PORTABLE CANOPY HAVING AN INTEGRATED POWER SYSTEM

Abstract

A portable canopy can comprise a portable frame, a portable cover, an electrical power system and can transition between an installed and transport state. The portable cover can be made from a flexible, water-resistant fabric. The electrical power system can be integrated into the portable frame, which includes a connection point for receiving power from an extra low-voltage external power source. In the installed state, a first volume under roof shelters objects. The portable frame can provide a support structure for the first volume and the portable cover. In the installed state, the electrical power system can be connected to the external power source to provide electric power to electric accessories via direct contact with a designated area of an exterior surface of a power-conveying member of the portable frame. The transport state can have a second volume at least five times less than the first volume.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This continuation-in-part application claims the benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/431,886 filed 14 Feb. 2017 entitled “A Self-Draining Umbrella” and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/007,464 filed 27 Jan. 2016 now U.S. Pat. No. 9,714,521 entitled “A Self-Draining Canopy”. The entire contents of U.S. application Ser. Nos. 15/431,886 and 15/007,464 are incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND

The present invention relates to the field of shelters and, more particularly, to an integrated power system for a portable canopy.

Portable shelters like the “pop-up” or portable canopy are owned and used by many people to provide protection from sun and rain during outdoor activities, such as parties and bar-be-ques. It is also common for small businesses use a portable canopy to protect goods that are for sale while at an outdoor event like a farmer's market. The portability of the portable canopy (also referred to as a party tent) is provided by a light-weight and collapsible support structure (e.g., frame) with an attached cover. The cover is a flexible material, which collapses for transport and storage. The flexible material is often a waterproof polyester fabric, which blocks a high percentage of ultra-violet (UV) rays from the sun. The support structure or frame is often formed from rust resistant steel poles able to telescope (with push-pins), which collapse into a small footprint for transport.

By design, portable canopies provide a relatively safe space for humans to gather during adverse weather conditions, such as rain. Thus, rain and adverse weather is one of the key considerations (another being UV protection) for the use of the portable canopies. Conventional canopies often permit water to pool on the canopy top. Eliminating the water pool generally requires a person positioned under the depressed area within which water pools to push against the depressed area. This manual manipulation of the flexible cover causes water to flow downwards off the side(s) of the canopy roof. Over time, exposure to a weight of intermittent water pools and manual water clearing actions deforms the contour of the cover, reducing the overall life of the canopy.

Use of a portable canopy for night-time activities/events requires additional hardware as well as access to power. Electricity must be available to power standing lights or other small appliances like a space heater or fan. Without access to an external power source, the usefulness of a portable canopy is limited to day-time activities/events.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a block diagram presenting the components of a portable canopy in accordance with embodiments of the disclosure.

FIGS. 2A and 2B show a portable canopy in an installed state and a transport state in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 3 depicts an isometric view of an embodiment of the portable canopy having an integrated power system in accordance with embodiments of the inventive arrangements disclosed herein.

FIG. 4 presents illustrations of example electric accessories for use with the integrated power system of a portable canopy in accordance with embodiments of the inventive arrangements disclosed herein.

FIG. 5 presents illustrations of two alternate configurations for electric accessory connection points for a power system integrated into a portable canopy in accordance with embodiments of the inventive arrangements disclosed herein.

FIG. 6 depicts an embodiment of the portable canopy having integrated interior LED lighting and power system in accordance with embodiments of the inventive arrangements disclosed herein.

FIGS. 7A and 7B present an enlarged illustration of a drainage system for the portable canopy in accordance with embodiments of the inventive arrangements disclosed herein.

FIGS. 8A and 8B show an arrangement for a portable canopy roof with a single drain in accordance with embodiments of the inventive arrangements disclosed herein.

FIGS. 9A and 9B show an open-able side configuration with internal conduits in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIGS. 10A and 10B show the portable canopy with a downward roof-slid action in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

FIGS. 11A and 11B shows an air inflatable embodiment of the portable canopy in accordance with embodiments of the inventive arrangements disclosed herein.

FIGS. 11C and 11D shows conduits and contours of the portable canopy, which permit liquid to flow via gravity from the roof to an outlet can be shaped/formed at least in part due to an air pressure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The disclosure includes a portable canopy with included conduits for water redirection and an integrated electrical power system for installing small electric accessories within and/or around the portable canopy. The portable canopy, or portable shelter, is designed to be set-up and torn down rapidly for events, such as parties. Humans and objects shelter under the portable canopy for protection from rain and other environmental conditions, such as ultra-violet (UV) radiation. Unlike fixed structures, such as car ports or sheds, the portable canopy must be light-weight and able to be transported/stored easily. A portable canopy is formed using a portable frame having vertical and horizontal support members, which provide structural support. A cover, such as a flexible, water-resistant fabric, extends over the frame. The drainage system includes a set of conduits, such as pipes, for directing and transporting fluids. When installed (i.e., in an installed state), a volume under roof is created sufficient to shelter a number of humans.

The electrical power system can be integrated into various elements of the portable canopy's frame like the vertical support members (i.e., legs) and/or roof support members. An electrical outlet can exist in one or more of the vertical support members to connect to an external power source like a battery. Different types of outlets can be included to accommodate different types of power sources. The electrical power system can be designed to be a low-voltage system, typically less than 18 volts, to minimize electrical hazards in an open and potentially wet environment. As such, the external power source can conform to the low-voltage requirement directly; otherwise, an intermediary transformer can be used to step-down the voltage of the external power supply to the required level. Contemplated embodiments can have conductive elements embedded within and not removable from the frame members; those frame members being made of a non-conductive material to prevent safety hazards. Other embodiments can utilize insulated wiring that attaches to frame members in a non-permanent manner. The electrical power system can allow a variety of compatible low-voltage electric accessories, such as lights and fans, to be used within and/or around the portable canopy.

Portable canopies of the disclosure, in an installed state, provide at least a four foot by four foot by six foot space, which is often ten by ten feet, twelve by ten feet, or twenty by twenty feet, depending on the space desired for an event for which the portable canopy is used. Humans can typically stand under a portable canopy, which is why the height is generally at least six feet. In a transport state, the portable canopy consumes considerably less space, such as having a volume of 5 times less than that of the interior volume of the installed state canopy. Carrying bags with handles or wheels are often used to contain the elements (support poles, folded flexible canvas, conduits, etc.) of the portable canopy in the transport state. Support structures, often made of metal or other high-strength, low footprint materials are collapsed or otherwise deconstructed in the transport state. Vertical support members used as legs of the portable canopy are often telescoping or easily constructed from smaller linear segments joined through a push-pin type of coupler. The flexible canvas is folded upon itself to minimize space/volume consumption in the transport state, as well. Some components of some portable shelter are coupled directly to supports, which are often hinged for easy expansion and set-up/tear down, so that structures, such as a roof, can be easily expanded/contracted. Other portable shelters use ties, hook-and-loop fasteners, or other couplers to join the flexible fabric, which is removable, to a frame. In the installed state, a sufficient structural integrity to withstand environmental forces, inadvertent human contact, and storms is needed.

A first consideration for the transport state being reasonably portable includes the ease to move the portable shelter from location to location, such as within a standard vehicle. For this reason, the largest linear dimension of a portable structure is often five feet or less, as longer members have difficulty being transported in passenger vehicles. Diminishing the footprint and volume of the transport state canopy to fit in a trunk of a passenger vehicle is often preferred, but larger portable canopies are often designed for transport by truck or commercial transport, which lessens the restrictions on the largest linear dimension in embodiments. Other embodiments are contemplated for more ‘permanent” canopies, which have less stringent requirements for transport and storage especially with regard to the largest linear dimension. For example, many “party canopies” from professional service companies are less compact and have larger linear dimensions, such as the tent poles vertically supporting the canopy being a single solid metal leg of approximately seven to eight feet in length. A second consideration for the transport state is an ability to move the portable canopy on-site from a loading/unloading point to a position, where the canopy is to be set-up, which is typically an outdoor position. An overall weight and bulk are significant for this second consideration, especially when a bag is used to hold the entire portable shelter when in the transport state. Some larger commercial/rental portable canopies are heavy enough so that on-site transportation is performed, or intended to be performed, by multiple people lifting various components as a team.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram presenting the components of a portable canopy 100 in accordance with embodiments of the disclosure. The portable cover 105 of the canopy can be of a size, shape, and materials that is similar to the variety of existing canopies and compatible with the size, shape, and bearing capacity of the supporting portable frame 110. It can be preferred that the portable cover 105 be of a water-resistant material as rain or water accumulation is of concern. The material for the portable cover 105 is often also preferably resistant to ultra-violet (UV) radiation.

The portable cover 105 can be coupled to the portions of the portable frame 110 using conventional means. The portable frame 110 of the portable canopy 100 can support the cover 105 in embodiments. Support members may be largely at right angles that form a rectangular frame for a rectangular-shaped portable canopy 100. Portions of the portable frame 110 can be collapsible with an attached cover 105. The collapsible structure can be designed for easy expansion/contraction and may lock in place, such as with push-pins. When the portable frame 110 (in an installation state) is locked into place, edges of the cover 105 can be stretched along the sides of the support structure and the center of the cover 105 is lifted upwards to create the canopy shape, in embodiments. Many collapsible support structures, which are contemplated embodiments for portable frame 110, are configured to produce a quadrilateral (e.g., square or rectangular) frame.

The portable frame 110 can include multiple vertical support members 115, also referred to herein as legs 115, a perimeter frame 120, and roof support 125. The components of the portable frame 110 can be connected to each other using suitable means and can utilize approaches and/or techniques taught by conventional canopies. In one embodiment, the legs 115 are vertical support members of the perimeter frame 120 itself. The legs 115 can be the vertical supports of the canopy 100 with the perimeter frame 120 laterally connecting the legs 115 to provide stability. Horizontal support between legs 115 can be provided from spacing elements that are part of the roof support 125 and/or based on other elements of the perimeter frame 120. In embodiments, lower (positioned close to the ground, or at least lower than the vertical midway point) supports may or may not exist for stability.

For simplicity in discussion, the portable canopy 100 can have four legs 115 whose positions are the corners of a square in the horizontal plane. It should be noted that the portable canopy 100 can utilize different quantities of legs 115 that are positioned to define other geometrical shapes in the horizontal plane without deviating from the spirit of the present invention. That is, the disclosure is not limited to a rectangular arrangement, and hexagonal, octagonal, and rectangular arrangements are also contemplated, which are each derivatives of the base discussion, which are easily understood and able to be formed by one of ordinary skill in light of the disclosure provided herein.

The roof support 125 can be the component of the portable canopy 100 that directly supports (i.e., comes into contact with) a roof portion of the cover 105. The roof support 125 of the portable canopy can include angled support member(s) 135, horizontal support member(s) 140, and vertical support member(s) 145, collective referred to as roof support members 130. While similar components are used in the support structures of conventional canopies, the orientation of the angled and horizontal members 135 and 140 can be unique to the portable canopy 100.

As in conventional canopies, a vertical support member 145 can lift a center point of the cover 105 a predetermined height above the height established by the legs 115. The horizontal support members 140 can connect the bottom of the vertical support member 145 to the perimeter frame 120. In one embodiment of the canopy 100, the horizontal support members 140 can be orthogonally connected (at a 90 degree angle) to the perimeter frame 120 with respect to the horizontal plane.

The angled support members 135 can be elements that comprise the hypotenuses of the right triangles that they form with the vertical support member 145 and horizontal support members 140. That is, the angled support members 135 can connect the top of the vertical support member 145 to the perimeter frame 120 at a point where the horizontal support members 140 connect to the perimeter frame 120. The cover 105 can directly rest upon the angled support members 135.

The angles of the roof support 125 can allow the cover 105 to naturally direct rain/water down towards the corners wherein elements of a drainage system are installed in some embodiments. Conventional canopies with diagonal support of the cover 105 have support components or a natural contour that directs rain/water away from the corners towards the middle of the lateral face where the rain/water accumulates. The disclosure's roof directs rain/water towards the corners, by elevating a center point of the roof and permitting the flexible fabric of the cover to naturally contour to direct roof-striking rain to a set of one or more drains. Other embodiments exist for the roof structure, such that the roof is slanted to direct rain towards a drain, such as conduits are formed within the roof for water direction, and the like; all of which are within scope of the disclosure.

A power system 150 can be integrated into elements of the cover 105 and/or portable frame 110. The power system 150 can be an extra low-voltage system, providing less than fifty volts, as defined by the International Electrotechnical Committee (IEC). It can be preferred that the power system 150 be designed to provide a voltage substantially lower than fifty volts to decrease potential electrical safety hazards like fire, electric shocks, and shorts. The power system 150 can require being connected to an external power source 165 to distribute electricity through the cover 105 and/or portable frame 105 to various electric accessories 170 installed upon/within the canopy 100.

The external power source 165 can be the source of electricity that the power system 150 transfers to the electric accessories 170 for operation. Since the canopy 100 is a portable structure, it can also be desired for the power source 165 to be portable. Ideally, the power source 165 can directly provide power in the extra low-voltage range like the 18V battery utilized by many cordless power tools. Embodiments having a power source 165 greater than the extra low-voltage range, such as a large electric generator or a household power outlet, can require the use of a transformer (not shown) to reduce the voltage from the power source 165 to the extra low-voltage value required by the power system 150. The power source 165 can represent a variety of power collection and/or storage means, including, but not limited to, a chemical battery, a rechargeable battery, a non-rechargeable battery, a portable solar power system, a portable wind power system, and the like.

The power system 150 can be comprised of connection points 155 and wiring 160. The connection points 155 can represent the areas of the cover 105 and/or portable frame 110 where electricity can be transferred to an electric accessory 170. The quantity and the form of the connection points 155 can vary based upon the specific implementation of the power system 150 as well as the type of electric accessories 170 being supported. One specific connection point 155, represented by the white parallelogram, can be for connecting to the power source 165. In some embodiments, multiple connection points 155 can exist to accommodate connecting to various types of power sources 165.

Wiring 160 can represent the means by which the power system 150 distributes power received from the power source 165 to the connection points 155 and the electric accessories 170. The wiring 160 can conform to applicable electrical safety standards. In one embodiment, the wiring 160 can be embedded within and not removable from specific members 115, 120, and 130 of the portable frame 110; making those members 115, 120, and 130 function similar to the rails of a track lighting system. In another embodiment, the wiring 160 can be a removable component that is secured to the portable frame 110 once the frame 110 is in the installed state. In such an embodiment, the frame 110 can include the means to secure the wiring 160 like clips and/or grooves.

The electric accessories 170 can represent a variety of portable items capable of operating with the extra low-voltage supplied by the power system 150. Since the canopy 100 is designed for outdoor use, the electric accessories 170 can be items often lacking or limited in an outdoor setting, including, but not limited to, a light, a digital sign, a lighted sign, a fan, a misting fan, a strand of LED lights, a wireless speaker, and the like. The electric accessories 170 can improve the usage experience of the canopy 100 for the humans being sheltered.

FIGS. 2A and 2B show a portable canopy in an installed state 210 and a transport state 230 in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. The portable canopy is a temporary shelter configured to be repetitively altered between the installed state 210 and the transport state 230. The portable canopy in the installed state 210 can shelter people 202 and/or objects 204 in a volume defined by a length 220, a width 222, and a height 224. The volume can be the interior space of the portable canopy, which is a region under roof 215. As shown, the portable canopy can be a rectangular structure with four sides. Embodiments can be contemplated having other numbers of sides (such as six or eight for hexagonal and octagonal structures) and even where the perimeter is circular or oval in shape. The sides of the portable canopy can be covered or open. Structural support for the portable shelter can be provided by a portable frame 254. A portable cover 252 can be supported by and extended over the portable frame 254.

The transport state 230 of the portable canopy can facilitate transport of the portable canopy between locations and can diminish a storage footprint of the portable canopy while not in use. The transport state 230 may include a container 235 within which the portable cover 252 and portable frame 254 fit. The container 235 can have a length 240, width 242, and height 244 that together create a transport volume. The transport volume can be at most one fifth of the volume formed by the length 220, width 222, and height 224 of the installed state 210.

FIG. 3 depicts an isometric view of an embodiment of the portable canopy 305 having an integrated power system 315 in accordance with embodiments of the inventive arrangements disclosed herein. In this embodiment, the portable canopy 305 can be a square structure having four legs 310, one per corner. Each leg 310 can have elements of the power system 315 integrated/embedded therein, represented by the grey areas.

As shown in inset 325, each leg 310 can have two vertical strips of a conductive inlay 330 on opposing sides; the size and/or shape of the conductive inlay 330 can vary based upon implementation. The conductive inlay 330 can be the element that distributes power along the leg 310 and can also act as a connection point (i.e., power outlet) for any attached electric accessories (not shown), similar to the power distribution principle for track lighting systems.

Additional safety elements, such as fuses and insulation, can also be included in the legs 310 reduce electrical safety hazards, particular since the canopy and/or legs 310 are likely to encounter wet (i.e., rainy) conditions. These additional safety elements can be required for embodiments that also include a drainage system that utilizes the interior space of the legs 310 to transport water.

One or more of the legs 310 can include an inlet connection point 320 for connecting the power system 315 to an external power source like the battery 340 shown in inset 335. In this example, this connection point 320 can be shown near a bottom portion of a leg 310; however, other placements of this inlet connection point 320 can be contemplated without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Via the inlet connection point 320 the power system 315 can be connected to a rechargeable battery 340 often used by cordless power tools. It can be desired that the power system 315 include an inlet connection point 320 for such batteries 340 as these batteries 340 are commonly used by people, readily available, and already conform to the extra low-voltage power range.

FIG. 4 presents illustrations of example electric accessories 405, 420, 435, and 450 for use with the integrated power system of a portable canopy in accordance with embodiments of the inventive arrangements disclosed herein. The electric accessories 405, 420, 435, and 450 can be utilized with the embodiments of the integrated power systems shown in Figures.

These example electric accessories can include a fan 405, a light 420, a misting 435, and a lighted sign 450. Each electric accessory 405, 420, 435, and 450 can have a clip 410, 425, 440, and 455 for securing onto a power-supplying member (i.e., leg) of the portable canopy. The clip 410, 425, 440, and 455 can be of a size, shape, and strength to support the weight of the electric accessory 405, 420, 435, and 450 at a user-desired position (i.e., connection point) on the power-supplying frame member.

Additionally, the clip 410, 425, 440, and 455 can be required to ensure direct contact between the connection point of the power-supplying frame member and a power receiver 415, 430, 445, and 460 element on an interior surface of the clip 410, 425, 440, and 455. The power receiver 415, 430, 445, and 460 can represent a means for drawing in power from the connection point on the power-supplying frame member. In these example electric accessories 405, 420, 435, and 450, the power receiver 415, 430, 445, and 460 can be a component embedded within the interior surface of the clip 410, 425, 440, and 455 that is meant to mate with a connection point. Because the clip 410, 425, 440, and 455 has two prongs for attaching to the power-supply frame member, each prong can include a power receiver 415, 430, 445, and 460.

For example, using the canopy 305 shown in FIG. 3, the fan 405 can be secured to a leg 310 of the canopy 305 via its clip 410. The fan 405 can be positioned upon the leg 310 such that the power receiver 415 is aligned with the conductive inlay 330. Improper alignment of the fan's 405 (or any other electric accessory 420, 435, and 450) power receiver 415 upon the leg 310 can result in the fan 305 failing to work due to inadequate contact between the power receiver 415 and the conductive inlay 330.

The benefits of using the electric accessories 405, 420, 435, and 450 with a portable canopy having an integrated power system should be emphasized. Firstly, multiple electric accessories 405, 420, 435, and 450 can be run using the same power system. For example, a person can have two fans 405 and a light 420 attached and powered by the same canopy. Comparable conventional accessories can be individual battery-powered devices with separate battery types and varying battery life. Therefore, the user can be required to bring along a considerable quantity of replacement batteries, whose weight can be prohibitive, whereas the power system would require only one type of battery.

Secondly, the “plug-and-play” nature of the electric accessories 405, 420, 435, and 450 and the power system can make repositioning the electric accessories 405, 420, 435, and 450 within the canopy. While conventional battery-powered accessories are also easily moved around, their placement can require other objects to provide a desired height and/or angle, which are not always available in outdoor settings. Thus, a user can be restricted in their placement of their conventional battery-powered accessories. However, using the presented electric accessories 405, 420, 435, and 450, when a user wants a light 420 to point in a different direction, they can simply move the light 420 to a power-supplying member of the canopy that provides the desired direction without the need for any additional items.

Lastly, accessories that do not have a conventional counterpart or whose conventional counterparts are unsuited for an outdoor environment, such as the lighted sign 450, can be made for use with the canopy. For example, portable canopies can be a popular shelter for outdoor sales events like farmer's markets and yard sales. Because access to electricity at such events can be limited, if available at all, most vendors can rely on drawn or printed signage. A portable canopy having an integrated power system can allow for vendors to use lighted signage 450 to attract buyers and lights 420 to improve visibility, especially after dusk, which is another limiting factor.

FIG. 5 presents illustrations 500 and 550 of two alternate configurations for electric accessory connection points 510 and 560 for a power system integrated into a portable canopy 505 and 555 in accordance with embodiments of the inventive arrangements disclosed herein. The power system integrated in the portable canopies 505 and 555 of illustrations 500 and 550 can be identical or similar to the power system 315 of FIG. 3, where electricity is transferred through specific members of the canopies 505 and 555 frame to connection points 510 and 560 and connected electric accessories like those presented in FIG. 4.

In illustration 500, the connection points 510 for the power system can be angled support members for the roof of the portable canopy 505. The roof support connection points 510 can be in addition to any other connection points available in the vertical support members, legs, of the portable canopy 505, as presented in FIG. 3. Therefore, each of the angled support members would include power delivery elements that mirror those in the legs, allowing a user to also attach electric accessories at differing heights along the angled support member.

In another configuration, each angled support member can have a specific polarity 515. As shown in illustration 500, adjacent angled support members can have opposite polarities 515. Such a configuration can be used for larger electric accessories that would connect to one or both pairs of opposing polarity 315 connection points 510. This alternating polarity approach can also be used to support the configuration shown in illustration 550.

In illustration 550, the connection points for electric accessories can be consolidated into a single track element 560. The track element 560 can be similar to corresponding elements of a track lighting systems. Specialized conductive elements can be used to connect the track element 560 to roof support connection points 510. Because the track element 560 is at a lower height than the roof support connection points 510, it can be easier for a user to reach the track element 560 to attach/detach electric accessories.

FIG. 6 depicts an embodiment of the portable canopy 605 having integrated interior LED lighting 615 and power system in accordance with embodiments of the inventive arrangements disclosed herein. Portable canopy 605 can utilize an integrated power system that is identical or similar to the power system 315 of FIG. 3, where electricity is transferred through specific members of the canopy 605 frame to connection points.

The roof cover 610 of the canopy 605 can have one or more strings of LED lights 615 affixed to its underside. The LED light strands 615 can be attached to the cover 610 in various ways, including, but not limited to, glued, sewn, clipped, snapped, threaded into transparent sleeves, and the like. The strands of LED lights 615 can include a means to mate with one or more connection points of the power system.

For example, as shown in inset 625, the strands of LED lights 615 can affixed in such a manner as to follow the angled roof support members. Thus, each strand of LED lights 615 can have one or more power receiving elements like those used by the electric accessories of FIG. 4 that draws power from the power-supplying angled support members.

FIG. 7A presents enlarged illustrations of the drainage system for a portable canopy in accordance with embodiments of the inventive arrangements disclosed herein. FIG. 7A shows an embodiment of the drainage system that utilizes the leg of the canopy as a conduit 715 to transport rain/water. In such an embodiment, the drain 710 can be installed in the cover 705 above or proximate to the leg. The drain 710 can be as simple as a hole made with a grommet (to keep the edges of the hole from fraying and/or tearing) and can include mesh or other means for preventing debris from passing into, and potentially blocking, the conduit 715. This embodiment can be particularly suited for canopies that are already designed to use hollow legs (e.g., pipes and tubes).

The interior channel 717 of the conduit 715 can be of a diameter to provide a flow rate that reduces the possibility for the rain/water to back-up and accumulate on the cover 705. The interior channel 717 can run the entire height of the leg with the rain/water exiting at an outlet location 720, such as the bottom of the leg and into the surrounding ground.

Alternately, the outlet location 720 can exist at/near another leg, which is connected by conduits 715 so that the respective interior channels 717 permit liquids to flow to the outlet location 720. For example, a threaded hose connector can be integrated into the outlet location 720 (or outlet positioned on a different leg connected via conduits 715). A standard garden hose can then be connected to the outlet location 720 of the leg to empty the rain/water at a further distance, reducing the amount of rain/water discharged to the area around the canopy.

With such an embodiment, additional safety design can be required to the insulated the wiring and/or electricity carrying elements of the power system embedded in the leg from accidental contact with rain/water flowing through the leg. For example, additional insulation between the interior channel 717 and the wiring elements can be required.

FIG. 7B shows another implementation of the drainage system. The drain 730 can be installed within the cover 705 near to the leg 740. Since the leg 740 is not being used as a component of the drainage system, the drain 730 need not be positioned directly above or very close to the top of the leg 740. Additionally, the leg 740 need not be hollow as in 7A.

The conduit 735 can be a length of tubing that is attached to the drain 730 at one end and the open end that can act as the outlet location 750. As shown in 7B, the end of the conduit 735 that attaches to the drain 730 can require a gradation in size like a funnel. The amount of gradation can depend on the size of the drain 730. The conduit 735 can be coupled/attached to the leg 740 using one or more securement means 745 to prevent the conduit 735 from being inadvertently moved. The securement means 745 can be implemented in a variety of ways that are commensurate with the leg 740 and conduit 735. The securement means 745 should not exert undue force upon the conduit 735 such that the conduit 735 is deformed or its functionality compromised. In one embodiment, the securement means 735 can be integrated into the leg 740.

The conduit 735 can vary in length, but should be of a length that positions the outlet location 750 near to the ground, or near a designated outlet. An advantage of this embodiment can be the ability to connect the outlet location 750 of the conduit 735 to a suitable container 755. The container 755 can be of any size or shape, providing it has an opening that allows the outlet location 750 to connect to or be placed within. The container 755 may be connected to the leg 740 or structure of the portable canopy, or may be externally connected via a hose.

The use of a container 755 (or water bladder) to collect the rain/water from the drainage system can have many benefits. Firstly, the saturation of the ground in the immediate area of the canopy can be reduced because the rain/water is collected and not discharged. The container 755 can be removed and remotely emptied when full. In one embodiment, the collected rain/water can be utilized. In a camping setting, the collected rain can be treated to become potable drinking water. In a backyard setting, the collected rain can be used to water plants and trees, reducing the amount of water paid for to perform that task.

The container 755 may be a reservoir included within the leg 740 (a wider portion allowing for a large base), which is designed to be filled with water to serve as a ballast and add stability to the portable canopy. This arrangement is advantageous in that the portable canopy is light-weight and of minimal bulk (for transport and minimization of a footprint), while still having the necessary structural weight. Multiple legs 740 can serve as support ballast adding stability and weight to the portable canopy's structure.

FIGS. 8A and 8B show an arrangement for a portable canopy roof with a single drain in accordance with embodiments of the inventive arrangements disclosed herein. A top roof surface 810 can be curved with a large surface area. This large surface area can be well-suited for advertisement(s) or banners. The roof surface 810 can have a center peak, where water rolls off the curve and is directed to the canopy roof sides. An entirety of the roof can be angled, with a directional flow shown by FIG. 8B to permit water of the roof surface 810 to be directed to a single corner drain 824. The drain 824 can be attached to one or more conduits 836, which may be integrated into the frame. Alternatively, the conduits 836 can spiral down a respective leg, until it comes to an outlet (not shown). The outlet can have a fitting to which an external hose 830 is attachable. The hose 830 can lead to a bladder 832, which stores water falling on the portable canopy roof.

In one embodiment, the roof may be layered, to have a roof top 810 and roof bottom 820, which together direct liquid flow. Additional elements, such as side gutters (shown as roof sides) can aid in guiding the water flow in embodiments. FIG. 8A and 8B can illustrate that the portable roof structure: may include water redirection conduits, may not direct water to each side, may be angled for water flow, may incorporate gutters, and other water direction elements. So long as the flow (of gravity) directs the water, via conduits 836, piping, and/or indentations to a lower level, etc., then the portable canopy can be able to direct the water striking the roof. Unlike standing structures, a number of strong challenges can exist in dealing with a portable canopy, as the structure must collapse into a light-weight one for storage/transport. Here, the top structure of the roof is largely supported fabric with a natural contour. The support structure forming the sloping shape can be reinforced with steel/plastic rods (the canopy frame) permitting easy storage with different roof structures, such as that detailed in FIGS. 8A and 8B.

FIGS. 9A and 9B show an open-able side configuration of the portable canopy with internal conduits 910 in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. In the state where a side is open and rolled upwards (see FIG. 9A), a horizontal conduit 910 can be contained linearly along the open side. When the side is allowed to fold downward, as shown in FIG. 9B, the side's linear conduit 910 can run along a horizontal plane near the bottom. Each side leg (or conduit 910) can include a leg fitting 920, which attaches to a similar fitting of the side's conduit, referred to as side fitting 925. Thus, a lowered side permits a continuous conduit 910 to be joined to the other conduits 910 of the portable canopy.

In one embodiment, the leg fitting 920 can be a self-sealing fitting, which is closed normally, but opened when connected to the linear conduit 910 of side fitting 925. Thus, there is no leakage when a small amount of liquid flows downward on the leg to which a side fitting 925 is attached. In a further embodiment, the fitting 920 can be compressible, through a spring action, permitting the attachment through a simple push action. The two fittings 925 and 920 can utilize a quick-connect pairing (with compression) in one embodiment. An outlet 940 can be positioned proximate to another leg. Liquid can flow through the horizontal conduit 910 (having a slight downward slope to direct liquid) towards the outlet 940, when attached.

When the open-able side is connected, the side can be sealed with the remainder of the canvas via a coupler. For example, a zipper can be used to seal the edges of the side when closed and joined to the conduits for water flow purposes.

FIGS. 10A and 10B show the portable canopy with a downward roof-slid action in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. The inclusion of the roof slide 1020 permits an easy way to raise a center point 1040 of the roof 1015 of the canopy. Initially, the roof slide 1020 can be upwardly positioned on the slide channel 1010 and the central point 1040 of the roof 1015 can be relatively low. In this position, water would improperly pool on the top of the roof 1015. Raising the roof 1015, however, can be a challenge, as the roof 1015 sits above the height of most humans installing the canopy. The roof slide 1020 can utilize a series of pulleys and a slack 1025 rope so that a downward motion of the roof slide 1020 along the slide channel 1010 removes the slack 1025 and raises the center point 1040 to an increased height 1055 to a new stable center point 1050. The slide channel 1010 can permit the roof slide 1020 to lock in the down slide position 1035, when the top of the roof 1015 reaches the center point 1050. As shown, each leg can be equipped with a slide channel 1010 and a roof slide 1020. The number of slide(s) 1020 necessary can depend on the pulley structure and positioning, so other embodiments are contemplated with a single roof slide 1020 for raising the roof 1015 to the center point 1050.

Although shown as a pulley-based manual action, other slide 1020 embodiments are contemplated. For example, a slide/lock lever can be used raise the roof 1015 to its height 1055 and to ensure the center is at the center point 1050 in one embodiment. In another embodiment, an electronic actuator can be powered by a battery (not shown) and used to raise the portable canopy roof. In another contemplated embodiment, a hydraulic (based on liquid pressurization) or pneumonic (based on air pressure) can be utilized to raise the roof 1015 from point 1040 to point 1050. One of ordinary skill utilizing known mechanical redirections can alter/perform derivatives of FIGS. 10A and 10B and still be within the contemplated scope of the present invention.

FIGS. 11A and 11B shows an air inflatable embodiment of the portable canopy in accordance with embodiments of the inventive arrangements disclosed herein. At least a portion of the flexible fabric of the canopy's cover can include an air chamber. The air chamber can be a volumetric region that is air tight, which allows air to be injected between the fabric regions. Insertion of air can be achieved through use of an air pump 1110 via a pluggable air insertion nozzle 1117. The air tight region can be formed from a separate material on an interior of the cover (which is hollow), in one embodiment.

In another embodiment, the cover can be stitched or otherwise coupled to an air-insertable volumetric region. The air-insertable material can be coupled to the frame in another embodiment, which adds structure and stability to the portable frame. In another embodiment, the water-proof material of the cover itself can be air-tight and can be pressurized by inserting air through the nozzle 1117. The air pump 1110 can be a mechanical (conventional) pump with a standard air fitting, in embodiments. In other embodiments, the air pump 1110 can be an electrical air pump, such as a pump conventionally sold to inflate the tires of an automobile. In one embodiment, the air pump 1110 can be integrated into the portable canopy itself, which is powered via the integrated power system.

In the installed state 1120 of the portable canopy, at least a portion of the set-up can be facilitated by insertion of air. That is, the frame members and/or portable cover 1130 can be locked into place and stabilized when air is inserted. An air release value/plug can be used to withdraw the air to transition the portable canopy into the transport state 1130. Thus, when the portable cover 1130 (and decomposed frame members/conduits) are stored in a container 1134, minimal to no bulk can be added the portable canopy.

The conduits and contours of the portable canopy, which permit liquid to flow via gravity from the roof to an outlet can be shaped/formed at least in part due to an air pressure as shown by FIGS. 11C and 11D. Specifically, the outer cover of the roof 1150 cannot permit a flow of water to the drain 1152 without pooling when deflated. When inflated with an air pump 1110, however, the roof 1150 can be angled to enable the flow of liquid to the drain 1152. A top view of such an arrangement can be shown in FIG. 11D, where a center point 1155 rises above the drain 1152 with conduits directing water flow to the drain 1152. Use of air to create structure can be highly efficient in terms of weight, portability, and minimization of setup/teardown time. Water 1154 can flow from the outlet (to a run-off or a storage bladder) after passing through conduits of the portable shelter when installed and inflated. In embodiments, pressurization of fabric regions by air can result in a “gutter” or a splash region that helps direct water flow through the drainage system.

Claims

1. A portable canopy comprising:

a portable frame comprising vertical support members and roof support members;

a portable cover made from a flexible, water-resistant fabric;

an electrical power system integrated into the portable frame, wherein at least one vertical support member has a connection point for receiving power from an extra low-voltage external power source that supplies less than fifty volts;

an installed state for the portable frame, the portable cover, and the electrical power system having a width, a length, and a height, which together establish a first volume, wherein the first volume is a volume under a roof that shelters objects within the first volume, wherein the portable frame provides a support structure for the first volume, wherein, in the installed state, the portable frame structurally supports the portable cover, wherein, in the installed state, the electrical power system is able to be connected to the external power source to provide electric power to a corresponding electric accessory via direct contact with a designated area of an exterior surface of a power-conveying member of the portable frame; and

a transport state for the portable frame, the portable cover, and the electrical power system having a second volume at least five times less than the first volume, wherein the portable canopy is a temporary shelter configured to be repetitively altered between the installed state and the transport state, whereby the portable canopy, in the installed state, shelters the objects in the first volume for events during which the portable canopy is utilized, whereby the portable canopy, in the transport state, facilitates transport of the portable canopy between locations and diminishes a storage footprint of the portable canopy while not in use for the events.

2. The portable canopy of claim 1, wherein the width is at least four feet, the length is at least four feet, and the height is at least six feet.

3. The portable canopy of claim 1, further comprising:

a drainage system comprising conduits for transporting liquids, wherein, in the installed state, the conduits transport rain striking the roof to an outlet positioned at one of the vertical support members.

4. The portable canopy of claim 1, wherein the electric accessory is coupled to the power-supplying member of the portable frame to provide direct contact with the designated area and an installation of the electric accessory, wherein a coupler of the electric accessory is designed to receive power from the electrical power system.

5. The portable canopy of claim 4, wherein the coupler is a clip of a size and a shape to attach to the power-supplying member of the portable frame with adequate conductive surface contact and to support a weight of the electric accessory.

6. The portable canopy of claim 1, wherein the electric accessory comprises one of a light, a digital sign, a lighted sign, a fan, a misting fan, a strand of LED lights, and a wireless speaker.

7. The portable canopy of claim 1, wherein the external power source is a rechargeable battery.

8. The portable canopy of claim 1, wherein the external power source is a transformer connected to a power source, wherein said transformer receive a voltage from the power source that is more than fifty volts and reduces the received voltage to a predefined extra low-voltage value commensurate with the electrical power system.

9. The portable canopy of claim 1, wherein the electrical power system further comprises:

an electrical track element that is attached to the electrical power system and roof support members when the portable canopy is in the installed state, wherein said electrical track element is suspended from the roof, allowing a centralized interior location for electric accessories to be installed.

10. The portable canopy of claim 9, wherein the electrical track element is one of a straight bar, an S-shaped curved bar, an oval, a square, and a circle.

11. A portable canopy comprising:

a portable frame comprising vertical support members and roof support members;

a portable cover made from a flexible, water-resistant fabric;

an electrical power system integrated into the portable frame, wherein at least one vertical support member has a connection point for receiving power from an external power source that supplies less than fifty volts;

an installed state having a width, a length, and a height, which together establish a first volume, wherein the first volume is a volume under a roof that shelters objects within the first volume, wherein the portable frame provides a support structure for the first volume, wherein, in the installed state, the portable frame structurally supports the portable cover, wherein, in the installed state, the electrical power system is able to be connected to the external power source to provide electric power to a corresponding electric accessory via direct contact with a designated area of an exterior surface of a power-conveying member of the portable frame; and

a transport state having a second volume at least five times less than the first volume, wherein a longest linear dimension of the second volume is at most five feet.

12. The portable canopy of claim 11, wherein the electric accessory comprises one of a light, a digital sign, a lighted sign, a fan, a misting fan, a strand of LED lights, and a wireless speaker.

13. The portable canopy of claim 11, wherein the electric accessory is coupled to a power-supplying member of the portable frame to provide direct contact with the designated area and an installation of the electric accessory, wherein a coupler of the electric accessory is designed to receive power from the electrical power system.

14. The portable canopy of claim 13, wherein the coupler is a clip of a size and a shape to attach to the power-supplying member of the portable frame with adequate conductive surface contact and to support a weight of the electric accessory.

15. The portable canopy of claim 11, wherein the external power source is a rechargeable battery.

16. The portable canopy of claim 11, wherein the external power source is a transformer connected to a power source, wherein said transformer receive a voltage from the power source that is more than fifty volts and reduces the received voltage to a predefined extra low-voltage value commensurate with the electrical power system.

17. The portable canopy of claim 11, wherein the electrical power system further comprises:

an electrical track element that is attached to the electrical power system and roof support members when the portable canopy is in the installed state, wherein said electrical track element is suspended from the roof, allowing a centralized interior location for electric accessories to be installed.

18. A portable canopy comprising:

a portable frame comprising vertical support members and roof support members;

an electrical power system integrated into the portable frame, wherein at least one vertical support member has a connection point for receiving power from an external power source that supplies less than fifty volts;

a portable cover made from a flexible, water-resistant fabric having strings of LED lights affixed to its underside, wherein said portable cover has contact points for receiving electric power from the electrical power system to operate the LED lights;

an installed state having a width, a length, and a height, which together establish a first volume, wherein the first volume is a volume under a roof that shelters objects within the first volume, wherein the portable frame provides a support structure for the first volume, wherein, in the installed state, the portable frame structurally supports the portable cover, wherein, in the installed state, the electrical power system is able to be connected to the external power source to provide electric power to a corresponding electric accessory via direct contact with a designated area of an exterior surface of a power-conveying member of the portable frame; and

a transport state having a second volume at least five times less than the first volume, wherein a longest linear dimension of the second volume is at most five feet.

19. The portable canopy of claim 18, wherein the electric accessory is coupled to the power-supplying member of the portable frame to provide direct contact with the designated area and an installation of the electric accessory, wherein a coupler of the electric accessory is designed to receive power from the electrical power system, wherein the at least one electric accessory comprises one of a light, a digital sign, a lighted sign, a fan, a misting fan, a strand of LED lights, and a wireless speaker.

20. The portable canopy of claim 19, wherein the coupler is a clip of a size and a shape to attach to the power-supplying member of the portable frame with adequate conductive surface contact and to support a weight of the electric accessory.