Backpack with deployable umbrella
A backpack is adapted to store an umbrella in a compact configuration within the backpack, and to enable to the user to selectively deploy and adjust the umbrella so as to shield the backpack wearer. The umbrella is compactly stored in a generally tubular storage compartment connected to the backpack and may be auto-deployed to a telescopically extended configuration in overhead shielding relation with the user. In an alternate embodiment, the umbrella is rotationally or positionally adjustable to provide cover from the elements, such as morning or afternoon sun, or wind driven rain.
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BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to backpacks and umbrellas, and more particularly to the combination of a backpack having a deployable umbrella.
2. Description of Related Art
The use of umbrellas is universally known for providing a shield from the elements, such as rain and sun. Hand-held umbrellas are commonly carried by individuals and used as shielding from the elements. Hand-held umbrellas typically comprise a collapsible canopy, a shaft that may be telescopically extendable, and a handle disposed at the lower end of the shaft. Conventional umbrellas are carried by the user and selectively deployed from a generally compact configuration when required for use.
Since umbrellas are required outdoors, it is desirable to combine umbrellas with backpacks to assist the user with the carrying and deployment of the umbrella. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,053, 385, issued Apr. 25, 2000 to Ward et al. discloses a backpack that includes an umbrella support assembly and an umbrella. The umbrella is storable within an umbrella storage compartment provided along an entire side edge of the backpack. The collapsible rain canopy is sized to shield the back pack and the user from rain when deployed. U.S. Pat. No. 6,308,722, issued to Christie, discloses an umbrella and backpack combination that includes an umbrella having a collapsible canopy and a straight center shaft extending to a lower extremity having a spring-biased locking feature, with a backpack having an umbrella holding structure having a vertically disposed tubular receiver and horizontally disposed stabilizing bars attached to the receiver. The lower extremity of the shaft enters the receiver and releasibly locks therewith.
While the devices disclosed in the prior art are generally suitable for limited uses, there remains a need for an improved backpack and umbrella combination wherein the umbrella is compactly stored within the backpack during periods on non-use and readily deployed when needed.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTIONThe present invention overcomes the disadvantages present in the art by providing backpack adapted to store an umbrella in a compact configuration within the backpack, and to enable to the user to selectively deploy and adjust the umbrella so as to shield the backpack wearer. In a preferred embodiment, the umbrella is compactly stored in a generally tubular storage compartment connected to the backpack and may be auto-deployed to a telescopically extended configuration in overhead shielding relation with the user. In an alternate embodiment, the umbrella is rotationally adjustable to provide cover from the elements, such as morning or afternoon sun, or wind driven rain.
Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide an improved backpack adapted to store a deployable umbrella.
Still another object of the present invention is to provide a backpack in combination with an automatically deployable umbrella.
Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a backpack with a deployable and adjustable umbrella.
In accordance with these and other objects, which will become apparent hereinafter, the instant invention will now be described with particular reference to the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
With reference now to the drawings,
As best seen in
The instant invention has been shown and described herein in what is considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiment. It is recognized, however, that departures may be made therefrom within the scope of the invention and that obvious modifications will occur to a person skilled in the art.
Claims
1. A backpack adapted with a deployable umbrella comprising:
- a backpack including a main body and shoulder straps;
- said main body adapted with an umbrella support;
- an umbrella connected to said umbrella support; and
- said umbrella configurable from a stowed configuration wherein said umbrella is compactly stored to a deployed configuration wherein said umbrella is open above said backpack main body in covering relation therewith.
2. A backpack adapted with a deployable umbrella according to claim 1, further including means for automatically deploying said umbrella.
3. A backpack adapted with a deployable umbrella according to claim 2, wherein said means for automatically deploying said umbrella comprises a spring biasing mechanism.
4. A backpack adapted with a deployable umbrella according to claim 2, wherein said means for automatically deploying said umbrella comprises a pneumatic biasing mechanism.
5. A backpack adapted with a deployable umbrella according to claim 2, wherein said means for automatically deploying said umbrella comprises a hydraulic biasing mechanism.
6. A backpack adapted with a deployable umbrella comprising:
- a backpack;
- said backpack adapted with an umbrella support and storage compartment;
- an umbrella connected to said umbrella support;
- said umbrella configurable from a stowed configuration wherein said umbrella is retracted in and stored in said storage compartment, to a deployed configuration wherein said umbrella is extended from said storage compartment and opened in covering relation with said backpack; and
- means for automatically deploying said umbrella.
7. A backpack adapted with a deployable umbrella according to claim 6, wherein said means for automatically deploying said umbrella comprises a spring biasing mechanism.
8. A backpack adapted with a deployable umbrella according to claim 6, wherein said means for automatically deploying said umbrella comprises a pneumatic biasing mechanism.
9. A backpack adapted with a deployable umbrella according to claim 6, wherein said means for automatically deploying said umbrella comprises a hydraulic biasing mechanism.
10. A backpack adapted with a deployable umbrella according to claim 6, wherein said umbrella storage compartment includes a floor defining a plurality of drainage apertures.
Type: Application
Filed: Aug 22, 2005
Publication Date: Feb 22, 2007
Applicant:
Inventors: Collin Johnson (Miami, FL), Timothy Johnson (Miami, FL), Michael M. Anthony (Coral Springs, FL)
Application Number: 11/208,839
International Classification: A45B 11/02 (20070101); A45B 25/24 (20070101); A45B 19/04 (20070101); A45B 19/08 (20070101);