AUTOMATIC UMBRELLA

Abstract

An umbrella includes a frame assembly including a support pole and a canopy support structure associated with the support pole. At least a portion of the canopy support structure is movable relative to a central axis of the canopy support structure. An actuation mechanism including an actuator is operably coupled to a portion of the canopy support structure. The actuation mechanism is selectively operable to move the canopy support structure to at least one of automatically transform the umbrella to an open configuration and automatically transform the umbrella to a closed configuration.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of 62/724,974 filed Aug. 30, 2018, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

Embodiments of the disclosure relate to an umbrella, and more particularly, to an umbrella including a mechanism for automatically transforming the umbrella between a closed configuration and an open configuration.

Umbrellas are popular devices commonly used outdoors to provide shade from the sun and shelter from the elements. Umbrellas typically include the capability to be placed in an open or erect configuration to provide the shelter and shade function, as well as to be closed or collapsed to facilitate movement and storage of the umbrellas. Many umbrellas are relatively large and have canopy diameters on the order of several feet when opened.

A variety of opening and closing mechanisms are known for umbrellas which may include crank and pulley arrangements, levers, and/or rack and pinion arrangements. Such mechanisms tend to be relatively complex, which increases the manufacturing costs for the umbrellas and the corresponding sale or purchase price to the end user. In addition, the relatively complex mechanisms present numerous potential failure modes, as well as increased susceptibility to contamination and jamming by foreign debris material and corrosion and material degradation from environmental factors.

Further, these existing opening and closing mechanisms are typically manually operated. In applications, such as restaurant patios for example, where larger umbrellas are typically used, the force required to operate the umbrella is significantly larger than ordinary hand held or residential umbrellas. There is therefore a need for a mechanism configured to automatically transform the umbrella between an open configuration and a closed configuration in response to an input.

SUMMARY

According to an embodiment, an umbrella includes a frame assembly including a support pole and a canopy support structure associated with the support pole. At least a portion of the canopy support structure is movable relative to a central axis of the canopy support structure. An actuation mechanism including an actuator is operably coupled to a portion of the canopy support structure. The actuation mechanism is selectively operable to move the canopy support structure to at least one of automatically transform the umbrella to an open configuration and automatically transform the umbrella to a closed configuration.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the actuator is mounted to the support pole.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the support pole includes a mounting end receivable within a base, the actuator being connected to the support pole adjacent the mounting end.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the canopy support structure further comprises a hub, a plurality of arms pivotally mounted to the hub, a transition member and a plurality of support members pivotally coupled at a first end to the transition member and pivotally coupled at a second end to the plurality of arms.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the actuator includes a movable portion and the movable portion is coupled to at least one of the transition member, the plurality or arms and the plurality of support members.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the actuator is a linear actuator including a movable portion connected to the transition member, wherein the actuator is operable to translate the transition member along the central axis.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the movable portion is arranged parallel to the support pole.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the actuation mechanism further comprises an input device in communication with the actuator.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the input device is operable to move a movable portion of the actuator in both a first direction and a second direction to open and close the umbrella.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the actuator is continuously operated in response to application of a continuous force a signal received from the input device.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the actuator is configured to automatically transform the canopy support structure between the closed configuration and the open configuration in response to operation of the input device.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the actuator is operable to initiate movement of the canopy support structure in response to a first input signal and cease movement of the canopy support structure in response to a second input signal.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the first input signal and the second input signal are generated by a single input.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments a portion of the umbrella including the canopy structure is tiltable relative to the central axis.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments comprising another actuation mechanism operably coupled to the tiltable portion of the umbrella, the another actuation mechanism being operable to tilt the tiltable portion of the umbrella.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments comprising a battery pack mounted to a portion of the frame assembly, the batter pack being coupled to the actuation mechanism.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments comprising a solar panel operably coupled to the battery pack.

According to an embodiment, an umbrella includes a support pole, a canopy support structure associated with the support pole, and at least a portion of the canopy support structure being movable relative to a central axis of the canopy support structure. A joint formed in the support pole to define a tiltable portion of the umbrella movable at an angle to the central axis the tiltable portion includes the canopy support structure. An actuation mechanism is operably coupled to the tiltable portion. The actuation mechanism is selectively operable to move the tiltable portion between a first configuration where the tiltable portion is aligned with the central axis and a second configuration where the tiltable portion is arranged at an angle to the central axis.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the actuator is a linear actuator including a movable portion connected to the tiltable portion, wherein translation of the linear actuator causes the tiltable portion to rotate relative to the central axis.

According to yet another embodiment, a method of automatically opening an umbrella includes generating an input signal via a first input device, communicating the input signal to a first actuator operably coupled to a canopy support structure, operating the first actuator to rotate a plurality of arms of the canopy support structure outwardly from a central axis of the canopy support structure in response to the input signal, generating another input signal via a second input device, communicating the another input signal to a second actuator operably coupled to a tiltable portion of the umbrella, and operating the second actuator to tilt the tiltable portion of the umbrella including the canopy support structure to a desired angle relative to the central axis in response to the another input signal.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B are perspective views of an umbrella frame in a closed configuration and an open configuration configured to provide shade relative to a table according to an embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the automatic umbrella of FIG. 1 in a fully open configuration according to an embodiment;

FIG. 3 is a detailed perspective view of a portion of a mechanism for transforming the automatic umbrella between a first configuration and a second configuration according to an embodiment;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a portion of the automatic umbrella of FIG. 1 in a partially closed configuration according to an embodiment;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a portion of the automatic umbrella in an open configuration according to an embodiment;

FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of the actuation mechanism for automatically operating an umbrella according to an embodiment;

FIG. 7A is a front view of an automatic umbrella in an untilted configuration according to an embodiment;

FIG. 7B is a front view of an automatic umbrella in an tilted configuration according to an embodiment; and

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an automatic umbrella in an tilted configuration according to an embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

With reference to the FIGS., an example of an umbrella 20 is illustrated. As shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the umbrella 20 comprises a frame assembly 22 that is transformable between a closed or collapsed configuration, as shown in FIG. 1A, and an open or expanded configuration, as shown in FIG. 1B. The frame assembly 22 of the umbrella 20 includes a support pole 24. The support pole 24 may be formed from a single component or shaft, or alternatively, may be formed by an assembly of a several components. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the support pole 24 is a generally elongate rigid member having a substantially straight or linear configuration. However, it should be understood that embodiments where at least a portion of the support pole 24 has a non-linear configuration are also within the scope of the disclosure.

The support pole 24 may include a mounting end 26 which is adapted for attachment or mounting, such as to a weighted base for example, to maintain an orientation of the umbrella 20 for use thereof. The mounting end 26 may be located at the lower end of the support pole 24. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3, the mounting end 26 of the support pole 24 is received within an opening (not shown) formed in a pedestal or base 28, supported on the ground, a patio deck, a lawn, or the like. Alternatively, or in addition to the pedestal or base 28, the mounting end 26 of the support pole 24 may be inserted through a through opening 30 formed in a secondary support body 32, such as a table for example. In such embodiments, the pedestal or base 28 is positionable underneath the secondary support body 32. For example, in embodiments where the support pole 24 is generally linear, the opening of the base 28 is in alignment with the through opening 30. In such embodiments both the base 28 coupled to the mounting end 26 of the support pole 24 and engagement between a central portion of the support pole 24 and an adjacent surface of the secondary support body 32 cooperate to restrict movement of the support pole 24, in other embodiments, the mounting end 26 of the support pole 24 may directly attach to a bracket, a building surface, or the like. The attachment of the mounting end 26 of the support pole 24 is configured to restrain at least one of translation and rotation of the support pole 24. Thus, it will be understood that the mounting end 26 is provided in certain embodiments to enable the umbrella 20 to be conveniently mounted in place for use of the umbrella 20.

The frame assembly 22 additionally includes a canopy support structure 34. The canopy support structure 34 includes a fixed hub 36 and at least one arm 38 that extends outward from the hub. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the hub 36 is mounted to the support pole 24, such as adjacent an upper end thereof. However, in other embodiments, such as in a cantilevered umbrella for example, the hub 36 may be offset from the support pole 24 and connected thereto via one or more connecting members. As shown, the canopy support structure 34 includes a plurality of arms spaced about the periphery of the hub 36. Although eight arms 38 are shown in the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, it should be understood that any number of arms 38 including two or more arms 38 are contemplated herein. Further, each of the arms 38 is configured to pivot relative to the hub 36 about a pivot axis oriented generally perpendicular to a central axis X extending through the hub 36. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the central axis X of the umbrella 20 is defined by the longitudinal axis of the support pole 24; however, in other embodiments, the central axis X may be offset from and either parallel to or arranged at an angle to the support pole 24.

The frame assembly 22 further includes a transition member 40 movable relative to the central axis X. As shown, the transition member 40 is mounted concentrically with the support pole 24 and is configured to translate along the body of the support pole 24. However, embodiments where the transition member 40 is offset or remote from the support pole 24 are also contemplated herein. A plurality of support members 42 are connected at a first end 44 to the transition member 40 and are connected at a second end 46 to the plurality of arms 38, respectively. In an embodiment, the second end 46 of the support members 42 are coupled to a generally central portion of the arms 38. However, embodiments where the support members 42 are coupled to the arms 38 adjacent a distal end 48 of the arms 38 are also within the scope of the disclosure. In an embodiment, the support members 42 are pivotally or rotatable connected at both the first end 44 to the transition member 40 and at the second end 46, to a respective arm 38. Accordingly, in an embodiment, the total number of arms 38 is equal to the total number support members 42. However, embodiments where the total number of support members 42 is greater than the total number of arms 38, or alternatively, where the total number of support members 42 is less than the total number of arms 38 are also within the scope of the disclosure.

The frame assembly 22, including the component parts thereof, for example, including the support pole 24, may be formed from relatively strong lightweight materials having suitable durability and weather resistant properties selected for the particular application of the umbrella 20. Suitable materials for the frame assembly 22 can include, but are not limited to, light gauge corrosion resistant steels, aluminum alloys, titanium alloys, wood, plastics, carbon fiber materials, and/or other relatively high strength weather resistant materials as are well known. Appropriate selection of materials for construction of the frame assembly 22 can be at least partially dictated in particular applications by the desired aesthetic properties of the umbrella. Thus, it will be appreciated that the materials selected for construction of the umbrella 20 can vary in different applications and the selection of an appropriate material will be readily apparent to one of ordinary skill considering the disclosure and illustration of the subject application and the requirements of a particular application.

In addition, as best shown in FIGS. 2-4, a canopy 50 is permanently or removably attached to and supported by at least a portion of the frame assembly 22. In an embodiment the canopy 50 is coupled to the plurality of arms 38 of the canopy support structure 34. For example, the canopy 50 may be mounted in overlapping relationship with the canopy support structure 34 such that the distal ends 48 of each of the plurality of arms 38 may be affixed to a portion of the canopy 50. The canopy 50 can be formed from any suitable and at least partially flexible material, such as fabric for example. The canopy 50 offers shade protection from incident sunlight, as well as at least partial shelter from the elements, e.g., rain, bird droppings, tree sap, etc. In an embodiment, the material of the canopy 50 may have weather and sun resistant characteristics to provide extended durability and usage in outdoor settings. The canopy 50 may be provided in various colors and patterns, and may, but need not, include a logo or other design.

As previously noted, the umbrella 20, and specifically the canopy support structure 34 of the frame assembly 22 is transformable between a closed or collapsed configuration and an open or extended configuration. Further, it should be understood that the canopy support structure 34 may further be transformed to any configuration between the open and closed configurations. In the closed configuration, the canopy 50 is generally gathered for storage, and in the extended configuration, the canopy 50 can provide a sheltered and shaded region thereunder. The plurality of support members 42 and the plurality of arms 38 of the canopy support structure 34 are articulatable relative to the central axis X such that the canopy support structure 34, and therefore the canopy 50 coupled thereto, can transform between the open configuration and the closed configuration.

In an embodiment, the canopy support structure 34 is transformed via manipulation of the transition member 40 relative to the central axis X, for example translation of the transition member 40 along the central axis X. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, as the transition member 40 moves in a first direction, such as vertically upward, along the support pole 24, the support members apply a force to the arms, causing the support members 42 and the arms 38 to pivot in opposite directions relative to the central axis X. During transition to the open configuration, the plurality of arms 38 of the canopy support structure 34 rotate outwardly from a configuration generally parallel to the central axis X to a configuration at an angle to the central axis X. Similarly, as the transition member 40 translates in a second direction, such as downward along the support pole 24, the connection between the support members 42 and the plurality of arms 38 causes each of the plurality of arms 38 to pivot inwardly toward the central axis X.

With reference now to FIGS. 2-6, the umbrella 20 further includes at least one actuation mechanism 60 operable to automatically transform the umbrella 20 between the open configuration and the closed configuration in response to an input provided thereto. Further, in an embodiment, in addition to an automatic actuation mechanism 60, the umbrella may include a manual actuation mechanism 60b, such as a hand crank for example (FIG. 1A), operable to adjust the position of the transition member 40, and therefore the configuration of the umbrella 20.

The actuation mechanism 60 includes an actuator 62 operably coupled to a portion of the canopy support structure 34. For example, the actuation mechanism 60 may be operably coupled, such as via a hook or bracket for example, to at least one of the transition member 40, a support member 42, and an aim 38. Although the actuator 62 is illustrated in the FIGS. as a linear actuator having a movable portion 64, such as a piston for example, other suitable types of actuators are also within the scope of the disclosure.

In embodiments where the actuator 62 is a linear actuator, the linear actuator is mounted such that the axis of movement defined by the linear actuator 62 is oriented generally parallel to the central axis X of the umbrella 20. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment of FIG. 3, the actuator 62 is affixed to the support pole 24 adjacent the mounting end 26, such as via a bracket, fastener, or other suitable connection mechanism 66. Operation of the actuator 62 drives the movable portion 64, and therefore the transition member 40, along the central axis X, such as along the body of the support pole 24, to selectively open and close the umbrella 20. The actuator 62 may be sized such that when the movable portion 64 is fully retracted relative to the actuator housing, the umbrella 20 is in the closed configuration, and when the movable portion 64 is fully extended from the housing, the umbrella 20 is in the open configuration. However, embodiments where the stroke of the movable portion 64 of the actuator 62 is greater than the length of movement required to transform the umbrella 20 are also contemplated herein.

Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 5, the actuator 62 may be mounted to the stationary hub 36, or to a portion of the support pole 24 located between the transition member 40 and the stationary hub 36. In such embodiments, the movable portion 64 of the actuator 62 may be retracted when the umbrella 20 is in an open configuration, and may be extended when the umbrella 20 is in a closed configuration. By positioning the actuator 62 at the upper end of the support pole 2 and/or the hub 36, the stroke of the movable portion 64 may be substantially reduced. However, it should be understood that the linear actuator 62 illustrated and described herein is intended as an example only and that other types of actuators capable of performing a non-linear movement are also within the scope of the disclosure. Further, embodiments where the actuator 62 is positioned at another location about the umbrella 20 are also within the scope of the disclosure.

With specific reference to FIG. 6, as shown, one or more input devices 70, such as a button, switch, trigger, or other suitable input device, is in operable communication with the actuator 62 to control operation of the actuator 62, and therefore movement of the umbrella 20 to effectively open or close the umbrella 20. In an embodiment, a single input device 70 may be operable to move the canopy support structure 34 to both open the umbrella 20 and to close the umbrella 20. However, in other embodiments, a first input device 70 may be associated with movement of the canopy support structure 34 in a first direction, for example to open the umbrella 20, and a second input device 70, distinct from the first input device 70, may be associated with movement of the canopy support structure 34 in a second direction, for example to close the umbrella 20. As best shown in FIG. 5, in an embodiment, the input device 70 may be a remote control separate from the umbrella 20 and operably coupled to the actuator 62. The remote control may have several buttons as shown, or alternatively, a single input.

Further, the actuator 62 is automatically operable in response to a signal generated by the one or more input devices 70. In an embodiment, the actuator 62 is configured to alter the configuration of the umbrella 20, and specifically of the canopy support structure 34, only when a force is applied to one of the input devices 70. Accordingly, in an embodiment, a continuous force should be applied to the input device 70 to continuously move the canopy support structure 34 until a desired configuration of the umbrella 20 is achieved. Alternatively, or in addition, the canopy support structure 34 may be moved completely between the closed configuration and the open configuration in response to a single pulse provided to an input device 70. In yet another embodiment, movement of the canopy support structure 34 between the closed configuration and the open configuration may be initiated in response to receipt of a first input signal from the one or more input devices 70 and stopped in response to a second input signal from either the same input device or from a different input device 70. In an embodiment, best shown in FIG. 8, at least one of the actuator 62 and the input device 70 is powered by a battery 72 mounted to a portion of the umbrella 20, such as to the support pole 24 for example, or alternatively, to the base 28 or a secondary support structure 32. Further, a solar panel 74 may be mounted to a portion of the umbrella 20, such as the portion of the hub 36 externally beyond the canopy 50. The power generated via the solar panel 74 may be supplied directly to the actuator and/or input device 70, or alternatively, may be used to charge the battery 72.

With reference now to FIGS. 7-8, in an embodiment, the umbrella 20 includes a tilting mechanism operable to tilt a portion of the umbrella 20 including the canopy support structure 34, and in some instances a portion of the support pole 24, relative to the central axis X. As shown, the tiltable portion 80 of the umbrella 20 is defined by a joint 82 formed in the support pole 24. In existing umbrellas, the joint 82 is typically formed near an upper portion of the support pole 24, such as at a position along the path of movement of the transition member 40. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, however, the joint 82 is formed at a position vertically below the path of movement of the transition member 40, such as near a center of the support pole 24 for example, to accommodate inclusion of an actuation mechanism 60.

A mechanical tilting mechanism, such as embedded within the support pole 24 and operable via a hand crank for example, or a connecting member of a cantilever umbrella are known in the art. In an embodiment, the tiltable portion 80 of the umbrella 20 may be automatically transformed between a first configuration (FIG. 7A), aligned with the central axis X, and a tilted configuration (FIG. 7B), arranged at an angle relative to the central axis X. Automatic tilting of the tiltable portion 80 of the umbrella 20 may be performed by the same actuation mechanism 60 configured to open and close the umbrella 20, or alternatively, may be performed by a separate actuation mechanism 60. As best shown in FIG. 8, in an embodiment, the actuation mechanism 60 operable to tilt the umbrella 20 includes a linear actuator mounted to the support pole 24 adjacent a first end of the joint 82. The movable portion 64 of the linear actuator 62 may be coupled to the support pole 24, such as via a bracket for example, adjacent a second opposite end of the joint 82. Accordingly, the movable portion 64 of the actuator 62 is connected to the tiltable portion 80 of the umbrella 20. As shown, the axis of movement of the movable portion 64 of the linear actuator 62 may be arranged at an angle relative to the central axis X and the support pole 24. As a result, extension and retraction (i.e. linear movement) of the movable portion 64 causes the tiltable portion 80 of the umbrella 20 to pivot about the axis defined by the joint 82, relative to the central axis X.

As previously noted, the actuator 62 for tilting the umbrella 20 is operable in response to an input signal. The input signal may be generated by continuously applying a force to an input device 70 until the desired tilt angle is reached, or alternatively, by supplying sequential inputs to the input device 70 such as to start and stop operation of the actuator 62 once a desired position is reached. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the input device 70 for the actuation mechanism 60 configured to tilt the umbrella 20 is a switch or button formed on the secondary support body 32. In such embodiments, one or more wires connecting the input device 70 to the actuator 62 may be embedded within or mounted to the secondary support body 32 and/or the support pole 24. However, it should be understood that a remote input device, or an input device located at another location relative to the umbrella 20 is also contemplated herein.

As previously described, at least one of the actuator 62 and the input device 70 associated with tilting of the umbrella 20 may be powered by a battery 72 mounted to a portion of the umbrella 20, the base 28, or a secondary support structure 32. In embodiments of the umbrella 20 including both a first actuation mechanism for opening and closing the umbrella and a second actuation mechanism for tilting the umbrella, the battery pack may be operably coupled to both actuation mechanisms 60. Further, it should be understood that an umbrella 20 having only an actuation mechanism 60 operable to automatically transform the tiltable portion 80 of the umbrella 20 may, but need not be automatically transformable between an open configuration and a closed configuration, such as via an actuation mechanism 60.

An umbrella 20 automatically capable of transforming between an open and closed position provides an enhanced used experience. Further, by using an actuation mechanism to open/close/and/or tile the umbrella 20, the likelihood of injury to a user is reduced.

All references, including publications, patent applications, and patents cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each reference were individually and specifically indicated to be incorporated by reference and were set forth in its entirety herein.

The use of the terms “a” and “an” and “the” and similar referents in the context of describing the invention (especially in the context of the following claims) is to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The terms “comprising,” “having,” “including,” and “containing” are to be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning “including, but not limited to,”) unless otherwise noted. Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention unless otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the invention.

Preferred embodiments of this invention are described herein, including the best mode known to the inventors for carrying out the invention. Variations of those preferred embodiments may become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading the foregoing description. The inventors expect skilled artisans to employ such variations as appropriate, and the inventors intend for the invention to be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein. Accordingly, this invention includes all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter recited in the claims appended hereto as permitted by applicable law. Moreover, any combination of the above-described elements in all possible variations thereof is encompassed by the invention unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.

Claims

1. An umbrella comprising:

a frame assembly including a support pole and a canopy support structure associated with the support pole, at least a portion of the canopy support structure being movable relative to a central axis of the canopy support structure; and

an actuation mechanism including an actuator operably coupled to a portion of the canopy support structure, wherein the actuation mechanism is selectively operable to move the canopy support structure to at least one of automatically transform the umbrella to an open configuration and automatically transform the umbrella to a closed configuration.

2. The umbrella of claim 1, wherein the actuator is mounted to the support pole.

3. The umbrella of claim 2, wherein the support pole includes a mounting end receivable within a base, the actuator being connected to the support pole adjacent the mounting end.

4. The umbrella of claim 1, wherein the canopy support structure further comprises:

a hub;

a plurality of arms pivotally mounted to the hub;

a transition member; and

a plurality of support members pivotally coupled at a first end to the transition member and pivotally coupled at a second end to the plurality of arms.

5. The umbrella of claim 4, wherein the actuator includes a movable portion and the movable portion is coupled to at least one of the transition member, the plurality or arms and the plurality of support members.

6. The umbrella of claim 4, wherein the actuator is a linear actuator including a movable portion connected to the transition member, wherein the actuator is operable to translate the transition member along the central axis.

7. The umbrella of claim 6, wherein the movable portion is arranged parallel to the support pole.

8. The umbrella of claim 1, wherein the actuation mechanism further comprises an input device in communication with the actuator.

9. The binding assembly of claim 8, wherein the input device is operable to move a movable portion of the actuator in both a first direction and a second direction to open and close the umbrella.

10. The umbrella of claim 8, wherein the actuator is continuously operated in response to application of a continuous force a signal received from the input device.

11. The umbrella of claim 8, wherein the actuator is configured to automatically transform the canopy support structure between the closed configuration and the open configuration in response to operation of the input device.

12. The umbrella of claim 8, wherein the actuator is operable to initiate movement of the canopy support structure in response to a first input signal and cease movement of the canopy support structure in response to a second input signal.

13. The umbrella of claim 12, wherein the first input signal and the second input signal are generated by a single input.

14. The umbrella of claim 1, wherein a portion of the umbrella including the canopy structure is tiltable relative to the central axis.

15. The umbrella of claim 14, further comprising another actuation mechanism operably coupled to the tiltable portion of the umbrella, the another actuation mechanism being operable to tilt the tiltable portion of the umbrella.

16. The umbrella of claim 1, further comprising a battery pack mounted to a portion of the frame assembly, the batter pack being coupled to the actuation mechanism.

17. The umbrella of claim 16, further comprising a solar panel operably coupled to the battery pack.

18. An umbrella comprising:

a support pole;

a canopy support structure associated with the support pole, at least a portion of the canopy support structure being movable relative to a central axis of the canopy support structure;

a joint formed in the support pole to define a tiltable portion of the umbrella movable at an angle to the central axis, wherein the tiltable portion includes the canopy support structure; and

an actuation mechanism operably coupled to the tiltable portion, wherein the actuation mechanism is selectively operable to move the tiltable portion between a first configuration where the tiltable portion is aligned with the central axis and a second configuration where the tiltable portion is arranged at an angle to the central axis.

19. The umbrella of claim 18, wherein the actuator is a linear actuator including a movable portion connected to the tiltable portion, wherein translation of the linear actuator causes the tiltable portion to rotate relative to the central axis.

20. A method of automatically opening an umbrella comprising:

generating an input signal via a first input device;

communicating the input signal to a first actuator operably coupled to a canopy support structure;

operating the first actuator to rotate a plurality of arms of the canopy support structure outwardly from a central axis of the canopy support structure in response to the input signal;

generating another input signal via a second input device;

communicating the another input signal to a second actuator operably coupled to a tiltable portion of the umbrella; and

operating the second actuator to tilt the tiltable portion of the umbrella including the canopy support structure to a desired angle relative to the central axis in response to the another input signal.