Infinity Canopy v. Import Fencing - Complaint

Case 2:19-cv-08427 Document 1 Filed 09/30/19 Page 1 of 43 Page ID #:1
1 Mandana Jafarinejad SBN 273904

Law Offices of Mandana Jafarinejad, P.C.
2 1 Park Plaza
Suite 600
3 Irvine, CA 92614
Telephone: (949) 833-7125
4
5 Attorney for Plaintiff
6
7 United States District Court
8 Central District of California
9 Case No. 2:19-cv-8427
INFINITY CANOPY, INC., a
10 California corporation, COMPLAINT FOR PATENT
INFRINGEMENT
11 Plaintiff,
12 v.
13 IMPORT FENCE DIRECT INC., a
California corporation;
14 LONG XIANG SHEN, an individual;
and DEMAND FOR JURY TRIAL
15 DOE 1 through DOE 10, inclusive,
16 Defendants.
17
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26
27
28
Complaint for Patent Infringement
1
1 Plaintiff Infinity Canopy, Inc. (“Infinity”) files this Complaint for Patent
2 Infringement against the Defendants and alleges as follows:
3
4 JURISDICTION
5 1. This civil action arises out of the United States patent laws codified at
6 35 United States Code sections 1 et seq., thereby providing this court with subject
7 matter jurisdiction over this action pursuant to 28 United States Code section 1331
8 and 1338(a), where this is a federal question involving patent infringement. The
9 federal district courts therefore have original jurisdiction.
10
11 PARTIES
12 2. Plaintiff Infinity Canopy, Inc. is a corporation organized and existing
13 under the laws of the State of California, having its principal place of business in
14 Los Angeles, California.
15 3. Defendant Import Fence Direct, Inc. (“Import Fence”), is a corporation
16 organized and existing under the laws of the State of California, having its
17 principal place of business in San Bernardino, California.
18 4. Defendant Long Xiang Shen (“Shen”) is an individual residing in the
19 State of California in this judicial district.
20
21 VENUE
22 5. Venue is proper within this district generally pursuant to 28 U.S.C.
23 § 1391, because all defendants are deemed to “reside” in this district, or in the
24 alternative, because a substantial part of the events giving rise to the claims
25 Plaintiff asserts occurred in this district. Venue is also proper within this district in
26 particularly pursuant to 28 U.S.C. § 1400(b) because all defendants reside in this
27 district, or in the alternative, because each of them has committed acts of
28 infringement and has a regular and established place of business in this district.
2
1 THE NATURE OF THE ACTION

2 6. This is a patent infringement action, based on the patent laws of the
3 United States, codified at 35 United States Code, sections 271, et seq., brought by
4 Infinity against the Defendants, for its infringement, including willful infringement,
5 of nine United States Patents owned by Infinity.
6 7. Plaintiff is the assignee of the patents in this suit. The inventor of the
7 patents in this suit revolutionized the market for canopy systems by designing them
8 so that they require only minimal installation effort. When the inventor decided to
9 install a canopy system at his home, he soon found out that he had to pay for
10 expensive installation. He developed an easy-to-install retractable suspended
11 canopy system that any person with minimal skill can perform. The canopy system
12 was so revolutionary that it has won multiple awards and has been a commercial
13 success.
14 8. Defendant Shen, through his company Defendant Import Fence, among
15 other entities, has copied Plaintiff’s canopy system which is configured to be
16 suspended from a support wire. Instead of pursuing independent product
17 development, Defendants relied on Plaintiff’s research and development to create a
18 copy of Plaintiff’s product.
19 9. Plaintiff is filing this lawsuit to end Defendants’ continued
20 infringement.
21
22 Infinity Canopy’s Utility Patents
23 10. Among the patents that Plaintiff has obtained are the utility patents
24 listed below, copies of which attached as Exhibits 1 through 4 and incorporated by
25 reference, to which Plaintiff owns all rights, title, and interest:
26 US Patent No. 9,938,723 (the ’723 Patent)
3

2 11. Plaintiff also owns the design patents listed below, copies of which are
3 attached as Exhibits 5 through 9 and incorporated by reference, to which Plaintiff
4 owns all right, title and interest:
5 US Patent No. D822,465 (the ’465 Patent)
10 12. The ’723 Patent claims in claim 1:
11 A canopy system comprising:
12 a. two or more elongated rods positioned parallel
13 to each other, each of the elongated rods having, an
14 enclosed cavity;
15 b. at least one canopy piece;
16 c. two or more of elongated bars attached to the
17 at least one canopy piece, each of the elongated bars
18 configured to be held by one of the elongated rods; and
19 d. at least two connection mechanisms, with at
20 least one connection mechanism slidably attached to each
21 of the elongated rods, each of the connection mechanisms
22 having a connector, the connector configured to be
23 suspended from a support and to connect the canopy
24 system to the support, each of the connection
25 mechanisms further configured to slide along tracks on
26 opposites side of the enclosed cavity of the elongated
27 rods and detachably fastened at any location along the
28 elongated rods.
4

3 a. first and a second elongated rod, the first and
4 the second elongated rod positioned parallel to each
5 other;
6 b. at least one canopy piece having a first and a
7 second parallel edge;
8 c. two or more of elongated bars, each of the
9 elongated bars attached to one of the edges of at least one
10 canopy piece, each of the elongated bars configured to be
11 held by a respective elongated rod; and one or more of:
12 i) a distance control thread attached to
13 each of the first and the second elongated rods in a
14 perpendicular direction, the distance control thread
15 attached from a top by a fastener that travels inside
16 of the rod;
17 ii) two or more roller tracks attached in a
18 perpendicular direction to the first and the second
19 elongated rods, the elongated rods configured to be
20 suspended from the roller tracks and slide along
21 the roller tracks, the roller tracks attached to a
22 support structure at each end of the roller tracks;
23 iii) two or more connection mechanisms,
24 with at least one connection mechanism attached
25 in a horizontal direction to an end of one of the
26 elongated rods, each of the connection
27 mechanisms having a connector, the connector
28 configured to be attached to a support and to
5
1 connect the canopy system to the support.

4 a. two or more elongated rods positioned parallel
5 to each other, each of the elongated rods having an
6 enclosed cavity;
7 b. at least one canopy piece having two parallel
8 edges;
9 c. two or more of elongated bars, each of the
10 elongated bars attached to one of the edges of at least one
11 canopy piece, each of the elongated bars configured to be
12 held by one of the elongated rods; and
13 d. at least two connection mechanisms, with at
14 least one connection mechanism slidably attached to each
15 of the elongated rods, each of the connection mechanisms
16 having a connector, the connector configured to be
17 suspended from a support and to connect the canopy
18 system to the support, each of the connection
19 mechanisms further configured to slide along tracks on
20 opposites side of the enclosed cavity of the elongated
21 rods and detachably fastened at any location along the
22 elongated rods.
25 a. a first and a second elongated rod, the first and
26 the second elongated rod each having a track and
27 positioned parallel to each other;
28 b. a canopy piece having a first and a second
6
1 parallel edge;
2 c. a first and a second elongated bar, the first
3 elongated bar attached to the first parallel edge of the
4 canopy piece, and the second elongated bar attached to
5 the second parallel edge of the canopy piece, the first and
6 the second elongated bar configured to be held by the
7 first and the second the elongated rod respectively; and
8 d. at least a first and a second connection
9 mechanism, with at least one connection mechanism
10 attached to the track of each of the first and the second
11 elongated rod, each of the first and the second connection
12 mechanism having a connector, the connector capable of
13 being suspended from a support and to connect the
14 canopy system to the support, said first and said second
15 connection mechanism further configured to slide along
16 the track and detachably fastened at any location along
17 the track of the first and the second elongated rod, the
18 first and the second connection mechanism configured to
19 be fastened to the track of the first and the second
20 elongated rod from a top of the first and the second
21 elongated rod; wherein the connection mechanism can
22 slide along the track and be fastened to different positions
23 on the track.
24 16. The ’465 Patent claims the ornamental design for a cable eyelet.
25 17. The ’274 Patent claims the ornamental design for a connector for a
26 canopy system.
27 18. The ’611 Patent claims the ornamental design for a rod for a canopy.
7
1 canopy.
3 canopy.
4
5 DEFENDANTS’S INFRINGING ACTIVITIES AND PRODUCTS
6 21. Defendants make, market, import, use, sell and/or offer for sale several
7 products within the United States, including this district, which infringe the
8 Patents-in-suit.
9 22. Non-limiting examples of Accused Products sold by Defendants that
10 infringe the Patents-in-suit include:
11 • Patio Paradise 3’Wx16’L Beige Retractable Pergola Canopy
12 Replacement Shade Cover Slide on Wire Canopy Pergola Shade Cloth
13 Awning Roof Wave Shade Deck Gazebo Trellis Porch,
14 • E&K Sunrise 3’Wx10’L Brown Retractable Pergola Canopy Shade
15 Cover Slide on Wire Hung Canopy Replacement Shade Cloth Wave
16 Shade Sail Awning for Wood Pergola Trellis Patio Deck,
17 • TANG Sunshades Depot Retractable Slide on Wire Canopy Awning
18 Roofing Replacement for Pergola Gazebo Trellis Terrace for Deck
19 Patio Restaurant Café Porch Light Grey 4’x16’
20 • Windscreen4less Retractable Canopy Replacement Cover for Pergola
21 Slide On Wire Shade Cover Awning for Gazebo Trellis Hot Tub Top
22 Cover Patio Deck Yard Porch 90% UV Blockage Brown 3’x16’
23 23. Defendants’ products have a first and a second elongated rod that are
24 positioned parallel to each other and further have a canopy piece with parallel
25 edges:
26
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28
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1
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4
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24. Defendants’ products also have elongated bars attached to the parallel
13
edges of the canopy piece. The bars are held inside of a cavity of the rods. A
14
connection mechanism is slidably attached to the rods to suspend the canopy
15
system from a wire:
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1 25. Fasteners are used to fasten the connection mechanism to the rod:
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1 26. Defendants’ products also have a distance control thread attached to

2 each of the first and the second elongated rods in a perpendicular direction. The
3 distance control thread is attached from a top by a fastener that travels inside of the
4 rod.
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DEFENDANTS’ WILLFUL INFRINGEMENT
18
27. Plaintiff’s products and website contain patent markings, which serve
19
as constructive notice of Plaintiff’s patent rights to Defendants.
20
28. In addition, Plaintiff sent Import Fence and Shen multiple cease-and-
21
desist letters as to infringement. Import Fence and Shen continued selling the
22
infringing Product after receiving the cease-and-desist letters.
23
29. Despite numerous removals of the infringing products from selling
24
websites, including Amazon.com, Defendants bypassed proper on-line removal
25
and continue to sell infringing products on Amazon.com by establishing new
26
company names and product pages for the same infringing products. The entities
27
Defendants sold infringing products under include E&K Sunrise, Inc., Patio
28
11
1 Paradise Inc., Windscreens4less, Windscreen Socal, Sunshades Depot, Tang

2 Sunshades, and most recently Coarbor, among others.
3
4 FIRST CLAIM FOR RELIEF
5 (Infringement of the ’723 Patent)
6 (Against All Defendants)
7 30. Plaintiff incorporates and realleges paragraphs 1 through 29, inclusive
8 of this Complaint, as if fully set forth.
9 31. Defendants have infringed and continues to infringe, directly and
10 indirectly through contributory or induced infringement (or both), one or more
11 claims of the ’723 Patent by means of one or more of the following acts with
12 respect to one or more of Products identified in this Complaint: using, selling, and
13 offering to sell in the United States, and importing into the United States.
14 Defendant’s infringing activities violate 35 U.S.C. § 271. More particularly,
15 Defendants’ manufacture, use, sale, and/or offer for sale in the United States and/or
16 importation into the United States of the Accused Products infringe at least claim 1
17 of the ’723 Patent (“Asserted ’723 Patent Claim”). Plaintiff reserves the right to
18 assert additional claims of the ’723 patent after a reasonable opportunity for
19 investigation and discovery.
20 32. Defendants’ infringement of the ’723 Patent is based on literal
21 infringement or infringement under the doctrine of equivalents, or both.
22 33. Defendants’ acts of making, using, selling and/or offering for sale or
23 otherwise importing the infringing products has been done without license, and
24 without the permission, consent, or authorization of Infinity.
25 34. Defendants’ infringement includes, but is not limited to, the
26 manufacture, use, importation, sale, and offering for sale of the Accused products.
27 35. Attached hereto as Exhibit 10, and incorporated by reference herein,
28 are claims charts detailing how each of the Accused Products infringes
12
1 independent claim 1 of the ’723 patent.

2 36. The Court has not yet construed the meaning of any claims or term in
3 the ’723 patent. In providing these detailed allegations, Plaintiff does not intent to
4 convey or imply any particular claim construction or the precise scope of the
5 claims. Plaintiff’s contentions regarding the construction of the claims will be
6 provided in compliance with the case schedule, any applicable federal or local
7 procedural rules, and/or any applicable order.
8 37. Plaintiff contends that each element of each Asserted Claim is literally
9 present in the Accused Products. If as a result of the Court’s constructions or other
10 determinations one or more claim elements are not literally present, Plaintiff
11 contends that each such element is present under the doctrine of equivalents and
12 reserves its right to provide more detailed doctrine of equivalents contentions after
13 discovery, a claim construction order from the Court, or at another appropriate
14 time.
15 38. Infinity is informed and believes, and on that basis alleges, that
16 Defendants gained substantial profits and revenue, and subjected Infinity to lost
17 profits and revenue through loss of sales of its own products by virtue of their
18 infringement of the ’723 Patent.
19 39. Infinity has been harmed and sustained damages as a direct and
20 proximate result of Defendants’ infringement of the ’723 Patent. Infinity is thus
21 entitled to monetary compensation for Defendants’ infringement in an amount to
22 be determined to compensate Infinity for lost sales and profits and/or the profits
23 and revenue gained by Defendants through its infringement of the ’723 Patent, but
24 in no event less than a reasonable royalty.
25 40. Infinity is informed and believes, and on that basis alleges, that the
26 infringement of the ’723 Patent by Defendants is and has been intentional, willful
27 and without regard to Infinity’s rights. Defendants are aware of Infinity’s
28 innovation and the patents it has obtained. Infinity has patent markings on its
13
1 products, which provide constructive notice to the Defendants, and Defendants are
2 aware of the Patents-in-Suit.
3 41. Despite Defendants’ knowledge of the Patent-in-Suit, Defendants sold
4 and continue to sell the ’723 infringing products in complete and reckless disregard
5 of Infinity’s rights. A such, Defendants acted recklessly and continue to willfully,
6 wantonly, and deliberately engage in the acts of infringement of the ’723 Patent,
7 justifying an award for increased monetary damages pursuant to 35 United States
8 Code, section 284, as well as attorneys’ fees and costs pursuant to 35 United States
9 code, section 285.
10 42. In addition to their direct infringement, Defendants have indirectly
11 infringed, and will continue to indirectly infringe Infinity’s patent by supplying
12 components and otherwise instructing, directing and/or requiring others, as well as
13 other suppliers, resellers, distributors, customers, purchasers, consumers and/or
14 other users to make, use and/or manufacture the infringing products.
15 43. As a result of Defendants’ unlawful activities, Infinity suffered and will
16 continue to suffer irreparable harm for which there is no adequate remedy at law.
17 Infinity directly competes with the Defendants in the canopy industry. Defendants’
18 continued infringement of the ’723 Patent causes, and will continue to cause harm
19 to Infinity in various ways, including but not limited to, price erosion, loss of
20 goodwill, damages to reputation, lost business opportunities, lost revenue and
21 income from the sale of its own products, and increased direct and/or indirect
22 competition.
23 44. Monetary compensation alone for the damages incurred due to the
24 harm caused by Defendants’ infringing activities is, and will continue to be,
25 insufficient to compensate Infinity for these harms. Infinity is therefore entitled to
26 preliminary and/or permanent injunctive relief. Unless enjoined, Defendants will
27 continue their infringing activities and conduct. Thus, injunctive relief is necessary
28 to protect Infinity from ingoing injury and further damages.
14
1 SECOND CLAIM FOR RELIEF

15
11 time.
16
19 competition.
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27
28
17
1 THIRD CLAIM FOR RELIEF

18
11 time.
28 ///
19

20 competition.
27 ///
28 ///
20
1 FOURTH CLAIM FOR RELIEF

21
11 time.
28 ///
22

20 competition.
27 ///
28 ///
23
1 FIFTH CLAIM FOR RELIEF

7 indirectly through contributory or induced infringement (or both), the claim of
8 the ’465 Patent by means of one or more of the following acts with respect to one
9 or more of Products identified in this Complaint: using, selling, and offering to sell
10 in the United States, and importing into the United States. Defendant’s infringing
11 activities violate 35 U.S.C. § 271. More particularly, Defendants’ manufacture,
12 use, sale, and/or offer for sale in the United States and/or importation into the
13 United States of the Accused Products infringes claim 1 of the ’465 Patent
14 (“Asserted ’465 Patent Claim”).
24
3 97. Plaintiff contends that each element of the Asserted Claim is literally
9 time.
25
17 competition.
24 ///
25 ///
26 ///
27 ///
28 ///
26
1 SIXTH CLAIM FOR RELIEF

27
9 time.
28
17 competition.
24 ///
25 ///
26 ///
27 ///
28 ///
29
1 SEVENTH CLAIM FOR RELIEF

30
9 time.
31
17 competition.
24 EIGHTH CLAIM FOR RELIEF
32

33
4 time.
28 ///
34

13 competition.
20
21 NINTH CLAIM FOR RELIEF
25 of this Complaint, as if fully set forth. Defendants have infringed and continues to
26 infringe, directly and indirectly through contributory or induced infringement (or
27 both), the claim of the ’262 Patent by means of one or more of the following acts
28 with respect to one or more of Products identified in this Complaint: using, selling,
35
1 and offering to sell in the United States, and importing into the United States.
4 importation into the United States of the Accused Products infringes claim 1 of
5 the ’262 Patent (“Asserted ’262 Patent Claim”).
28 time.
36
37

8 competition.
15
16 PRAYER FOR RELIEF
17 WHEREFORE, Infinity Canopy prays for relief, as follows:
18 1. A judgment that Defendants have directly and/or indirectly infringed
19 Infinity’s patent.
20 2. An order and judgment either preliminarily or permanently enjoining
21 Defendants, as well as Defendant’s officers, agents, affiliates, employees, and/or
22 any other persons acting of attempting to act in concert or participation with
23 Defendants, from any further acts of infringement of Infinity’s patents.
24 3. A judgment awarding Infinity monetary damages adequate to
25 compensate Infinity for Defendants’ infringement of Infinity’s patents, including
26 any and all pre-judgment and post-judgment interest at the maximum rate
27 permitted by law;
28
38
1 4. A judgement that Defendants have willfully, wantonly, and/or

2 deliberately infringed Infinity’s patents.
3 5. A judgment awarding Infinity increased damages and reasonable
4 attorney’s fees pursuant to 35 United States Code section 285 to the extent that the
5 Court finds this case exceptional with respect to Defendants’ infringement of
6 Infinity’s patents.
7 6. The Defendants be ordered to pay all of Infinity’s costs associated with
8 this action, and
9 7. Any such further relief that this Court determines is proper and just.
10
11 Dated: September 30, 2019 _/s/_Mandana Jafarinejad________
MANDANA JAFARINEJAD
12
13
DEMAND FOR JURY TRIAL
14
Pursuant to Rule 38(b) of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, Infinity
15
hereby demands trial by jury on all issues raised by the Complaint triable by jury.
16
17
LAW OFFICES OF MANDANA JAFARINEJAD, P.C.
18
Dated: September 30, 2019 _/s/_Mandana Jafarinejad______________
19 Mandana Jafarinejad
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Case 2:19-cv-08427 Document 1-1 Filed 09/30/19 Page 1 of 44 Page ID #:44
CHA KUNATAITEIT UIT MIT UT LA UN MON
US009938723B2
(12) United
Shargani
States Patent (10) Patent No.: US 9 ,938,723 B2
(45 ) Date of Patent : * Apr. 10 , 2018
(54 ) CANOPY SYSTEM (58 ) CPC
Field .of.. E06B
Classification Search
2009/2625 ; E06B 9 /24 ; E06B 9 / 262;
( 71 ) Applicant: Afshin Shargani, Los Angeles , CA
@ E06B 2009/ 247 ; E04H 15 /04 ;
(US) (Continued )
(72 ) Inventor: Afshin Shargani, Los Angeles , CA (56 ) References Cited
(US) U .S . PATENT DOCUMENTS
(73 ) Assignee: Infinity Canopy, Inc., Los Angeles , CA 301,923 A * 7/ 1884 Reisdorf ..... ........ B61B 12/005
(US) 104 / 113
( * ) Notice :
@ Subject to any disclaimer, the term of this 1,084 ,695 A * 1/ 1914 Ooghlin .................. F16G 11/00
24 / 115 R
patent is extended or adjusted under 35 (Continued )
U .S . C . 154 (b ) by 0 days.
This patent is subject to a terminal dis FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS
claimer . CH 669435 A * 3 / 1989
DE 3727292 A1 * 1/ 1988 . . . . . . .. A01G 9 / 22
(21) Appl. No.: 15/612,916 (Continued )
(22) Filed : Jun . 2, 2017 Primary Examiner — Robert Canfield
(74 ) Attorney, Agent, or Firm — Payam Moradian
(65 ) Prior Publication Data (57) ABSTRACT
US 2017/0328068 A1 Nov . 16 , 2017 There is described a canopy system comprising two or more
parallel elongated rods, one or more canopy pieces having
Related U .S . Application Data two parallel edges , two or more elongated bars connected to
each of the two or more parallel elongated rods and attached
(63 ) Continuation - in -part of application No. 15 /263,308 , to each of the two parallel edges of the one or more canopy
filed on Sep . 12, 2016 , now Pat. No . 9 ,745 ,755 , which pieces, and at least one connection mechanism attached to
(Continued ) each of the elongated rods having a connector that is capable
of being suspended from a support. The elongated rods may
(51) Int . Cl. include at least one lower cavity having two channels each
E04H 15 /58 ( 2006 .01) configured to detachably and slidably receive each of the
E04H 15 /04 ( 2006 . 01) elongated bars . The lower cavity may have a groove that is
(Continued ) configured to detachably and slidably receive an accessory .
(52 ) U .S . CI. The elongated rods each may include at least one upper
CPC .......... E04F 10 /02 (2013.01); E04F 10 /0607 cavity configured to detachably and slidably receive each
(2013 .01); E04F 10 /0633 (2013 .01 ); connection mechanism and a second accessory.
( Continued ) 20 Claims, 32 Drawing Sheets
IIIIIIIIIIIIIIII I + IITIT
22
.
F
-- - > . - -
WITEITITIPRIMEILULIIDIT + + IIDIDO
AZ -
L XII
US 9,938 ,723 B2
Page 2
Related U .S . Application Data 3,288 ,159 A * 11/1966 Corliss .... E04H 9 / 14

135 / 118
is a continuation of application No. 15 /000 ,307, filed 3,481,073 A * 12 /1969 Yoshida ............ A01G 9 /22
on Jan . 19 , 2016 , now Pat. No. 9 , 470 ,012 , and a 135 /120 .2
continuation -in - part of application No. 14 /448 , 825 , 4,091,857 A * 5/1978 Jacobs ........ A47H 1/ 18
filed on Jul. 31 , 2014 , now Pat. No . 9 ,255 , 441. 160 / 330
4 ,095 ,639 A * 6 / 1978 Ryan ................. A01G 9 / 225
(60) Provisional application No . 62/ 240 ,353, filed on Oct. 160 / 84 . 02
12 , 2015 , provisional application No. 61/874 ,623 , 4 ,375 ,232 A * 3/ 1983 Heescher ... ... A01G 9 /22
filed on Sep . 6 , 2013 . 160 / 84 . 06
4 ,683, 933 A * 8/ 1987 Dunbar ................. E06B 9/0692
(51) Int. Cl. 160 /273 . 1
E04F 10 / 06 (2006 .01) 5 ,265,373 A * 11/1993 Vollebregt A01G 9 /22
E06B 9 / 262 (2006 .01) 160 / 84 . 01
E04H 15/64 ( 2006 .01) 6 ,257 ,300 B1 * 7/2001 Brownlie ............... A47H 23 /00
160 /264
E04F 10 / 02 ( 2006 .01) 6 ,305, 109 B1 * 10 /2001 Lee ...................... GO2B 6 /0068
E04H 15 /54 ( 2006 .01) 40 / 546
(52 ) U . S . CI. 6,488,118 B1* 12/2002 Corriveau .... .. A62B 35104/0056
/ 111
CPC ........ . E04F 10 /0666 ( 2013 .01) ; E04H 15 / 04
( 2013 .01); E04H 15 /54 ( 2013 .01); E04H 6 ,766 ,849 B1 * 7/2004 Tseng ................ ...... A47H 1 / 19
160 /332
15 / 58 ( 2013 .01); E04H 15 /64 ( 2013 .01) ; D630 , 288 S * 1/ 2011 Grazioso D21/ 837
E04H 15 /642 ( 2013 .01); E06B 9 /262 9 ,255, 441 B2 * 2/ 2016 Shargani E04H 15/ 58
(2013 .01) ; E06B 2009 / 2625 (2013 .01) 9,624, 689 B2 * 4 / 2017 Bailey ... E04H 15 /32
(58 ) Field of Classification Search 9 ,644 ,389 B2 * 5 / 2017 Xie .... . . . . . E04H 15 / 34
CPC ......... E04H 15/34 ; E04H 15 /42 ; E04H 15 /00 ; 2004/0020402 Al * 2 /2004 Petzl ...................... A63G 21/ 22
E04H 151642 ; E04H 15/ 10 ; GO9F 105/ 150
2007 /186 ; A01G 9 /22 ; E04F 10 /02; E04F 2008 /0142064 A1* 6 /2008 Maraki .............. E04F 10 /0607
135 /121
10 /04 ; E04F 10 /0607; E04F 10 /0633 ; 2008/0202007 A1 * 8/ 2008 Suciu ................ ....... GO9F 3 /20
E04F 10 /0666 ; E04F 10 / 0659 40 /658
USPC ....... 47 / 17 , 22 . 1 ; 135 /90 , 91; 52 /39 , 63, 64, 2009/ 0031641 A1* 2/2009 Grazioso ............ E04F 10 / 02
52/DIG . 4 , 148 ; 160/ 84 .01, 84 .06 , 127 , 52/ 74
160 /46 ; 411 / 104 ; 248 /322, 339 , 317 , 2010 /0252207 Al * 10 /2010 Westgarth ........... E04F 10 / 02
248/ 340 ; 256 / 42; 24 / 115 K , 115 L 160/ 45
See application file for complete search history. 2011/ 0265260 A1 * 11 /2011 Darrow ................ A616 7 / 1015
5 / 85 . 1
( 56
56 ) References Cited 2013/0167749 A1* 7/2013 Spies .... .. . B66C 7 /02
104/93
U . S . PATENT DOCUMENTS 2014/0034099 A1* 2/2014 Wang ............ B60J 11/ 04
135 / 88 .01
1,373,223 A * 3/1921 Chance .. E02D 5 / 80 2015/0233116 A1* 8/2015 Mayer ......... E04B 9 /04
24/ 115 K 52/ 506 .05
1,521,987 A * 1/1925 Belfranci . .............. D06F 57 /00
211 / 119 . 12
2017 /0037635 Al * 2/2017 Shargani ............... E04F 10 /02
1,728 ,074 A 9 / 1929 Nicholas ................ A47H 5 /032 FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS
160 / 84 .06
1,899 ,062 A * 2/ 1933 Steffen .................. E06B 9 /28 06193365 A * 7 / 1994
160 / 193 JP 2005213997 A * 8 / 2005
1, 985 ,509 A * 12 / 1934 Lemont ................. F16G 11 /00
198/842
198 / 842 * cited by examiner
U.S. Patent Apr1

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US 9 , 938 ,723 B2
CANOPY SYSTEM elongated bars held by the channels may exit the elongated
rod through the groove . The upper cavity can include an
CROSS -REFERENCE upper track and a lower track , the upper track and lower
track running substantially along the elongated rod , the
The present application is a continuation - in -part (CIP ) of 5 upper cavity configured to hold the connection mechanisms.
Each of the connection mechanisms can be fastened from
U .S . application Ser. No. 15/ 263 ,308 , filed on Sep . 12 , 2016 , outside
which is a continuation of U . S . application Ser. No. 15 /000 , one or more the upper cavity . Each accessory can be attached to
307 , filed on Jan . 19 , 2016 , which is a continuation - in -part control thread ofcanthe lower or the upper cavity . A distance
be attached to the elongated rods . Each of
(CIP ) of U . S . application Ser. No. 14 /448 , 825 , filed on Jul.
31. 2014 , which claims the priority of provisional applica - 10 the connection mechanisms can include a base having a
tion No. 61/874 ,623 , filed on Sep. 6 , 2012 . The present horizontal bar with one or more threaded holes . The elon
gated rods can be connected lengthwise , thereby changing
application also claims the benefit of provisional application
No . 62 /240,353 , filed on Oct. 12 , 2015 . All of these appli connectedthe length of the canopy system . The elongated rods can be
cations are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety . 15 with two lengthwise through a horizontal bar that overlaps
elongated rods that are aligned end to end . A
FIELD OF THE INVENTION supporting frame can be used having at least one supporting
post, the supporting post attached to and supporting one or
The invention is generally directed to a structural assem more beams, the support attached to , and supported by the
bly , more particularly to a canopy system used to protect one or more beams. A motor and a pulley can be used , the
against sunlight, rain , wind , snow , and the like . 20 motor and pulley configured to switch the canopy system
between a closed position and an open position . A free
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION standing unit can be used having a supporting base and at
least one supporting post, the supporting post having a lower
Canopies and awnings have been widely used to provide end that is attached to the supporting base , the supporting
shade and shelter from sunlight, rain , wind, snow or other 25 post having an upper end that is attached to one or more
weather conditions . Typically , canopies or awnings are beams, the support attached to and supported by the one or
attached to a building for support, and often use support more beams. Two canopy pieces can be used . Each of the
posts to hold the fabric pieces upright. However, many connection mechanisms can include a base having a hori
canopy systems are custom made to meet various design zontalbar with one or more threaded holes , thebase attached
needs, thus adding expense . There is a need for an inexpen - 30 to the connector, the horizontal bar of each of the connection
sive canopy system that possesses advantages of using mechanisms capable of being slidably inserted into the
readily available components to allow for inexpensive setup lower track , the threaded fasteners projecting into the upper
and use . It is an object of the present invention to meet this track , the connection mechanisms capable ofbeing fastened
need
ne . from outside the upper cavity .
Provided is an elongated rod comprising : a . a lower cavity
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION with one or more channels ; and b . an upper cavity . The lower
cavity can include a groove . The upper cavity can have an
Provided is a canopy system comprising: a . two parallel upper track and a lower track , the upper track and lower
elongated rods; b . a canopy piece having two parallel edges ; track running substantially along the elongated rod . The
c . an elongated bar attached to each of the two parallel edges 40 lower cavity can include a groove having an opening into
of the canopy piece ; and ; d . a connection mechanism one or more channels . The elongated rod can comprise : a ) a
attached to each of the elongated rods, each of the connec - lower cavity with a groove and one or more channels , with
tion mechanisms having a connector, each of the connectors the groove having an opening in a transverse direction both
capable of being suspended from a support. The canopy to the channels and to outside of the elongated rod ; and b )
system can comprise : a . one or more additional elongated 45 an upper cavity . The upper cavity can have an upper track
rods ; b . one or more additional canopy pieces each having and a lower track , the upper track and lower track running
two parallel edges ; c . additional elongated bars attached to substantially along the elongated rod .
each of the parallel edges of the additional canopy pieces ; Provided is a canopy component comprising : a . a canopy
and d . additional connection mechanisms attached to each of piece having two parallel edges; and b . an elongated bar
the additional elongated rods, each of the additional con - 50 attached to each of the parallel edges of the canopy piece .
nection mechanisms having an additional connector, each of Provided is a canopy system comprising: a . a first and a
the additional connectors capable of being suspended from second elongated rod , the first and the second elongated rod
the support; wherein each of the additional elongated bars is each having a track and positioned parallel to each other; b .
held by each of the additional elongated rods. The elongated a canopy piece having a first and a second parallel edge ; c .
bars can be tubular. The support can be a cable wire . The 55 a first and a second elongated bar, the first elongated bar
additional supports can be connectors capable of being attached to the first parallel edge of the canopy piece, and the
suspended . The connectors can be capable of being movably second elongated bar attached to the second parallel edge of
suspended from the support. Each of the elongated rods can the canopy piece, the first and the second elongated bar
include an endcap . An accessory can be held by the rod . The configured to be held by the first and the second the
accessory can be one or more lights. Each of the elongated 60 elongated rod respectively ; and d . at least a first and a second
rods can include at least one lower cavity and at least one connection mechanism , with at least one connection mecha
upper cavity . The lower cavity can include one or more nism attached to the track of each of the first and the second
channels each configured to hold the elongated bars. The elongated rod, each of the first and the second connection
channels can be tubular. The lower cavity can include one or mechanism having a connector, the connector capable of
more channels each configured to hold the elongated bars, 65 being suspended from a support and to connect the canopy
the lower cavity having a groove that opens into each of the system to the support, said first and said second connection
channels such that the canopy pieces connected to the mechanism further configured to slide along the track and
US 9, 938,723 B2
detachably fastened at any location along the track of the parallel edge of the canopy piece, and the second elongated
first and the second elongated rod , the first and the second bar attached to the second parallel edge of the canopy piece ,
connection mechanism configured to be fastened to the track the first and the second elongated bar configured to be held
of the first and the second elongated rod from a top of the by the first and the second the elongated rod respectively ;
first and the second elongated rod , wherein the connection 5 and d . a magnet assembly , the magnet assembly having a
mechanism can slide along the track and be fastened to magnet, the magnet assembly attached to the first or the
different positions on the track . second elongated rod , the magnet of the magnet assembly
Provided is a canopy system comprising : a ) a first and a configured to form a magnetic connection with an external
second elongated rod , the first and the second elongated rod support structure to maintain the canopy system in a
positioned parallel to each other; b ) a canopy piece having 10 deployed position . Themagnet can be threadably attached to
a first and a second parallel edge ; c ) a first and a second the elongated rod , the threadable attachment configured to
elongated bar, the first elongated bar attached to the first allow the magnet 's position to be adjusted in relation to the
parallel edge of the canopy piece , and the second elongated support structure . A cap can isolate the magnet from expo
bar attached to the second parallel edge of the canopy piece, sure to air . The canopy system can further comprise a
the first and the second elongated bar configured to be held 15 handle . The handle can be attached to the elongated rod from
by the first and the second the elongated rod respectively ; top of the elongated rod with fasteners , the handle further
and d ) at least, a first and a second connection mechanism , extending below the elongated rod . A mounting member can
with at least one connection mechanism each slidably be attached to the elongated rod, the mounting member
attached to the first and the second elongated rod , each of the having a threaded loop for receiving a magnet adjusting
first and the second connection mechanism having a con - 20 threadedmember of themagnet assembly. The handle can be
nector, the connector capable of being suspended from a attached from top of the elongated rod, the handle having an
support and to connect the canopy system to the support, opening configured to allow the threaded loop to rise above
said first and said second connection mechanism further the handle from inside of the elongated rod .
configured to slide along the elongated rod and detachably Provided is a canopy system comprising: a ) first and a
fastened at any location along the first and the second 25 second elongated rod , the first and the second elongated rod
elongated rod , the first and the second connection mecha - positioned parallel to each other ; b ) a canopy piece having
nism configured to be fastened to the first and the second a first and a second parallel edge ; c ) a first and a second
elongated rod. The first and second elongated rods each can elongated bar, the first elongated bar attached to the first
have a track on outside of the elongated rods, the connection parallel edge of the canopy piece , and the second elongated
mechanism configured to slide on the outside track . The 30 bar attached to the second parallel edge of the canopy piece ,
connection mechanism can be configured to be fastened to the first and the second elongated bar configured to be held
the track from outside of the first and the second elongated by the first and the second the elongated rod respectively ;
rod . The tracks can be on each side of the first and second and one or more of: i) a distance control thread attached to
elongated rod. The connection mechanism can comprise : a ) the first and the second elongated rod in a perpendicular
the connector extending upward in a vertical direction from 35 direction , the distance control thread attached from the top
the elongated rod ; b ) an external slide , the external slide by a fastener that travels inside of the rod ; ii ) two or more
attached to the connector and riding on top of the elongated roller tracks attached in a perpendicular direction to the first
rod ; c ) one or more sliders attached to the external slide ; and the second elongated rod , the first and the second
wherein the connector supports the canopy system from the elongated rod configured to be suspended from the track and
support, and the connector is configured to bemoved to any 40 slide along the track , the tracks attached to a support
position of the elongated rod by moving the external slide structure at each end of the tracks; iii) at least a first and a
along the elongated rod though the sliders sliding through second connection mechanism , with at least one connection
one or more tracks on the first and the second elongated rod . mechanism attached in a horizontal direction to end of the
The connector can be rotatably attached to the external slide , first and the second elongated rod, each of the first and the
allowing the support to run 360 degrees in relation to the first 45 second connection mechanism having a connector, the con
and the second elongated rod in a same plane. The canopy nector configured to attached to a support and to connect the
system can comprise : a ) one or more additional elongated canopy system to the support . The first and second elongated
rods: b ) one or more additional canopy pieces each having rod can have a track , the track configured to have a bar that
two parallel edges ; c ) additional elongated bars attached to slides along the track , wherein a single fastener fastens both
each of the parallel edges of the additional canopy pieces; 50 the bar and the distance control thread to the track . Each
and d ) additional connection mechanisms attached to each of elongated rod can have two connection mechanisms, with
the additional elongated rods, each of the additional con - one of the two connection mechanisms attached at each end
nection mechanisms having an additional connector, each of the rod . The connection mechanism can be parallel to the
of the additional connectors capable of being suspended elongated rod in the horizontal plane. The tracks can have a
from the support ; wherein each of the additional elongated 55 roller carriage with a mountingmember extending below the
bars is held by each of the additional elongated rods. The track , the mounting member having a loop configured for
first or the secondid elongated rod can comprise one or more connection to the elongated rod .
channels , each channel configured to hold the elongated
bars, the first or the second elongated rod further comprising BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
a groove that opens into each of the channels such that the 60
canopy pieces connected to the elongated bars held by the FIG . 1A is a perspective view of an embodiment of the
channels can exit the elongated rod through the groove . present invention including a close - up view of the elongated
Provided is a canopy system comprising : a . a first and a rod and connector of the canopy system .
second elongated rod , the first and the second elongated rod FIG . 1B is a cross - sectional view of the elongated rod in
positioned parallel to each other; b . a canopy piece having 65 FIG . 1A .
a first and a second parallel edge ; c . a first and a second FIG . 2 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment
elongated bar, the first elongated bar attached to the first of the present invention .
US 9 , 938,723 B2
FIG . 3 is a perspective view of the elongated rod and FIG . 17C ( corresponding to Roman numeral VII in FIG .
connection mechanism of the canopy system having an 17 ) illustrates a closer view of the roller track .
endcap . FIG . 18 is an isometric view of the canopy system with
FIG . 4A is a side view of the connection mechanism roller tracks and a magnet assembly .
inserted in the elongated rod . 5 FIG . 18A ( corresponding to Roman numeral XI in , FIG .
FIG . 4B is a front side view of the connection mechanism 18 ) illustrates roller track running parallel to a support beam
in FIG . 4A inserted in the elongated rod. and perpendicular to elongated rod .
FIG . 5A is a side view of an embodiment of the present FIG . 18B (corresponding to Roman numeral X in FIG .
invention illustrating the slidably of the canopy system in a 18 ) illustrates canopy pieces on each side of elongated rod .
more closed position . 10 FIG . 18C ( corresponding to Roman numeral VIII in FIG .
FIG . 5B is a side view of the canopy system of FIG . 5A 18 ) illustrates magnet assembly with adjustable ceramic
in a more open position . magnet.
FIG . 6 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the FIG . 18D (corresponding to Roman numeral IX in FIG .
present invention having supporting frames and lights . 1618 ) illustrates roller track attached to a beam .
FIG . 7 is a top view of an embodiment of the present FIG . 19 illustrates a cross - section view of the magnet
invention having supporting frames. assembly and handle .
FIG . 8 is a top view of an alternate embodiment of the FIG . 19A illustrates attachment of a handle to the top of
present invention having supporting frames with a motor elongated rod with fasteners 38 .
and pulley . 20 FIG . 19B illustrates a handle, as well as magnet protective
FIG . 9A illustrates a side view of a free standing unit cap .
having a side support . FIG . 19C illustrates a handle , as well asmagnet protective
FIG . 9B illustrates a side view of a free standing unit cap .
having a center support . FIG . 19D illustrates a handle attached to elongated rod
FIG . 10 illustrates a canopy system with a top fabric and 25 with fasteners .
a bottom fabric . FIG . 20 illustrates roller track profile mounting .
FIG . 11A illustrates a side profile of an elongated rod . FIG . 20A is a cross section side view of the roller track
FIG . 11B illustrates a side profile of an elongated rod . profile mounting .
FIG . 12 illustrates attachment of two elongated rods end FIG . 20B illustrates elongated rod with connector
to end . 30 attached to the connector mounting bracket.
FIG . 13 illustrates attachment of three elongated rods end FIG . 20C illustrates elongated rod being rollably attached
to end . to roller track through connector .
FIG . 14 illustrates attachment of a solar panel to an FIG . 21 illustrates the attachment of both connector and
elongated rod . distance control thread to the top of the elongated rod .
FIG . 15 illustrates an isometric view of canopy with a 35 FIG . 21A is a cross -section view illustrating the distance
cable on top . control thread held in place by threaded fastener that is
FIG . 15A ( corresponding to Roman numeral III in FIG . attached to elongated rod .
15 ) illustrates attachment of distance control thread to the FIG . 21B is a cross -section view illustrating the distance
top of elongated rod with a fastener in a perpendicular control thread held in place by threaded fastener that is
direction . 40 attached to elongated rod .
FIG . 15B (corresponding to Roman numeral II in FIG . 15 ) FIG . 21C , the distance control thread is fastened to the top
illustrates the attachment of both connector and distance of the elongated rod 2 .
control thread to the top of the elongated rod . FIG . 22 illustrates a top plan view of the canopy , showing
FIG . 15C (corresponding to Roman numeral I in FIG . 15 ) the distance control thread 11 running in a perpendicular
a close - up of a magnet assembly attached to rod . 45 direction to the elongated rods which are attached to the
FIG . 16 illustrates a top view of the canopy with a cable edges of the canopy pieces 1 .
on top that is illustrated in FIG . 15 . FIG . 22A is a side view illustrating length of the distance
FIG . 16A illustrates connection of canopy pieces to elon - control thread being less than the width of canopy piece ,
gated rods. thus limiting the distance on how far elongated rods can be
FIG . 16B illustrates a handle , which can be accessed 50 moved apart from each other.
manually
m to change the position of the canopy. FIG . 22B illustrates canopy pieces attached to the elon
FIG . 16C ( corresponding to Roman numeral VI in FIG . gated bars , which are placed inside of elongated rods .
16 ) illustrates connection of the ends of' s cable wire to each FIG . 23 illustrates a top view of the canopy in an open
other through a cable wire connector. (deployed ) position .
FIG . 16D (corresponding to Roman numeral IV in FIG . 55 FIG . 23A illustrates a handle , which can be accessed
16 ) illustrates the canopy in an open position with the manually to change the position of the canopy.
magnetic assembly that is attached to elongated rod making FIG . 23B illustrates connection of canopy pieces to elon
a magnetic connection with a magnetic plate . gated rods.
FIG . 16E ( corresponding to Roman numeral V in FIG . 16 ) FIG . 23C ( corresponding to Roman numeral XIII in FIG .
illustrates the attachment of both connector and distance 60 23 ) illustrates a distance control thread attached to an
control thread to the top of the elongated rod . elongated rod .
FIG . 17 illustrates top view of the canopy with roller FIG . 23D ( corresponding to Roman numeral XIV in FIG .
tracks. 23 ) illustrates connection of the ends of's cable wire to each
FIG . 17A illustrates a side view of the canopy system other through a cable wire connector.
illustrating roller track . 65 FIG . 23E ( corresponding to Roman numeral XV in FIG .
FIG . 17B illustrates a handle , which can be accessed 23) illustrates a support in this case a cable ) running
manually to change the position of the canopy. through a ring and a connector.
US 9, 938,723 B2
FIG . 23F ( corresponding to Roman numeral XVI in FIG . 5 in the lower cavity 20 which can hold the elongated bars
23) illustrates connector end being attached to the end of 3 . In one embodiment, the channels 5 can be used to
elongated rod . detachably and slidably receive the elongated bars 3 . The
FIG . 24 illustrates a connector slidably attached to a flat channels may have a cross - section of various shapes , includ
top elongated rod . 5 ing tubular (circular), rectangular , elliptical, and triangular,
FIG . 24A illustrates a connector slidably attached to a flat so that they can hold elongated bars 3 of a corresponding
top elongated rod . shape . For example, the lower cavity 20 can have two
FIG . 25 illustrates a connector slidably attached to a round tubular channels 5 as shown in FIG . 1B to hold two tubular
top elongated rod . elongated bars 3 . Alternatively, for example, the lower
FIG . 25A illustrates a connector slidably attached to a 10 cavity 20 can have four tubular channels 5 . Any number of
round top elongated rod .
FIG . 26 illustrates a cable support. channels 5 can be used .
The lower cavity 20 can contain a groove 21 having an
FIG . 27 illustrates a connector with a roller. opening into each channel 5 . These channels 5 can be
FIG . 28 illustrates a cable support. 15 configured to hold the elongated bars 3, the canopy pieces 1
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE being connected to the elongated bars 3 through the opening
INVENTION in the groove 21 of the lower cavity 20 .
Each elongated rod 2 can also include at least one upper
The present invention provides a canopy system that is cavity 6 . The upper cavity 6 can be configured to hold one
easy to install , repair , is highly adjustable , and can be made 20 ormore connection mechanisms 28 . In one embodiment, the
from mass produced parts that a user can purchase at a store upper cavity 6 can be configured to detachably and slidably
at relatively reasonable prices . The canopy system is receive the connection mechanisms 28 . Each connection
expandable both in length and width . The canopy system can mechanism 28 can include a connector 9 and a base 7 . a
easily be repaired by replacing any damaged parts. The Since connector 9 is threadably attached to base 7 , connector
canopy system can be used in any environment that allows 25 9 can be rotated to allow for connection with a support that
for hanging the canopy system from a support . The instal- runs at any angle in relation to elongated rod 2 . The base 7
lation of the canopy system is very simple and eliminates the of each connection mechanism 28 can include holes that
need to have a highly skilled laborer for installation . The may be fastened with a screw from outside the upper cavity
canopy system can also be adjusted to hang from as little as 6 , thereby securing each connection mechanism 28 into each
one support to a plurality support depending on the weight 30 upper cavity 6 of elongated rod 2 . The connector 9 of each
of the canopy system . connection mechanism 28 , for example , a ring or gated
FIG . 1A illustrates a canopy system according to one hook , can be capable of being fixably suspended from the
embodiment of the present invention . The canopy system support 4 . Alternatively , the connector 9 can be movably
that is illustrated works in a horizontal fashion . There is suspended from the support 4 , thereby allowing the canopy
described one or more canopy pieces 1, each having two 35 system to be movably switched from a closed position into
substantially parallel edges 12 . Each canopy piece 1 can be an open position by moving the elongated rods 2 along
connected to two or more elongated rods 2 . Elongated bars support 4 away from each other, and from an open position
3 can be connected to the parallel edges 12 of the canopy into a closed position by moving the elongated rods 2 along
piece 1. For example , the opposite parallel edges 12 of support 4 towards each other. In some embodiments , there
canopy piece 1 can be rolled up and attached to the elon - 40 can be multiple supports 4 for the canopy system , such as
gated bars 3 . The edges 12 can be sewn, glued , stapled , multiple cable wires supporting the elongated rods 2 . The
riveted , or attached with other mechanisms. The elongated connectors 9 ofmultiple connection mechanisms 28 can be
bars 3 can be of various shapes, including tubular (circular), suspended , fixed or movably, from the supports 4 on each
rectangular, triangular, and elliptical. The elongated bars can elongated rod 2 .
also be of various materials, including plastic , and metal, 45 Various additions to the canopy systemn are possible . For
such as a one piece fabricated aluminum . The elongated bars example , each elongated rod 2 may include an endcap 8 . In
3 can be held by each elongated rod 2 , thus holding each one embodiment, the endcap 8 can be removed prior to
canopy piece 1 in place between two separate elongated rods inserting the elongated bars 3 connected to each canopy
2 of the canopy system . The canopy system itself is sup - piece 1 into the channels 5 of each elongated rod 2 .
ported by one or more supports 4 , such as cable wires. The 50 Moreover, the groove 21 in the at least one lower cavity 20
canopy system can be used with as many wires that are of each elongated rod 2 can be configured to hold an
needed depending on the weight of the canopy system . For accessory 22 , for example lights 10 . The upper cavity 6 of
a large canopy system , a user may desire to run multiple each elongated rod 2 can also be configured to hold second
wires and use multiple connection mechanisms. In some accessories 32 such as a solar charger 33 . Furthermore , a
embodiments, as shown in FIG . 1B , the elongated bars 3 can 55 distance control thread 11 may be attached to the elongated
be held by being inserted into the elongated rods 2 . In other rods 2 thereby controlling the distance that the elongated
embodiments, the elongated bars 3 can be held by being rods 2 can be moved along the support 4 .
externally attached (e .g . FIG . 11b ) to the elongated rods 2 The canopy system provided can be modular, that is , it
through external channels, rings , hoops or other external can be made from readily available components . The length
devices without need for internal cavities in elongated rods 60 of the canopy system can be increased or decreased by
2. adding or removing , respectively , additional elongated rods
FIG . 1B shows a cross -sectional view describing the 2 along their lengthwise axes. The width of the canopy
detail inside of each elongated rod 2 and the connection system from one end of the support 4 to the other can be
established . Each elongated rod 2 can have at least one lower increased or decreased by adding or removing, respectively ,
cavity 20 . In this embodiment, the lower cavity 20 can hold 65 additional elongated rods 2 which can be supported by
the elongated bars 3 that are connected to the canopy pieces additional connection mechanisms 28 , by adding or remov
1. In another embodiment, there can be one or more channels ing additional canopy pieces 1 having opposite parallel
US 9, 938,723 B2
10
edges 12 , and by adding or removing additional elongated of the horizontal bar 26 with at least another threaded
bars 3 attached to the parallel edges 12 of the additional fastener 27 is situated in another elongated rod 2 . The
canopy pieces 1. horizontal bar 26 of the connection mechanism 28 can then
FIG . 2 illustrates how each canopy piece 1 connected to be securely fastened inside the lower tracks 24 of both
elongated bar 3 can be placed inside the at least one lower 5 elongated rods 2 such that their threaded fasteners 27 extend
cavity 20 of each elongated rod 2 . The parallel edges 12 of into the upper tracks 23 of both elongated rods 2 . thereby
each canopy piece 1 are connected to elongated bars 3. The forming a secure connection between the two elongated rods
elongated bars 3 , in turn , are held by the at least one lower 2 . The length of the canopy system can later be decreased by
cavity 20 of each elongated rod 2 . In embodiments with unfastening the connected elongated rods 2 .
channels 5 , the elongated bars 3 can be detachably and 10 FIG . 5A and FIG . 5B illustrate the canopy system as it
slidably inserted into the channels 5 of the lower cavity 20 switches from a position that is more closed in FIG . 5A to
of each elongated rod 2 . Each elongated rod 2 is suspended
from the support 4 using connector 9 of connection mecha a position that is more open in FIG . 5B . In FIG . 5A , the
nism 28 , the base 7 of which can be detachably and slidably canopy system is in a more closed position, the canopy
inserted and fastened into the at least one upper cavity 6 of 15 pieces 1 loosely suspended between the elongated rods 2 , the
elongated rod 2 . Each connector 9 , for example , a ring or elongated rods 2 being in near proximity to each other. In
gated hook , can be movably suspended from support 4 , thus FIG . 5B , the canopy system is in a more open position , the
allowing the canopy system to be switched between a closed canopy pieces 1 extended to almost a flat suspension
position and open position by moving the elongated rods 2 between the elongated rods 2 , the elongated rods 2 being in
along support 4 . 20 far proximity from each other. In one embodiment, each
FIG . 3 illustrates another perspective view of the assem - elongated rod 2 can be moved towards or away from each
bly of elongated rod 2 . When endcap 8 is removed , the other along the support 4 to transform the canopy system
elongated bars 3 connected to the parallel edges 12 of from a closed position into an open position and vice -versa .
canopy piece 1 can be detachably and slidably inserted into FIG . 6 illustrates the use of the canopy system with a
elongated rod 2 such that the canopy pieces 1 can exit the 25 supporting frame 13 . A supporting frame 13 can be con
groove 21 in the at least one lower cavity 20 of elongated rod structed , or readily available , to support the canopy system .
2 . Moreover when endcap 8 is removed , the base 7 of It can be created from wood , metal, or other constructive
connection mechanism 28 can be slideably and detachably material. The supporting frame 13 can have one or more
inserted into the upper cavity 6 of elongated rod 2 . The base supporting posts 19 supporting one or more beams 29 . The
7 of connection mechanism 28 can be fastened into the 30 support 4 for the canopy system , such as cable wire , can be
elongated rod 2 from outside the upper cavity 6 using a attached to the supporting frame 13 , for example, by running
fastening mechanism such as a screwdriver. The connector
9 of connection mechanism 28 for example , a ring or gated the wire around four rings 15 or hooks placed at each corner
hook , can be fixedly or movably suspended from one or 5 of end
the beams 29 and then attaching and joining together each
of the wire using a cable wire connector 14 .
more supports 4 , such as a cable wire , where movable 35 engAccessories
suspension allows the canopy system to switch between a 2 , as illustrated 22in can be suspended from each elongated rod
FIG . 1A , FIG . 1B , and FIG . 6 . Examples
closed position and open position .
FIG . 4A and FIG . 4B illustrate the assembly and fastening of accessories include lights 10 , insect repellant, Speakers,
of the connection mechanism 28 into the elongated rod 2 . projectors , mist producers ( humidifiers ), fans , decorations,
The upper cavity 6 of the elongated rod 2 can contain an 40 and other functional items. The accessories 22 , such as lights
upper track 23 and a lower track 24 . The upper track 23 and 10 , can be attached to the elongated rods 2 such that they are
the lower track 24 allow for sliding various objects such as suspended beneath the canopy pieces 1. Accessories 22 can
the base 7 from a first end of the elongated rod 2 to a second be attached by attaching the accessory 22 to a holder 25 . The
end of the elongated rod 2 . The base 7 can include a holder 25 can be detachably and slidably placed inside the
horizontal bar 26 and threaded fasteners 27, such as a screw 45 lower cavity 20 of the elongated rod 2 . It is possible to
or bolt . The base 7 can be slidably and detachably inserted manufacture a holder 25 that has a standard connection to
into the upper cavity 6 such that the horizontal bar 26 is different accessories 22 so that a user may use the same
placed into the lower track 24 , the threaded fasteners 27 holder 25 with different accessories 22 .
projecting into the upper track 23. The base 7 can be F IG . 7 illustrates a top view of the canopy system that is
fastened to the elongated rod 2 using a fastening device such 50 supported by the supporting frame 13 . The canopy system
as a screwdriver. The screwdriver can be used to screw in the may be supported by attaching support 4 , for example cable
threaded fasteners 27 from outside the upper cavity 6 until wire, to supporting frame 13 . Multiple supports 4 can be
the horizontal bar 26 of connection mechanism 28 is connected on opposite sides of supporting frame 13 using a
securely fastened inside the lower track 24 . The connector 9 , cable wire connector 14 . The support 4 can run through four
for example a ring or gated hook , is attached to the base 7 , 55 rings 15 each connected to a corner of the beams 29 of
which can then be suspended from a support 4 . The hori supporting frame 13 , the beams 29 placed in parallel fashion
zontal bar 26 is of a suitable size to slide in the lower track to each other. The rings 15 can be attached to the supporting
23 . The horizontal bar 26 can be about 0 .5 inches to about frame 13 , for example by fastening or pressing each ring 15
1. 5 inches wide, and about 2 inches to about 5 inches long. into the supporting frame 13 . A hook can also be used
The horizontal bar 26 can have a plurality of threaded holes 60 instead of a ring 15 . Each end of the cable can be attached
to allow for the use of the threaded fasteners 27 . together with a cable wire connector 14 .
In other embodiments, the length of the canopy system FIG . 8 describes another embodiment where the support
can be increased by connecting multiple elongated rods 2 ing frame 13 can include a motor 16 and a pulley 17 system .
lengthwise . The connection can be achieved by positioning The motor 16 and the pulley 17 can be attached to opposite
the connection mechanism 28 such that one portion of the 65 beams 29 of supporting frame 13 . When the motor 16 is
horizontal bar 26 with at least one threaded fastener 27 is activated , the motor 16 interacts with pulley 17 such that the
situated in one elongated rod 2 , while the remaining portion elongated rods 2 are moved towards or away from themotor
US 9 , 938,723 B2
12
16 . In this way , the motor 16 and pulley 17 can be used to millimeters and 9 millimeters. The width of the upper track
switch the canopy system from a closed position to an open 22 of the upper cavity 6 can range between 7 millimeters and
position and vice -versa . 12 millimeters. The width of the lower track 23 of the upper
FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrate various free standing canopy cavity 6 can range between 11 millimeters and 17 millime
systems that can be readily purchased . These canopy sys - 5 ters . The height of the upper track 22 can range between 2
tems can be purchased as-is and there is no additional need millimeters and 5 millimeters. The height of the lower track
to provide an external, stand - alone supporting frame 13 for 23 can range between 2 millimeters and 5 millimeters. The
the canopy system since these free standing units come with width of the opening into the upper cavity 6 from outside the
their own supporting frame 13. Each free standing unit can elongated rod 2 can range between 3 millimeters and 8
come with a supporting base 18 that rests on the ground , at 10 millimeters .
least one supporting post 19 connected at one end to the A user can obtain and construct a supporting frame 13
supporting base 18 , and at least one beam 29 attached at the having one or more support posts 19 supporting one ormor
opposite end of supporting post 19 which is supported by the beams 29 . The user can separately obtain one or more
support post 19 . The canopy system would operate substan supports 4 for the canopy system , such as cable wire , and
tially as shown in FIG . 6 . 15 attach it to the supporting frame 13 , for example , by running
The material for the canopy pieces 1 can be any suitable the wire around four rings 15 or hooks placed at each corner
material that allows for closing and opening the canopy of the beams 29 and then attaching and joining together each
system . Suitable materials include solid , mesh , and canvas end of the wire using a cable wire connector 14 . Alterna
fabric, including fabric that is made from natural or synthetic tively , the user may obtain a free standing unit having a
material, such as cotton , silk , or polyester. Solid sheets of 20 supporting base 18 that rests on the ground , at least one
synthetic materials such as plastic or metal can be used as supporting post 19 connected at one end to the supporting
long as the sheet is flexible and allows for the canopy system base 18 , and at least one beam 29 attached at the opposite
to open and close . The material can be transparent, translu - end of supporting post 19 which is supported by the sup
cent, or opaque . The material can be waterproof. porting post 19 , with support 4 and the canopy system
FIG . 10 illustrates an embodiment where two pieces are 25 already attached . The user can also obtain a supporting
fabric material, a top material 30 and a bottom material 31, frame 13 having a motor 16 and a pulley 17 .
are used as a canopy piece 1 in vertical relationship with The user can obtain a canopy piece 1 and two elongated
each other. The top material 30 can be a protective water- bars 3 and can roll and attach the parallel edges 12 of the
proof material , while the bottom material 31 can be a less canopy piece 1 to the elongated bars 3 . The user can then
durable but ornamental piece of material. The top material 30 insert each elongated bar 3 into the channels 5 of two ,
30 can also act as a distance control in lieu of a distance separate elongated rods 2 such that the canopy piece 1 is
control thread 11 . Both the parallel edges of the top material held in place between the two elongated rods 2 . The user can
30 and the parallel edges of the bottom material 31 can be obtain a connection mechanism 28 , having a connector 9
connected to the same elongated bars 3 , i.e ., two parallel attached to a base 7 , the base 7 having a horizontal bar 26
edges are connected to each elongated bar 3 , which can 35 and one or more threaded fasteners 27 , which the user can
dictate a design for an elongated rod 2 with two channels 5 . slidably insert into the elongated rod 2 by placing the
In another embodiment, each parallel edge of the top mate horizontal bar 26 into the lower track 24 of the upper groove
rial 30 is connected to a separate elongated bar 3, while each 6 with the threaded fasteners 27 projecting into the upper
parallel edge of the bottom material 31 is connected to a track 23 of the upper cavity 6 . The base 7 may be fastened
separate elongated bar 3 , i.e ., one parallel edge is connected 40 to the elongated rod 2 using a fastening device such as a
to each elongated bar 3 , which can dictate a design for the screwdriver, which may be used to screw in the threaded
elongated rod 2 with four channels 5 . fasteners 27 from outside the upper cavity 6 until the
FIGS. 11A and 11B illustrated additional side profiles of horizontal bar 26 of connection mechanism 28 is securely
the elongated rod 2 . Elongated bar 3 can be inserted in the fastened inside the lower track 24 . The user can then fixably
circular or semi- circular rings on the outside of the elon - 45 or movably suspend the connector 9 , for example a ring or
gated rod 2 . The other rings of the elongated rod 2 can be gated hook , of the securely fastened connection mechanism
used for suspending the elongated rod 2 and /or for attaching 28 from the support 4 attached to the supporting frame 13 .
canopy pieces. The user can also attach accessories 22 , such as lights 10 , to
FIGS . 12 and 13 illustrate attaching elongated rod 2 end a holder 25 , which the user can slidably insert inside the
to end to each other . The horizontal bar 26 is moved to 50 groove 21 of the lower cavity 20 of each elongated rod 2 .
overlap with two of the elongated rods 2 , and the threaded The user can also insert second accessories 32 , such as a
fasteners 27 are used to stabilize the attachment. solar charger, into the upper cavity 6 of each elongated rod
FIG . 14 illustrates attachment of a solar panel 33 as a 2 . The user can repeat this process by attaching additional
second accessory to the elongated rod 2 . The solar panel can canopy pieces 1 to additional elongated rods 2 and movably
be attached by using horizontal bar 26 and base 7 . 55 suspending each elongated rod 2 from the one or more
The width of the elongated rod 2 can range between 15 supports 4 , thereby allowing the canopy system to be
millimeters and 25 millimeters . The height of the elongated movably switched from a closed position into an open
rod 2 can range between 24 millimeters and 34 millimeters . position by moving the elongated rods 2 along support 4
The width of the groove 21 of the lower cavity 20 can range away from each other , and from an open position into a
between 12 millimeters and 19 millimeters. The height of 60 closed position by moving the elongated rods 2 along
the groove 21 of the lower cavity 20 can range between 5 support 4 towards each other. The user may also attach a
millimeters and 9 millimeters . The diameter of the tubular distance control thread 11 to the elongated rods 2 thereby
channels 5 can range between 7 millimeters and 9 millime- controlling the distance that the elongated rods 2 can be
ters . The width of the opening from the groove 21 into the moved along the support 4 .
tubular channels 5 can range between 4 millimeters and 7 65 FIG . 15 illustrates an isometric view of canopy with a
millimeters . The width of the opening into the groove 21 cable on top . The canopy pieces 1 are attached to elongated
from outside the elongated rod 2 can range between 4 rods 2 through connectors 9 which are suspended from
US 9, 938,723 B2
13 14
support (cable ) 4 . Distance control thread 11 is attached to magnet assembly makes a magnetic connection with a
the top of elongated rod 2 and limits the distance from one magnetic plate 37 that is placed on supporting frame 13 .
elongated rod 2 to another elongated rod 2 . Support 4 runs Also illustrated is an isometric view of the handle 34
through rings 15 attached to supporting frame 13 . FIG . 15A attached to rod 2 . FIG . 18D illustrates roller track 40
illustrates attachment of distance control thread 11 to the top 5 attached to beam 29 of supporting frame 13 with the use of
of elongated rod 2 with a fastener in a perpendicular track mounting 41.
direction . FIG . 15B illustrates the attachment of both con - FIG . 19 illustrates a cross -section view of the magnet
nector 9 and distance control thread 11 to the top of the assembly and handle 34 . Magnet mounting slide 35 is
elongated rod 2 . Support (cable ) 4 passes through inside of attached to rod 2 . Magnet mounting slide 35 is configured to
connector 9 in a perpendicular direction to elongated rod 2 . 10 slide along the upper or lower track of the elongated rod 2
FIG . 15C is a close - up of a magnet assembly attached to rod and be positioned at any point in the elongated rod 2 . Magnet
2 . The magnet assembly makes a magnetic connection with mounting slide 35 has a threaded circular opening that
magnetic plate 37 on supporting frame 13 to stabilize the complements magnet adjusting thread 36a . Adjustable
canopy in an open position . Magnetic plate 37 can be ceramic magnet is generally made from magnet adjusting
magnetized or be a metal that has not been magnetized . The 15 thread 36a , ceramic magnet core 36b , and magnet protective
magnet assembly is attached to the top of elongated rod 2 . cap 36c. Threading ( or a complementary snap mechanism )
FIG . 16 illustrates a top view of the canopy with a cable of magnet protective cap 36c complements threading on
on top that is illustrated in FIG . 15 . FIG . 16A is a side view magnet adjusting thread 36a and protects the ceramic mag
illustrating connection of canopy pieces 1 to elongated rods net core 36b from being exposed to air or moisture to
2 , and canopy pieces 1 drooping down from the elongated 20 minimize the risk of rusting . The magnet adjusting thread
rods 2 which are attached to support frame 12 . Also illus - 36a has threading which is configured to allow the position
trated is handle 34 for changing the position of the canopy of the magnet to be adjusted in relation to magnetic plate 37 .
from an open (deployed ) position to a closed ( stowed ) The elongated rod 2 closest to themagnetic plate 37 need not
position , and vice- versa . FIG . 16B illustrates the same be in a precise position for attachment since the position of
handle 34 , which can be accessed manually to change the 25 the ceramic magnet core 36b can be adjusted in relation to
position of the canopy, FIG . 16C illustrates the connection magnetic plate 37 . Also illustrated is handle 34 , which is
of the ends of cable wire 4 to each other through Cable wire attached to elongated rod 2 via magnet mounting slide 35 .
connector 14 . FIG . 16D illustrates the canopy in an open The handle 34 extends down elongated rod 2 , and faces
position with the magnetic assembly that is attached to away from the other elongated rods 2 of the canopy.
elongated rod 2 making a magnetic connection with a 30 Depending on the user, none , one , or both of the handle and
magnetic plate 37 on beam 29 to stabilize the canopy system the magnet can be used .
in the open position . The magnetic plate 37 can be an actual FIG . 19A is a top view illustrating attachment of handle
magnet or a metal that can form a magnetic connection . FIG . 34 to the top of elongated rod 2 with fasteners 38 . The
16E illustrates the attachment of both connector 9 and magnet adjusting thread 36a is in a perpendicular position in
distance control thread 11 to the top of the elongated rod 2 . 35 relation to top of handle 34 that is attached to elongated rod
Support ( cable ) 4 passes through inside of connector 9 in a 2 . The magnet adjusting thread 36a is attached to a loop in
perpendicular direction to elongated rod 2 . In this illustra - magnet mounting slide 35 that sticks out of the opening in
tion , because of the proximity of the distance control thread handle 34 . FIGS. 19B and 19C are front and back views
11 to connector 9 , horizontal bar 26 of connector 9 can be illustrating handle 34 , as well as magnet protective cap 36C
positioned under the distance control thread 11 , and the 40 in FIG . 19B and the back of the magnet adjusting thread 36a
fastener 38 that goes through the opening of distance control in FIG . 19C . FIG . 19D is an isometric view illustrating
thread 11 also goes into the opening of the horizontal bar 26 . handle 34 attached to elongated rod 2 with fasteners 38 .
In this arrangement, fastener 38 also performs the role of Loop of magnet mounting slide 35 sticks out of opening to
fastener 27 (Se FIG . 21b ). which adjusting thread 36a is threadably attached . The
FIG . 17 illustrates top view of the canopy with roller track 45 magnet protective cap 36C is touching magnetic plate 37
40 , which are attached to support frame 12 and run in which is attached to beam 29 with fasteners 52 . A magnetic
perpendicular direction to elongated rods 2. FIG . 17A is a connection is made between the magnet assembly and beam
side view of the canopy system illustrating roller track 40 . 29 , which the user can terminate by pulling the canopy away
FIG . 17B illustrates the same handle 34 , which can be with handle 34 .
accessed manually to change the position of the canopy. 50 FIG . 20 illustrates the roller track 40 profile mounting .
FIG . 17C is a closer view of the roller track 40 , which run Illustrated is elongated rod 2 , threaded fastener 27 , roller
in perpendicular direction to elongated rods 2 . Rollers 39 track 40, roller track mounting bracket 41 , and end connec
can rollably move in roller track 40 . Rollers carriage 39 can tor mounting bracket 43 . Elongated rod 2 is suspended
have a roller mounting loop 39a for attachment connector 9 below track 40. FIG . 20A is a cross section side view of the
of elongated rod 2 . 55 roller track profile mounting. A . roller carriage 39 is illus
FIG . 18 is an isometric view of the canopy system with trated with rollers 39 and roller mounting loop 39a . Con
roller tracks 40 and a magnet assembly . Roller tracks 40 are nector 9 goes around the roller mounting loop 39a . Elon
attached to supporting frame 13 by roller track mounting gated rod 2 is rollably moves along roller track 40 via roller
bracket 41. Elongated rods 2 are placed in perpendicular carriage 39 . FIG . 20B illustrates elongated rod 2 with
direction to the roller track 40 and slide along roller track 40 . 60 connector 9 attached to the connector mounting bracket 42.
FIG . 18A illustrates roller track 40 running parallel to In this embodiment, connector mounting bracket 42 also
support beam 12 and perpendicular to elongated rod 2 . acts as an end cap 8 . Also illustrated are track roller retainer
Elongated rod 2 is suspended from and supported by track 40b , track mounting bracket 41, and track mounting bracket
40 . In this embodiment, the elongated rod 2 is not directly screw holes 41a . Track mounting, bracket screw holes 41a
attached to supporting frame 13 . FIG . 18B illustrates canopy 65 are used to attached the track mounting bracket 41 to
pieces 1 on each side of elongated rod 2 . FIG . 18C illustrates supporting frame 13 . FIG . 20C is an isometric view illus
magnet assembly with adjustable ceramic magnet 36 . The trating elongated rod 2 being rollably attached to roller track
US 9, 938,723 B2
15 16
40 through connector 9 , which is attached to connector support 4 , beams 29 , cone pointmounting screw 38, hori
mounting bracket 42 . Connector mounting bracket 42 also zontal connector mounting bracket 45 , and connector
functions as an end cap 8 . Connector 9 goes around roller mounting 46 .
mounting loop 39a . Also illustrated are rollers 39b , roller FIGS. 24 and 25 illustrate connector 9 ( in form of a swivel
track mounting clearance 40a , track mounting bracket 41, 5 clip ) that can be positioned at any point on the elongated rod
and Connector mounting bracket 42 . 2 by sliding external slide 47 along the elongated rod 2 . The
FIG . 21 illustrates the attachment of both connector 9 and external slide 47 , to which connector 9 is rotatably attached ,
distance control thread 11 to the top of the elongated rod 2 . sits on top of elongated rod as illustrated in FIGS. 23 and 24 ,
Distance control thread 11 has spaced openings A which are and is configured to slide along outside track 50 of elongated
configured to allow adjustment by the user as to howw much
much 10 rod 2 . Track sliders 51 on each side of external slide 47
maintain external slide 47 on top of elongated rod 2 . The
to restrict the distance ofone elongated rod to another. In this external slide 47 can be round or flat depending on profile of
illustration , because of the proximity of the distance control elongated rod 2 . In this embodiment, elongated rod 2 can
thread 11 to connector 9 , horizontal bar 26 of connector 9 have
can be positioned under the distance control thread 11 , and 15 tubularan openings
enclosed upper cavity that is separated from the
5 of elongated rod 2 . Short set screw 203
the fastener 38 that goes through the opening of distance can be used to fasten the External slide any point along
control thread 11 also goes into the opening of the horizontal outside track 50 of elongated rod 2 .
bar 26 . In this arrangement, fastener 38 also performs the FIGS. 26 and 28 illustrate cable support 53 . Instead of
role of fastener 27 . using ring 15 to attach to support 4 , cable support 53 is used .
FIGS. 21A and 21B are a cross - section views illustrating 20 Cable support 53 can be attached to the support by making
the Distance control thread 11 held in place by threaded a hole in the support and attaching the end of the cable
fastener 38 that is attached to elongated rod 2 . As illustrated support 53 that can have threading to a receiver 54 , such as
in these figures and FIG . 21C , the distance control thread 11 a nut. The receiver 54 can be tightened with an L wrench ,
is fastened to the top of the elongated rod 2 . A single fattener Cable support 53 has a head portion 53a that is on top of a
38 can go through the opening of distance control thread 11 25 rod portion 53b . The rod portion 53b functions for attach
and the opening of the horizontal bar 26 . The Distance ment to support 4 . The head portion 53a has an opening for
control thread 11 can have a plurality of limiting strap passage of cable or wire from one side to another . The top
marking ( equally spaced A ) 11a , which provide an opening of opening inside of the head 53a can have a curved portion ,
for fastening the distance control thread 11 to elongated rod typically circular shaped . The circular shape of the top of the
2. 30 opening minimizes damage to the cable overtime, especially
FIG . 22 illustrates a top plan view of the canopy , showing when used in corner locations where the cable has to bend .
the distance control thread 11 running in a perpendicular Cable support 53 can also have an optional step 53 in
direction to the elongated rods 2 which are attached to the between the head 53a and rod 53b portions . The step 53c can
edges of the canopy pieces 1 . FIG . 22A is a side view have the same diameter as the portion of the receiver 54 that
illustrating length of the distance control thread 11 being less 35 goes around rod 53b so to keep support 4 in place . In some
than the width of canopy piece 1, thus limiting the distance embodiments , the threading of 53b alone may be sufficient
on how far elongated rods 2 can be moved apart from each for securing to support 4 without the need for receiver 54.
other. FIG . 22B illustrates canopy pieces 1 attached to the The rod portion 53b and receiver 54 can come in different
elongated bars 3 , which are placed inside of elongated rods lengths.
2 . Horizontal bar 26 is placed inside the track of the 40 FIG . 27 illustrates connector 9 having roller 57 . Roller 57
elongated bar, and is rotatably attached (through a threaded is rollably attached rotatably to connector 9 . A cable rides
fastener) to connector 9 . Connector 9 is then attached to under roller 57 . Roller 57 allows for moving connector 9
support 4 , resulting in suspension of the canopy from with ease and minimizes damage to the cable overtime. The
support 4 . threaded portion of connector 9 can be straight ended or
FIG . 23 illustrates a top view of the canopy in an open 45 pointed , and can be attached to horizontal bar 26 as illus
( deployed ) position . The main difference between the trated in FIG . 4 . Roller 57 would press against cable 4
canopy illustrated in this figure versus FIG . 16 is that through force of gravity . The connector 9 can have a gate
support 9 is attached to the ends of the elongated rods and that a user can open to put the cable inside of connector 9 .
extends out of the elongated rods at the ends in the same The gate has a spring that keeps it in closed position when
direction as the elongated rods 2. Because the connector 50 it is let go by the user.
does not rise above the elongated rod 2 , the elongated rods
can be on the same level as support 4 , so not requiring REFERENCE NUMBERS
additional vertical clearance to install the canopy system by
requiring support 4 to be positioned above elongated rod 2 . 1 . Canopy pieces
FIG . 23A has the same illustration as FIG . 16B . FIG . 23B 55 2 . Elongated rods
has the sameillustration as FIG . 16A . FIG . 23D has the same 3 . Elongated bars
illustration as FIG . 16C . FIGS . 23C , 23E , and 23F illustrate 4 . Support
connector end being attached to the end of elongated rod 2 . 5 . Tubular channels
FIG . 23C illustrates Canopy pieces 1, Support , Connector 6 . Upper cavity
9 , distance control thread 11 , and cone pointmounting screw 60 7 . Base
38 . The fastener 38 can be used to fasten both the distance 8 . End cap
control thread 11 and connector 9 (through horizontal bar 9 . Connector
26 ) to the elongated rod 2 . FIG . 23E illustrates support 4 ( in 10. Lights
this case a cable ) running through ring 15 and connector 9 . 11 . Distance control thread
Connector 9 is attached to end profile retainer eyelet loop 44 , 65 11a . Limiting strap marking (equally spaced A )
which is attached to beam 29 . FIG . 23F illustrates connector 12 . Parallel edges
9 attached to the end of elongated rod 2 . Also illustrated are 13. Supporting frame
US 9 , 938 ,723 B2
17 18
14 . Cable wire connector 5 . The canopy system of claim 4 , herein the opening has
15 . Rings a curved portion that is configured to contact the support .
16 . Motor 6 . The canopy system of claim 4 , wherein the portion that
17 . Pulley is configured to contact the support is circular.
18 . Supporting base 5 7 . The canopy system of claim 2 , wherein each connection
19 . Supporting post mechanism comprises : a ) the connector extending upward in
20 . Lower cavity a vertical direction from one elongated rod ; b ) at external
21 . Groove slide , the external slide attached to the connector and riding
22 . Accessory on top of said one elongated rod ; c ) one or more sliders
23 . Upper track 10
24. Lower track attached to the external slide ; wherein the connector sup
ports the canopy system from the support, and the connector
25 . Holder is configured to be moved to any position along of said one
26 . Horizontal bar elongated rod by moving the external slide along the elon
27 . Threaded fasteners
28 . Connection mechanism gated rod by the sliders sliding through one or more tracks
29 . Beams on said one elongated rod .
30. Top material 8 . The canopy system of claim 2 , wherein the connector
31. Bottom material is further configured to rotate, allowing the support to run
32 . Second accessory 360 degrees in relation to the elongated rods .
34 . Handle 20 9 . A canopy system comprising : a. two or more of
35 . Magnet mounting slide elongated rods, the elongated rods positioned parallel to
36 . Adjustable ceramic magnet each other; b . at least one canopy piece ; c . two or more of
36a. Magnet adjusting thread elongated bars , each of the elongated bars attached to the at
36b. Ceramic magnet core least one canopy piece , each of the elongated bars config
36c. Magnet protective cap 25 ured to be held by one of the elongated rods ; d . a magnet
37. Magnetic plate assembly , themagnet assembly having a magnet, themagnet
38 . Cone point mounting screw (fastener ) assembly attached to one of the elongated , rods, the magnet
39. Roller carriage of the magnet assembly configured to form a magnetic
39a . Roller mounting loop connection with an external support structure to maintain the
39b . Roller 30
canopy system in a deployed position and wherein the
40 . Roller track magnet is threadably attached to said one of the elongated
40a . Roller track mounting bracket clearance rods, the threaded attachment configured to allow the mag
40b . Track roller retainer net's position to be adjusted in relation to the support
41. Roller track mounting bracket structure .
41a . Track mounting bracket screw hole
42 . Connector mounting bracket 10 . The canopy system of claim 9 , further comprising the
43. End connector mounting bracket connector having a roller that is configured to rollably rest
on the support through force of gravity, wherein the support
What is claimed is: is in form of a cable .
1 . A canopy system comprising : 40 11. The canopy system of claim 9 , further comprising a
a . two ormore elongated rods positioned parallel to each member with an opening for holding the support in position ,
other , each of the elongated rods having , an enclosed wherein the support is in form of a cable.
cavity ; 12 . The canopy system of claim 11 , further comprising a
b . at least one canopy piece ; handle attached to the elongated rod to which the magnet
c. two or more of elongated bars attached to the at least 45 assembly is attached .
one canopy piece , each of the elongated bars config - 13. The canopy system of claim 12, wherein the handle is
ured to be held by one of the elongated rods ; and attached to the elongated rod from top of the elongated rod
d . at least two connection mechanisms, with at least one with fasteners , the handle further extending below the elon
connection mechanism slidably attached to each of the gated rod .
elongated rods , each of the connection mechanisms 5014 . The canopy system of claim 13 , further comprising a
having a connector, the connector configured to be mounting member attached to the elongated rod , the mount
suspended from a support and to connect the canopy ing member having a threaded loop for receiving a magnet
system to the support , each of the connection mecha - adjusting threaded member of the magnet assembly .
nisms further configured to slide along tracks on oppo 15 . The canopy system of claim 14 , wherein the handle is
sites side of the enclosed cavity of the elongated rods 55 attached from top of the elongated rod , the handle having an
and detachably fastened at any location along the opening configured to allow the threaded loop to rise above
elongated rods. the handle from inside of the elongated rod .
2 . The canopy system of claim 1 , further comprising the 16 . A canopy system comprising: a ) two or more elon
connector having a roller that is configured to rollably rest gated rods , the elongated rods positioned parallel to each
on the support through force of gravity , wherein the support 60 other; b ) at least one canopy piece ; c ) two or more of
is in form of a cable . elongated bars , each of the elongated bars attached to the at
3 . The canopy system of claim 1, further comprising a least one canopy piece , each of the elongated bars config
member with an opening for holding the support in position , ured to be held by one of the elongated rods ; and d ) a
wherein the support is in form of a cable . distance control thread attached to the elongated rods in a
4 . The canopy system ofclaim 3, wherein thememberhas 65 perpendicular direction , the distance control thread attached
a head portion and a rod portion , the head portion having an from the top of the elongated rods by a fastener that extend
opening for passage of the support. into a track .
US 9 ,938,723 B2
19
17 . The canopy system of claim 16 , further comprising the
connector having a roller that is configured to rollably rest
on the support through force of gravity , wherein the support
is in form of a cable.
18 . The canopy system of claim 16 , further comprising a 5
member with an opening for holding the support in position ,
wherein the support is in form of a cable .
19 . The canopy system of claim 18 , wherein the member
has a head portion and a rod portion , the head portion having
an opening for passage of the support.
20. The canopy system of claim 19 , wherein the opening
has a curved portion that is configured to contact the support.
* * * * *
|HAI LAMA MTANDAO WAMATALINMODHUT
US009745755B2
(12) United
Shargani
States Patent ( 10) Patent No.: US 9,745 ,755 B2
(45) Date of Patent: * Aug. 29 , 2017
(54 ) CANOPY SYSTEM (58 ) Field of Classification Search
(71) Applicant: Afshin Shargani, Los Angeles , CA
(US )
ationSearch:E04F 10/004F10/02;
CPC .............. E04F 10 /0633; E04F 10 /0659 ; E04F
10 / 0666 ; E04F 10 /0607; E04F 10 /02;
(Continued )
(72) Inventor: Afshin Shargani, Los Angeles, CA
(US) ( 56 ) References Cited
(73 ) Assignee : Infinity Canopy, Inc ., Los Angeles, CA U .S . PATENT DOCUMENTS
(US ) 4 ,062,146 A * 12 /1977 Grossman ... ... ....... ... A01G 9/ 22
135 /90
( * ) Notice : Subject to any disclaimer, the term of this 4 ,564, 165 A * 1/1986 Grant .............. E04B 9 /006
patent is extended or adjusted under 35 248 /317
U .S . C . 154(b ) by 0 days. (Continued )
This patent is subject to a terminal dis FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS
claimer.
EP 330086 * 2 / 1989
(21) Appl. No.: 15 /263, 308 EP 2578767 * 10 / 2012
(22) Filed : Sep . 12, 2016 (Continued )
Primary Examiner - Robert Canfield
(65) Prior Publication Data (74) Attorney , Agent, or Firm — Payam Moradian
US 2017 /0037635 A1 Feb . 9 , 2017 (57) ABSTRACT
Related U .S . Application Data There is described a canopy system comprising two or more
(63 ) Continuation of application No. 15 /000 ,307, filed on parallel elongated rods, one or more canopy pieces having
Jan . 19 , 2016 , now Pat . No. 9,470 ,012 , which is a two parallel edges, two or more elongated bars connected to
(Continued ) each of the two or more parallel elongated rods and attached
to each of the two parallel edges of the one or more canopy
(51) Int . Cl. pieces , and at least one connection mechanism attached to
E04H 15 /58 ( 2006 .01) each of the elongated rods having a connector that is capable
E04H 15 / 04 ( 2006 .01) of being suspended from a support. The elongated rods may
E04F 10 /06 ( 2006 .01) include at least one lower cavity having two channels each
E04F 10 /02 (2006 .01) configured to detachably and slidably receive each of the
E06B 9/ 262 (2006 .01) elongated bars . The lower cavity may have a groove that is
E04H 15/64 ( 2006 .01) configured to detachably and slidably receive an accessory .
E04H 15 /54 ( 2006 .01) The elongated rods each may include at least one upper
(52) U . S . CI. cavity configured to detachably and slidably receive each
CPC .......... . E04F 10 /02 (2013 .01 ); E04F 10 /0607 connection mechanism and a second accessory.
(2013 .01 ); E04F 10 /0633 (2013.01 );
(Continued ) 7 Claims, 29 Drawing Sheets
390
390 40
40
13 39 +
Ayos Saxo 52
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JOC tu
44 U
>
hand
US 9,745 ,755 B2
Page 2
Related U .S . Application Data 6 ,449, 905 B2 * 9 /2002 Maki . ................... E05D 15/063
49 /358
continuation -in - part of application No. 14 /448, 825 , 7 ,823 ,311 B2 * 11 /2010 Pitcher ............ GO9F 7 / 10
filed on Jul. 31, 2014 , now Pat . No. 9 , 255, 441. 40 /618
(60 ) Provisional application No.61/ 874 ,623, filed on Sep . 8 ,783,642 B2 * 7 /2014
Pedersen ........... GO9F 7 /04
6 , 2013, provisional application No. 62 / 240 , 353, filed 248 /467
on Oct . 12 , 2015 . 9 ,624 ,689 B2 * 4 / 2017
Bailey ................... E04H 15 /32
(52 ) U .S . CI. 2003/0019179 A1 * 1/ 2003 Colson ............ E04B 9 / 00
CPC ......... E04F 10 / 0666 (2013 .01); E04H 15 / 04 52 /506 .06
(2013.01); E04H 15 /54 ( 2013.01); E04H 2007 /0175594 A1* 8 /2007 Jelic ............ E06B 9 /30
15 /58 (2013 .01) ; E04H 15 /64 (2013 .01) ; 160 /84 .01
E04H 15 /642 (2013 .01) ; E06B 9 / 262 2008 /0142064 A1* 6 /2008 Maraki . ............. E04F 10 /0607
135 / 121
( 2013 .01 ); E06B 2009 /2625 ( 2013 .01 ) 2008 /0202007 A1* 8/2008 Suciu ......... G09F 3 / 20
(58 ) Field of Classification Search 40 /658
CPC ... ....... E04F 10 /04 ; E04H 15 / 04 ; E04H 15 / 10 ; 2009/ 0031641 A1 * 2/2009 Grazioso ................ E04F 10 /02
E04H 15 /642; GO9F 2007/ 186 ; E06B 52 /74
2009 /2625 ; E06B 2009/247 2014 /0034099 A1* 2 /2014 Wang .................... B60J 11/04
USPC . ............................... 52 /DIG . 4 ; 160 /DIG . 16 135/88 .01
See application file for complete search history. 2017 /0016245 A1 * 1/2017 Bailey ... E04F 10 /02
2017/0183876 A1* 6 / 2017 Bailey ..................... E04F 10 /02
(56 ) References Cited
FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS
U .S . PATENT DOCUMENTS
GB 2080850 A * 2 /1982 .......... E04H 15/642
5 ,638 , 881 A * 6 / 1997 Ruggles ............... E06B 9 /262 JP 06193365 A * 7 / 1994
160 / 168 . 1 V
6 ,257 ,300 B1 * 7/ 2001 Brownlie ........... A47H 23 /00
160 /264 * cited by examiner
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US 9 , 745 ,755 B2
CANOPY SYSTEM rod through the groove. The upper cavity can include an
upper track and a lower track , the upper track and lower
CROSS - REFERENCE track running substantially along the elongated rod , the
upper cavity configured to hold the connection mechanisms.
The present application is a continuation of U . S . appli - 5 Each of the connection mechanisms can be fastened from
cation Ser. No. 15 / 000 .307 , filed on Jan . 19 . 2016 . which is outside the upper cavity. Each accessory can be attached to
a continuation - in -part (CIP ) of U .S . application Ser. No. one or more of the lower or the upper cavity . A distance
control thread can be attached to the elongated rods. Each of
14 /448 ,825, filed on Jul. 31 , 2014 , which claims the priority the connection mechanisms can include a base having a
of provisional application No. 61 /874 ,623, filed on Sep . 6 ,
2012 . The present application also claims the benefit of 10 horizontal bar with one or more threaded holes . The elon
provisional application No. 62 /240 ,353, filed on Oct . 12 , the gated rods can be connected lengthwise, thereby changing
2015 . All of these applications are incorporated herein by connected length of the canopy system . The elongated rods can be
reference in their entirety . lengthwise through a horizontal bar that overlaps
with two elongated rods that are aligned end to end . A
FIELD OF THE INVENTION 15 supporting frame can be used having at least one supporting
post, the supporting post attached to and supporting one or
The invention is generally directed to a structural assem more beams, the support attached to and supported by the
bly , more particularly to a canopy system used to protect one or more beams. A motor and a pulley can be used , the
against sunlight, rain , wind , snow , and the like . motor and pulley configured to switch the canopy system
20 between a closed position and an open position . A free
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION standing unit can be used having a supporting base and at
least one supporting post, the supporting post having a lower
Canopies and awnings have been widely used to provide end that is attached to the supporting base , the supporting
shade and shelter from sunlight, rain , wind , snow or other post having an upper end that is attached to one or more
weather conditions. Typically , canopies or awnings are 25 beams, the support attached to and supported by the one or
attached to a building for support , and often use support more beams. Two canopy pieces can be used . Each of the
posts to hold the fabric pieces upright. However, many connection mechanisms can include a base having a hori
canopy systems are custom made to meet various design zontal bar with one or more threaded holes, the base attached
needs, thus adding expense . There is a need for an inexpen to the connector, the horizontal bar of each of the connection
sive canopy system that possesses advantages of using 30 mechanisms capable of being slidably inserted into the
readily available components to allow for inexpensive setup lower track , the threaded fasteners projecting into the upper
and use . It is an object of the present invention to meet this track , the connection mechanisms capable ofbeing fastened
need . from outside the upper cavity .
Provided is an elongated rod comprising: a . a lower cavity
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 35 with one or more channels , and b . an upper cavity . The lower
cavity can include a groove . The upper cavity can have an
Provided is a canopy system comprising: a . two parallel upper track and a lower track , the upper track and lower
elongated rods; b . a canopy piece having two parallel edges ; track running substantially along the elongated rod . The
c . an elongated bar attached to each of the two parallel edges lower cavity can include a groove having an opening into
of the canopy piece ; and ; d . a connection mechanism 40 one or more channels . The elongated rod can comprise : a ) a
attached to each of the elongated rods, each of the connec - lower cavity with a groove and one or more channels, with
tion mechanisms having a connector, each of the connectors the groove having an opening in a transverse direction both
capable of being suspended from a support. The canopy to the channels and to outside of the elongated rod ; and b )
system can comprise : a . one or more additional elongated an upper cavity . The upper cavity can have an upper track
rods; b . one or more additional canopy pieces each having 45 and a lower track , the upper track and lower track running
two parallel edges ; c. additional elongated bars attached to substantially along the elongated rod.
each of the parallel edges of the additional canopy pieces ; Provided is a canopy component comprising : a . a canopy
and d . additional connection mechanisms attached to each of piece having two parallel edges; and b . an elongated bar
the additional elongated rods , each of the additional con attached to each of the parallel edges of the canopy piece .
nection mechanisms having an additional connector, each of 50 Provided is a canopy system comprising : a . a first and a
the additional connectors capable of being suspended from second elongated rod, the first and the second elongated rod
the support; wherein each of the additional elongated bars is each having a track and positioned parallel to each other, b .
held by each of the additional elongated rods. The elongated a canopy piece having a first and a second parallel edge; c .
bars can be tubular. The support can be a cable wire . The a first and a second elongated bar, the first elongated bar
additional supports can be connectors capable of being 55 attached to the first parallel edge of the canopy piece , and the
suspended . The connectors can be capable of being movably second elongated bar attached to the second parallel edge of
suspended from the support. Each of the elongated rods can the canopy piece , the first and the second elongated bar
include an endcap . An accessory can be held by the rod . The configured to be held by the first and the second the
accessory can be one or more lights. Each of the elongated elongated rod respectively ; and d . at least a first and a second
rods can include at least one lower cavity and at least one 60 connection mechanism , with at least one connection mecha
upper cavity . The lower cavity can include one or more nism attached to the track of each of the first and the second
channels each configured to hold the elongated bars. The elongated rod, each of the first and the second connection
channels can be tubular. The lower cavity can include one or mechanism having a connector , the connector capable of
more channels each configured to hold the elongated bars, being suspended from a support and to connect the canopy
the lower cavity having a groove that opens into each of the 65 system to the support, said first and said second connection
elongated bars held by the channels may exit the elongated detachably fastened at any location along the track of the
US 9 , 745,755 B2
first and the second elongated rod , the first and the second bar attached to the second parallel edge of the canopy piece,
connection mechanism configured to be fastened to the track the first and the second elongated bar configured to be held
of the first and the second elongated rod from a top of the by the first and the second the elongated rod respectively ,
first and the second elongated rod ; wherein the connection and d . a magnet assembly , the magnet assembly having a
mechanism can slide along the track and be fastened to 5 magnet, the magnet assembly attached to the first or the
different positions on the track . second elongated rod, the magnet of the magnet assembly
Provided is a canopy system comprising: a ) a first and a configured to form a magnetic connection with an external
second elongated rod , the first and the second elongated rod support structure to maintain the canopy system in a
positioned parallel to each other , b ) a canopy piece having deployed position . The magnet can be threadably attached to
a first and a second parallel edge ; c ) a first and a second 10 the elongated rod, the threadable attachment configured to
elongated bar, the first elongated bar attached to the first allow the magnet's position to be adjusted in relation to the
parallel edge of the canopy piece, and the second elongated support structure . A cap can isolate the magnet from expo
bar attached to the second parallel edge of the canopy piece ,
the first and the second elongated bar configured to be held sure to air. The canopy system can further comprise a
by the first and the second the elongated rod respectively : 15 handle . The handle can be attached to the elongated rod from
and d ) at least a first and a second connection mechanism , top of the elongated rod with fasteners , the handle further
with at least one connection mechanism each slidably extending below the elongated rod . A mounting member can
attached to the first and the second elongated rod , each of the be attached to the elongated rod , the mounting member
first and the second connection mechanism having a con having a threaded loop for receiving a magnet adjusting
nector, the connector capable of being suspended from a 20 threaded member of themagnet assembly . The handle can be
support and to connect the canopy system to the support, attached from top of the elongated rod , the handle having an
said first and said second connection mechanism further opening configured to allow the threaded loop to rise above
configured to slide along the elongated rod and detachably the handle from inside of the elongated rod .
fastened at any location along the first and the second Provided is a canopy system comprising: a ) first and a
elongated rod , the first and the second connection mecha - 25 second elongated rod , the first and the second elongated rod
nism configured to be fastened to the first and the second positioned parallel to each other, b ) a canopy piece having
elongated rod. The first and second elongated rods each can a first and a second parallel edge ; c ) a first and a second
have a track on outside of the elongated rods, the connection elongated bar, the first elongated bar attached to the first
mechanism configured to slide on the outside track . The parallel edge of the canopy piece, and the second elongated
connection mechanism can be configured to be fastened to 30 bar attached to the second parallel edge of the canopy piece ,
the track from outside of the first and the second elongated the first and the second elongated bar configured to be held
rod. The tracks can be on each side of the first and second by the first and the second the elongated rod respectively,
elongated rod . The connection mechanism can comprise: a ) and one or more of: i) a distance control thread attached to
the connector extending upward in a vertical direction from the first and the second elongated rod in a perpendicular
the elongated rod ; b ) an external slide , the external slide 35 direction , the distance control thread attached from the top
attached to the connector and riding on top of the elongated by a fastener that travels inside of the rod ; ii ) two or more
rod ; c ) one or more sliders attached to the external slide ; roller tracks attached in a perpendicular direction to the first
wherein the connector supports the canopy system from the and the second elongated rod , the first and the second
support, and the connector is configured to be moved to any elongated rod configured to be suspended from the track and
position of the elongated rod by moving the external slide 40 slide along the track , the tracks attached to a support
along the elongated rod though the sliders sliding through structure at each end of the tracks; iii) at least a first and a
one or more tracks on the first and the second elongated rod . second connection mechanism , with at least one connection
The connector can be rotatably attached to the external slide , mechanism attached in a horizontal direction to end of the
allowing the support to run 360 degrees in relation to the first first and the second elongated rod, each of the first and the
and the second elongated rod in a sameplane. The canopy 45 second connection mechanism having a connector, the con
system can comprise : a ) one or more additional elongated nector configured to attached to a support and to connect the
rods ; b ) one or more additional canopy pieces each having canopy system to the support. The first and second elongated
two parallel edges ; c ) additional elongated bars attached to rod can have a track , the track configured to have a bar that
each of the parallel edges of the additional canopy pieces ; slides along the track , wherein a single fastener fastens both
and d ) additional connection mechanisms attached to each of 50 the bar and the distance control thread to the track . Each
the additional elongated rods , each of the additional con elongated rod can have two connection mechanisms, with
nection mechanisms having an additional connector, each of one of the two connection mechanisms attached at each end
the additional connectors capable of being suspended from of the rod . The connection mechanism can be parallel to the
the support; wherein each of the additional elongated bars is elongated rod in the horizontal plane. The tracks can have a
held by each ofthe additional elongated rods. The first or the 55 roller carriage with a mountingmember extending below the
second elongated rod can comprise one or more channels, track , the mounting member having a loop configured for
each channel configured to hold the elongated bars , the first connection to the elongated rod .
or the second elongated rod further comprising a groove that
opens into each of the channels such that the canopy pieces BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
connected to the elongated bars held by the channels can exit 60
the elongated rod through the groove . FIG . 1A is a perspective view of an embodiment of the
Provided is a canopy system comprising: a . a first and a present invention including a close - up view of the elongated
second elongated rod , the first and the second elongated rod rod and connector of the canopy system .
positioned parallel to each other, b . a canopy piece having a FIG . 1B is a cross - sectional view of the elongated rod in
first and a second parallel edge ; c . a first and a second 65 FIG . 1A .
elongated bar, the first elongated bar attached to the first FIG . 2 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment
parallel edge of the canopy piece, and the second elongated of the present invention .
US 9 ,745,755 B2
FIG . 3 is a perspective view of the elongated rod and FIG . 17C ( corresponding to Roman numeral VII in FIG .
connection mechanism of the canopy system having an 17 ) illustrates a closer view of the roller track .
endcap . FIG . 18 is an isometric view of the canopy system with
FIG . 4A is a side view of the connection mechanism roller tracks and a magnet assembly .
inserted in the elongated rod . 5 FIG . 18A ( corresponding to Roman numeral XI in FIG .
FIG . 4B is a front side view of the connection mechanism 18 ) illustrates roller track running parallel to a support beam
in FIG . 4A inserted in the elongated rod. and perpendicular to elongated rod .
FIG . 5A is a side view of an embodiment of the present FIG . 18B (corresponding to Roman numeral X in FIG .
invention illustrating the slidably of the canopy system in a 18 ) illustrates canopy pieces on each side of elongated rod .
more closed position . 10 FIG . 18C ( corresponding to Roman numeral VIII in FIG .
FIG . 5B is a side view of the canopy system of FIG . 5A 18 ) illustrates magnet assembly with adjustable ceramic
in a more open position . magnet.
FIG . 6 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the FIG . 18D (corresponding to Roman numeral IX in FIG .
present invention having supporting frames and lights . 1618 ) illustrates roller track attached to a beam .
FIG . 7 is a top view of an embodiment of the present FIG . 19 illustrates a cross - section view of the magnet
invention having supporting frames. assembly and handle .
FIG . 8 is a top view of an alternate embodiment of the FIG . 19A illustrates attachment of a handle to the top of
present invention having supporting frames with a motor elongated rod with fasteners 38 .
and pulley . 20 FIG . 19B illustrates a handle, as well as magnet protective
FIG . 9A illustrates a side view of a free standing unit cap .
having a side support . FIG . 19C illustrates a handle , as well asmagnet protective
FIG . 9B illustrates a side view of a free standing unit cap .
having a center support . FIG . 19D illustrates a handle attached to elongated rod
FIG . 10 illustrates a canopy system with a top fabric and 25 with fasteners .
a bottom fabric . FIG . 20 illustrates roller track profile mounting .
FIG . 11A illustrates a side profile of an elongated rod . FIG . 20A is a cross section side view of the roller track
FIG . 11B illustrates a side profile of an elongated rod . profile mounting .
FIG . 12 illustrates attachment of two elongated rods end FIG . 20B illustrates elongated rod with connector
to end . 30 attached to the connector mounting bracket.
FIG . 13 illustrates attachment of three elongated rods end FIG . 20C illustrates elongated rod being rollably attached
to end . to roller track through connector .
FIG . 14 illustrates attachment of a solar panel to an FIG . 21 illustrates the attachment of both connector and
elongated rod . distance control thread to the top of the elongated rod .
FIG . 15 illustrates an isometric view of canopy with a 35 FIG . 21A is a cross -section view illustrating the distance
cable on top . control thread held in place by threaded fastener that is
FIG . 15A ( corresponding to Roman numeral III in FIG . attached to elongated rod .
15 ) illustrates attachment of distance control thread to the FIG . 21B is a cross -section view illustrating the distance
top of elongated rod with a fastener in a perpendicular control thread held in place by threaded fastener that is
direction . 40 attached to elongated rod .
FIG . 15B (corresponding to Roman numeral I in FIG . 15 ) FIG . 21C , the distance control thread is fastened to the top
illustrates the attachment of both connector and distance of the elongated rod 2 .
control thread to the top of the elongated rod. FIG . 22 illustrates a top plan view of the canopy , showing
FIG . 15C (corresponding to Roman numeral I in FIG . 15 ) the distance control thread 11 running in a perpendicular
a close - up of a magnet assembly attached to rod . 45 direction to the elongated rods which are attached to the
FIG . 16 illustrates a top view of the canopy with a cable edges of the canopy pieces 1 .
on top that is illustrated in FIG . 15 . FIG . 22A is a side view illustrating length of the distance
FIG . 16A illustrates connection of canopy pieces to elon - control thread being less than the width of canopy piece ,
gated rods. thus limiting the distance on how far elongated rods can be
FIG . 16B illustrates a handle , which can be accessed 50 moved apart from each other.
manually
m to change the position of the canopy . FIG . 22B illustrates canopy pieces attached to the elon
FIG . 16C ( corresponding to Roman numeral VI in FIG . gated bars , which are placed inside of elongated rods .
16 ) illustrates connection of the ends of s cable wire to each FIG . 23 illustrates a top view of the canopy in an open
other through a cable wire connector. (deployed ) position .
FIG . 16D (corresponding to Roman numeral IV in FIG . 55 FIG . 23A illustrates a handle , which can be accessed
16 ) illustrates the canopy in an open position with the manually to change the position of the canopy.
magnetic assembly that is attached to elongated rod making FIG . 23B illustrates connection of canopy pieces to elon
a magnetic connection with a magnetic plate . gated rods.
FIG . 16E ( corresponding to Roman numeral V in FIG . 16 ) FIG . 23C ( corresponding to Roman numeral XIII in FIG .
illustrates the attachment of both connector and distance 60 23 ) illustrates a distance control thread attached to an
control thread to the top of the elongated rod . elongated rod .
FIG . 17 illustrates top view of the canopy with roller FIG . 23D (corresponding to Roman numeral XIV in FIG .
tracks. 23 ) illustrates connection of the ends of s cable wire to each
FIG . 17A illustrates a side view of the canopy system other through a cable wire connector.
illustrating roller track . 65 FIG . 23E ( corresponding to Roman numeral XV in FIG .
FIG . 17B illustrates a handle , which can be accessed 23 ) illustrates a support (in this case a cable ) running
manually to change the position of the canopy. through a ring and a connector.
US 9 ,745 ,755 B2
FIG . 23F (corresponding to Roman numeral XVIin FIG . channels may have a cross - section of various shapes, includ
23) illustrates connector end being attached to the end of ing tubular (circular ), rectangular, elliptical, and triangular,
elongated rod . so that they can hold elongated bars 3 of a corresponding
FIG . 24 illustrates a connector slidably attached to a flat shape. For example , the lower cavity 20 can have two
top elongated rod . 5 tubular channels 5 as shown in FIG . 1B to hold two tubular
FIG . 24A illustrates a connector slidably attached to a flat elongated bars 3 . Alternatively, for example, the lower
top elongated rod . cavity 20 can have four tubular channels 5 . Any number of
FIG . 25 illustrates a connector slidably attached to a round channels 5 can be used .
top elongated rod . The lower cavity 20 can contain a groove 21 having an
FIG . 25A illustrates a connector slidably attached to a 10 one opening into each channel 5 . These channels 5 can be
round top elongated rod . configured to hold the elongated bars 3 , the canopy pieces 1
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE being connected to the elongated bars 3 through the opening
INVENTION in the groove 21 of the lower cavity 20 .
Each elongated rod 2 can also include at least one upper
The present invention provides a canopy system that is cavity 6 . The upper cavity 6 can be configured to hold one
easy to install , repair, is highly adjustable , and can be made or more connection mechanisms 28 . In one embodiment, the
from mass produced parts that a user can purchase at a store upper
Un cavity 6 can be configured to detachably and slidably
at relatively reasonable prices . The canopy system is receive the connection mechanisms 28 . Each connection
expandable both in length and width . The canopy system can 20 mechanism 28 can include a connector 9 and a base 7 . a
easily be repaired by replacing any damaged parts. The Since connector 9 is threadably attached to base 7 , connector
canopy system can be used in any environment that allows 9 can be rotated to allow for connection with a support that
for hanging the canopy system from a support . The instal- runs at any angle in relation to elongated rod 2 . The base 7
lation of the canopy system is very simple and eliminates the of each connection mechanism 28 can include holes that
need to have a highly skilled laborer for installation . The 25 may be fastened with a screw from outside the upper cavity
canopy system can also be adjusted to hang from as little as 6 , thereby securing each connection mechanism 28 into each
one support to a plurality support depending on the weight upper cavity 6 of elongated rod 2 . The connector 9 of each
of the canopy system . connection mechanism 28 , for example , a ring or gated
FIG . 1A illustrates a canopy system according to one hook , can be capable of being fixably suspended from the
embodiment of the present invention . The canopy system 30 support 4 . Alternatively , the connector 9 can be movably
that is illustrated works in a horizontal fashion . There is suspended from the support 4 , thereby allowing the canopy
described one or more canopy pieces 1, each having two system to be movably switched from a closed position into
substantially parallel edges 12 . Each canopy piece 1 can be an open position by moving the elongated rods 2 along
connected to two or more elongated rods 2 . Elongated bars support 4 away from each other, and from an open position
3 can be connected to the parallel edges 12 of the canopy 35 into a closed position by moving the elongated rods 2 along
piece 1 . For example , the opposite parallel edges 12 of support 4 towards each other. In some embodiments , there
canopy piece 1 can be rolled up and attached to the elon can be multiple supports 4 for the canopy system , such as
gated bars 3 . The edges 12 can be sewn , glued , stapled , multiple cable wires supporting the elongated rods 2 . The
riveted , or attached with other mechanisms. The elongated connectors 9 of multiple connection mechanisms 28 can be
bars 3 can be of various shapes , including tubular (circular ), 40 suspended , fixed or movably, from the supports 4 on each
rectangular, triangular, and elliptical. The elongated bars can elongated rod 2 .
also be of various materials, including plastic , and metal, Various additions to the canopy system are possible. For
such as a one piece fabricated aluminum . The elongated bars example, each elongated rod 2 may include an endcap 8 . In
3 can be held by each elongated rod 2 , thus holding each one embodiment, the endcap 8 can be removed prior to
canopy piece 1 in place between two separate elongated rods 45 inserting the elongated bars 3 connected to each canopy
2 of the canopy system . The canopy system itself is sup - piece 1 into the channels 5 of each elongated rod 2 .
ported by one or more supports 4 , such as cable wires. The Moreover, the groove 21 in the at least one lower cavity 20
canopy system can be used with as many wires that are of each elongated rod 2 can be configured to hold an
needed depending on the weight of the canopy system . For accessory 22 , for example lights 10 . The upper cavity 6 of
a large canopy system , a user may desire to run multiple 50 each elongated rod 2 can also be configured to hold second
wires and use multiple connection mechanisms. In some accessories 32 such as a solar charger 33 . Furthermore , a
embodiments, as shown in FIG . 1B , the elongated bars 3 can distance control thread 11 may be attached to the elongated
be held by being inserted into the elongated rods 2 . In other rods 2 thereby controlling the distance that the elongated
embodiments , the elongated bars 3 can be held by being rods 2 can be moved along the support 4 .
externally attached ( e . g . FIG . 11b ) to the elongated rods 2 55 The canopy system provided can be modular, that is , it
through external channels , rings , hoops or other external can be made from readily available components. The length
devices without need for internal cavities in elongated rods of the canopy system can be increased or decreased by
adding or removing , respectively , additional elongated rods
FIG . 1B shows a cross -sectional view describing the 2 along their lengthwise axes. The width of the canopy
detail inside of each elongated rod 2 and the connection 60 system from one end of the support 4 to the other can be
established. Each elongated rod 2 can have atleast one lower increased or decreased by adding or removing , respectively ,
cavity 20 . In this embodiment, the lower cavity 20 can hold additional elongated rods 2 which can be supported by
the elongated bars 3 that are connected to the canopy pieces additional connection mechanisms 28 , by adding or remov
1 . In another embodiment, there can be one or more channels ing additional canopy pieces 1 having opposite parallel
5 in the lower cavity 20 which can hold the elongated bars 65 edges 12, and by adding or removing additional elongated
3 . In one embodiment, the channels 5 can be used to bars 3 attached to the parallel edges 12 of the additional
detachably and slidably receive the elongated bars 3 . The canopy pieces 1 .
US 9, 745 ,755 B2
FIG . 2 illustrates how each canopy piece 1 connected to be securely fastened inside the lower tracks 24 of both
elongated bar 3 can be placed inside the at least one lower elongated rods 2 such that their threaded fasteners 27 extend
cavity 20 of each elongated rod 2. The parallel edges 12 of into the upper tracks 23 of both elongated rods 2 , thereby
each canopy piece 1 are connected to elongated bars 3 . The forming a secure connection between the two elongated rods
elongated bars 3 , in turn , are held by the at least one lower 5 2 . The length of the canopy system can later be decreased by
cavity 20 of each elongated rod 2 . In embodiments with unfastening the connected elongated rods 2 .
channels 5 , the elongated bars 3 can be detachably and FIG . 5A and FIG . 5B illustrate the canopy system as it
slidably inserted into the channels 5 of the lower cavity 20 switches from a position that is more closed in FIG . 5A to
of each elongated rod 2 . Each elongated rod 2 is suspended a position that is more open in FIG . 5B . In FIG . SA , the
from the support 4 using connector 9 of connection mecha - 10 canopy system is in a more closed position , the canopy
nism 28 , the base 7 of which can be detachably and slidably pieces 1 loosely suspended between the elongated rods 2 , the
inserted and fastened into the at least one upper cavity 6 of elongated rods 2 being in near proximity to each other. In
elongated rod 2 . Each connector 9 , for example , a ring or FIG . 5B , the canopy system is in a more open position , the
gated hook , can bemovably suspended from support 4 , thus canopy pieces 1 extended to almost a flat suspension
allowing the canopy system to be switched between a closed 15 between the elongated rods 2 , the elongated rods 2 being in
position and open position by moving the elongated rods 2 far proximity from each other. In one embodiment, each
along support 4 . elongated rod 2 can be moved towards or away from each
FIG . 3 illustrates another perspective view of the assem - other along the support 4 to transform the canopy system
bly of elongated rod 2 . When endcap 8 is removed , the from a closed position into an open position and vice -versa .
elongated bars 3 connected to the parallel edges 12 of 20 FIG . 6 illustrates the use of the canopy system with a
canopy piece 1 can be detachably and slidably inserted into supporting frame 13 . A supporting frame 13 can be con
elongated rod 2 such that the canopy pieces 1 can exit the structed , or readily available , to support the canopy system .
groove 21 in the at least one lower cavity 20 of elongated rod It can be created from wood, metal, or other constructive
2 . Moreover when endcap 8 is removed , the base 7 of material. The supporting frame 13 can have one or more
connection mechanism 28 can be slideably and detachably 25 supporting posts 19 supporting one or more beams 29 . The
inserted into the upper cavity 6 of elongated rod 2. The base support 4 for the canopy system , such as cable wire , can be
7 of connection mechanism 28 can be fastened into the attached to the supporting frame 13, for example , by running
elongated rod 2 from outside the upper cavity 6 using a the wire around four rings 15 or hooks placed at each corner
fastening mechanism such as a screwdriver. The connector of the beams29 and then attaching and joining together each
9 of connection mechanism 28 , for example , a ring or gated 30 end of the wire using a cable wire connector 14 .
hook , can be fixedly or movably suspended from one or Accessories 22 can be suspended from each elongated rod
more supports 4 , such as a cable wire , where movable 2 , as illustrated in FIG . 1A , FIG . 1B , and FIG . 6 . Examples
suspension allows the canopy system to switch between a of accessories include lights 10 , insect repellant, speakers ,
closed position and open position . projectors , mist producers (humidifiers), fans, decorations,
FIG . 4A and FIG . 4B illustrate the assembly and fastening 35 and other functional items. The accessories 22, such as lights
of the connection mechanism 28 into the elongated rod 2 . 10 , can be attached to the elongated rods 2 such that they are
The upper cavity 6 of the elongated rod 2 can contain an suspended beneath the canopy pieces 1 . Accessories 22 can
upper track 23 and a lower track 24 . The upper track 23 and be attached by attaching the accessory 22 to a holder 25 . The
the lower track 24 allow for sliding various objects such as holder 25 can be detachably and slidably placed inside the
the base 7 from a first end of the elongated rod 2 to a second 40 lower cavity 20 of the elongated rod 2 . It is possible to
end of the elongated rod 2 . The base 7 can include a manufacture a holder 25 that has a standard connection to
horizontal bar 26 and threaded fasteners 27 , such as a screw different accessories 22 so that a user may use the same
or bolt. The base 7 can be slidably and detachably inserted holder 25 with different accessories 22 .
into the upper cavity 6 such that the horizontal bar 26 is FIG . 7 illustrates a top view of the canopy system that is
placed into the lower track 24 , the threaded fasteners 27 45 supported by the supporting frame 13 . The canopy system
projecting into the upper track 23. The base 7 can be may be supported by attaching support 4 , for example cable
fastened to the elongated rod 2 using a fastening device such wire , to supporting frame 13 . Multiple supports 4 can be
as a screwdriver. The screwdriver can be used to screw in the connected on opposite sides of supporting frame 13 using a
threaded fasteners 27 from outside the upper cavity 6 until cable wire connector 14. The support 4 can run through four
the horizontal bar 26 of connection mechanism 28 is 50 rings 15 each connected to a corner of the beams 29 of
securely fastened inside the lower track 24 . The connector 9 , supporting frame 13 , the beams 29 placed in parallel fashion
for example a ring or gated hook , is attached to the base 7 , to each other. The rings 15 can be attached to the supporting
which can then be suspended from a support 4 . The hori- frame 13 , for example by fastening or pressing each ring 15
zontal bar 26 is of a suitable size to slide in the lower track into the supporting frame 13 . A hook can also be used
23 . The horizontal bar 26 can be about 0 .5 inches to about 55 instead of a ring 15 .
1.5 inches wide , and about 2 inches to about 5 inches long . FIG . 8 describes another embodiment where the support
The horizontalbar 26 can have a plurality of threaded holes ing frame 13 can include a motor 16 and a pulley 17 system .
to allow for the use of the threaded fasteners 27 . The motor 16 and the pulley 17 can be attached to opposite
In other embodiments , the length of the canopy system beams 29 of supporting frame 13 . When the motor 16 is
can be increased by connecting multiple elongated rods 2 60 activated , themotor 16 interacts with pulley 17 such that the
lengthwise . The connection can be achieved by positioning elongated rods 2 are moved towards or away from themotor
the connection mechanism 28 such that one portion of the 16 . In this way , the motor 16 and pulley 17 can be used to
horizontal bar 26 with at least one threaded fastener 27 is switch the canopy system from a closed position to an open
situated in one elongated rod 2 , while the remaining portion position and vice - versa .
of the horizontal bar 26 with at least another threaded 65 FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrate various free standing canopy
fastener 27 is situated in another elongated rod 2 . The systems that can be readily purchased . These canopy sys
horizontal bar 26 of the connection mechanism 28 can then tems can be purchased as - is and there is no additional need
US 9 , 745,755 B2
12
to provide an external, stand - alone supporting frame 13 for 23 can range between 2 millimeters and 5 millimeters . The
the canopy system since these free standing units come with width of the opening into the upper cavity 6 from outside the
their own supporting frame 13 . Each free standing unit can elongated rod 2 can range between 3 millimeters and 8
come with a supporting base 18 that rests on the ground , at millimeters.
least one supporting post 19 connected at one end to the 5 A user can obtain and construct a supporting frame 13
supporting base 18 , and at least one beam 29 attached at the having one or more support posts 19 supporting one or more
opposite end of supporting post 19 which is supported by the beams 29 . The user can separately obtain one or more
support post 19 . The canopy system would operate substan supports 4 for the canopy system , such as cable wire, and
tially as shown in FIG . 6 . attach it to the supporting frame 13 , for example , by running
The material for the canopy pieces 1 can be any suitable 10 the wire around four rings 15 or hooks placed at each corner
material that allows for closing and opening the canopy of the beams 29 and then attaching and joining together each
system . Suitable materials include solid , mesh , and canvas end of the wire using a cable wire connector 14 . Alterna
fabric, including fabric that is made from natural or synthetic tively , the user may obtain a free standing unit having a
material, such as cotton , silk , or polyester. Solid sheets of supporting base 18 that rests on the ground , at least one
synthetic materials such as plastic or metal can be used as 15 supporting post 19 connected at one end to the supporting
long as the sheet is flexible and allows for the canopy system base 18 , and at least one beam 29 attached at the opposite
to open and close . The material can be transparent, translu - end of supporting post 19 which is supported by the sup
cent, or opaque . The material can be waterproof. porting post 19 , with support 4 and the canopy system
FIG . 10 illustrates an embodiment where two pieces are already attached . The user can also obtain a supporting
fabric material, a top material 30 and a bottom material 31, 20 frame 13 having a motor 16 and a pulley 17 .
are used as a canopy piece 1 in vertical relationship with The user can obtain a canopy piece 1 and two elongated
each other. The top material 30 can be a protective water - bars 3 and can roll and attach the parallel edges 12 of the
proof material, while the bottom material 31 can be a less canopy piece 1 to the elongated bars 3 . The user can then
durable but ornamental piece of material. The top material insert each elongated bar 3 into the channels 5 of two ,
30 can also act as a distance control in lieu of a distance 25 separate elongated rods 2 such that the canopy piece 1 is
control thread 11 . Both the parallel edges of the top material held in place between the two elongated rods 2 . The user can
30 and the parallel edges of the bottom material 31 can be obtain a connection mechanism 28 , having a connector 9
connected to the same elongated bars 3, i.e., two parallel attached to a base 7 , the base 7 having a horizontal bar 26
edges are connected to each elongated bar 3 , which can and one or more threaded fasteners 27 , which the user can
dictate a design for an elongated rod 2 with two channels 5 . 30 slidably insert into the elongated rod 2 by placing the
In another embodiment, each parallel edge of the top mate - horizontal bar 26 into the lower track 24 of the upper groove
rial 30 is connected to a separate elongated bar 3 , while each 6 with the threaded fasteners 27 projecting into the upper
parallel edge of the bottom material 31 is connected to a track 23 of the upper cavity 6 . The base 7 may be fastened
separate elongated bar 3, i.e ., one parallel edge is connected to the elongated rod 2 using a fastening device such as a
to each elongated bar 3 , which can dictate a design for the 35 screwdriver, which may be used to screw in the threaded
elongated rod 2 with four channels 5 . fasteners 27 from outside the upper cavity 6 until the
FIGS . 11A and 11B illustrated additional side profiles of horizontal bar 26 of connection mechanism 28 is securely
the elongated rod 2 . Elongated bar 3 can be inserted in the fastened inside the lower track 24 . The user can then fixably
circular or semi-circular rings on the outside of the elon - or movably suspend the connector 9 , for example a ring or
gated rod 2 . The other rings of the elongated rod 2 can be 40 gated hook , of the securely fastened connection mechanism
used for suspending the elongated rod 2 and /or for attaching 28 from the support 4 attached to the supporting frame 13 .
canopy pieces . The user can also attach accessories 22 , such as lights 10 , to
FIGS. 12 and 13 illustrate attaching elongated rod 2 end a holder 25 , which the user can slidably insert inside the
to end to each other. The horizontal bar 26 is moved to groove 21 of the lower cavity 20 of each elongated rod 2 .
overlap with two of the elongated rods 2 , and the threaded 45 The user can also insert second accessories 32 , such as a
fasteners 27 are used to stabilize the attachment. solar charger , into the upper cavity 6 of each elongated rod
FIG . 14 illustrates attachment of a solar panel 33 as a 2 . The user can repeat this process by attaching additional
second accessory to the elongated rod 2 . The solar panel can canopy pieces 1 to additional elongated rods 2 and movably
be attached by using horizontal bar 26 and base 7 . suspending each elongated rod 2 from the one or more
The width of the elongated rod 2 can range between 15 50 supports 4 , thereby allowing the canopy system to be
millimeters and 25 millimeters. The height of the elongated movably switched from a closed position into an open
rod 2 can range between 24 millimeters and 34 millimeters . position by moving the elongated rods 2 along support 4
The width of the groove 21 of the lower cavity 20 can range away from each other , and from an open position into a
between 12 millimeters and 19 millimeters . The height of closed position by moving the elongated rods 2 along
the groove 21 of the lower cavity 20 can range between 5 55 support 4 towards each other. The user may also attach a
millimeters and 9 millimeters . The diameter of the tubular distance control thread 11 to the elongated rods 2 thereby
channels 5 can range between 7 millimeters and 9 millime controlling the distance that the elongated rods 2 can be
ters. The width of the opening from the groove 21 into the moved along the support 4 .
tubular channels 5 can range between 4 millimeters and 7 FIG . 15 illustrates an isometric view of canopy with a
millimeters . The width of the opening into the groove 21 60 cable on top . The canopy pieces 1 are attached to elongated
from outside the elongated rod 2 can range between 4 rods 2 through connectors 9 which are suspended from
millimeters and 9 millimeters . The width of the upper track support ( cable ) 4 . Distance control thread 11 is attached to
22 of the upper cavity 6 can range between 7 millimeters and the top of elongated rod 2 and limits the distance from one
12 millimeters . The width of the lower track 23 of the upper elongated rod 2 to another elongated rod 2 . Support 4 runs
cavity 6 can range between 11 millimeters and 17 millime- 65 through rings 15 attached to supporting frame 13 . FIG . 15A
ters . The height of the upper track 22 can range between 2 illustrates attachment of distance control thread 11 to the top
millimeters and 5 millimeters . The height of the lower track of elongated rod 2 with a fastener in a perpendicular
US 9,745 ,755 B2
13 14
direction . FIG . 15B illustrates the attachment ofboth con FIG . 19 illustrates a cross-section view of the magnet
nector 9 and distance control thread 11 to the top of the assembly and handle 34 . Magnet mounting slide 35 is
elongated rod 2 . Support (cable) 4 passes through inside of attached to rod 2 .Magnet mounting slide 35 is configured to
connector 9 in a perpendicular direction to elongated rod 2 . slide along the upper or lower track of the elongated rod 2
FIG . 15C is a close - up of a magnet assembly attached to rod 5 and be positioned at any point in the elongated rod 2 .Magnet
2 . The magnet assembly makes a magnetic connection with mounting slide 35 has a threaded circular opening that
magnetic plate 37 on supporting frame 13 to stabilize the complements magnet adjusting thread 36a . Adjustable
canopy in an open position . Magnetic plate 37 can be ceramic magnet is generally made from magnet adjusting
magnetized or be a metal that has not been magnetized . The thread 36a , ceramic magnet core 36b , and magnet protective
magnet assembly is attached to the top of elongated rod 2 . 10 cap 36c . Threading ( or a complementary snap mechanism )
FIG . 16 illustrates a top view of the canopy with a cable of magnet protective cap 36c complements threading on
on top that is illustrated in FIG . 15 . FIG . 16A is a side view magnet adjusting thread 36a and protects the ceramic mag
2 , and canopy pieces 1 drooping down from the elongated minimize the risk of rusting. The magnet adjusting thread
rods 2 which are attached to support frame 13 . Also illus- 15 36a has threading which is configured to allow the position
trated is handle 34 for changing the position of the canopy of the magnet to be adjusted in relation to magnetic plate 37 .
from an open (deployed ) position to a closed ( stowed ) The elongated rod 2 closest to the magnetic plate 37 need not
position , and vice -versa . FIG . 16B illustrates the same be in a precise position for attachment since the position of
handle 34 , which can be accessed manually to change the the ceramic magnet core 36b can be adjusted in relation to
position of the canopy. FIG . 16C illustrates the connection 20 magnetic plate 37 . Also illustrated is handle 34 , which is
of the ends of cable wire 4 to each other through Cable wire attached to elongated rod 2 via magnet mounting slide 35 .
connector 14 . FIG . 16D illustrates the canopy in an open The handle 34 extends down elongated rod 2 , and faces
position with the magnetic assembly that is attached to away from the other elongated rods 2 of the canopy .
elongated rod 2 making a magnetic connection with a Depending on the user, none , one , or both of the handle and
magnetic plate 37 on beam 29 to stabilize the canopy system 25 the magnet can be used .
in the open position . The magnetic plate 37 can be an actual FIG . 19A is a top view illustrating attachment of handle
magnet or a metal that can form a magnetic connection . FIG . 34 to the top of elongated rod 2 with fasteners 38 . The
16E illustrates the attachment of both connector 9 and magnet adjusting thread 36a is in a perpendicular position in
distance control thread 11 to the top of the elongated rod 2 . relation to top of handle 34 that is attached to elongated rod
Support ( cable ) 4 passes through inside of connector 9 in a 30 2 . The magnet adjusting thread 36a is attached to a loop in
perpendicular direction to elongated rod 2 . In this illustra - magnet mounting slide 35 that sticks out of the opening in
tion , because of the proximity of the distance control thread handle 34 . FIGS. 19B and 19C are front and back views
11 to connector 9 , horizontal bar 26 of connector 9 can be illustrating handle 34 , as well as magnet protective cap 36C
positioned under the distance control thread 11 , and the in FIG . 19B and the back of the magnet adjusting thread 36a
fastener 38 that goes through the opening of distance control 35 in FIG . 19C . FIG . 19D is an isometric view illustrating
thread 11 also goes into the opening of the horizontalbar 26 . handle 34 attached to elongated rod 2 with fasteners 38 .
fastener 27 (See FIG . 21b ). which adjusting thread 36a is threadably attached . The
FIG . 17 illustrates top view of the canopy with roller track magnet protective cap 36C is touching magnetic plate 37
40 , which are attached to support frame 13 and run in 40 which is attached to beam 29 with fasteners 52. A magnetic
perpendicular direction to elongated rods 2 . FIG . 17A is a connection is made between the magnet assembly and beam
side view of the canopy system illustrating roller track 40 . 29 , which the user can terminate by pulling the canopy away
FIG . 17B illustrates the same handle 34 , which can be with handle 34 .
accessed manually to change the position of the canopy. FIG . 20 illustrates the roller track 40 profile mounting .
FIG . 17C is a closer view of the roller track 40 , which run 45 Illustrated is elongated rod 2, threaded fastener 27 , roller
in perpendicular direction to elongated rods 2 . Rollers 39 track 40 , roller track mounting bracket 41, and end connec
can rollably move in roller track 40 . Rollers carriage 39 can tor mounting bracket 43 . Elongated rod 2 is suspended
have a roller mounting loop 39a for attachment connector 9 below track 40. FIG . 20A is a cross section side view of the
of elongated rod 2 . roller track profile mounting. A roller carriage 39 is illus
FIG . 18 is an isometric view of the canopy system with 50 trated with rollers 39b and roller mounting loop 39a . Con
roller tracks 40 and a magnet assembly . Roller tracks 40 are nector 9 goes around the roller mounting loop 39a . Elon
attached to supporting frame 13 by roller track mounting gated rod 2 is rollably moves along roller track 40 via roller
bracket 41. Elongated rods 2 are placed in perpendicular carriage 39. FIG . 20B illustrates elongated rod 2 with
direction to the roller track 40 and slide along roller track 40 . connector 9 attached to the connector mounting bracket 42.
FIG . 18A illustrates roller track 40 running parallel to 55 In this embodiment, connector mounting bracket 42 also
support beam of supporting frame 13 and perpendicular to acts as an end cap 8 . Also illustrated are track roller retainer
elongated rod 2 . Elongated rod 2 is suspended from and 40b , track mounting bracket 41, and track mounting bracket
supported by track 40. In this embodiment, the elongated rod screw holes 41a . Track mounting bracket screw holes 41a
2 is not directly attached to supporting frame 13 . FIG . 18B are used to attached the track mounting bracket 41 to
illustrates canopy pieces 1 on each side of elongated rod 2 . 60 supporting frame 13 . FIG . 20C is an isometric view illus
FIG . 18C illustrates magnet assembly with adjustable trating elongated rod 2 being rollably attached to roller track
ceramic magnet 36 . Themagnet assembly makes a magnetic 40 through connector 9 , which is attached to connector
connection with a magnetic plate 37 that is placed on mounting bracket 42 . Connector mounting bracket 42 also
supporting frame 13 . Also illustrated is an isometric view of functions as an end cap 8 . Connector 9 goes around roller
the handle 34 attached to rod 2 . FIG . 18D illustrates roller 65 mounting loop 39a . Also illustrated are rollers 39b , roller
track 40 attached to beam 29 of supporting frame 13 with the track mounting clearance 40a , track mounting bracket 41,
use of track mounting 41. and Connector mounting bracket 42.
US 9 , 745,755 B2
15 16
FIG . 21 illustrates the attachment of both connector 9 and sits on top of elongated rod as illustrated in FIGS . 23 and 24 ,
distance control thread 11 to the top of the elongated rod 2 . and is configured to slide along outside track 50 of elongated
Distance control thread 11 has spaced openings A which are rod 2 . Track sliders 51 on each side of external slide 47
configured to allow adjustmentby the user as to how much maintain external slide 47 on top of elongated rod 2 . The
to restrict the distance of one elongated rod to another. In this 5 external slide 47 can be round or flat depending on profile of
illustration , because of the proximity of the distance control elongated rod 2 . In this embodiment, elongated rod 2 can
thread 11 to connector 9 , horizontal bar 26 of connector 9 have an enclosed upper cavity that is separated from the
can be positioned under the distance control thread 11 , and tubular openings 5 of elongated rod 2 . Short set screw 203
control thread 11 also goes into the opening of the horizontal 10 outside track 50 of elongated rod 2 .
bar 26 . In this arrangement, fastener 38 also performs the
role of fastener 27 . REFERENCE NUMBERS
FIGS. 21A and 21B are a cross -section views illustrating
the Distance control thread 11 held in place by threaded 1 . Canopy pieces
fastener 38 that is attached to elongated rod 2 . As illustrated 15 2 . Elongated rods
in these figures and FIG . 21C , the distance control thread 11 3. Elongated bars
is fastened to the top of the elongated rod 2 . A single fattener 4 . Support
38 can go through the opening of distance control thread 11 5 . Tubular channels
and the opening of the horizontal bar 26 . The Distance 6 . Upper cavity
control thread 11 can have a plurality of limiting strap 20 7 . Base
marking (equally spaced A ) 11a , which provide an opening 8 . End cap
for fastening the distance control thread 11 to elongated rod 9 . Connector
2. 10 . Lights
FIG . 22 illustrates a top plan view of the canopy, showing 11 . Distance control thread
the distance control thread 11 running in a perpendicular 25 11a . Limiting strap marking ( equally spaced A )
direction to the elongated rods 2 which are attached to the 12 . Parallel edges
edges of the canopy pieces 1 . FIG . 22A is a side view 13 . Supporting frame
illustrating length of the distance control thread 11 being less 14 . Cable wire connector
than the width of canopy piece 1 , thus limiting the distance 15 . Rings
on how far elongated rods 2 can be moved apart from each 30 16 . Motor
other. FIG . 22B illustrates canopy pieces 1 attached to the 17 . Pulley
elongated bars 3 , which are placed inside of elongated rods 18 . Supporting base
2 . Horizontal bar 26 is placed inside the track of the 19. Supporting post
elongated bar, and is rotatably attached ( through a threaded 20 . Lower cavity
fastener) to connector 9 . Connector 9 is then attached to 35 21 . Groove
support 4 , resulting in suspension of the canopy from 22. Accessory
support 4 . 23. Upper track
FIG . 23 illustrates a top view of the canopy in an open 24. Lower track
( deployed ) position . The main difference between the 25 . Holder
canopy illustrated in this figure versus FIG . 16 is that 40 26 . Horizontal bar
support 9 is attached to the ends of the elongated rods and 27. Threaded fasteners
extends out of the elongated rods at the ends in the same 28 . Connection mechanism
direction as the elongated rods 2 . Because the connector 29. Beams
does not rise above the elongated rod 2 , the elongated rods 30 . Top material
can be on the same level as support 4 , so not requiring 45 31. Bottom material
additional vertical clearance to install the canopy system by 32. Second accessory
requiring support 4 to be positioned above elongated rod 2 . 34. Handle
FIG . 23A has the same illustration as FIG . 16B . FIG . 23B 35 . Magnet mounting slide
has the same illustration as FIG . 16A . FIG . 23D has the same 36 . Adjustable ceramic magnet
illustration as FIG . 16C . FIGS. 23C , 23E , and 23F illustrate 50 36a . Magnet adjusting thread
connector end being attached to the end of elongated rod 2 . 36b . Ceramic magnet core
FIG . 23C illustrates Canopy pieces 1, Support 4 , Connector 360. Magnet protective cap
9 , distance control thread 11 , and cone point mounting screw 37 . Magnetic plate
38 . The fastener 38 can be used to fasten both the distance 38. Cone point mounting screw ( fastener)
control thread 11 and connector 9 ( through horizontal bar 55 39 . Roller carriage
26 ) to the elongated rod 2 . FIG . 23E illustrates support 4 (in 39a . Roller mounting loop
this case a cable ) running through ring 15 and connector 9 . 39b . Roller
Connector 9 is attached to end profile retainer eyelet loop 44 , 40 . Roller track
which is attached to beam 29 . FIG . 23F illustrates connector 40a . Roller track mounting bracket clearance
9 attached to the end of elongated rod 2 . Also illustrated are 60 406 . Track roller retainer
support 4 , beams 29 , cone point mounting screw 38 , hori - 41. Roller track mounting bracket
zontal connector mounting bracket 45 , and connector 41a . Track mounting bracket screw hole
mounting 46 . 42 . Connectormounting bracket
FIGS. 24 and 25 illustrate connector 9 (in form of a swivel 43 . End connector mounting bracket
clip ) that can be positioned at any point on the elongated rod 65 44. End profile retainer eyelet loop
2 by sliding external slide 47 along the elongated rod 2 . The 45 . Horizontal connector mounting bracket
external slide 47 , to which connector 9 is rotatably attached , 46 . Connector mounting
US 9 ,745 ,755 B2
18
47 . External slide 4 . A canopy system comprising:
48 . Short set screw a ) first and a second elongated rod , the first and the second
49 . Enclosed Upper Cavity elongated rod positioned parallel to each other;
50 . Outside track b ) at least one canopy piece having a first and a second
51. track slider parallel edge ;
52 . Fastener c ) two or more of elongated bars, each of the elongated
What is claimed is: bars attached to one of the edges of at least one canopy
1 . A canopy system comprising: piece, each of the elongated bars configured to be held
a . two or more of elongated rods, the elongated rods by a respective elongated rod ; and
positioned parallel to each other; 10
one or more of:
b . at least one canopy piece having a first and a second i) a distance control thread attached to each of the first
parallel edge; and the second elongated rods in a perpendicular
c . two or more elongated bars , each of the elongated bars
attached to one of the edges of the at least one canopy direction , the distance control thread attached from a
piece , each of the elongated bars configured to be held 15 top by a fastener that travels inside of the rod ;
by one of the elongated rods; ii) two or more roller tracks attached in a perpendicular
d . a magnet assembly, the magnet assembly having a direction to the first and the second elongated rods,
magnet, the magnet assembly attached to one of the the elongated rods configured to be suspended from
elongated rods, the magnet of the magnet assembly the roller tracks and slide along the roller tracks , the
configured to form a magnetic connection with an 20 roller tracks attached to a support structure at each
external support structure to maintain the canopy sys end of the roller tracks;
tem in a deployed position ; iii ) two or more connection mechanisms, with at least
further comprising a handle , wherein the handle is one connection mechanism attached in a horizontal
attached to the elongated rod attached to the magnet direction to an end ofone of the elongated rods, each
assembly from top of the elongated rod with fasteners , 25 of the connection mechanisms having a connector,
the handle further extending below the elongated rod the connector configured to be attached to a support
attached to the magnet assembly ; and and to connect the canopy system to the support.
further comprising a mounting member attached to the 5 . The canopy system of claim 4 , wherein the elongated
elongated rod attached to the magnet assembly , the he rods , have a track , the track configured to have a bar that
mounting member having a threaded loop for receiving 30
Ming 30 slides along the track , wherein a single fastener fastens both
a magnet adjusting threaded member of the magnet the bar and the distance control thread to the track .
assembly .
2 . The canopy system of claim 1, further comprising a cap rod6 .has The canopy system of claim 4 , wherein each elongated
two connection mechanisms, with one of the two
that isolates the magnet from exposure to air .
is 35 connection mechanisms attached at each end of the rod .
3 . The canopy system of claim 1 , wherein the handle is 35 conn7 . The canopy
attached from top of the elongated rod attached to the connection system of claim 4 , wherein the two or more
magnet assembly, the handle having an opening, configured elongated rods mechanisms in part iii are each parallel to the
in the horizontal plane .
to allow the threaded loop to rise above the handle from
inside of the elongated rod attached to the magnet assembly . * * * * *
US0094700 12B2
(12) United States Patent (10) Patent No.: US 9.470,012 B2

Shargani (45) Date of Patent: *Oct. 18, 2016
(54) CANOPY SYSTEM 10/0666; E04F 10/0607; E04F 10/02; E04F
10/04; E04H 15/04; E04H 15/10; E04H
(71) Applicant: Afshin Shargani, Los Angeles, CA 15/642; G09F 2007/186: E06B 2009/2625;
(US) EO6B 2009/247
USPC ................................ 52/DIG. 4; 160/DIG. 16
(72) Inventor: Afshin Shargani, Los Angeles, CA See application file for complete search history.
(US)
(56) References Cited
(*) Notice: Subject to any disclaimer, the term of this
patent is extended or adjusted under 35 U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS
U.S.C. 154(b) by 0 days. 1,728,074 A * 9, 1929 Nicholas ................ A47H 5,032
This patent is Subject to a terminal dis- 160/84.06
claimer. 1,899,062 A * 2/1933 Steffen ...................... EO6B 9/28
160, 193
ck
(21) Appl. No.: 15/000,307 3,481,073 A * 12/1969 Yoshida ................... A.S.;
(22) Filed: Jan. 19, 2016 (Continued)
(65) Prior Publication Data FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS
US 2016/O 130836A1 May 12, 2016 DE 3727292 A1 * 1 (1988 ............... AO1G 922
EP 330O86 A1 * 8, 1989
(Continued)
Related U.S. Application Data Primary Examiner — Robert Canfield
(63) Continuation-in-part of application No. 14/448,825, (74) Attorney, Agent, or Firm — Payam Moradian
filed on Jul. 31, 2014, now Pat. No. 9.255,441.
(60) Provisional application No. 61/874,623, filed on Sep. (57) ABSTRACT
6, 2013, provisional application No. 62/240,353, filed There is described a canopy system comprising two or more
on Oct. 12, 2015. parallel elongated rods, one or more canopy pieces having
two parallel edges, two or more elongated bars connected to
(51) Int. Cl. each of the two or more parallel elongated rods and attached
E04H 5/58 (2006.01) to each of the two parallel edges of the one or more canopy
E04H 5/04 (2006.01) pieces, and at least one connection mechanism attached to
E04F IO/06 (2006.01) each of the elongated rods having a connector that is capable
(Continued) of being Suspended from a Support. The elongated rods may
include at least one lower cavity having two channels each
(52) U.S. Cl. configured to detachably and slidably receive each of the
CPC ........... E04H 15/58 (2013.01); E04F 10/0607 elongated bars. The lower cavity may have a groove that is
(2013.01); E04F 10/0633 (2013.01); E04F configured to detachably and slidably receive an accessory.
10/0666 (2013.01); E04H 15/04 (2013.01); The elongated rods each may include at least one upper
E04H 15/642 (2013.01); E06B 9/262 cavity configured to detachably and slidably receive each
(2013.01); E06B 2009/2625 (2013.01) connection mechanism and a second accessory.
(58) Field of Classification Search
CPC ............ E04F 10/0633; E04F 10/0659; E04F 15 Claims, 29 Drawing Sheets
US 9,470,012 B2
Page 2
(51) Int. Cl. 6,796,357 B2 * 9/2004 Kirby ...................... EO4F 10, O2

E6B 9/262 (2006.01) 7,604,281 B1 * 10, 2009 Ra B60J S.
Et)4H 5/64 (2006.01) sw yIlOI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135,88.07
D630,288 S * 1/2011 Grazioso ...................... D21,837
(56) References Cited 8,783,642 B2 * 7/2014 Pedersen ................... GO9F 7,04
248/467
U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS 9,004,140 B2 * 4/2015 Hailes ..................... EO6B 9,262
160/405
3,987,877 A * 10/1976 Bulanchuk ............... HO2G 5/04 9,038,344 B2 * 5/2015 Mayer ..................... E04B 9,366
104/108 52.220.6
4,062,146 A * 12/1977 Grossman ................ AO1G 9/22 2003/0019 179 A1 1/2003 Colson ...................... EO4B 9.00
135,90 52.506.06
4,375,232 A * 3/1983 Heescher ................. AO1G 9/22 2006/0201635 A1* 9/2006 Ridley .................... B63C 15.00
160/84.06 160/84.01
4.511,211 A * 4, 1985 Runyan .................. GO3B 21.58 2008/O142064 A1* 6/2008 Maraki ............... EO4F 10, O607
16ODIG. 16 135,121
4,557.310 A * 12/1985 Castellaw ................ AO1G 9/22 2008/0202007 A1* 8, 2008 Suciu ........................ GO9F 3/20
16,102 40,658
4,582,109 A * 4, 1986 Fairbanks .............. A47H 13/14 2009/0031641 A1 2/2009 Grazioso ................. EO4F 10/O2
160,348 52.74
4,683,933 A * 8/1987 Dunbar ................. EO6B 9,0692 2011/0265260 A1* 11/2011 Darrow ................ A61G 7.1015
160,273.1 5,851
4,741.375 A * 5/1988 Milford ................... EO6B 9,262 2013/0167749 A1* 7/2013 Spies ........................ B66C 7/O2
160/84.06 104.93
4,846,249 A * 7/1989 Cooper .................. A758; 2014.0034099 A1* 2.2014 Wang. B60J 11/04
135,88.01
4,899,974 A * 2/1990 Wear ........................ A472 2015/0233116 A1* 8/2015 Mayer ....................... E04B 9.04
5,265,373 A * 11/1993 Vollebregt ............... AO1G 9/22 52.506.05
160/84.01
5,809,701 A * 9/1998 Vollebregt ........... AO1G 9, 1476
160/84.06 FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS
5,860,466 A * 1/1999 Kao ....................... B60J 1/2O72
160/23.1 EP 2708672 A1 * 3, 2014
6,170,551 B1* 1/2001 Henningsson ........... AO1G 9/22 GB 2080850 A * 2, 1982 ........... E04H 15.642
160/84.06 JP 06193361. A 7, 1994
6,257,300 B1* 7/2001 Brownlie ............... A47H 23/00 JP 061933.65 A * 7, 1994
160/264 WO WO 2007/140526 A1 * 12/2007
6,484,739 B1 * 1 1/2002 Sofie ........................ B60J 7,104
114.361 * cited by examiner
U.S. Patent Oct. 18, 2016 Sheet 1 of 29 US 9,470,012 B2

U.S. Patent Oct. 18, 2016 Sheet 2 of 29 US 9.470,012 B2
acre elease -ere

Sease -se
N
F.G. 3

U.S. Patent Oct. 18, 2016 Sheet 5 Of 29 US 9,470,012 B2

U.S. Patent Oct. 18, 2016 Sheet 6 of 29 US 9.470,012 B2



19
18 FIG 9A
19

FIG 11A
FIG 11B




F.G. 6 D
G. 6C
**
C. W3
G. 7A

** m.
%
«…·~-#
^
„.^
-} *
- ------
wi
a 36C 35
- 2
36b A s \{\
2%22%2.
- 36
FG. 19
2
FIG. 20
FIG 21B
G. 22A

rC : 233
FIG. 23F

US 9,470,012 B2
1. 2
CANOPY SYSTEM track running Substantially along the elongated rod, the
upper cavity configured to hold the connection mechanisms.
CROSS-REFERENCE Each of the connection mechanisms can be fastened from
outside the upper cavity. Each accessory can be attached to
The present application is a continuation-in-part (CIP) of 5 one or more of the lower or the upper cavity. A distance
U.S. application Ser. No. 14/448,825, filed on Jul. 31, 2014, control thread can be attached to the elongated rods. Each of
which claims the priority of provisional application No. the connection mechanisms can include a base having a
61/874,623, filed on Sep. 6, 2012. The present application horizontal bar with one or more threaded holes. The elon
also claims the benefit of provisional application No. gated rods can be connected lengthwise, thereby changing
62/240,353, filed on Oct. 12, 2015. All of these applications 10 the length of the canopy system. The elongated rods can be
are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. connected lengthwise through a horizontal bar that overlaps
with two elongated rods that are aligned end to end. A
FIELD OF THE INVENTION Supporting frame can be used having at least one Supporting
post, the Supporting post attached to and Supporting one or
The invention is generally directed to a structural assem 15 more beams, the Support attached to and Supported by the
bly, more particularly to a canopy system used to protect one or more beams. A motor and a pulley can be used, the
against Sunlight, rain, wind, Snow, and the like. motor and pulley configured to Switch the canopy system
between a closed position and an open position. A free
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION standing unit can be used having a Supporting base and at
least one Supporting post, the Supporting post having a lower
Canopies and awnings have been widely used to provide end that is attached to the Supporting base, the Supporting
shade and shelter from Sunlight, rain, wind, Snow or other post having an upper end that is attached to one or more
weather conditions. Typically, canopies or awnings are beams, the Support attached to and Supported by the one or
attached to a building for Support, and often use Support more beams. Two canopy pieces can be used. Each of the
posts to hold the fabric pieces upright. However, many 25 connection mechanisms can include a base having a hori
canopy systems are custom made to meet various design Zontal bar with one or more threaded holes, the base attached
needs, thus adding expense. There is a need for an inexpen to the connector, the horizontal bar of each of the connection
sive canopy system that possesses advantages of using mechanisms capable of being slidably inserted into the
readily available components to allow for inexpensive setup lower track, the threaded fasteners projecting into the upper
and use. It is an object of the present invention to meet this 30 track, the connection mechanisms capable of being fastened
need. from outside the upper cavity.
Provided is an elongated rod comprising: a. a lower cavity
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION with one or more channels; and b. an upper cavity. The lower
cavity can include a groove. The upper cavity can have an
Provided is a canopy system comprising: a two parallel 35 upper track and a lower track, the upper track and lower
elongated rods; b. a canopy piece having two parallel edges; track running Substantially along the elongated rod. The
c. an elongated bar attached to each of the two parallel edges lower cavity can include a groove having an opening into
of the canopy piece; and; d. a connection mechanism one or more channels. The elongated rod can comprise: a) a
attached to each of the elongated rods, each of the connec lower cavity with a groove and one or more channels, with
tion mechanisms having a connector, each of the connectors 40 the groove having an opening in a transverse direction both
capable of being Suspended from a Support. The canopy to the channels and to outside of the elongated rod; and b)
system can comprise: a. one or more additional elongated an upper cavity. The upper cavity can have an upper track
rods; b. one or more additional canopy pieces each having and a lower track, the upper track and lower track running
two parallel edges; c. additional elongated bars attached to Substantially along the elongated rod.
each of the parallel edges of the additional canopy pieces; 45 Provided is a canopy component comprising: a. a canopy
and d. additional connection mechanisms attached to each of piece having two parallel edges; and b. an elongated bar
the additional elongated rods, each of the additional con attached to each of the parallel edges of the canopy piece.
nection mechanisms having an additional connector, each of Provided is a canopy system comprising: a. a first and a
the additional connectors capable of being Suspended from second elongated rod, the first and the second elongated rod
the Support; wherein each of the additional elongated bars is 50 each having a track and positioned parallel to each other; b.
held by each of the additional elongated rods. The elongated a canopy piece having a first and a second parallel edge; c.
bars can be tubular. The support can be a cable wire. The a first and a second elongated bar, the first elongated bar
additional Supports can be connectors capable of being attached to the first parallel edge of the canopy piece, and the
Suspended. The connectors can be capable of being movably second elongated bar attached to the second parallel edge of
Suspended from the Support. Each of the elongated rods can 55 the canopy piece, the first and the second elongated bar
include an endcap. An accessory can be held by the rod. The configured to be held by the first and the second the
accessory can be one or more lights. Each of the elongated elongated rod respectively; and d. at least a first and a second
rods can include at least one lower cavity and at least one connection mechanism, with at least one connection mecha
upper cavity. The lower cavity can include one or more nism attached to the track of each of the first and the second
channels each configured to hold the elongated bars. The 60 elongated rod, each of the first and the second connection
channels can be tubular. The lower cavity can include one or mechanism having a connector, the connector capable of
more channels each configured to hold the elongated bars, being Suspended from a Support and to connect the canopy
the lower cavity having a groove that opens into each of the system to the Support, said first and said second connection
elongated bars held by the channels may exit the elongated 65 detachably fastened at any location along the track of the
rod through the groove. The upper cavity can include an first and the second elongated rod, the first and the second
upper track and a lower track, the upper track and lower connection mechanism configured to be fastened to the track
US 9,470,012 B2
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of the first and the second elongated rod from a top of the by the first and the second the elongated rod respectively;
first and the second elongated rod; wherein the connection and d. a magnet assembly, the magnet assembly having a
mechanism can slide along the track and be fastened to magnet, the magnet assembly attached to the first or the
different positions on the track. second elongated rod, the magnet of the magnet assembly
Provided is a canopy system comprising: a) a first and a 5 configured to form a magnetic connection with an external
second elongated rod, the first and the second elongated rod Support structure to maintain the canopy system in a
positioned parallel to each other; b) a canopy piece having deployed position. The magnet can be threadably attached to
a first and a second parallel edge; c) a first and a second the elongated rod, the threadable attachment configured to
elongated bar, the first elongated bar attached to the first allow the magnet’s position to be adjusted in relation to the
parallel edge of the canopy piece, and the second elongated 10 Support structure. A cap can isolate the magnet from expo
bar attached to the second parallel edge of the canopy piece, Sure to air. The canopy system can further comprise a
the first and the second elongated bar configured to be held handle. The handle can be attached to the elongated rod from
by the first and the second the elongated rod respectively; top of the elongated rod with fasteners, the handle further
and d) at least a first and a second connection mechanism, extending below the elongated rod. A mounting member can
with at least one connection mechanism each slidably 15 be attached to the elongated rod, the mounting member
attached to the first and the second elongated rod, each of the having a threaded loop for receiving a magnet adjusting
first and the second connection mechanism having a con threaded member of the magnet assembly. The handle can be
nector, the connector capable of being Suspended from a attached from top of the elongated rod, the handle having an
Support and to connect the canopy system to the Support, opening configured to allow the threaded loop to rise above
said first and said second connection mechanism further the handle from inside of the elongated rod.
configured to slide along the elongated rod and detachably Provided is a canopy system comprising: a) first and a
fastened at any location along the first and the second second elongated rod, the first and the second elongated rod
elongated rod, the first and the second connection mecha positioned parallel to each other; b) a canopy piece having
nism configured to be fastened to the first and the second a first and a second parallel edge; c) a first and a second
elongated rod. The first and second elongated rods each can 25 elongated bar, the first elongated bar attached to the first
have a track on outside of the elongated rods, the connection parallel edge of the canopy piece, and the second elongated
mechanism configured to slide on the outside track. The bar attached to the second parallel edge of the canopy piece,
connection mechanism can be configured to be fastened to the first and the second elongated bar configured to be held
the track from outside of the first and the second elongated by the first and the second the elongated rod respectively;
rod. The tracks can be on each side of the first and second 30 and one or more of: i) a distance control thread attached to
elongated rod. The connection mechanism can comprise: a) the first and the second elongated rod in a perpendicular
the connector extending upward in a vertical direction from direction, the distance control thread attached from the top
the elongated rod; b) an external slide, the external slide by a fastener that travels inside of the rod; ii) two or more
attached to the connector and riding on top of the elongated roller tracks attached in a perpendicular direction to the first
rod; c) one or more sliders attached to the external slide; 35 and the second elongated rod, the first and the second
wherein the connector Supports the canopy system from the elongated rod configured to be suspended from the track and
Support, and the connector is configured to be moved to any slide along the track, the tracks attached to a Support
position of the elongated rod by moving the external slide structure at each end of the tracks; iii) at least a first and a
along the elongated rod though the sliders sliding through second connection mechanism, with at least one connection
one or more tracks on the first and the second elongated rod. 40 mechanism attached in a horizontal direction to end of the
The connector can be rotatably attached to the external slide, first and the second elongated rod, each of the first and the
allowing the support to run 360 degrees in relation to the first second connection mechanism having a connector, the con
and the second elongated rod in a same plane. The canopy nector configured to attached to a Support and to connect the
system can comprise: a) one or more additional elongated canopy system to the Support. The first and second elongated
rods; b) one or more additional canopy pieces each having 45 rod can have a track, the track configured to have a bar that
two parallel edges; c) additional elongated bars attached to slides along the track wherein a single fastener fastens both
each of the parallel edges of the additional canopy pieces; the bar and the distance control thread to the track. Each
and d) additional connection mechanisms attached to each of elongated rod can have two connection mechanisms, with
the additional elongated rods, each of the additional con one of the two connection mechanisms attached at each end
nection mechanisms having an additional connector, each of 50 of the rod. The connection mechanism can be parallel to the
the additional connectors capable of being Suspended from elongated rod in the horizontal plane. The tracks can have a
the Support; wherein each of the additional elongated bars is roller carriage with a mounting member extending below the
held by each of the additional elongated rods. The first or the track, the mounting member having a loop configured for
second elongated rod can comprise one or more channels, connection to the elongated rod.
each channel configured to hold the elongated bars, the first 55
or the second elongated rod further comprising a groove that BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
opens into each of the channels such that the canopy pieces
connected to the elongated bars held by the channels can exit FIG. 1A is a perspective view of an embodiment of the
the elongated rod through the groove. present invention including a close-up view of the elongated
Provided is a canopy system comprising: a. a first and a 60 rod and connector of the canopy system.
second elongated rod, the first and the second elongated rod FIG. 1B is a cross-sectional view of the elongated rod in
positioned parallel to each other; b. a canopy piece having FIG 1A
a first and a second parallel edge; c. a first and a second FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment
elongated bar, the first elongated bar attached to the first of the present invention.
parallel edge of the canopy piece, and the second elongated 65 FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the elongated rod and
bar attached to the second parallel edge of the canopy piece, connection mechanism of the canopy system having an
the first and the second elongated bar configured to be held endcap.
US 9,470,012 B2
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FIG. 4A is a side view of the connection mechanism FIG. 18A (corresponding to Roman numeral XI in FIG.
inserted in the elongated rod. 18) illustrates roller track running parallel to a support beam
FIG. 4B is a front side view of the connection mechanism and perpendicular to elongated rod.
in FIG. 4A inserted in the elongated rod. FIG. 18B (corresponding to Roman numeral X in FIG.
FIG. 5A is a side view of an embodiment of the present 18) illustrates canopy pieces on each side of elongated rod.
invention illustrating the slidably of the canopy system in a FIG. 18C (corresponding to Roman numeral VIII in FIG.
more closed position. 18) illustrates magnet assembly with adjustable ceramic
FIG. 5B is a side view of the canopy system of FIG. 5A magnet.
in a more open position. FIG. 18D (corresponding to Roman numeral IX in FIG.
FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the 10 18) illustrates roller track attached to a beam.
present invention having Supporting frames and lights. FIG. 19 illustrates a cross-section view of the magnet
FIG. 7 is a top view of an embodiment of the present assembly and handle.
invention having Supporting frames. FIG. 19A illustrates attachment of a handle to the top of
elongated rod with fasteners 38.
FIG. 8 is a top view of an alternate embodiment of the 15 FIG. 19B illustrates a handle, as well as magnet protective
present invention having Supporting frames with a motor Cap.
and pulley. FIG. 19C illustrates a handle, as well as magnet protective
FIG. 9A illustrates a side view of a free standing unit Cap.
having a side Support. FIG. 19D illustrates a handle attached to elongated rod
FIG. 9B illustrates a side view of a free standing unit with fasteners.
having a center Support. FIG. 20 illustrates roller track profile mounting.
FIG. 10 illustrates a canopy system with a top fabric and FIG. 20A is a cross section side view of the roller track
a bottom fabric. profile mounting.
FIG. 11A illustrates a side profile of an elongated rod. FIG. 20B illustrates elongated rod with connector
FIG. 11B illustrates a side profile of an elongated rod. 25 attached to the connector mounting bracket.
FIG. 12 illustrates attachment of two elongated rods end FIG.20C illustrates elongated rod being rollably attached
to end. to roller track through connector.
FIG. 13 illustrates attachment of three elongated rods end FIG. 21 illustrates the attachment of both connector and
to end. distance control thread to the top of the elongated rod.
FIG. 14 illustrates attachment of a solar panel to an 30 FIG. 21A is a cross-section view illustrating the distance
elongated rod. control thread held in place by threaded fastener that is
FIG. 15 illustrates an isometric view of canopy with a attached to elongated rod.
cable on top. FIG. 21B is a cross-section view illustrating the distance
FIG. 15A illustrates (corresponding to Roman numeral III control thread held in place by threaded fastener that is
in FIG. 15) attachment of distance control thread to the top 35 attached to elongated rod.
of elongated rod with a fastener in a perpendicular direction. FIG. 21C, the distance control thread is fastened to the top
FIG. 15B illustrates (corresponding to Roman numeral II of the elongated rod 2.
in FIG. 15) the attachment of both connector and distance FIG.22 illustrates a top plan view of the canopy, showing
control thread to the top of the elongated rod. the distance control thread 11 running in a perpendicular
FIG. 15C illustrates (corresponding to Roman numeral I 40 direction to the elongated rods which are attached to the
in FIG. 15) a close-up of a magnet assembly attached to rod. edges of the canopy pieces 1.
FIG. 16 illustrates a top view of the canopy with a cable FIG.22A is a side view illustrating length of the distance
on top that is illustrated in FIG. 15. control thread being less than the width of canopy piece,
FIG. 16A illustrates connection of canopy pieces to elon thus limiting the distance on how far elongated rods can be
gated rods. 45 moved apart from each other.
FIG. 16B illustrates a handle, which can be accessed FIG. 22B illustrates canopy pieces attached to the elon
manually to change the position of the canopy. gated bars, which are placed inside of elongated rods.
FIG.16C illustrates (corresponding to Roman numeral VI FIG. 23 illustrates a top view of the canopy in an open
in FIG. 16) connection of the ends of S cable wire to each (deployed) position.
other through a cable wire connector. 50 FIG. 23A illustrates a handle, which can be accessed
FIG. 16D illustrates (corresponding to Roman numeral IV manually to change the position of the canopy.
in FIG.16) the canopy in an open position with the magnetic FIG. 23B illustrates connection of canopy pieces to elon
assembly that is attached to elongated rod making a mag gated rods.
netic connection with a magnetic plate. FIG. 23C (corresponding to Roman numeral XIII in FIG.
FIG. 16E illustrates (corresponding to Roman numeral V 55 23) illustrates a distance control thread attached to an
in FIG. 16) the attachment of both connector and distance elongated rod.
control thread to the top of the elongated rod. FIG. 23D (corresponding to Roman Numeral XIV in FIG.
FIG. 17 illustrates top view of the canopy with roller 23) illustrates connection of the ends of S cable wire to each
tracks. other through a cable wire connector.
FIG. 17A illustrates a side view of the canopy system 60 FIG. 23E (corresponding to Roman numeral XV in FIG.
illustrating roller track. 23) illustrates a Support (in this case a cable) running
FIG. 17B illustrates a handle, which can be accessed through a ring and a connector.
manually to change the position of the canopy. FIG. 23F (corresponding to Roman numeral XVI in FIG.
FIG. 17C (corresponding to Roman numeral VII in FIG. 23) illustrates connector end being attached to the end of
17) illustrates a closer view of the roller track. 65 elongated rod.
FIG. 18 is an isometric view of the canopy system with FIG. 24 illustrates a connector slidably attached to a flat
roller tracks and a magnet assembly. top elongated rod.
US 9,470,012 B2
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FIG. 24A illustrates a connector slidably attached to a flat elongated bars 3. Alternatively, for example, the lower
top elongated rod. cavity 20 can have four tubular channels 5. Any number of
FIG. 25 illustrates a connector slidably attached to a round channels 5 can be used.
top elongated rod. The lower cavity 20 can contain a groove 21 having an
FIG. 25A illustrates a connector slidably attached to a opening into each channel 5. These channels 5 can be
round top elongated rod. configured to hold the elongated bars 3, the canopy pieces 1
being connected to the elongated bars 3 through the opening
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE in the groove 21 of the lower cavity 20.
INVENTION Each elongated rod 2 can also include at least one upper
10 cavity 6. The upper cavity 6 can be configured to hold one
The present invention provides a canopy system that is or more connection mechanisms 28. In one embodiment, the
easy to install, repair, is highly adjustable, and can be made upper cavity 6 can be configured to detachably and slidably
from mass produced parts that a user can purchase at a store receive the connection mechanisms 28. Each connection
at relatively reasonable prices. The canopy system is mechanism 28 can include a connector 9 and a base 7. a
expandable both in length and width. The canopy system can 15 Since connector 9 is threadably attached to base 7, connector
easily be repaired by replacing any damaged parts. The 9 can be rotated to allow for connection with a support that
canopy system can be used in any environment that allows runs at any angle in relation to elongated rod 2. The base 7
for hanging the canopy system from a Support. The instal of each connection mechanism 28 can include holes that
lation of the canopy system is very simple and eliminates the may be fastened with a screw from outside the upper cavity
need to have a highly skilled laborer for installation. The 6, thereby securing each connection mechanism 28 into each
canopy system can also be adjusted to hang from as little as upper cavity 6 of elongated rod 2. The connector 9 of each
one Support to a plurality Support depending on the weight connection mechanism 28, for example, a ring or gated
of the canopy system. hook, can be capable of being fixably suspended from the
FIG. 1A illustrates a canopy system according to one support 4. Alternatively, the connector 9 can be movably
embodiment of the present invention. The canopy system 25 Suspended from the Support 4, thereby allowing the canopy
that is illustrated works in a horizontal fashion. There is system to be movably switched from a closed position into
described one or more canopy pieces 1, each having two an open position by moving the elongated rods 2 along
Substantially parallel edges 12. Each canopy piece 1 can be Support 4 away from each other, and from an open position
connected to two or more elongated rods 2. Elongated bars into a closed position by moving the elongated rods 2 along
3 can be connected to the parallel edges 12 of the canopy 30 Support 4 towards each other. In some embodiments, there
piece 1. For example, the opposite parallel edges 12 of can be multiple Supports 4 for the canopy system, such as
canopy piece 1 can be rolled up and attached to the elon multiple cable wires supporting the elongated rods 2. The
gated bars 3. The edges 12 can be sewn, glued, stapled, connectors 9 of multiple connection mechanisms 28 can be
riveted, or attached with other mechanisms. The elongated Suspended, fixed or movably, from the Supports 4 on each
bars 3 can be of various shapes, including tubular (circular), 35 elongated rod 2.
rectangular, triangular, and elliptical. The elongated bars can Various additions to the canopy system are possible. For
also be of various materials, including plastic, and metal, example, each elongated rod 2 may include an endcap 8. In
Such as a one piece fabricated aluminum. The elongated bars one embodiment, the endcap 8 can be removed prior to
3 can be held by each elongated rod 2, thus holding each inserting the elongated bars 3 connected to each canopy
canopy piece 1 in place between two separate elongated rods 40 piece 1 into the channels 5 of each elongated rod 2.
2 of the canopy system. The canopy system itself is Sup Moreover, the groove 21 in the at least one lower cavity 20
ported by one or more Supports 4. Such as cable wires. The of each elongated rod 2 can be configured to hold an
canopy system can be used with as many wires that are accessory 22, for example lights 10. The upper cavity 6 of
needed depending on the weight of the canopy system. For each elongated rod 2 can also be configured to hold second
a large canopy system, a user may desire to run multiple 45 accessories 32 such as a solar charger 33. Furthermore, a
wires and use multiple connection mechanisms. In some distance control thread 11 may be attached to the elongated
embodiments, as shown in FIG. 1B, the elongated bars 3 can rods 2 thereby controlling the distance that the elongated
be held by being inserted into the elongated rods 2. In other rods 2 can be moved along the Support 4.
embodiments, the elongated bars 3 can be held by being The canopy system provided can be modular, that is, it
externally attached (e.g. FIG. 11b) to the elongated rods 2 50 can be made from readily available components. The length
through external channels, rings, hoops or other external of the canopy system can be increased or decreased by
devices without need for internal cavities in elongated rods adding or removing, respectively, additional elongated rods
2. 2 along their lengthwise axes. The width of the canopy
FIG. 1B shows a cross-sectional view describing the system from one end of the support 4 to the other can be
detail inside of each elongated rod 2 and the connection 55 increased or decreased by adding or removing, respectively,
established. Each elongated rod 2 can have at least one lower additional elongated rods 2 which can be Supported by
cavity 20. In this embodiment, the lower cavity 20 can hold additional connection mechanisms 28, by adding or remov
the elongated bars 3 that are connected to the canopy pieces ing additional canopy pieces 1 having opposite parallel
1. In another embodiment, there can be one or more channels edges 12, and by adding or removing additional elongated
5 in the lower cavity 20 which can hold the elongated bars 60 bars 3 attached to the parallel edges 12 of the additional
3. In one embodiment, the channels 5 can be used to canopy pieces 1.
detachably and slidably receive the elongated bars 3. The FIG. 2 illustrates how each canopy piece 1 connected to
channels may have a cross-section of various shapes, includ elongated bar 3 can be placed inside the at least one lower
ing tubular (circular), rectangular, elliptical, and triangular, cavity 20 of each elongated rod 2. The parallel edges 12 of
so that they can hold elongated bars 3 of a corresponding 65 each canopy piece 1 are connected to elongated bars 3. The
shape. For example, the lower cavity 20 can have two elongated bars 3, in turn, are held by the at least one lower
tubular channels 5 as shown in FIG. 1B to hold two tubular cavity 20 of each elongated rod 2. In embodiments with
US 9,470,012 B2
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channels 5, the elongated bars 3 can be detachably and FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B illustrate the canopy system as it
slidably inserted into the channels 5 of the lower cavity 20 switches from a position that is more closed in FIG. SA to
of each elongated rod 2. Each elongated rod 2 is suspended a position that is more open in FIG. 5B. In FIG. 5, the
from the Support 4 using connector 9 of connection mecha canopy system is in a more closed position, the canopy
nism 28, the base 7 of which can be detachably and slidably 5 pieces 1 loosely Suspended between the elongated rods 2, the
inserted and fastened into the at least one upper cavity 6 of elongated rods 2 being in near proximity to each other. In
elongated rod 2. Each connector 9, for example, a ring or FIG. 5B, the canopy system is in a more open position, the
gated hook, can be movably Suspended from Support 4, thus canopy pieces 1 extended to almost a flat Suspension
allowing the canopy system to be switched between a closed between the elongated rods 2, the elongated rods 2 being in
position and open position by moving the elongated rods 2 10 far proximity from each other. In one embodiment, each
along Support 4. elongated rod 2 can be moved towards or away from each
FIG. 3 illustrates another perspective view of the assem other along the Support 4 to transform the canopy system
bly of elongated rod 2. When endcap 8 is removed, the from a closed position into an open position and Vice-versa.
elongated bars 3 connected to the parallel edges 12 of FIG. 6 illustrates the use of the canopy system with a
canopy piece 1 can be detachably and slidably inserted into 15 Supporting frame 13. A Supporting frame 12 can be con
elongated rod 2 such that the canopy pieces 1 can exit the structed, or readily available, to Support the canopy system.
groove 21 in the at least one lower cavity 20 of elongated rod It can be created from wood, metal, or other constructive
2. Moreover when endcap 8 is removed, the base 7 of material. The Supporting frame 13 can have one or more
connection mechanism 28 can be slideably and detachably Supporting posts 19 Supporting one or more beams 29. The
inserted into the upper cavity 6 of elongated rod 2. The base Support 4 for the canopy system, such as cable wire, can be
7 of connection mechanism 28 can be fastened into the attached to the Supporting frame 13, for example, by running
elongated rod 2 from outside the upper cavity 6 using a the wire around four rings 15 or hooks placed at each corner
fastening mechanism such as a screwdriver. The connector of the beams 29 and then attaching and joining together each
9 of connection mechanism 28, for example, a ring or gated end of the wire using a cable wire connector 14.
hook, can be fixedly or movably suspended from one or 25 Accessories 22 can be suspended from each elongated rod
more Supports 4. Such as a cable wire, where movable 2, as illustrated in FIG. 1A, FIG. 1B, and FIG. 6. Examples
Suspension allows the canopy system to Switch between a of accessories include lights 10, insect repellant, speakers,
closed position and open position. projectors, mist producers (humidifiers), fans, decorations,
FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B illustrate the assembly and fastening and other functional items. The accessories 22. Such as lights
of the connection mechanism 28 into the elongated rod 2. 30 10, can be attached to the elongated rods 2 such that they are
The upper cavity 6 of the elongated rod 2 can contain an Suspended beneath the canopy pieces 1. Accessories 22 can
upper track 23 and a lower track 24. The upper track 23 and be attached by attaching the accessory 22 to a holder 25. The
the lower track 24 allow for sliding various objects such as holder 25 can be detachably and slidably placed inside the
the base 7 from a first end of the elongated rod 2 to a second lower cavity 20 of the elongated rod 2. It is possible to
end of the elongated rod 2. The base 7 can include a 35 manufacture a holder 25 that has a standard connection to
horizontal bar 26 and threaded fasteners 27, such as a screw different accessories 22 so that a user may use the same
or bolt. The base 7 can be slidably and detachably inserted holder 25 with different accessories 22.
into the upper cavity 6 such that the horizontal bar 26 is FIG. 7 illustrates a top view of the canopy system that is
placed into the lower track 24, the threaded fasteners 27 Supported by the Supporting frame 13. The canopy system
projecting into the upper track 23. The base 7 can be 40 may be supported by attaching Support 4, for example cable
fastened to the elongated rod 2 using a fastening device Such wire, to supporting frame 13. Multiple supports 4 can be
as a screwdriver. The screwdriver can be used to screw in the connected on opposite sides of Supporting frame 13 using a
threaded fasteners 27 from outside the upper cavity 6 until cable wire connector 14. The Support 4 can run through four
the horizontal bar 26 of connection mechanism 28 is rings 15 each connected to a corner of the beams 29 of
securely fastened inside the lower track 24. The connector 9. 45 supporting frame 13, the beams 29 placed in parallel fashion
for example a ring or gated hook, is attached to the base 7. to each other. The rings 15 can be attached to the supporting
which can then be suspended from a support 4. The hori frame 13, for example by fastening or pressing each ring 15
Zontal bar 26 is of a suitable size to slide in the lower track into the Supporting frame 13. A hook can also be used
23. The horizontal bar 26 can be about 0.5 inches to about instead of a ring 15.
1.5 inches wide, and about 2 inches to about 5 inches long. 50 FIG. 8 describes another embodiment where the support
The horizontal bar 26 can have a plurality of threaded holes ing frame 12 can include a motor 16 and a pulley 17 system.
to allow for the use of the threaded fasteners 27. The motor 16 and the pulley 17 can be attached to opposite
In other embodiments, the length of the canopy system beams 29 of supporting frame 13. When the motor 16 is
can be increased by connecting multiple elongated rods 2 activated, the motor 16 interacts with pulley 17 such that the
lengthwise. The connection can be achieved by positioning 55 elongated rods 2 are moved towards or away from the motor
the connection mechanism 28 Such that one portion of the 16. In this way, the motor 16 and pulley 17 can be used to
horizontal bar 26 with at least one threaded fastener 27 is Switch the canopy system from a closed position to an open
situated in one elongated rod 2, while the remaining portion position and Vice-versa.
of the horizontal bar 26 with at least another threaded FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrate various free standing canopy
fastener 27 is situated in another elongated rod 2. The 60 systems that can be readily purchased. These canopy sys
horizontal bar 26 of the connection mechanism 28 can then tems can be purchased as-is and there is no additional need
be securely fastened inside the lower tracks 24 of both to provide an external, stand-alone Supporting frame 13 for
elongated rods 2 such that their threaded fasteners 27 extend the canopy system since these free standing units come with
into the upper tracks 23 of both elongated rods 2, thereby their own Supporting frame 13. Each free standing unit can
forming a secure connection between the two elongated rods 65 come with a Supporting base 18 that rests on the ground, at
2. The length of the canopy system can later be decreased by least one Supporting post 19 connected at one end to the
unfastening the connected elongated rods 2. supporting base 18, and at least one beam 29 attached at the
US 9,470,012 B2
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opposite end of supporting post 19 which is supported by the beams 29. The user can separately obtain one or more
Support post 19. The canopy system would operate Substan Supports 4 for the canopy system, such as cable wire, and
tially as shown in FIG. 6. attach it to the Supporting frame 13, for example, by running
The material for the canopy pieces 1 can be any suitable the wire around four rings 15 or hooks placed at each corner
material that allows for closing and opening the canopy 5 of the beams 29 and then attaching and joining together each
system. Suitable materials include solid, mesh, and canvas end of the wire using a cable wire connector 14. Alterna
fabric, including fabric that is made from natural or synthetic tively, the user may obtain a free standing unit having a
material. Such as cotton, silk, or polyester. Solid sheets of Supporting base 18 that rests on the ground, at least one
synthetic materials such as plastic or metal can be used as Supporting post 19 connected at one end to the Supporting
long as the sheet is flexible and allows for the canopy system 10 base 18, and at least one beam 29 attached at the opposite
to open and close. The material can be transparent, translu end of supporting post 19 which is supported by the Sup
cent, or opaque. The material can be waterproof. porting post 19, with Support 4 and the canopy system
FIG. 10 illustrates an embodiment where two pieces are already attached. The user can also obtain a Supporting
fabric material, a top material 30 and a bottom material 31, frame 13 having a motor 16 and a pulley 17.
are used as a canopy piece 1 in Vertical relationship with 15 The user can obtain a canopy piece 1 and two elongated
each other. The top material 30 can be a protective water bars 3 and can roll and attach the parallel edges 12 of the
proof material, while the bottom material 31 can be a less canopy piece 1 to the elongated bars 3. The user can then
durable but ornamental piece of material. The top material insert each elongated bar 3 into the channels 5 of two,
30 can also act as a distance control in lieu of a distance separate elongated rods 2 such that the canopy piece 1 is
control thread 11. Both the parallel edges of the top material held in place between the two elongated rods 2. The user can
30 and the parallel edges of the bottom material 31 can be obtain a connection mechanism 28, having a connector 9
connected to the same elongated bars 3, i.e., two parallel attached to a base 7, the base 7 having a horizontal bar 26
edges are connected to each elongated bar 3, which can and one or more threaded fasteners 27, which the user can
dictate a design for an elongated rod 2 with two channels 5. slidably insert into the elongated rod 2 by placing the
In another embodiment, each parallel edge of the top mate 25 horizontal bar 26 into the lower track 24 of the upper groove
rial 30 is connected to a separate elongated bar 3, while each 6 with the threaded fasteners 27 projecting into the upper
parallel edge of the bottom material 31 is connected to a track 23 of the upper cavity 6. The base 7 may be fastened
separate elongated bar 3, i.e., one parallel edge is connected to the elongated rod 2 using a fastening device Such as a
to each elongated bar 3, which can dictate a design for the screwdriver, which may be used to screw in the threaded
elongated rod 2 with four channels 5. 30 fasteners 27 from outside the upper cavity 6 until the
FIGS. 11A and 11B illustrated additional side profiles of horizontal bar 26 of connection mechanism 28 is securely
the elongated rod 2. Elongated bar 3 can be inserted in the fastened inside the lower track 24. The user can then fixably
circular or semi-circular rings on the outside of the elon or movably suspend the connector 9, for example a ring or
gated rod 2. The other rings of the elongated rod 2 can be gated hook, of the securely fastened connection mechanism
used for Suspending the elongated rod 2 and/or for attaching 35 28 from the support 4 attached to the supporting frame 13.
canopy pieces. The user can also attach accessories 22, such as lights 10, to
FIGS. 12 and 13 illustrate attaching elongated rod 2 end a holder 25, which the user can slidably insert inside the
to end to each other. The horizontal bar 26 is moved to groove 21 of the lower cavity 20 of each elongated rod 2.
overlap with two of the elongated rods 2, and the threaded The user can also insert second accessories 32, such as a
fasteners 27 are used to stabilize the attachment. 40 Solar charger, into the upper cavity 6 of each elongated rod
FIG. 14 illustrates attachment of a solar panel 33 as a 2. The user can repeat this process by attaching additional
second accessory to the elongated rod 2. The Solar panel can canopy pieces 1 to additional elongated rods 2 and movably
be attached by using horizontal bar 26 and base 7. Suspending each elongated rod 2 from the one or more
The width of the elongated rod 2 can range between 15 Supports 4, thereby allowing the canopy system to be
millimeters and 25 millimeters. The height of the elongated 45 movably Switched from a closed position into an open
rod 2 can range between 24 millimeters and 34 millimeters. position by moving the elongated rods 2 along Support 4
The width of the groove 21 of the lower cavity 20 can range away from each other, and from an open position into a
between 12 millimeters and 19 millimeters. The height of closed position by moving the elongated rods 2 along
the groove 21 of the lower cavity 20 can range between 5 Support 4 towards each other. The user may also attach a
millimeters and 9 millimeters. The diameter of the tubular 50 distance control thread 11 to the elongated rods 2 thereby
channels 5 can range between 7 millimeters and 9 millime controlling the distance that the elongated rods 2 can be
ters. The width of the opening from the groove 21 into the moved along the Support 4.
tubular channels 5 can range between 4 millimeters and 7 FIG. 15 illustrates an isometric view of canopy with a
millimeters. The width of the opening into the groove 21 cable on top. The canopy pieces 1 are attached to elongated
from outside the elongated rod 2 can range between 4 55 rods 2 through connectors 9 which are suspended from
millimeters and 9 millimeters. The width of the upper track support(cable) 4. Distance control thread 11 is attached to
22 of the upper cavity 6 can range between 7 millimeters and the top of elongated rod 2 and limits the distance from one
12 millimeters. The width of the lower track 23 of the upper elongated rod 2 to another elongated rod 2. Support 4 runs
cavity 6 can range between 11 millimeters and 17 millime through rings 15 attached to supporting frame 13. FIG. 15A
ters. The height of the upper track 22 can range between 2 60 illustrates attachment of distance control thread 11 to the top
millimeters and 5 millimeters. The height of the lower track of elongated rod 2 with a fastener in a perpendicular
23 can range between 2 millimeters and 5 millimeters. The direction. FIG. 15B illustrates the attachment of both con
width of the opening into the upper cavity 6 from outside the nector 9 and distance control thread 11 to the top of the
elongated rod 2 can range between 3 millimeters and 8 elongated rod 2. Support (cable) 4 passes through inside of
millimeters. 65 connector 9 in a perpendicular direction to elongated rod 2.
A user can obtain and construct a Supporting frame 13 FIG. 15C is a close-up of a magnet assembly attached to rod
having one or more Support posts 19 Supporting one or more 2. The magnet assembly makes a magnetic connection with
US 9,470,012 B2
13 14
magnetic plate 37 on supporting frame 13 to stabilize the complements magnet adjusting thread 36.a. Adjustable
canopy in an open position. Magnetic plate 37 can be ceramic magnet is generally made from magnet adjusting
magnetized or be a metal that has not been magnetized. The thread36a, ceramic magnet core 36b, and magnet protective
magnet assembly is attached to the top of elongated rod 2. cap 36c. Threading (or a complementary Snap mechanism)
FIG. 16 illustrates a top view of the canopy with a cable of magnet protective cap 36c complements threading on
on top that is illustrated in FIG.15. FIG. 16A is a side view magnet adjusting thread 36a and protects the ceramic mag
2, and canopy pieces 1 drooping down from the elongated minimize the risk of rusting. The magnet adjusting thread
rods 2 which are attached to support frame 13. Also illus 36a has threading which is configured to allow the position
trated is handle 34 for changing the position of the canopy 10 of the magnet to be adjusted in relation to magnetic plate 37.
from an open (deployed) position to a closed (stowed) The elongated rod 2 closest to the magnetic plate 37 need not
position, and vice-versa. FIG. 16B illustrates the same be in a precise position for attachment since the position of
handle 34, which can be accessed manually to change the the ceramic magnet core 36b can be adjusted in relation to
position of the canopy. FIG. 16C illustrates the connection magnetic plate 37. Also illustrated is handle 34, which is
of the ends of cable wire 4 to each other through Cable wire 15 attached to elongated rod 2 via magnet mounting slide 35.
connector 14. FIG. 16D illustrates the canopy in an open The handle 34 extends down elongated rod 2, and faces
position with the magnetic assembly that is attached to away from the other elongated rods 2 of the canopy.
elongated rod 2 making a magnetic connection with a Depending on the user, none, one, or both of the handle and
magnetic plate 37 on beam 29 to stabilize the canopy system the magnet can be used.
in the open position. The magnetic plate 37 can be an actual FIG. 19A is a top view illustrating attachment of handle
magnet or a metal that can form a magnetic connection. FIG. 34 to the top of elongated rod 2 with fasteners 38. The
16E illustrates the attachment of both connector 9 and magnet adjusting thread36a is in a perpendicular position in
distance control thread 11 to the top of the elongated rod 2. relation to top of handle 34 that is attached to elongated rod
Support (cable) 4 passes through inside of connector 9 in a 2. The magnet adjusting thread 36a is attached to a loop in
perpendicular direction to elongated rod 2. In this illustra 25 magnet mounting slide 35 that Sticks out of the opening in
tion, because of the proximity of the distance control thread handle 34. FIGS. 19B and 19C are front and back views
11 to connector 9, horizontal bar 26 of connector 9 can be illustrating handle 34, as well as magnet protective cap 36C
positioned under the distance control thread 11, and the in FIG. 19B and the back of the magnet adjusting thread36a
fastener 38 that goes through the opening of distance control in FIG. 19C. FIG. 19D is an isometric view illustrating
thread 11 also goes into the opening of the horizontal bar 26. 30 handle 34 attached to elongated rod 2 with fasteners 38.
fastener 27 (See FIG. 21b). which adjusting thread 36a is threadably attached. The
FIG. 17 illustrates top view of the canopy with roller track magnet protective cap 36C is touching magnetic plate 37
40, which are attached to support frame 13 and run in which is attached to beam 29 with fasteners 52. A magnetic
perpendicular direction to elongated rods 2. FIG. 17A is a 35 connection is made between the magnet assembly and beam
side view of the canopy system illustrating roller track 40. 29, which the user can terminate by pulling the canopy away
FIG. 17B illustrates the same handle 34, which can be with handle 34.
accessed manually to change the position of the canopy. FIG. 20 illustrates the roller track 40 profile mounting.
FIG. 17C is a closer view of the roller track 40, which run Illustrated is elongated rod 2, threaded fastener 27, roller
in perpendicular direction to elongated rods 2. Rollers 39 40 track 40, roller track mounting bracket 41, and end connec
can rollably move in roller track 40. Rollers carriage 39 can tor mounting bracket 43. Elongated rod 2 is suspended
have a roller mounting loop 39a for attachment connector 9 below track 40. FIG. 20A is a cross section side view of the
of elongated rod 2. roller track profile mounting. A roller carriage 39 is illus
FIG. 18 is an isometric view of the canopy system with trated with rollers 39b and roller mounting loop 39a. Con
roller tracks 40 and a magnet assembly. Roller tracks 40 are 45 nector 9 goes around the roller mounting loop 39.a. Elon
attached to Supporting frame 13 by roller track mounting gated rod 2 is rollably moves along roller track 40 via roller
bracket 41. Elongated rods 2 are placed in perpendicular carriage 39. FIG. 20B illustrates elongated rod 2 with
direction to the roller track 40 and slide along roller track 40. connector 9 attached to the connector mounting bracket 42.
FIG. 18A illustrates roller track 40 running parallel to In this embodiment, connector mounting bracket 42 also
Support beam of Supporting frame 13 and perpendicular to 50 acts as an end cap 8. Also illustrated are track roller retainer
elongated rod 2. Elongated rod 2 is suspended from and 40b, track mounting bracket 41, and track mounting bracket
supported by track 40. hithis embodiment, the elongated rod screw holes 41a. Track mounting bracket screw holes 41a
2 is not directly attached to supporting frame 13. FIG. 18B are used to attached the track mounting bracket 41 to
illustrates canopy pieces 1 on each side of elongated rod 2. supporting frame 13. FIG. 20O is an isometric view illus
FIG. 18C illustrates magnet assembly with adjustable 55 trating elongated rod 2 being rollably attached to roller track
ceramic magnet 36. The magnet assembly makes a magnetic 40 through connector 9, which is attached to connector
connection with a magnetic plate 37 that is placed on mounting bracket 42. Connector mounting bracket 42 also
supporting frame 13. Also illustrated is an isometric view of functions as an end cap 8. Connector 9 goes around roller
the handle 34 attached to rod 2. FIG. 18D illustrates roller mounting loop 39a. Also illustrated are rollers 39b, roller
track 40 attached to beam 29 of supporting frame 13 with the 60 track mounting clearance 40a, track mounting bracket 41,
use of track mounting 41. and Connector mounting bracket 42.
FIG. 19 illustrates a cross-section view of the magnet FIG. 21 illustrates the attachment of both connector 9 and
assembly and handle 34. Magnet mounting slide 35 is distance control thread 11 to the top of the elongated rod 2.
attached to rod 2. Magnet mounting slide 35 is configured to Distance control thread 11 has spaced openings A which are
slide along the upper or lower track of the elongated rod 2 65 configured to allow adjustment by the user as to how much
and be positioned at any point in the elongated rod 2. Magnet to restrict the distance of one elongated rod to another. In this
mounting slide 35 has a threaded circular opening that illustration, because of the proximity of the distance control
US 9,470,012 B2
15 16
thread 11 to connector 9, horizontal bar 26 of connector 9 have an enclosed upper cavity that is separated from the
can be positioned under the distance control thread 11, and tubular openings 5 of elongated rod 2. Short set screw 203
control thread 11 also goes into the opening of the horizontal outside track 50 of elongated rod 2.
bar 26. In this arrangement, fastener 38 also performs the
role of fastener 27. REFERENCE NUMBERS
FIGS. 21A and 21B are a cross-section views illustrating
the Distance control thread 11 held in place by threaded . Canopy pieces
fastener 38 that is attached to elongated rod 2. As illustrated . Elongated rods
in these figures and FIG. 21C, the distance control thread 11 10 . Elongated bars
is fastened to the top of the elongated rod 2. A single fattener . Support
38 can go through the opening of distance control thread 11 . Tubular channels
and the opening of the horizontal bar 26. The Distance . Upper cavity
control thread 11 can have a plurality of limiting strap . Base
marking (equally spaced A) 11a, which provide an opening 15 . End cap
for fastening the distance control thread 11 to elongated rod . Connector
2. 10. Lights
FIG. 22 illustrates a top plan view of the canopy, showing 11. Distance control thread
the distance control thread 11 running in a perpendicular 11a. Limiting strap marking (equally spaced A)
direction to the elongated rods 2 which are attached to the 12. Parallel edges
edges of the canopy pieces 1. FIG. 22A is a side view 13. Supporting frame
illustrating length of the distance control thread 11 being less 14. Cable wire connector
than the width of canopy piece 1, thus limiting the distance 15. Rings
on how far elongated rods 2 can be moved apart from each 16. Motor
other. FIG. 22B illustrates canopy pieces 1 attached to the 25 17. Pulley
elongated bars 3, which are placed inside of elongated rods 18. Supporting base
2. Horizontal bar 26 is placed inside the track of the 19. Supporting post
elongated bar, and is rotatably attached (through a threaded 20. Lower cavity
fastener) to connector 9. Connector 9 is then attached to 21. Groove
Support 4, resulting in Suspension of the canopy from 30 22. Accessory
Support 4. 23. Upper track
FIG. 23 illustrates a top view of the canopy in an open 24. Lower track
(deployed) position. The main difference between the 25. Holder
canopy illustrated in this figure versus FIG. 16 is that 26. Horizontal bar
support 9 is attached to the ends of the elongated rods and 35 27. Threaded fasteners
extends out of the elongated rods at the ends in the same 28. Connection mechanism
direction as the elongated rods 2. Because the connector 29. Beams
does not rise above the elongated rod 2, the elongated rods 30. Top material
can be on the same level as Support 4. So not requiring 31. Bottom material
additional vertical clearance to install the canopy system by 40 32. Second accessory
requiring Support 4 to be positioned above elongated rod 2. 34. Handle
FIG. 23A has the same illustration as FIG. 16B. FIG. 23B 35. Magnet mounting slide
has the same illustration as FIG. 16A. FIG. 231) has the 36. Adjustable ceramic magnet
same illustration as FIG. 16C. FIGS. 23C, 23E, and 23F 36a. Magnet adjusting thread
illustrate connector end being attached to the end of elon 45 36b. Ceramic magnet core
gated rod 2. FIG. 23C illustrates Canopy pieces 1, Support 36c. Magnet protective cap
4. Connector 9, distance control thread 11, and cone point 37. Magnetic plate
mounting screw 38. The fastener 38 can be used to fasten 38. Cone point mounting screw (fastener)
both the distance control thread 11 and connector 9 (through 39. Roller carriage
horizontal bar 26) to the elongated rod 2. FIG. 23E illustrates 50 39a. Roller mounting loop
Support 4 (in this case a cable) running through ring 15 and 39b. Roller
connector 9. Connector 9 is attached to end profile retainer 40. Roller track
eyelet loop 44, which is attached to beam 29. FIG. 23F 40a. Roller track mounting bracket clearance
illustrates connector 9 attached to the end of elongated rod 40b. Track roller retainer
2. Also illustrated are support 4, beams 29, cone point 55 41. Roller track mounting bracket
mounting screw 38, horizontal connector mounting bracket 41a. Track mounting bracket screw hole
45, and connector mounting 46. 42. Connector mounting bracket
FIGS. 24 and 25 illustrate connector 9 (in form of a swivel 43. End connector mounting bracket
clip) that can be positioned at any point on the elongated rod 44. End profile retainer eyelet loop
2 by sliding external slide 47 along the elongated rod 2. The 60 45. Horizontal connector mounting bracket
external slide 47, to which connector 9 is rotatably attached, 46. Connector mounting
sits on top of elongated rod as illustrated in FIGS. 23 and 24, 47. External slide
and is configured to slide along outside track 50 of elongated 48. Short set screw
rod 2. Track sliders 51 on each side of external slide 47 49. Enclosed Upper Cavity
maintain external slide 47 on top of elongated rod 2. The 65 50. Outside track
external slide 47 can be round or flat depending on profile of 51. track slider
elongated rod 2. In this embodiment, elongated rod 2 can 52. Fastener
US 9,470,012 B2
17 18
What is claimed is: elongated rods, the magnet of the magnet assembly
1. A canopy system comprising: configured to form a magnetic connection with an
a. two or more elongated rods positioned parallel to each external support structure to maintain the canopy sys
other, each of the elongated rods having an enclosed tem in a deployed position and wherein the magnet is
cavity; 5 threadably attached to said one of the elongated rods,
b. at least one canopy piece having two parallel edges; the threaded attachment configured to allow the mag
c. two or more of elongated bars, each of the elongated net's position to be adjusted in relation to the support
bars attached to one of the edges of at least one canopy Structure.
piece, each of the elongated bars configured to be held 7. The canopy system of claim 6, further comprising a cap
by one of the elongated rods; and 10 that isolates the magnet from exposure to air.
d. at least two connection mechanisms, with at least one 8. The canopy system of claim 6, further comprising a
connection mechanism slidably attached to each of the handle
elongated rods, each of the connection mechanisms assemblyattached is
to the elongated rod to which the magnet
attached.
having a connector, the connector configured to be
Suspended from a support and to connect the canopy 15 9. The canopy system of claim 8, wherein the handle is
System to the support, each of the connection mecha attached to the elongated rod from top of the elongated rod
nisms further configured to slide along tracks on oppo with fasteners, the handle further extending below the elon
sites side of the enclosed cavity of the elongated rods gated rod.
and detachably fastened at any location along the 10. The canopy system of claim 9, further comprising a
elongated rods. 2O mounting member attached to the elongated rod, the mount
2. The canopy system of claim 1, wherein each connection ing member having a threaded loop for receiving a magnet
mechanism comprises: adjusting threaded member of the magnet assembly.
a) the connector extending upward in a vertical direction 11. The canopy system of claim 10, wherein the handle is
from one elongated rod; attached from top of the elongated rod, the handle having an
b) an external slide, the external slide attached to the 25 opening configured to allow the threaded loop to rise above
connector and riding on top of said one elongated rod; the handle from inside of the elongated rod.
c) one or more sliders attached to the external slide; 12. A canopy system comprising:
wherein the connector supports the canopy system from a) two or more elongated rods, the elongated rods posi
the Support, and the connector is configured to be tioned parallel to each other;
moved to any position along of said one elongated rod 30 b) at least one canopy piece having a first and a second
by moving the external slide along the elongated rod by parallel edge;
the sliders sliding through one or more tracks on said c) two or more of elongated bars, each of the elongated
one elongated rod. bars attached to one of the edges of at least one canopy
3. The canopy system of claim 2, wherein each connector piece, each of the elongated bars configured to be held
is rotatably attached to one external slide, allowing the 35 by one of the elongated rods; and
support to run 360 degrees in relation to the elongated rods. d) a distance control thread attached to the elongated rods
4. The canopy system of claim 1, further comprising in a perpendicular direction, the distance control thread
a. one or more additional elongated rods; attached from the top of the elongated rods by a
b. one or more additional canopy pieces each having two fastener that extend into a track.
parallel edges; 40
c. additional elongated bars attached to each of the 13. The canopy system of claim 12, wherein, the track
parallel edges of the additional canopy pieces; and configured to have a bar that slides along the track, wherein
d. additional connection mechanisms attached to each of a single fastener fastens both the bar and the distance control
thread to the track.
the additional elongated rods, each of the additional 14. The canopy system of claim 12, wherein each of the
connection mechanisms having an additional connec- 45 elongated rods has two connection mechanisms, with each
tor, each of the additional connectors capable of being of the two connection mechanisms attached at one end of
suspended from the support; one elongated rod.
wherein each of the additional elongated bars is held by 15. A canopy system comprising:
each of the additional elongated rods. a. two or more elongated rods, the elongated rods posi
5. The canopy system of claim 1, wherein each of the 50 tioned parallel to each other;
elongated rods comprise two channels, each channel con b. at least one canopy piece having two parallel edges;
figured to hold one elongated bar, the elongated rods further c. two or more of elongated bars, each, of the elongated
comprising a groove that opens into each of the channels
Such that the canopy pieces connected to the elongated bars bars attached to one of the edges of at least one canopy
held by the channels can exit the elongated rod through the 55 piece, each of the elongated bars configured to be held
groove. by one of the elongated rods; and
6. A canopy system comprising: d. at least two connection mechanisms, with at least one
a. two or more of elongated rods, the elongated rods connection mechanism for each of the elongated rods,
positioned parallel to each other; each of the connection mechanisms sliclably attached
b. at least one canopy piece having a first and a second 60 to one of the elongated rods, each of the first and the
parallel edge; second each of the connection mechanisms having a
c. two or more of elongated bars, each of the elongated connector, the connector configured to be suspended
bars attached to one of the edges of at least one canopy from a support and to connect the canopy system to the
piece, each of the elongated bars configured to be held Support, wherein the connector is further configured to
by one of the elongated rods; 65 rotate, allowing the Support to run 360 degrees in
d. a magnet assembly, the magnet assembly having a relation to the elongated rods.
magnet, the magnet assembly attached to one of the ck ck sk sk *k
USOO9255441B2
(12) United States Patent (10) Patent No.: US 9.255.441 B2

Shargani (45) Date of Patent: Feb. 9, 2016
(54) CANOPY SYSTEM (56) References Cited
(71) Applicant: Afshin Shargani, Los Angeles, CA (US) U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS
(72) Inventor: Afshin Shargani, Los Angeles, CA (US) 1 s: A ck 3.33. Sas 160/84.06
aw ?o, Sr.
(*) Notice: Subject to any disclaimer, the term of this 1,899,062 A 2, 1933 Stellen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 160, 193
patent is extended or adjusted under 35 (Continued)
U.S.C. 154(b) by O. davs.
(b) by 0 days FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS
(21) Appl. No.: 14/448,825 DE 3727292 A1 * 1, 1988 AO1G 922
FR 2608192 A1 * 6, 1988 ................ E04B 1.00
(22) Filed: Jul. 31, 2014 (Continued)
O1
(65) Prior Publication Data OTHER PUBLICATIONS

US 2015/OO68569 A1 Mar. 12, 2015 http://www.corradiusa.com/index.php?option com k2
Related U.S. Application Data sis initelyut cargoyenk cassopsid to Aug. 5,
(60) Provisional application No. 61/874,623, filed on Sep. (Continued)
6, 2013.
(51) Int. Cl. Primary Examiner — Robert Canfield
E6B 9/262 (2006.01) (74) Attorney, Agent, or Firm — Payam Moradian
E04F IO/02 (2006.01)
E04F IO/06 (2006.01) (57) ABSTRACT
(Continued) There is described a canopy system comprising two or more
parallel elongated rods, one or more canopy pieces having
(52) U.S. Cl. two parallel edges, two or more elongated bars connected to
CPC ............. E06B 9/262 (2013.01); E04F 10/0607 each of the two or more parallel elongated rods and attached
(2013.01); E04F 10/0633 (2013.01); E04F to each of the two parallel edges of the one or more canopy
I0/0666 (2013.01); E04H 15/58 (2013.01); pieces, and at least one connection mechanism attached to
E04H 15/642 (2013.01); E06B 2009/2625 each of the elongated rods having a connector that is capable
(2013.01) of being Suspended from a Support. The elongated rods may
(58) Field of Classification Search include at least one lower cavity having two channels each
CPC ............ E06B 9/262: E06B 2009/2625; E06B configured to detachably and slidably receive each of the
2009/247; A01G 9/22; E04F 10/02; E04F elongated bars. The lower cavity may have a groove that is
10/0607; E04F 10/0666; E04F 10/0659; configured to detachably and slidably receive an accessory.
E04F 10/0633; E04H 15/04; E04H 15/10 The elongated rods each may include at least one upper cavity
USPC ......... 160/46, 84.01, 84.06, 127:47/17, 22.1; configured to detachably and slidably receive each connec
135/90,91; 248/317,340; 40/617; tion mechanism and a second accessory.
104/89, 91, 94
See application file for complete search history. 28 Claims, 13 Drawing Sheets
US 9.255.441 B2
Page 2
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5,203,135 A 4, 1993 Bastian ........................... 52/848
5,265,373 A * 1 1/1993 Vollebregt ....................... 47/17 Picture of custom made shade Before Jul. 30, 2014.
5,480,116 A * 1/1996 Callas ....................... GO9F 7/08
248,228.4 * cited by examiner
U.S. Patent Feb. 9, 2016 Sheet 1 of 13 US 9.255.441 B2


FG. 3
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19
8 FIG 9A
29
FIG. 9B
s
FIG 11A
FIG 11B
U.S. Patent Feb. 9, 2016 Sheet 12 of 13


US 9.255,441 B2
1. 2
CANOPY SYSTEM Each of the connection mechanisms can include a base having
a horizontal bar with one or more threaded holes. The elon
CROSS-REFERENCE gated rods can be connected lengthwise, thereby changing the
length of the canopy system. The elongated rods can be con
The present application claims the priority of provisional nected lengthwise through a horizontal bar that overlaps with
application No. 61/874,623, filed on Sep. 6, 2013, which is two elongated rods that are aligned end to end. A Supporting
incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. frame can be used having at least one Supporting post, the
Supporting post attached to and Supporting one or more
FIELD OF THE INVENTION beams, the Support attached to and Supported by the one or
10
more beams. A motor and a pulley can be used, the motor and
The invention is generally directed to a structural assembly, pulley configured to Switch the canopy system between a
more particularly to a canopy system used to protect against closed position and an open position. A free standing unit can
Sunlight, rain, wind, Snow, and the like. be used having a Supporting base and at least one Supporting
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 15 post, the Supporting post having a lower end that is attached to
the Supporting base, the Supporting post having an upper end
Canopies and awnings have been widely used to provide that is attached to one or more beams, the Support attached to
shade and shelter from Sunlight, rain, wind, Snow or other and Supported by the one or more beams. Two canopy pieces
weather conditions. Typically, canopies or awnings are can be used. Each of the connection mechanisms can include
attached to a building for Support, and often use Support posts a base having a horizontal bar with one or more threaded
to hold the fabric pieces upright. However, many canopy holes, the base attached to the connector, the horizontalbar of
systems are custom made to meet various design needs, thus each of the connection mechanisms capable of being slidably
adding expense. There is a need for an inexpensive canopy inserted into the lower track, the threaded fasteners projecting
system that possesses advantages of using readily available into the upper track, the connection mechanisms capable of
components to allow for inexpensive setup and use. It is an 25 being fastened from outside the upper cavity.
object of the present invention to meet this need. Provided is an elongated rod comprising: a. a lower cavity
with one or more channels, and b. an upper cavity. The lower
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION cavity can include a groove. The upper cavity can have an
upper track and a lower track, the upper track and lower track
Provided is a canopy system comprising: a two parallel 30 running Substantially along the elongated rod. The lower
elongated rods; b. a canopy piece having two parallel edges; cavity can include a groove having an opening into one or
c. an elongated bar attached to each of the two parallel edges more channels. The elongated rod can comprise: a) a lower
of the canopy piece; and; d. a connection mechanism attached cavity with a groove and one or more channels, with the
to each of the elongated rods, each of the connection mecha groove having an opening in a transverse direction both to the
nisms having a connector, each of the connectors capable of 35 channels and to outside of the elongated rod; and b) an upper
being Suspended from a Support. The canopy system can cavity. The upper cavity can have an upper track and a lower
comprise: a. one or more additional elongated rods; b. one or track, the upper track and lower track running Substantially
more additional canopy pieces each having two parallel along the elongated rod.
edges; c. additional elongated bars attached to each of the Provided is a canopy component comprising: a. a canopy
parallel edges of the additional canopy pieces; and d. addi 40 piece having two parallel edges; and b. an elongated bar
tional connection mechanisms attached to each of the addi attached to each of the parallel edges of the canopy piece.
tional elongated rods, each of the additional connection
mechanisms having an additional connector, each of the addi BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
tional connectors capable of being Suspended from the Sup
port; wherein each of the additional elongated bars is held by 45 FIG. 1A is a perspective view of an embodiment of the
each of the additional elongated rods. The elongated bars can present invention including a close-up view of the elongated
be tubular. The support can be a cable wire. The additional rod and connector of the canopy system.
Supports can be connectors capable of being Suspended. The FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of the elongated rod in FIG.
connectors can be capable of being movably Suspended from 1A.
the Support. Each of the elongated rods can include an endcap. 50 FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of
An accessory can be held by the rod. The accessory can be one the present invention.
or more lights. Each of the elongated rods can include at least FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the elongated rod and
one lower cavity and at least one upper cavity. The lower connection mechanism of the canopy system having an end
cavity can include one or more channels each configured to Cap.
hold the elongated bars. The channels can be tubular. The 55 FIG. 4A is a side view of the connection mechanism
lower cavity can include one or more channels each config inserted in the elongated rod.
ured to hold the elongated bars, the lower cavity having a FIG. 4B is a front side view of the connection mechanism
groove that opens into each of the channels such that the in FIG. 4A inserted in the elongated rod.
canopy pieces connected to the elongated bars held by the FIG. 5A is a side view of an embodiment of the present
channels may exit the elongated rod through the groove. The 60 invention illustrating the slidably of the canopy system in a
upper cavity can include an upper track and a lower track, the more closed position.
upper track and lower track running Substantially along the FIG. 5B is a side view of the canopy system of FIG. 5A in
elongated rod, the upper cavity configured to hold the con a more open position.
nection mechanisms. Each of the connection mechanisms can FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the
be fastened from outside the upper cavity. Each accessory can 65 present invention having Supporting frames and lights.
be attached to one or more of the lower or the upper cavity. A FIG. 7 is a top view of an embodiment of the present
distance control thread can be attached to the elongated rods. invention having Supporting frames.
US 9.255,441 B2
3 4
FIG. 8 is a top view of an alternate embodiment of the embodiment, there can be one or more channels 5 in the lower
present invention having Supporting frames with a motor and cavity 20 which can hold the elongated bars3. In one embodi
pulley. ment, the channels 5 can be used to detachably and slidably
FIG. 9A illustrates a side view of a free standing unit receive the elongated bars 3. The channels may have a cross
having a side Support. section of various shapes, including tubular (circular), rect
FIG. 9B illustrates a side view of a free standing unit angular, elliptical, and triangular, so that they can hold elon
having a center Support. gated bars 3 of a corresponding shape. For example, the lower
FIG. 10 illustrates a canopy system with a top fabric and a cavity 20 can have two tubular channels 5 as shown in FIG. 1B
bottom fabric. to hold two tubular elongated bars 3. Alternatively, for
FIG. 11A illustrates a side profile of an elongated rod. 10 example, the lower cavity 20 can have four tubular channels 5.
FIG. 11B illustrates a side profile of an elongated rod. Any number of channels 5 can be used.
FIG. 12 illustrates attachment of two elongated rods end to The lower cavity 20 can contain a groove 21 having an
end. opening into each channel 5. These channels 5 can be con
FIG. 13 illustrates attachment of three elongated rods end figured to hold the elongated bars 3, the canopy pieces 1 being
to end. 15 connected to the elongated bars 3 through the opening in the
FIG. 14 illustrates attachment of a solar panel to an elon groove 21 of the lower cavity 20.
gated rod. Each elongated rod 2 can also include at least one upper
cavity 6. The upper cavity 6 can be configured to hold one or
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION more connection mechanisms 28. In one embodiment, the
upper cavity 6 can be configured to detachably and slidably
The present invention provides a canopy system that is easy receive the connection mechanisms 28. Each connection
to install, repair, is highly adjustable, and can be made from mechanism 28 can include a connector 9 and a base 7. The
mass produced parts that a user can purchase at a store at base 7 of each connection mechanism 28 can include holes
relatively reasonable prices. The canopy system is expand that may be fastened with a screw from outside the upper
able both in length and width. The canopy system can easily 25 cavity 6, thereby securing each connection mechanism 28
be repaired by replacing any damaged parts. The canopy into each upper cavity 6 of elongated rod 2. The connector 9
system can be used in any environment that allows for hang of each connection mechanism 28, for example, a ring or
ing the canopy system from a Support. The installation of the gated hook, can be capable of being fixably suspended from
canopy system is very simple and eliminates the need to have the support 4. Alternatively, the connector 9 can be movably
a highly skilled laborer for installation. The canopy system 30 Suspended from the Support 4, thereby allowing the canopy
can also be adjusted to hang from as little as one Support to a system to be movably Switched from a closed position into an
plurality support depending on the weight of the canopy open position by moving the elongated rods 2 along support
system. 4 away from each other, and from an open position into a
FIG. 1A illustrates a canopy system according to one closed position by moving the elongated rods 2 along Support
embodiment of the present invention. The canopy system that 35 4 towards each other. In some embodiments, there can be
is illustrated works in a horizontal fashion. There is described multiple Supports 4 for the canopy system, such as multiple
one or more canopy pieces 1, each having two Substantially cable wires supporting the elongated rods 2. The connectors 9
parallel edges 12. Each canopy piece 1 can be connected to of multiple connection mechanisms 28 can be suspended,
two or more elongated rods 2. Elongated bars 3 can be con fixed or movably, from the Supports 4 on each elongated rod
nected to the parallel edges 12 of the canopy piece 1. For 40 2.
example, the opposite paralleledges 12 of canopy piece 1 can Various additions to the canopy system are possible. For
be rolled up and attached to the elongated bars3. The edges 12 example, each elongated rod 2 may include an endcap 8. In
can be sewn, glued, stapled, riveted, or attached with other one embodiment, the endcap 8 can be removed prior to insert
mechanisms. The elongated bars 3 can be of various shapes, ing the elongated bars 3 connected to each canopy piece 1 into
including tubular (circular), rectangular, triangular, and ellip 45 the channels 5 of each elongated rod 2. Moreover, the groove
tical. The elongated bars can also be of various materials, 21 in the at least one lower cavity 20 of each elongated rod 2
including plastic, and metal. Such as a one piece fabricated can be configured to hold an accessory 22, for example lights
aluminum. The elongated bars 3 can be held by each elon 10. The upper cavity 6 of each elongated rod 2 can also be
gated rod 2, thus holding each canopy piece 1 in place configured to hold second accessories 32 Such as a Solar
between two separate elongated rods 2 of the canopy system. 50 charger 33. Furthermore, a distance control thread 11 may be
The canopy system itself is supported by one or more Sup attached to the elongated rods 2 thereby controlling the dis
ports 4. Such as cable wires. The canopy system can be used tance that the elongated rods 2 can be moved along the Sup
with as many wires that are needed depending on the weight port 4.
of the canopy system. For a large canopy system, a user may The canopy system provided can be modular, that is, it can
desire to run multiple wires and use multiple connection 55 be made from readily available components. The length of the
mechanisms. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 1B, the canopy system can be increased or decreased by adding or
elongated bars 3 can be held by being inserted into the elon removing, respectively, additional elongated rods 2 along
gated rods 2. In other embodiments, the elongated bars 3 can their lengthwise axes. The width of the canopy system from
be held by being externally attached (e.g. FIG. 11) to the one end of the support 4 to the other can be increased or
elongated rods 2 through external channels, rings, hoops or 60 decreased by adding or removing, respectively, additional
other external devices without need for internal cavities in elongated rods 2 which can be supported by additional con
elongated rods 2. nection mechanisms 28, by adding or removing additional
FIG. 1B shows a cross-sectional view describing the detail canopy pieces 1 having opposite parallel edges 12, and by
inside of eachelongated rod 2 and the connection established. adding or removing additional elongated bars 3 attached to
Each elongated rod 2 can have at least one lower cavity 20. In 65 the parallel edges 12 of the additional canopy pieces 1.
this embodiment, the lower cavity 20 can hold the elongated FIG. 2 illustrates how each canopy piece 1 connected to
bars 3 that are connected to the canopy pieces 1. In another elongated bar 3 can be placed inside the at least one lower
US 9.255,441 B2
5 6
cavity 20 of each elongated rod 2. The parallel edges 12 of between the two elongated rods 2. The length of the canopy
each canopy piece 1 are connected to elongated bars 3. The system can later be decreased by unfastening the connected
elongated bars 3, in turn, are held by the at least one lower elongated rods 2.
cavity 20 of each elongated rod 2. In embodiments with FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B illustrate the canopy system as it
channels 5, the elongated bars 3 can be detachably and slid 5 switches from a position that is more closed in FIG. 5A to a
ably inserted into the channels 5 of the lower cavity 20 of each position that is more open in FIG. 5B. In FIG.5A, the canopy
elongated rod 2. Each elongated rod 2 is Suspended from the system is in a more closed position, the canopy pieces 1
Support 4 using connector 9 of connection mechanism 28, the loosely suspended between the elongated rods 2, the elon
base 7 of which can be detachably and slidably inserted and gated rods 2 being in near proximity to each other. In FIG.5B,
fastened into the at least one upper cavity 6 of elongated rod 10 the canopy system is in a more open position, the canopy
2. Each connector 9, for example, a ring orgated hook, can be pieces 1 extended to almost a flat Suspension between the
movably Suspended from Support 4, thus allowing the canopy elongated rods 2, the elongated rods 2 being in far proximity
system to be switched between a closed position and open from each other. In one embodiment, eachelongated rod 2 can
position by moving the elongated rods 2 along Support 4. be moved towards or away from each other along the Support
15 4 to transform the canopy system from a closed position into
FIG.3 illustrates another perspective view of the assembly an open position and Vice-versa.
ofelongated rod 2. When endcap 8 is removed, the elongated FIG. 6 illustrates the use of the canopy system with a
bars 3 connected to the paralleledges 12 of canopy piece 1 can Supporting frame 13. A Supporting frame 13 can be con
be detachably and slidably inserted into elongated rod 2 such structed, or readily available, to support the canopy system. It
that the canopy pieces 1 can exit the groove 21 in the at least can be created from wood, metal, or other constructive mate
one lower cavity 20 of elongated rod 2. Moreover when rial. The Supporting frame 13 can have one or more Support
endcap 8 is removed, the base 7 of connection mechanism 28 ing posts 19 Supporting one or more beams 29. The Support 4
can be slideably and detachably inserted into the upper cavity for the canopy system, Such as cable wire, can be attached to
6 of elongated rod 2. The base 7 of connection mechanism 28 the Supporting frame 13, for example, by running the wire
can be fastened into the elongated rod 2 from outside the 25 around four rings 15 or hooks placed at each corner of the
upper cavity 6 using a fastening mechanism such as a screw beams 29 and then attaching and joining together each end of
driver. The connector 9 of connection mechanism 28, for the wire using a cable wire connector 14.
example, a ring or gated hook, can be fixedly or movably Accessories 22 can be suspended from each elongated rod
Suspended from one or more Supports 4. Such as a cable wire, 2, as illustrated in FIG. 1A, FIG. 1B, and FIG. 6. Examples of
where movable Suspension allows the canopy system to 30 accessories include lights 10, insect repellant, speakers, pro
Switch between a closed position and open position. jectors, mist producers (humidifiers), fans, decorations, and
FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B illustrate the assembly and fastening other functional items. The accessories 22, such as lights 10,
of the connection mechanism 28 into the elongated rod 2. The can be attached to the elongated rods 2 such that they are
upper cavity 6 of the elongated rod 2 can contain an upper Suspended beneath the canopy pieces 1. Accessories 22 can
35 be attached by attaching the accessory 22 to a holder 25. The
track 23 and a lower track 24. The upper track 23 and the holder 25 can be detachably and slidably placed inside the
lower track 24 allow for sliding various objects such as the lower cavity 20 of the elongated rod 2. It is possible to manu
base 7 from a first end of the elongated rod 2 to a second end facture a holder 25 that has a standard connection to different
of the elongated rod 2. The base 7 can include a horizontalbar accessories 22 so that a user may use the same holder 25 with
26 and threaded fasteners 27, such as a screw or bolt. The base 40 different accessories 22.
7 can be slidably and detachably inserted into the upper cavity FIG. 7 illustrates a top view of the canopy system that is
6 such that the horizontal bar 26 is placed into the lower track Supported by the Supporting frame 13. The canopy system
24, the threaded fasteners 27 projecting into the upper track may be supported by attaching Support 4, for example cable
23. The base 7 can be fastened to the elongated rod 2 using a wire, to supporting frame 13. Multiple supports 4 can be
fastening device Such as a screwdriver. The screwdriver can 45 connected on opposite sides of Supporting frame 13 using a
be used to screw in the threaded fasteners 27 from outside the cable wire connector 14. The Support 4 can run through four
upper cavity 6 until the horizontal bar 26 of connection rings 15 each connected to a corner of the beams 29 of
mechanism 28 is securely fastened inside the lower track 24. supporting frame 13, the beams 29 placed in parallel fashion
The connector 9, for example a ring orgated book, is attached to each other. The rings 15 can be attached to the supporting
to the base 7, which can then be suspended from a support 4. 50 frame 13, for example by fastening or pressing each ring 15
The horizontal bar 26 is of a suitable size to slide in the lower into the Supporting frame 13. A hook can also be used instead
track 23. The horizontal bar 26 can be about 0.5 inches to of a ring 15.
about 1.5 inches wide, and about 2 inches to about 5 inches FIG. 8 describes another embodiment where the support
long. The horizontal bar 26 can have a plurality of threaded ing frame 13 can include a motor 16 and a pulley 17 system.
holes to allow for the use of the threaded fasteners 27. 55 The motor 16 and the pulley 17 can be attached to opposite
In other embodiments, the length of the canopy system can beams 29 of supporting frame 13. When the motor 16 is
be increased by connecting multiple elongated rods 2 length activated, the motor 16 interacts with pulley 17 such that the
wise. The connection can be achieved by positioning the elongated rods 2 are moved towards or away from the motor
connection mechanism 28 Such that one portion of the hori 16. In this way, the motor 16 and pulley 17 can be used to
Zontal bar 26 with at least one threaded fastener 27 is situated 60 Switch the canopy system from a closed position to an open
in one elongated rod 2, while the remaining portion of the position and Vice-versa.
horizontal bar 26 with at least another threaded fastener 27 is FIGS. 9A and 911 illustrate various free standing canopy
situated in another elongated rod 2. The horizontal bar 26 of systems that can be readily purchased. These canopy systems
the connection mechanism 28 can then be securely fastened can be purchased as-is and there is no additional need to
inside the lower tracks 24 of both elongated rods 2 such that 65 provide an external, stand-alone Supporting frame 13 for the
their threaded fasteners 27 extend into the upper tracks 23 of canopy system since these free standing units come with their
both elongated rods 2, thereby firming a secure connection own Supporting frame 13. Each free standing unit can come
US 9.255,441 B2
7 8
with a Supporting base 18that rests on the ground, at least one A user can obtain and construct a Supporting frame 13
Supporting post 19 connected at one end to the Supporting having one or more Support posts 19 Supporting one or more
base 18, and at least one beam 29 attached at the opposite end beams 29. The user can separately obtain one or more sup
of Supporting post 19 which is Supported by the Support post ports 4 for the canopy system, such as cable wire, and attach
19. The canopy system would operate substantially as shown 5 it to the Supporting frame 13, for example, by running the wire
in FIG. 6. around four rings 15 or hooks placed at each corner of the
The material for the canopy pieces 1 can be any suitable beams 29 and then attaching and joining together each end of
material that allows for closing and opening the canopy sys the wire using a cable wire connector 14. Alternatively, the
tem. Suitable materials include solid, mesh, and canvas fab user may obtain a free standing unit having a Supporting base
ric, including fabric that is made from natural or synthetic 10 18 that rests on the ground, at least one Supporting post 19
material. Such as cotton, silk, or polyester. Solid sheets of connected at one end to the Supporting base 18, and at least
synthetic materials such as plastic or metal can be used as one beam 29 attached at the opposite end of Supporting post
long as the sheet is flexible and allows for the canopy system 19 which is supported by the supporting post 19, with support
to open and close. The material can be transparent, translu 4 and the canopy system already attached. The user can also
cent, or opaque. The material can be waterproof.
15 obtain a Supporting frame 13 having a motor 16 and a pulley
17.
FIG. 10 illustrates an embodiment where two pieces are The user can obtain a canopy piece 1 and two elongated
fabric material, a top material 30 and a bottom material 31, are bars 3 and can roll and attach the parallel edges 12 of the
used as a canopy piece 1 in Vertical relationship with each canopy piece 1 to the elongated bars 3. The user can then
other. The top material 30 can be a protective waterproof inserteachelongated bar 3 into the channels 5 of two, separate
material, while the bottom material 31 can be a less durable elongated rods 2 such that the canopy piece 1 is held in place
but ornamental piece of material. The top material 30 can also between the two elongated rods 2. The user can obtain a
act as a distance control in lieu of a distance control thread 11. connection mechanism 28, having a connector 9 attached to a
Both the parallel edges of the top material 30 and the parallel base 7, the base 7 having a horizontal bar 26 and one or more
edges of the bottom material 31 can be connected to the same 25 threaded fasteners 27, which the user can slidably insert into
elongated bars 3. i.e., two paralleledges are connected to each the elongated rod 2 by placing the horizontal bar 26 into the
elongated bar 3, which can dictate a design for an elongated lower track 24 of the upper groove 6 with the threaded fas
rod 2 with two channels 5. In another embodiment, each teners 27 projecting into the upper track 23 of the upper cavity
parallel edge of the top material 30 is connected to a separate 6. The base 7 may be fastened to the elongated rod 2 using a
elongated bar 3, while each parallel edge of the bottom mate 30 fastening device Such as a screwdriver, which may be used to
rial 31 is connected to a separate elongated bar 3, i.e., one screw in the threaded fasteners 27 from outside the upper
parallel edge is connected to each elongated bar 3, which can cavity 6 until the horizontal bar 26 of connection mechanism
dictate a design for the elongated rod 2 with four channels 5. 28 is securely fastened inside the lower track 24. The user can
FIGS. 11A and 11B illustrated additional side profiles of then fixably or movably suspend the connector 9, for example
the elongated rod 2. Elongated bar 3 can be inserted in the 35 a ring or gated hook, of the securely fastened connection
circular or semi-circular rings on the outside of the elongated mechanism 28 from the Support 4 attached to the Supporting
rod 2. The other rings of the elongated rod 2 can be used for frame 13. The user can also attach accessories 22. Such as
Suspending the elongated rod 2 and/or for attaching canopy lights 10, to a holder 25, which the user can slidably insert
pieces. inside the groove 21 of the lower cavity 20 of each elongated
FIGS. 12 and 13 illustrate attaching elongated rod 2 end to 40 rod 2. The user can also insert second accessories 32. Such as
end to each other. The horizontal bar 26 is moved to overlap a Solar charger, into the upper cavity 6 of each elongated rod
with two of the elongated rods 2, and the threaded fasteners 27 2. The user can repeat this process by attaching additional
are used to stabilize the attachment. canopy pieces 1 to additional elongated rods 2 and movably
FIG. 14 illustrates attachment of a solar panel 33 as a Suspending each elongated rod 2 from the one or more Sup
second accessory to the elongated rod 2. The Solar panel can 45 ports 4, thereby allowing the canopy system to be movably
be attached by using horizontal bar 26 and base 7. Switched from a closed position into an open position by
The width of the elongated rod 2 can range between 15 moving the elongated rods 2 along Support 4 away from each
millimeters and 25 millimeters. The height of the elongated other, and from an open position into a closed position by
rod 2 can range between 24 millimeters and 34 millimeters. moving the elongated rods 2 along Support 4 towards each
The width of the groove 21 of the lower cavity 20 can range 50 other. The user may also attacha distance control thread 11 to
between 13 millimeters and 19 millimeters. The height of the the elongated rods 2 thereby controlling the distance that the
groove 21 of the lower cavity 20 can range between 5 milli elongated rods 2 can be moved along the Support 4.
meters and 9 millimeters. The diameter of the tubular chan
nels 5 can range between 7 millimeters and 9 millimeters. The REFERENCE NUMBERS
width of the opening from the groove 21 into the tubular 55
channels 5 can range between 4 millimeters and 7 millime Canopy pieces 1
ters. The width of the opening into the groove 21 from outside Elongated rods 2
the elongated rod 2 can range between 4 millimeters and 9 Elongated bars 3
millimeters. The width of the upper track 22 of the upper Support 4
cavity 6 can range between 7 millimeters and 13 millimeters. 60 Tubular channels 5
The width of the lower track 23 of the upper cavity 6 can range Upper cavity 6
between 11 millimeters and 17 millimeters. The height of the Base 7
upper track 22 can range between 2 millimeters and 5 milli Endcap 8
meters. The height of the lower track 23 can range between 2 Connector 9
millimeters and 5 millimeters. The width of the opening into 65 Lights 10
the upper cavity 6 from outside the elongated rod 2 can range Distance control thread 11
between 3 millimeters and 8 millimeters. Parallel edges 12
US 9.255,441 B2
10
Supporting frame 13 5. The canopy system of claim 1, further comprising addi
Cable wire connector 14 tional Supports from which the connectors are capable of
Rings 15 being Suspended.
Motor 16 6. The canopy system of claim 1, wherein the connectors
Pulley 17 are capable of being movably suspended from the Support.
Supporting base 18 7. The canopy system of claim 1, wherein each of the
Supporting post 19 elongated rods include an endcap.
Lower cavity 20 8. The canopy system of claim 1, further comprising an
Groove 21 accessory held by at least one of the first or the second elon
Accessory 22 10 gated rod.
Upper track 23 9. The canopy system of claim 8, wherein the accessory is
Lower track 24 one or more lights.
Holder 25 10. The canopy system of claim 1, wherein each of the first
Horizontal bar 26
and the second elongated rod include at least one lower cavity
Threaded fasteners 27
15 and at least one upper cavity.
11. The canopy system of claim 10, wherein the lower
Connection mechanism 28 cavity includes one or more channels each configured to hold
Beams 29 the elongated bars.
Top material 30 12. The canopy system of claim 11, wherein the channels
Bottom material 31 are tubular.
Second accessory 32 13. The canopy system of claim 10, wherein the lower
cavity includes one or more channels each configured to hold
What is claimed is: the elongated bars, the lower cavity having a groove that
1. A canopy system comprising: opens into each of the channels such that the canopy pieces
a.a first and a second elongated rod, the first and the second 25 connected to the elongated bars held by the channels may exit
elongated rod each having a track and positioned parallel the elongated rod through the groove.
to each other; 14. The canopy system of claim 10, wherein the upper
b. a canopy piece having a first and a second parallel edge; cavity includes an upper track and a lower track, the upper
c. a first and a second elongated bar, the first elongated bar track and lower track running Substantially along the elon
attached to the first parallel edge of the canopy piece, 30 gated rod, the upper cavity configured to hold the connection
and the second elongated bar attached to the second mechanisms.
paralleledge of the canopy piece, the first and the second 15. The canopy system of claim 14 comprising a first
elongated bar configured to be held by the first and the channel and a second channel, the first and the second channel
second the elongated rod respectively; and each having a first opening into a single groove placed below
d. at least a first and a second connection mechanism, with 35 both the first and the second channel, the groove having a
at least one connection mechanism attached to the track second opening at a bottom of the rod on opposite side of the
of each of the first and the second elongated rod, each of track.
the first and the second connection mechanism having a 16. The canopy system of claim 10, wherein each of the
connector, the connector capable of being Suspended connection mechanisms is capable of being fastened from
from a Support and to connect the canopy system to the 40 outside the upper cavity.
Support, said first and said second connection mecha 17. The canopy system of claim 10, further comprising an
nism further configured to slide along the track and accessory in one or more of the lower or the upper cavity.
detachably fastened at any location along the track of the 18. The canopy system of claim 10, wherein the each of the
first and the second elongated rod, the first and the sec first and the second elongated rods comprise a first channel
ond connection mechanism configured to be fastened to 45 and a second channel, the first and the second channel each
the track of the first and the second elongated rod from a having a first opening into a single groove placed below both
top of the first and the second elongated rod; the first and the second channel, the groove having a second
wherein the connection mechanism can slide along the opening at a bottom of the rod on opposite side of the track.
track and be fastened to different positions on the 19. The canopy system of claim 1, further comprising a
track. 50 distance control thread attached to the elongated rods.
2. The canopy system of claim 1, further comprising: 20. The canopy system of claim 1, wherein each of the
a. one or more additional elongated rods; connection mechanisms includes a base having a horizontal
b. one or more additional canopy pieces each having two bar with one or more threaded holes.
parallel edges; 21. The canopy system of claim 1, wherein a third elon
c. additional elongated bars attached to each of the parallel 55 gated rod is connected to the first or the second elongated rod
edges of the additional canopy pieces; and lengthwise, thereby changing the length of the canopy, sys
d. additional connection mechanisms attached to each of tem.
the additional elongated rods, each of the additional 22. The canopy system of claim 21, wherein the third
connection mechanisms having an additional connector, elongated rod is connected lengthwise to the first or the sec
each of the additional connectors capable of being Sus 60 ond elongated rod through a horizontal bar that overlaps with
pended from the Support; the third elongated rod and the first or the second elongated
wherein each of the additional elongated bars is held by rod that is aligned end to end with the third elongated rod.
each of the additional elongated rods. 23. The canopy system of claim 1, further comprising a
3. The canopy system of claim 1, wherein the elongated Supporting frame having at least one Supporting post, the
bars are tubular. 65 Supporting post attached to and Supporting two or more
4. The canopy system of claim 1, wherein the Support is a beams, the Support attached to and Supported by the two or
cable wire. more beams.
US 9.255,441 B2
11 12
24. The canopy system of claim 1, further comprising a
motor and a pulley, the motor and pulley configured to Switch
the canopy system between a closed position and an open
position.
25. The canopy system of claim 1, further comprising a free
standing unit having a Supporting base and at least one Sup
porting post, the Supporting post having a lower end that is
attached to the Supporting base, the Supporting post having an
upper end that is attached to two or more beams, the Support
attached to and Supported by the one or more beams. 10
26. The canopy system of claim 1, wherein two canopy
pieces are used.
27. The canopy system of claim 1, wherein each of the
connection mechanisms include a base having a horizontal
bar with one or more threaded holes, the base attached to the 15
connector, the horizontal bar of each of the connection
mechanisms capable of being slidably inserted into the track,
the connection mechanisms capable of being fastened from
outside of the upper cavity.
28. The canopy system of claim 1, wherein the each of the
first and the second elongated rods comprise a first channel
and a second channel, the first and the second channel each
having a first opening into a single groove placed below both
the first and the second channel, the groove having a second
opening at a bottom of the rod on opposite side of the track. 25
k k k k k
|HAO WALITATITEMU ALATITOTELL THE USOOD8224655
(12 ) Shargani
United States Design Patent ( 10) Patent No.: US D822 ,465 S
(45) Date of Patent: * * Jul 10 , 2018
(54) CABLE EYELET OTHER PUBLICATIONS
( 71 ) Applicant: Afshin Shargani, Los Angeles , CA http ://www .corradiusa .com /index.php ?option = com _ k2
(US) & view = itemlist & layout = category & task = category & id = 10 Aug . 5 ,
2015 .
(72 ) Inventor: Afshin Shargani, Los Angeles , CA http ://www .retractableawnings.com / patio -cover- awnings.html Aug .
(US ) 5 , 2015 .
http ://www .cableshade .com /11 -reasons -why-the -cable -shade
(73 ) Assignee : Infinity Canopy, Inc ., Los Angeles, CA canopy - is -superior.html Aug. 5 , 2015 .
(US) http ://www .shadefxcanopies.com /choosing -a- retractable -awning
track - systems/ Aug . 5 , 2015 .
http ://www .superiorawning.com /slide -wire -cable -awnings/ Aug. 5 ,
(* * ) Term : 15 Years 2015 .
Picture of custom made shade Before Jul. 30 , 2014 .
(21) Appl. No.: 29 /603,577 Cited Art in Shargani Patents, May 7, 2017 .
(22 ) Filed : May 10, 2017 * cited by examiner
(51) LOC ( 11) CI. .... 08 - 05
(52) U .S . CI. Primary Examiner — Cynthia R Underwood
USPC D8 /367 (74 ) Attorney, Agent, or Firm — Payam Moradian
(58 ) Field of Classification Search
USPC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ................. 28/ 367, 354, 349 , 356 (57 ) CLAIM
CPC ... E06B 9 /262; E06B 2009 /2625 ; A01G 9 /22 ; I claim the ornamental design for a cable eyelet , as shown
E04F 10 /02; E04H 15 / 04 and described .
See application file for complete search history .
(56 ) References Cited DESCRIPTION
U . S . PATENT DOCUMENTS FIG . 1 is a perspective view of a cable eyelet;
7 ,845 ,467 B2 * 12 /2010 Petzl ...................... A62B 1/ 14 FIG . 2 is a left side elevation view thereof;
182 / 193 FIG . 3 is a right side elevation view thereof;
D700 ,043 S * 2 / 2014 Paik ...... . .. . ... . .. D8/ 367 FIG . 4 is a front side elevation view thereof;
9 , 255,441 B2 2 / 2016 Shargani FIG . 5 is a rear side elevation view thereof;
D764, 262 S 8 / 2016 Shargani FIG . 6 is a bottom plan view thereof; and ,
9 ,470 ,012 B2 10 / 2016 Shargani FIG . 7 is a top plan view thereof.
D770,643 S 11/ 2016 Shargani The broken line showing of the rod is for the purpose of
D778, 144 S * 2 / 2017 Anderson ................ D8/367
D790 ,327 S * 6 / 2017 Renforth ....... D8/ 356 illustrating an environment of use of the cable eyelet.
2016 / 0281766 A1 * 9 / 2016 Moine ................ A62B 35 / 0037
2017 / 0037635 A12 / 2017 Shargani 1 Claim , 6 Drawing Sheets
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|HA A TRAITEMENT UNITA ANTOLAMENTALITI USOOD814274S
(12 ) Shargani
United States Design Patent ( 10) Patent No.: US D814 ,274 S
(45) Date of Patent: * * Apr. 3 , 2018
(54) CONNECTOR FOR CANOPY SYSTEM OTHER PUBLICATIONS
http ://www .corradiusa .com /index .php ? option = com _ k2
(71) Applicant: Afshin Shargani, Los Angeles, CA & view = itemlist & layout= category & task = category & id = 10 Aug. 5 ,
2015 .
(US) http ://www .retractableawnings.com /patio -cover-awnings.html Aug .
(72 ) Inventor: Afshin Shargani, Los Angeles, CA 5 , 2015 .
http ://www .cableshade .com /11-reasons-why - the -cable -shade
(US ) canopy-is-superior.html Aug. 5 , 2015.
http ://www .shadefxcanopies.com /choosing-a -retractable -awning
(73 ) Assignee : Infinity Canopy, Inc., Los Angeles, CA track - systems/ Aug. 5 , 2015 .
(US) http ://www .superiorawning.com /slide -wire -cable -awnings/ Aug. 5 ,
2015 .
(* * ) Term : 15 Years Picture of custom made shade Before Jul. 30 , 2014 .
Cited Art in Shargani Patents, May 7, 2017 .
(21) Appl.No.: 29/603,579 * cited by examiner
(22 ) Filed : May 10 , 2017
(51 ) LOC ( 11) Cl. .... ...... 08 - 05 Primary Examiner — Cynthia R Underwood
(52) U . S . CI. (74 ) Attorney, Agent, or Firm — Payam Moradian
USPC ........... .. ............... 08 /367 (57) CLAIM
(58 ) Field of Classification Search I claim the ornamental design for a connector for canopy
USPC ............... 28/ 367, 354, 351, 349 system , as shown and described .
CPC ....... ... ..... ............ GO9F 17 / 00 ; A47H 13 / 00
See application file for complete search history. DESCRIPTION
(56) References Cited FIG . 1 is a perspective view of a connector for canopy
system ;
U . S . PATENT DOCUMENTS FIG . 2 is a front side elevation view thereof;
FIG . 3 is a rear side elevation view thereof;
7 ,845 ,467 B2 * 12 /2010 Petzl ...................... A62B 1/ 14 FIG . 4 is a left side elevation view thereof;
182 / 193
D700 ,043 S * 2 / 2014 Paik ..... ............. D8367 FIG . 5 is a right side elevation view thereof;
9 , 255,441 B2 2 / 2016 Shargani FIG . 6 is a top plan view thereof; and ,
D764 ,262 S 8/ 2016 Shargani FIG . 7 is a bottom plan view thereof.
9 ,470 ,012 B2 10 / 2016 Shargani The broken line showing of rod is for the purpose of
D770 ,643 S 11/ 2016 Shargani illustrating the connector for canopy system and forms no
D778 ,144 S * 2 /2017 Anderson . . . . . . .. . . D8367
D790 , 327 S * 6 /2017 Renforth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D8356 part of the claimed design .
2016 /0281766 Al * 9 / 2016 Moine ................ A62B 35/0037
2017 /0037635 Al 2/ 2017 Shargani 1 Claim , 7 Drawing Sheets
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(12) United States Design Patent (10) Patent No.: US D792,611 S

Shargani (45) Date of Patent: Jul.18, 2017
(54) ROD FOR CANOPY D242,035 S * 10/1976 Drawsky ...................... D25,119
D242,138 S * 11/1976 Drawski ... D25,119
(71) Applicant: Afshin Shargani, Los Angeles, CA D267,277 S * 12/1982 Goldhaber . D25,119
D270,186 S * 8/1983 Jones .......... D25,119
(US) D270,288 S * 8/1983 Smith . D25,119
D414,880 S * 10/1999 Giese ... D25/122
(72) Inventor: Afshin Shargani, Los Angeles, CA D459.975 S * 7/2002 Dinh ... D25,119
(US) D463,578 S * 9/2002 Wall ... ... D25,121
D471,083 S * 3/2003 Wall ............................. D25,119
(**) Term: 15 Years 6,532,625 B1* 3/2003 Stone ..................... A47H 15.04
D25,119
D472,455 S * 4/2003 Wall ............................. D25,119
(21) Appl. No.: 29/578,712 D479,798 S * 9/2003 Wall ... D25,119
D479,983 S * 9/2003 Wall ............ D25,119
(22) Filed: Sep. 23, 2016 D582,571 S. * 12/2008 Bergmann .. ... D25,124
D668,355 S * 10/2012 Dival .......................... D25,119
Related U.S. Application Data D695.421 S * 12/2013 Krieger ............... E04F 13,0826
D25,119
(60) Division of application No. 29/502,729, filed on Sep. D706,125 S * 6/2014 Wendt .......................... D25,119
18, 2014, now Pat. No. Des. 770,643, which is a D753,425 S * 4/2016 Johansson ... D25,119
continuation of application No. 14/448,825, filed on D770,643 S * 1 1/2016 Shargani ...................... D25,119
Jul. 31, 2014, now Pat. No. 9,255,441. 2015/0068569 A1* 3/2015 Shargani ............... E04H 15.642
135,90
(51) LOC (10) Cl. ............................................... 25-02 2016/0130836 A1* 5/2016 Shargani ................. E04H 15.64
(52) U.S. C. 135,90
USPC ......................................................... D25/119
(58) Field of Classification Search * cited by examiner
USPC ... D25/35, 38.1, 41.1, 42, 43, 44, 119-124, Primary Examiner — Cynthia Ramirez
D25/126, 164, 199: D8/349, 363, 376, Assistant Examiner — Llorelys Martinez-Rivera
D8/377; D20/42-44; D34/35 (74) Attorney, Agent, or Firm — Payam Moradian
CPC ......... E04H 15/02: E04H 15/04; E04H 15/32:
E04H 15/64; E04H 15/642: E04H 15/646; (57) CLAM
E04H 2015/326; E04H 2015/328; E06B
1/00; E06B 1/36; E06B 1/702; E06B The ornamental design for a rod for canopy, as shown and
1/366; E06B 1/524; E06B 1/68; E06B described.
1/006; E06B 1/04; E06B 1/26: E06B
1/28: E06B 2001/628; E06B 3/66; E06B DESCRIPTION
2003/2615; E06B 2/03
See application file for complete search history. FIG. 1 is a front elevation view of a rod for canopy showing
my new design; and,
(56) References Cited
FIG. 2 is a front perspective view thereof.
U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS The broken lines in FIG. 2 illustrate portions of the rod for
canopy that form no part of the claimed design.
D206,265 S * 11/1966 Shea ............................ D25,119
D214,085 S * 5/1969 Fremdling ................... D25/122 1 Claim, 1 Drawing Sheet
U.S. Patent Jul. 18, 2017 US D792,611 S

USOOD770643S
(12) Shargani
United States Design Patent (10) Patent No.: US D770,643 S
(45) Date of Patent: . Nov. 1, 2016
(54) ROD FOR CANOPY D242,138 S * 11/1976 Drawski ...................... D25,119
D267,277 S * 12/1982 Goldhaber . D25,119
(71) Applicant: Afshin Shargani, Los Angeles, CA D270,186 S * 8/1983 Jones .......... D25,119
D270,288 S * 8/1983 Smith ... D25,119
(US) D459.975 S * 7/2002 Dinh D25,119
D463,578 S * 9/2002 Wall ... D25,121
(72) Inventor: Afshin Shargani, Los Angeles, CA D471,083 S * 3/2003 Wall ............................. D25,119
(US) 6,532,625 B1* 3/2003 Stone ....................... A47H 1,06
16,874 R
(**) Term: 14 Years D472,455 S * 4/2003 Wall ............................. D25,119
D479,798 S * 9/2003 Wall ... D25,119
D479,983 S * 9/2003 Wall ... D25,119
(21) Appl. No.: 29/502,729 D668,355 S * 10/2012 Divall ... D25,119
D695.421 S * 12/2013 Krieger ... D25,119
(22) Filed: Sep. 18, 2014 D706,125 S * 6/2014 Wendt ......... D25,119
D753,425 S * 4/2016 Johansson .................... D25,119
2015/0068569 A1* 3/2015 Shargani ................. E04H 15.58
Related U.S. Application Data 135,90
(63) Continuation of application No. 14/448,825, filed on 2016/0130836 A1* 5/2016 Shargani ................. E04H 15.04
135,90
Jul. 31, 2014, now Pat. No. 9,255,441.
(51) LOC (10) Cl. ............................................... 25-O1 * cited by examiner
(52) U.S. C.
Primary Examiner — Cynthia Ramirez
USPC ......................................................... D25/119
(58) Field of Classification Search Assistant Examiner — Llorelys Martinez-Rivera
USPC .............. D25/38.1, 39, 40, 41.1, 42, 43, 44, (74) Attorney, Agent, or Firm — Payam Moradian
D25/119-124, 126; D20/42, 43, 44; D34/35 (57) CLAM
CPC .......... E06B 1/36; E06B 1/702; E06B 1/366; The ornamental design for a rod for canopy, as shown and
E06B 1/524; E06B 1/68; E06B 1/006; described.
E06B 1/04; E06B 1/26: E06B 1/28: E06B
2001/628; E06B 3/66; E06B 2003/2615 DESCRIPTION
See application file for complete search history.
FIG. 1 is a front elevation view of a rod for canopy showing
(56) References Cited my new design; and,
U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS FIG. 2 is a front perspective view thereof.
The broken lines in FIG. 2 illustrate portions of the rod for
D206,265 S * 11/1966 Shea ............................ D25,119 canopy that form no part of the claimed design.
D214,085 S * 5/1969 Fremdling ................... D25/122
D242,035 S * 10/1976 Drawsky ...................... D25,119 1 Claim, 1 Drawing Sheet
U.S. Patent Nov. 1, 2016 US D770,643 S

USOOD764262S
(12) Shargani
United States Design Patent (10) Patent No.: US D764.262 S
(45) Date of Patent: . * Aug. 23, 2016
(54) CONNECTOR FOR A CANOPY SYSTEM D448,276 S * 9/2001 Kelleghan ...................... D8,356
D479,980 S * 9/2003 Utz ........ ... D8,367
(71) Applicant: Afshin Shargani, Los Angeles, CA D505,613 S * 5/2005 Sato ............... ... D8,367
D658,975 S * 5/2012 Cordova et al. ... D8,367
(US) D682,663 S * 5/2013 Evon .............. ... D8,367
D698,628 S * 2/2014 Stanley .............. ... D8,367
(72) Inventor: Afshin Shargani, Los Angeles, CA D715,624 S * 10/2014 Thompson et al. ........... D8/367
(US) D720,985 S * 1/2015 Veilleux ............. ... D8,367
D734,133 S * 7/2015 Spindler et al. ............... D8,367
(*) Notice: This patent is subject to a terminal dis * cited by examiner
claimer.
Primary Examiner — Cynthia Underwood
(**) Term: 14 Years
(74) Attorney, Agent, or Firm — Payam Moradian
(21) Appl. No.: 29/504,534
(57) CLAM
(22) Filed: Oct. 7, 2014 The ornamental design for a connector for a canopy system,
as shown and described.
Related U.S. Application Data
(63) Continuation of application No. 14/448,825, filed on DESCRIPTION
Jul. 31, 2014.
(51) LOC (10) Cl. ............................................... O8-05 FIG. 1 is a front view of a connector used for connecting a
(52) U.S. C. canopy piece to a wire.
USPC ........................................................... D8/367 FIG. 2 is a back view of the connector used for connecting
(58) Field of Classification Search a canopy piece to a wire.
USPC ........................................... D8/367, 354, 349 FIG. 3 is a right side view of the connector used for
CPC. E06B 9/262: E06B 2009/2625; A01G 9/22; connecting a canopy piece to a wire.
E04F 10/02: E04H 15/04 FIG. 4 is a left side view of the connector used for connect
See application file for complete search history. ing a canopy piece to a wire.
FIG. 5 is a to view of the connector used for connecting a
(56) References Cited canopy piece to a wire; and,
U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS
FIG. 6 is a bottom view of the connector used for connecting
a canopy piece to a wire.
4,683,933 A * 8/1987 Dunbar ...................... 160,273.1 The broken lines are included for environmental purposes
4,741.375 A * 5/1988 Milford et al. .. ... 160/84.06 only and form no part of the claim.
5,265,373 A * 11/1993 Vollebregt ........................ 47/17
D407.298 S * 3/1999 Hemphill ....................... D8,367 1 Claim, 3 Drawing Sheets
U.S. Patent Aug. 23, 2016 Sheet 1 of 3 US D764.262 S
|

s Trini
O'
FIG 5
FIG, 6
Exhibit 10
Exhibit 10
CLAIM CHART FOR U.S. PATENT NO. 9,938,723 AND THE DEFENDANT’S PRODUCT
The source of the information provided in the column containing the basis for Plaintiff’s allegations is
from Plaintiff’s pre-suit investigation.
Preamble or Claim Limitation Basis for Plaintiff’s allegation that the claim
limitation is found in the accused device
A canopy system comprising:
a. two or more elongated rods positioned parallel to
each other, each of the elongated rods having, an
enclosed cavity;
at least one canopy piece;

two or more of elongated bars attached to the at least

one canopy piece, each of the elongated bars
configured to be held by one of the elongated rods; and
at least two connection mechanisms, with at least one

connection mechanism slidably attached to each of the
elongated rods, each of the connection mechanisms
having a connector, the connector configured to be
suspended from a support and to connect the canopy
system to the support, each of the connection
mechanisms further configured to slide along tracks on
opposites side of the enclosed cavity of the elongated
rods and detachably fastened at any location along the
elongated rods.
Exhibit 11
Exhibit 11
a) first and a second elongated rod, the first
and the second elongated rod positioned
parallel to each other;
at least one canopy piece having a first and a

second parallel edge;
two or more of elongated bars, each of the

elongated bars attached to one of the edges of
at least one canopy piece, each of the
elongated bars configured to be held by a
respective elongated rod; and
one or more of:
i) a distance control thread attached to each of
the first and the second elongated rods in a
perpendicular direction, the distance control
thread attached from a top by a fastener that
travels inside of the rod;
ii) two or more roller tracks attached in a
perpendicular direction to the first and the
second elongated rods, the elongated rods
configured to be suspended from the roller
tracks and slide along the roller tracks, the Distance Control Thread.
roller tracks attached to a support structure at
each end of the roller tracks;
iii) two or more connection mechanisms, with
at least one connection mechanism attached in
a horizontal direction to an end of one of the
elongated rods, each of the connection
mechanisms having a connector, the
connector configured to be attached to a
support and to connect the canopy system to
the support.
Exhibit 12
Exhibit 12
two or more elongated rods positioned
parallel to each other, each of the elongated
rods having an enclosed cavity;
at least one canopy piece having two parallel

edges;
two or more of elongated bars, each of the

elongated bars attached to one of the edges of
at least one canopy piece, each of the
elongated bars configured to be held by one
of the elongated rods; and
at least two connection mechanisms, with at

least one connection mechanism slidably
attached to each of the elongated rods, each of
the connection mechanisms having a
connector, the connector configured to be
suspended from a support and to connect the
canopy system to the support, each of the
connection mechanisms further configured to
slide along tracks on opposites side of the
enclosed cavity of the elongated rods and
detachably fastened at any location along the
elongated rods.
Exhibit 13
Exhibit 13
a. a first and a second elongated rod, the first
and the second elongated rod each having a
track and positioned parallel to each other;
a canopy piece having a first and a second

parallel edge;
a first and a second elongated bar, the first

elongated bar attached to the first parallel
edge of the canopy piece, and the second
elongated bar attached to the second parallel
edge of the canopy piece, the first and the
second elongated bar configured to be held by
the first and the second the elongated rod
respectively; and
at least a first and a second connection

mechanism, with at least one connection
mechanism attached to the track of each of
the first and the second elongated rod, each of
the first and the second connection
mechanism having a connector, the connector
capable of being suspended from a support
and to connect the canopy system to the
support, said first and said second connection
mechanism further configured to slide along
the track and detachably fastened at any
location along the track of the first and the
second elongated rod, the first and the second
connection mechanism configured to be
fastened to the track of the first and the
second elongated rod from a top of the first
and the second elongated rod;
wherein the connection mechanism can slide
along the track and be fastened to different
positions on the track.
Exhibit 14
Exhibit 14
CLAIM CHART FOR U.S. PATENT NO. D822465 AND THE DEFENDANT’S PRODUCT
The ornamental design for a cable eyelet as
shown and described.
Exhibit 15
Exhibit 15
The ornamental design for a connector for a
canopy system as shown and described.
Exhibit 16
Exhibit 16
The ornamental design for a rod for a canopy
system as shown and described.
Exhibit 17
Exhibit 17
The ornamental design for a rod for a canopy
system as shown and described.
Exhibit 18
Exhibit 18
The ornamental design for a connector for
a canopy system as shown and described.

Infinity Canopy v. Import Fencing - Complaint

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Infinity Canopy v. Import Fencing - Complaint

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Case 2:19-cv-08427 Document 1 Filed 09/30/19 Page 1 of 43 Page ID #:1

1 Mandana Jafarinejad SBN 273904

1 THE NATURE OF THE ACTION

1 US Patent No. 9,255,441 (the ’441 Patent)

1 13. The ’755 Patent claims in claim 4:

1 connect the canopy system to the support.

1 26. Defendants’ products also have a distance control thread attached to

1 Paradise Inc., Windscreens4less, Windscreen Socal, Sunshades Depot, Tang

1 independent claim 1 of the ’723 patent.

1 SECOND CLAIM FOR RELIEF

1 THIRD CLAIM FOR RELIEF

1 71. Despite Defendants’ knowledge of the Patent-in-Suit, Defendants sold

1 FOURTH CLAIM FOR RELIEF

1 86. Despite Defendants’ knowledge of the Patent-in-Suit, Defendants sold

1 FIFTH CLAIM FOR RELIEF

1 SIXTH CLAIM FOR RELIEF

1 SEVENTH CLAIM FOR RELIEF

1 136. Defendants have infringed and continues to infringe, directly and

1 147. In addition to their direct infringement, Defendants have indirectly

1 162. As a result of Defendants’ unlawful activities, Infinity suffered and will

1 4. A judgement that Defendants have willfully, wantonly, and/or

Related U .S . Application Data 3,288 ,159 A * 11/1966 Corliss .... E04H 9 / 14

U.S. Patent Apr1

U . S . Patent Apr . 10, 2018 Sheet 2 of 32 US 9,938 ,723 B2

atent Apr. 10, 2018 Sheet 3 of 32 US 9, 938 ,723 B2

atent Apr. 10 , 2018 Sheet 4 of 32 US 9, 938, 723 B2

atent Apr. 10, 2018 Sheet 5 of 32 US 9, 938,723 B2

U . S . Patent Apr . 10 , 2018 Sheet 6 of 32 US 9 , 938,723 B2

U . S . Patent Apr. 10, 2018 Sheet 7 of 32 US 9 , 938, 723 B2

atent Apr. 10, 2018 Sheet 8 of 32 US 9, 938,723 B2

wan IMROPFE -w w w ane

atent Apr. 10, 2018 Sheet 9 of32 Us 9,938, 723 B2

U . S . Patent Apr. 10 , 2018 Sheet 10 of 32 US 9,938, 723 B2

atent Apr. 10, 2018 Sheet 11 of 32 US 9,938, 723 B2

U . S . Patent Apr. 10 , 2018 Sheet 12 of 32 US 9,938 ,723 B2

atent Apr. 10, 2018 Sheet 13 of 32 US 9,938, 723 B2

atent Apr. 10, 2018 Sheet 14 of 32 US 9,938, 723 B2

atent Apr. 10, 2018 Sheet 15 of 32 US 9, 938 ,723 B2

U . S . Patent Apr. 10 , 2018 Sheet 16 of 32 US 9,938, 723 B2

FIG . 16B FIG . 16

U . S . Patent Apr. 10 , 2018 Sheet 17 of 32 US 9,938, 723 B2

atent Apr. 10, 2018 Sheet 18 of 32 US 9,938, 723 B2

U . S . Patent Apr. 10 , 2018 Sheet 19 of 32 US 9,938, 723 B2

U . S . Patent Apr. 10 , 2018 Sheet 20 of 32 US 9,938, 723 B2

atent Apr. 10, 2018 Sheet 21 of 32 US 9,938, 723 B2

U . S . Patent Apr. 10 , 2018 Sheet 22 of 32

U .S . Patent Apr. 10, 2018 Sheet 23 of 32 US 9 ,938 ,723 B2

U . S . Patent Apr. 10 , 2018 Sheet 24 of 32 US 9,938, 723 B2

U . S . Patent Apr. 10 , 2018 Sheet 25 of 32 US 9,938, 723 B2

U . S . Patent Apr. 10 , 2018 Sheet 26 of 32 US 9,938, 723 B2

U . S . Patent Apr. 10 , 2018 Sheet 27 of 32 US 9,938, 723 B2

FIG . 23A XVI

U . S . Patent Apr. 10 , 2018 Sheet 28 of 32 US 9,938, 723 B2

U . S . Patent Apr. 10 , 2018 Sheet 29 of 32 US 9,938, 723 B2

U . S . Patent Apr. 10 , 2018 Sheet 30 of 32 US 9,938, 723 B2

atent Apr. 10, 2018 Sheet 31 of 32 US 9,938, 723 B2

atent Apr. 10, 2018 Sheet 32 of 32 US 9,938, 723 B2

U . S . Patent Aug. 29, 2017 Sheet 1 of 29 US 9 ,745 ,755 B2

U . S . Patent Aug. 29, 2017 Sheet 2 of 29 US 9 ,745 ,755 B2

U . S . Patent Aug. 29, 2017 Sheet 3 of 29 US 9 ,745 ,755 B2

U . S . Patent Aug. 29, 2017 Sheet 4 of 29 US 9 ,745 ,755 B2

U . S . Patent Aug. 29, 2017 Sheet 5 of 29 US 9 ,745 ,755 B2

U . S . Patent Aug. 29 , 2017 Sheet 6 of 29 US 9, 745 ,755 B2

U . S . Patent Aug. 29 , 2017 Sheet 7 of 29 US 9, 745 , 755 B2

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