximize a shaded area.

14. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the support means comprises a flexible frame, and the flexible frame can be configured in at least one of the deployed configuration, collapsed configuration, and partially-collapsed configuration.

15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the protecting means comprises a flexible membrane, and the flexible frame and flexible membrane can be configured to a desired shape.

16. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the cover means further comprises an information bearing means for displaying information when coupled with the support means and protecting means and when the support means and protecting means are in at least one of the collapsed configuration and a partially-collapsed configuration.

17. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the support means and protecting means are configured to be positioned in at least one of the collapsed configuration, a partially-collapsed configuration, and the deployed configuration, and

the support means and protecting means are configured to deploy in a different shape when configured in the at least one of the collapsed configuration, partially-collapsed configuration, and deployed configuration.

18. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the apparatus is configured to provide a configurable area of shade to an object located below the lower surface of the protecting means when in the deployed configuration.

19. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the protecting means is convertible and can be replaced with a different protecting means according to environmental and other conditions at a place of deployment.

20. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the support means and protecting means are configured to deploy in at least one of an oval shape, circular shape, square shape, polygonal, and shape of a portion of the object.