Advanced Modular Umbrella: Security & Disaster Tech

Publication ID: 24-11857041_0004_PTD
Published: October 27, 2025
Category:Specialized Variations & Niche Solutions

Legal Citation

pr1or.art Inc., “Advanced Modular Umbrella: Security & Disaster Tech,” Published Technical Disclosure No. 24-11857041_0004_PTD, Published October 27, 2025, available at https://archive.pr1or.art/24-11857041_0004_PTD
This technical disclosure describes improvements that would be readily apparent to a Person Having Ordinary Skill In The Art (PHOSITA) when considered in combination with the foundational architecture disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 11,857,041.

Background and Problem Solved

The original special-shaped folding umbrella patent, while providing an easy-to-use and compact design, has limitations in terms of its applicability to specific, high-demand markets. The present invention addresses these limitations by introducing specialized variations of the umbrella that cater to niche environments, such as high-security settings, disaster relief situations, and extreme weather conditions.

Novelty and Inventive Step

The new claims introduce novel and non-obvious features that differentiate them from the original patent. These include the integration of surveillance systems, portable power sources, and biometric authentication systems, as well as the adaptation of the umbrella design for extreme weather conditions and high-security needs. The inventive step lies in the combination of these features to create specialized umbrellas that address specific market demands.

Alternative Embodiments and Variations

Alternative embodiments of the invention could include umbrellas adapted for other niche environments, such as search and rescue operations, outdoor recreation, or environmental monitoring. Variations could also include different materials, shapes, and sizes of the umbrella, as well as alternative power sources and communication systems.

Potential Commercial Applications and Market

The specialized folding umbrellas have significant commercial potential in various industries, including government, emergency response, disaster relief, and outdoor recreation. The high-security umbrella could be marketed to government agencies and private security firms, while the disaster relief umbrella could be sold to humanitarian organizations and emergency response teams. The extreme weather umbrella could appeal to outdoor enthusiasts and individuals living in areas prone to harsh weather conditions. The modular umbrella system could be marketed to emergency responders and search and rescue teams.

CPC Classifications

SectionClassGroup
A A45 A45B19/10
A A45 A45B11/00
A A45 A45B25/18
A A45 A45B2011/005

Field of Art

Umbrella design and manufacturing, focusing on folding mechanisms, structural reinforcement, and specialized utility umbrellas with emphasis on mechanical engineering and materials science

Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile

A mechanical engineer or industrial designer with expertise in portable protective equipment, familiar with umbrella structural mechanics, materials engineering, and adaptive design principles for extreme environments

Obviousness Rationale

A PHOSITA would recognize that the source patent's fundamental umbrella design provides a clear technical foundation for extending functionality through integrated systems and specialized adaptations. The modular nature of the original umbrella's shaft and rib structure inherently suggests opportunities for technological enhancement and environmental customization. The disclosed variations represent predictable combinations of known technical elements applied to an existing umbrella framework.

Obvious Combinations & Variations

Source Patent Element
Retractable shaft composed of inner, middle, and outer tubes with movable runner
PTD Variation
Integration of portable power sources and communication devices within the modular shaft structure
Obviousness Reasoning
A PHOSITA would recognize the existing shaft design allows for easy integration of additional electronic components as a straightforward design modification with predictable implementation
Source Patent Element
Elastic deformable connecting ribs capable of structural adaptation
PTD Variation
Reinforced ribs designed to withstand hurricane-force winds and extreme environmental conditions
Obviousness Reasoning
Material science techniques for enhancing structural resilience represent a known engineering approach for improving mechanical performance in predictable ways
Source Patent Element
Umbrella with central shaft and radially extended ribs
PTD Variation
Surveillance and biometric authentication systems integrated into umbrella framework
Obviousness Reasoning
Incorporating electronic security features into portable personal equipment represents a logical extension of existing technological convergence trends
Source Patent Element
Locking mechanisms for umbrella components
PTD Variation
Enhanced security locking systems for high-risk environments with biometric access controls
Obviousness Reasoning
Adapting existing mechanical locking principles to include electronic authentication represents a predictable technological evolution
Source Patent Element
Fabric-based canopy design
PTD Variation
Specialized canopy materials with UV-resistance and enhanced protective capabilities
Obviousness Reasoning
Material science advancements in protective textiles represent a standard approach to improving functional performance of existing designs
35 U.S.C. § 103 Summary: Based on the teachings of US Patent 11857041, a person having ordinary skill in the art would find the disclosed umbrella variations obvious and anticipated, as the technical modifications represent predictable combinations of known mechanical and electronic design principles applied to a standard folding umbrella framework. The incremental enhancements do not rise to the level of non-obvious innovation and would be readily conceived by a skilled practitioner familiar with umbrella design and contemporary technological integration strategies.

Original Patent Information

Patent NumberUS 11,857,041
TitleSpecial-shaped folding umbrella