US20240068265A1

US20240068265A1 - Generator canopy for protecting a generator from inclement weather

Info

Publication number: US20240068265A1
Application number: US18/236,423
Authority: US
Inventors: Robert Dearman
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2022-08-25
Filing date: 2023-08-22
Publication date: 2024-02-29

Abstract

The present invention relates to a generator canopy that comprises a top tarp, the front side edge, and the back side edge have top loops and leg-notch cutouts. The right side edge and the left side edge each have top loops. A portion of each corner forms a tie-down edge. Side tarps are trapezoid-shaped with a ring eyelet in at least two corners and more than one side loop along the length of the long edge. Frame tubes fit through the top loops and the side loops. corner connectors slide into the end of the frame tubes forming a rigid perimeter that holds the top tarp taught. Each of the tie-down edges fasten to the corner connector. Legs pass through the leg-notch cutouts and fasten to the frame tube. The generator canopy is placed over a generator or other protected object.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application contains subject matter which is related to the subject matter of the following co-pending application. The below-listed application is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

- This is a U.S. non-provisional application that claims the benefit of a U.S. provisional application, Ser. No. 63/400,812, inventor Robert Dearman, entitled “GENERATOR CANOPY FOR PROTECTING A GENERATOR FROM INCLEMENT WEATHER”, filed Aug. 25, 2022.

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to a generator canopy, particularly to a protective tarp structure that can be placed over the top of a generator to keep inclement weather such as rain, snow, and other weather from coming in contact with the generator in a manner that would compromise generator functionality.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Before our invention generator covers were time-consuming and difficult to set up. Most required multiple attachment points to the generator frame or structure which was tedious and made mobility and storage of the generator and cover time-consuming and difficult. In addition, these factors contributed to making quick storage of the generator difficult.
Another shortcoming is that many designs relied on attachment points and the use of one or more tensioned belts which can loosen, especially during transport, and require reinstallation. Furthermore, the tensioned belts don't work with all generators, especially smaller generators in the 1000-watt range.
Another shortcoming is that many of the tent-like cover designs require the installation of a frame under considerable tension that could result in injury during installation. In addition, many tent-like covers require many different parts to be transported increasing the likelihood of loss of some parts. And, in operation, many tent-like covers don't adequately cover the exhaust, a key entry point for moisture and potential damage to the generator.
The present invention addresses these and other shortcomings by providing a generator canopy and other features. For these reasons and shortcomings as well as other reasons and shortcomings there is a long-felt need that gives rise to the present invention.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The shortcomings of the prior art are overcome and additional advantages are provided through the provision of a generator canopy. The generator canopy comprises a top tarp having a front side, a backside, a right side, and a left side. The top tarp comprises more than one top loop along the perimeter of the top tarp, more than one corner, more than one leg-notch cutout, and more than one side-notch cutout. The front side and the backside are configured to have the top loop adjacent to each side of the leg-notch cutout and each side of the side-notch cutout. Each of the right side and the left side comprise at least one of the top loops, and a portion of each of the corners forms a tie-down edge.
The generator canopy further comprises at least two side tarps. Each of the side tarps is trapezoid-shaped with a long edge and a short edge parallel to the long edge. The long edge of the first of the side tarp is positioned proximate to the front side. The long edge of the second side tarp is positioned proximate to the backside. The side tarp comprises more than one side loop. At least one of the side loops is positioned at each end of the long edge and at least one of the side loops is positioned proximate to the center of the long edge fitting within the side-notch cutout.
The generator canopy further comprises more than one frame tube that has hollow ends. The frame tubes fit through each of the top loops and each of the side loops. The short edge of the side tarps hangs freely. More than one corner connector slides into the ends of the frame tubes forming a rigid perimeter that holds the top tarp taught. Each of the tie-down edges fastens to the corner connector preventing the corner connector from slipping out of the frame tube. More than one leg has more than one adjustment hole, each of the legs passes through the leg-notch cutout and fastens to the frame tube, each of the legs is extendable and secures into position by way of the adjustment hole. And, more than one ring eyelet. The ring eyelets are fastened to the side tarp proximate to each corner of the short edge.
In operation, one or more of the side tarp can be extended and secured in a mostly horizontal position to a fixed object by way of the ring eyelet to extend the horizontal inclement weather protection to a protected object such as a generator placed under the generator canopy or one or more of the side tarp can be secured in a mostly vertical position to the leg to extend the vertical protection of the protected object placed under the generator canopy.
Additional shortcomings of the prior art are overcome and additional advantages are provided through the provision of a method of using a generator canopy. The method comprises the steps of passing more than one of a frame tube through each top loop and each side loop such that one side tarp hangs proximate to a front side edge and one side tarp hangs proximate to a backside edge. A top tarp has a front side, a backside, a right side, and a left side. The top tarp comprises more than one of the top loops along the perimeter of the top tarp, more than one corner, more than one leg-notch cutout, and more than one side-notch cutout. The front side and the backside are configured to have the top loop adjacent to each side of the leg-notch cutout and each side of the side-notch cutout. Each of the right side and the left side comprise at least one of the top loops. A portion of each of the corners forms a tie-down edge. At least two side tarps are trapezoid-shaped having a long edge and a short edge that is parallel to the long edge. The long edge of the first of the side tarp is positioned proximate to the front side. The long edge of the second side tarp is positioned proximate to the backside. The side tarp comprises more than one side loop. At least one of the side loops is positioned at each end of the long edge and at least one side loop is positioned proximate to the center of the long edge fitting within the side-notch cutout. More than one of the frame tubes has hollow ends. The short edge of the side tarp hangs freely and is repositionable.
The method continues by locking the frame tube in position by way of a corner connector. More than one corner connector slides into the ends of the frame tube forming a rigid perimeter that holds the top tarp taught. Each of the tie-down edges fastens to the corner connector preventing the corner connector from slipping out of the frame tube.
The method then continues by extending and securing into position more than one leg. Each of the legs has more than one adjustment hole. Each of the legs passes through the leg-notch cutout and fastens to the frame tube. Each of the side tarps is positioned and secured by way of more than one ring eyelet. The ring eyelets are fastened to the side tarp proximate to each corner of the short edge.
In operation, one or more of the side tarps can be extended and secured in a mostly horizontal position to a fixed object by way of the ring eyelet to extend the horizontal inclement weather protection to a protected object placed such as a generator under the generator canopy or one or more of the side tarp can be secured in a mostly vertical position to the leg to extend the vertical protection of the protected object placed under the generator canopy.
The method then continues by placing the generator canopy over the top of a protected object.
Additional shortcomings of the prior art are overcome and additional advantages are provided through the provision of a generator canopy that comprises a top tarp that has a front side, a backside, a right side, and a left side, the top tarp comprises more than one top loop along the perimeter of the top tarp, more than one corner, more than one leg-notch cutout, and more than one side-notch cutout. The front side and the backside are configured to have the top loop adjacent to each side of the leg-notch cutout and each side of the side-notch cutout. Each of the right side and the left side comprise at least one of the top loops. A portion of each of the corners forms a tie-down edge.
The generator canopy further comprises at least two side tarps. Each of the side tarps is a trapezoid shape with a long edge and a short edge parallel to the long edge. The long edge of the first side tarp is positioned proximate to the front side. The long edge of the second side tarp is positioned proximate to the backside. The side tarp comprises more than one side loop. At least one of the side loops is positioned at each end of the long edge and at least one of the side loops is positioned proximate to the center of the long edge fitting within the side-notch cutout.
The generator canopy further comprises more than one frame tube that has hollow ends. The frame tube fits through each of the top loops and each of the side loops. The short edge of the side tarp hangs freely and is repositionable. More than one corner connector slides into the end of the frame tube forming a rigid perimeter that holds the top tarp taught. Each of the tie-down edges fastens to the corner connector preventing the corner connector from slipping out of the frame tube. More than one leg has more than one adjustment hole. Each of the legs passes through the leg-notch cutout and fastens to the frame tube. Each of the legs is extendable and secures into position by way of the adjustment hole.
The generator canopy further comprises more than one ring eyelet. The ring eyelet is fastened to the side tarp proximate to each corner of the short edge. A tie-down tether attaches to the frame tube and secures the generator canopy to the protected object. A hinged leg clamp fastens to the top of the leg and fastens to the frame tube. The hinged leg clamp is repositionable allowing the leg to be folded inward towards the top tarp and secured in a removable manner as well as extended outward and secured in a removable manner during use of the generator canopy.
In operation, one or more of the side tarp can be extended and secured in a mostly horizontal position to a fixed object by way of the ring eyelet to extend horizontal inclement weather protection to a protected object placed under the generator canopy or one or more of the side tarp can be secured in a mostly vertical position to the leg to extend vertical protection of the protected object placed under the generator canopy.
Additional features and advantages are realized through the techniques of the present invention. Other embodiments and aspects of the invention are described in detail herein and are considered a part of the claimed invention. For a better understanding of the invention with advantages and features, refer to the description and the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

The subject matter which is regarded as the invention is particularly pointed out and distinctly claimed in the claims at the conclusion of the specification. The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the invention are apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates one example of a generator canopy positioned over a generator;

FIGS. 2-3 illustrate examples of perspective views of a generator canopy;

FIG. 4 illustrates one example of a front view of a generator canopy;

FIG. 5 illustrates one example of a right side view of a generator canopy;

FIG. 6 illustrates one example of a tie-down tether assembly;

FIGS. 7 and 8 illustrate examples of a corner connector and assembly;

FIG. 9 illustrates one example of a leg assembly;

FIG. 10 illustrates one example of a top side view of a generator canopy;

FIG. 11 illustrates one example of a top bottom side view of a generator canopy;

FIG. 12 illustrates one example of views of a top tarp and a side tarp;

FIGS. 13-14 illustrate examples of disassembled views of a generator canopy;

FIGS. 15-18 illustrates examples of perspective views of a generator canopy;

FIG. 19 illustrates one example of a front view of a generator canopy;

FIG. 20 illustrates one example of a back view of a generator canopy;

FIG. 21 illustrates one example of a right side view of a generator canopy;

FIG. 22 illustrates one example of a left side view of a generator canopy;

FIGS. 23-24 illustrate examples of a method of using a generator canopy; and

FIG. 25 illustrates exemplary embodiments that can be interchangeably used with the methods of the present invention.

The detailed description explains the preferred embodiments of the invention, together with advantages and features, by way of example with reference to the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Turning now to the drawings in greater detail, it will be seen that in FIG. 1 , there is illustrated a generator canopy 100 covering generator 202. In an exemplary embodiment, the generator canopy 100 and the generator 202 are placed on a mostly flat surface such as the ground, back of a vehicle, trailer, and other suitable mostly flat surfaces, referred to as ground 204 or flat surface 204. Additionally, ground-contacting leg levelers 102 which are better illustrated in at least FIG. 2 , come in contact with the ground or a mostly flat surface such as the earth, back of a vehicle, trailer, and other suitable mostly flat surfaces and adjust the level of the generator canopy 100, as may be required and/or desired in a particular embodiment.
In an exemplary embodiment, the generator canopy 100 can be lightweight, foldable, and easily transportable. As illustrated in reference ‘A’, a tie-down tether 134 can be attached to generator 202 or as illustrated in reference ‘B’ passthrough the handle 208 of generator 202 and secured at both ends to the frame tube 136. In these configurations, the weight of generator 202 keeps the generator canopy 100 from moving or tipping over by way of a tie-down tether 134 that interconnects with the frame tube 136 and the generator 202 or through the generator 202 handle 208. The size of the generator canopy 100 can range from large enough to cover generators 202 that are less than 2500 watts to larger sizes of generator 202 that are greater than 2500 watts.
For disclosure generator 202, or other similar devices or objects that can be placed under the generator canopy 100 can be referred to as protected object 202.
In an exemplary embodiment, the top tarp 114 and the side tarps 110 can be made from a flexible material such as canvas, Kevlar, or other types and kinds of flexible materials. The frame tube 136 and the corner connectors 146 can be made from plastic, metal, a combination thereof, or other types and kinds of materials, as may be required and/or desired in a particular embodiment.
In an exemplary embodiment, in reference ‘B’, a tabletop 150 can be fastened by way of fasteners 162 to the top of the generator canopy 100 to provide a hard surface on top of the generator canopy 100, top tarp 114.
In an exemplary embodiment, a tie-down tether 134 can be attached to frame tube 136. The tie-down tether 134 secures the generator canopy 100 to a fixed object such as the generator 202 by attaching to the generator 202 or looping the tie-down tether 134 through the generator 202 handle 208 and securing the loose end of the tie-down tether 134 to the generator canopy 100 frame tube 136 or other convenient point. The tie-down tether 134 can also secure the generator canopy 100 to a recreational vehicle (RV), or other fixed objects so that it does not move, or tip over.
Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3 , there are illustrated examples of perspective views of a generator canopy 100. FIG. 2 is a top-front side perspective and FIG. 3 is a top-backside perspective view. In an exemplary embodiment, a top tarp 114 can have a front side 138, a backside 140, a right side 142, and a left side 144. The top tarp 114 can comprise more than one top loop 122 along the perimeter of the top tarp 114, more than one corner 120, more than one leg-notch cutout 124, and more than one side-notch cutout 160 as better illustrated in at least FIG. 12 .
In an exemplary embodiment, the front side 138 and the backside 140 are configured to have the top loop 122 adjacent to each side of the leg-notch cutout 124 and each side of the side-notch cutout 160. Each of the right side 142 and the left side 144 comprise at least one of the top loops 122. A portion of each corner 120 forms a tie-down edge 178.
In an exemplary embodiment, the generator canopy 100 can comprise at least two side tarp 110. Each of the side tarp 110 is a trapezoid shape having a long edge 156 and a short edge 158 that is parallel to the long edge 156 as better illustrated in at least FIG. 12 . The long edge 156 of the first of the side tarp 110 is positioned proximate to the front side 138 and the long edge 156 of the second of the side tarp 110 is positioned proximate to the backside 140. The side tarp 110 comprises more than one side loop 106. At least one of the side loop 106 is positioned at each end of the long edge 156 and at least one of the side loop 106 is positioned proximate to the center of the long edge 156 fitting within the side-notch cutout 160, the center can be illustrated as reference line 302 in at least FIG. 10 .
In an exemplary embodiment, the generator canopy 100 can comprises more than one frame tube 136 can have hollow ends. The frame tube 136 fits through each of the top loop 122 and each of the side loop 106. The short edge 158 of the side tarp can hang freely. More than one corner connector 146 can slide into the hollow end of frame tube 136 forming a rigid perimeter that holds the top tarp 114 taught. Each of the tie-down edges 178 fasten to the corner connector 146 preventing the corner connector 146 from slipping out of the frame tube 136. Additionally, as better illustrated in at least FIGS. 6 and 7 , a fastener 180 such as a screw or other suitable fastener can be used to connect the frame tube 136 to the corner connecter 146.
In an exemplary embodiment, the generator canopy 100 can comprises more than one leg 122 and has more than one adjustment hole 108. Each of the legs 122 passes through the leg-notch cutout 124 and fastens to the frame tube 136. Each of the legs 122 is extendable and secures into a length position by way of the adjustment hole 108.
In an exemplary embodiment, the generator canopy 100 can comprises more than one ring eyelet 118. The ring eyelet 118 can be fastened to the side tarp 110 proximate to each corner of the short edge 158.
In operation and an advantage in the present invention, one or more of the side tarp 110 can be extended and secured in a mostly horizontal position to a fixed object such as a vehicle, tree, or other suitable object proximate to the generator canopy 100. In this regard, a cord, rope, or other suitable item can be interconnected with the ring eyelet 118 and tied into position to extend horizontal inclement weather protection to a protected object 202 placed under the generator canopy. In addition, one or more of the side tarp 110 can be secured in a mostly vertical position to the leg 122 to extend vertical protection of the protected object 202 placed under the generator canopy.
Referring to FIG. 4 , there is illustrated one example of a front view of a generator canopy 100. In an exemplary embodiment, the side loops 106 at end 312 of the long edge 156 are positioned beyond the end of the top tarp 114, the front side 138 edges, and similarly the backside 140 edge such that when the top tarp 114 is stretched taught 314 during assembly of the generator canopy 100 the front side 138 edges and the backside edge 140 stretches taught 314 the long edge 156 of the side tarp 110.
Referring to FIG. 5 , there is illustrated one example of a right side view of a generator canopy 100. In an exemplary embodiment, a tie-down tether 134 can be attached to frame tube 136. In operation, the tie-down tether 134 secures the generator canopy 100 to the protected object 202.
Referring to FIG. 6 , there is illustrated one example of a tie-down tether 134 assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, the tie-down tether 134 can comprise a semi-circle bend 310 at at least one tether end 172. The tether end 172 folds backward mostly flat 308 with respect to the frame tube 136 with a radius of the semi-circle bend 310 selected to allow the semi-circle bend 310 to fiction-fit, in a removable manner in almost any location along the frame tube 136.
The term friction-fit, in the present invention, is intended to mean press-fit parts together in a manner that fastens the parts during use but allows them to be disassembled without undue complexity, tools, or applied force. In this regard, the semi-circle bend 310 is selected in size to, in a removable manner, be friction-fitted together to the frame tube 136 by press-fitting the semi-circle 310 around the frame tube 136 in almost any location along the frame tube 136.
An advantage in the present invention is that the tie-town tether 134 can be placed at nearly any location along the frame tube 136 to accommodate virtually every kind of generator 202 or other protected object 202.
In an exemplary embodiment and as better illustrated in at least FIG. 1 reference ‘A’, the tie-down tether 134 can pass through handle 208 of the protected object 202. In this regard, each end of the tie-down tether 134 can attach to frame tube 136 to secure the generator canopy 100 to the protected object 202.
Referring to FIG. 7 (illustrated without top tarp 114) and FIG. 8 (illustrated with top tarp 114), there are illustrated examples of a corner connector and assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, the corner connector 146 slides into the end of the frame tube 136 forming a rigid perimeter that holds the top tarp 114 taught. With reference to FIG. 7 , each of the tie-down edge 178 fasten 148 to the corner connector 146 preventing the corner connector 146 from slipping out of the frame tube 136.
An advantage in the present invention is that each of the corners 120 has a relief cut 154 between the tie-down edge 120 and the front side 138, backside 140, left side 144, and right side 142 allowing the top tarp 114 to drain water at the corners as well as be pulled taught at the tie-down edge 178 without binding the material of the top tarp 114 in the corner 120 areas and providing a relief area so that the side tarp 110 side loops 106 have free motion at the corners 120 so that the side tarp 110 can be repositioned (horizontally or vertically with respect to the top tarp 114) as needed in a particular embodiment without binding in the corners 120.
In an exemplary embodiment, and as better illustrated in at least FIG. 6 , a fastener 180 can also be used to connect frame tube 136 to corner connector 146.
In an exemplary embodiment and with reference to at least FIG. 5 , the generator canopy 100 can comprise more than one leg 104. Each of the legs 104 has more than one adjustment hole 108 (better illustrated in at least FIG. 9 ). Each of the legs 104 passes through the leg-notch cutout 124 (better illustrated in at least FIG. 2 ) and fastens 176 (better illustrated in at least FIG. 9 ) to the frame tube 136. Each of the legs 104 can be extendable 316 adjusting the height of the top tarp 110 surface from the ground 204 or flat surface 204. The legs 104 secure into a locked position by way of the adjustment hole 108.
Referring to FIG. 9 , there is illustrated a leg assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, pin 168 is attached to leg 104. The pin 108 can be retractable allowing legs 104 to change length position in effect adjusting the height of the top tarp 114 from the ground 204 or flat surface 204. Once leg 104 is length positioned, pin 168 then engages at least one adjustment hole 108 to secure leg 104 into the fixed-length position.
In an exemplary embodiment, more than one leg leveler 102 can be fastened to at least two of the legs 104 that are adjacent. In operation, the ability to adjust two of the legs 104 by way of the leg leveler 102 allows a user to adjust the angle of the top tarp 114 to drain water, such as rain or snow, off the generator canopy 100 and away from the generator 202. In operation, the relief cuts 154 in corners 120 provide an egress pathway for water and the like to flow off the top tarp 114 to the ground 204 or flat surface 204 preventing pooling on the surface of the top tarp 114.
In an exemplary embodiment in at least FIG. 9 reference ‘B’, the generator canopy can comprise a hinged leg clamp 166 that is fastened to the top of leg 104 and fastened to the frame tube 136. The hinged leg clamp 166 is repositionable allowing the leg 104 to be folded inward towards the top tarp 114 and secured in a movable manner as well as be extended outward and secured in a movable manner during use of the generator canopy 100. In operation, a user can fold legs 104 outward 306 and secure them in position for use even adjusting the length of legs 104 and leg levelers 102 to adjust the height and angle of the top tarp 114 for drainage and other purposes. For storage, legs 104 can be shortened and collapsed folding inward 306 towards the top tarp 114 creating a flat, thin, compact form factor of the generator canopy that is easily storeable.
In an exemplary embodiment in at least FIG. 9 reference ‘A’, the hinged leg clamp 166 can be semi-circle in shape 164 wrapping around the frame tube 136 sufficiently to allow a fastener 176 to be inserted into the hinged leg clamp 166 semi-circle 164 through the frame tube and exit from the hinged leg clamp 166 semi-circle 164. In operation, the semi-circle 164 is sized to friction fit around the frame tube 136 and a fastener 176 can be threaded through the semi-circle 164 and frame tube 136 to secure the leg 104 to the frame tube in a movable 306 manner.
An advantage, in the present invention, is that fastener 176 penetrates the semi-circle 164 on the top and bottom as well as the frame tube 136 in between to create a strong leg structure so that tabletop 150 can be fastened by way of fasteners 162 to the top of the generator canopy 100 to provide a hard surface on top of the generator canopy 100, top tarp 114 that can support a meaningful about of weight such As a camp stove, ice chest cooler, and numerous other heavy items, as may be required and/or desired in a particular embodiment.
In an exemplary embodiment, the hinged leg clamp 166 can further comprise a cord attachment 174. In operation, cord 318 can be interconnected with cord attachment 174 to secure the generator canopy 100 to a fixed object proximate to the generator canopy 100. For disclosure purposes, cord 318 can be a BUNGEE cord, rope, strap, or other suitable cord as may be required and/or desired in a particular embodiment.
In an exemplary embodiment, at least one of anchor clip 126 can be fastened to leg 104. In operation, better illustrated in at least FIG. 12 the generator canopy 100 can comprise more than one ring eyelet 118. The ring eyelet 118 can be fastened to the side tarp 110 proximate to each corner of the short edge 158. In operation and with reference to at least FIG. 9 , the ring eyelet 118 can be removably attached to the anchor clip 126 securing the side tarp 110 from motion to the leg 104.
In another exemplary embodiment, at least one of anchor clip 126 can be fastened to leg 104 proximate to the ring eyelet 118. The ring eyelet 118 can be removably attached to the anchor clip 126. Such fastening of the anchor clip 126 to leg 104 can be by way of inserting the anchor clip 126 into one of the adjustment holes 108, or by other methods as may be required and/or desired in a particular embodiment.
In an exemplary embodiment, more than one of a leg leveler 102 can be fastened to at least two of the mounting 104. In operation, the generator canopy 100 can be placed over generator 202, and the leg levelers 102 adjusted to create the top tarp 114 that causes rain, snow, or other water to run off the top tarp 114 away from generator 202 in the desired direction.
Referring to FIG. 10 , there is illustrated one example of a top side view of a generator canopy 100 with reference lines 302 and 304. Reference line 302 bisects the middle of the top tarp 114 between the front side 138 and the backside 140 and reference line 304 bisects the middle of the top tarp 114 between the right side 142 and the left side 144.
Referring to FIG. 11 , there is illustrated one example of a bottom side view of a generator canopy 100. In an exemplary embodiment, the generator canopy 100 can comprise at least two cross-frame tubes 162. Better illustrated in at least FIG. 14 , the first of the cross-frame tube 162 interconnects between legs 104 on the front side 138, and the second of the cross-frame tube 162 interconnects between legs 104 on the backside 140.
In an exemplary embodiment and as better illustrated in at least FIGS. 9, 11 , and 14 the generator canopy 100 can comprise a frame tube socket 170 fastened on the legs 104. The cross-frame tube 162 presses in and is fastened to the tubing frame socket 170. In operation, the frame tube socket 170 orientates the cross-frame tube 162 parallel to and a fixed distance from the frame tube 136.
Referring to FIG. 12 , there is illustrates one example of views of a top tarp 114 and a side tarp 110.
Referring to FIGS. 13 and 14 , there are illustrated examples of disassembled views of a generator canopy. In an exemplary embodiment, FIG. 13 illustrates a disassembled view with the frame tube 136, corner connectors 146, and cross-frame tube 162 disconnected. While, FIG. 14 illustrates a disassembled view with the frame tube 136, corner connectors 146, and cross-frame tube 162 assembled.
Referring to FIGS. 15 through 18 , there are illustrated examples of perspective views of a generator canopy 100. Referring to FIG. 19 , there is illustrated one example of a front view of a generator canopy 100. Referring to FIG. 20 , there is illustrated one example of a back view of a generator canopy 100. Referring to FIG. 21 , there is illustrated one example of a right side view of a generator canopy 100. Referring to FIG. 22 , there is illustrated one example of a left side view of a generator canopy 100.
Referring to FIG. 23 , there is illustrated one example of a method of using a generator canopy 100. In an exemplary embodiment, a method of assembling a generator canopy begins in step 1002 by passing more than one of a frame tube 136 through a top loop 122 and a side loop 106 such that one side tarp hangs 110 proximate to a front side edge 138 and one side tarp 110 hangs proximate to a backside edge 140. The frame tube 136 has hollow ends. A top tarp 114 has a front side 138 edge, a backside 140 edge, a right side 142 edge, a left side 144 edge, and more than one corner 120. The front side 138 edge and the backside 140 edge alternate between a top loop 122 and a leg-notch cutout 124. The right side edge 142 and the left side edge 144 each have the top loop 122. A portion of each of the corners forms a tie-down edge 178. More than one of a side tarp 110 can be trapezoid-shaped with a ring eyelet 118 in at least two corners and more than one of a side loop 106 along the length of one edge. The method then moves to step 1004.
In step 1004, frame tube 136 is fastened into position by way of a corner connector 146. More than one corner connector 146 slides into the ends of the frame tube 136 forming a rigid perimeter that holds the top tarp 114 taught. The method then moves to step 1006.
In step 1006, each of the tie-down edges 178 can be fastened to the corner connector 146. Such fastening can be by way of a screw 148 or other types and/or kinds of fasteners. The method then moves to step 1008.
In step 1008, more than one leg 104 can be fastened to frame tube 136 by passing the leg 104 through the leg-notch cutout 124. Each leg 104 has at least one adjustment hole 108 for adjusting the length of each leg 104. In this regard, at least one locking fastener 132 also referred to as pin 132 engages at least one of the first adjustment hole 108 and at least one of the second adjustment hole 108. The method then moves to step 1010.
In step 1010, the generator canopy 100 is then placed over the top of generator 202. The method is then exited.
Referring to FIG. 24 , there is illustrated one example of a method of using a generator canopy 100. The method begins in step 1102 by passing more than one frame tube 136 through each top loop 122 and each side loop 106 such that one side tarp 110 hangs proximate to a front side 138 edge and one side tarp 106 hangs proximate to a backside 140 edge. A top tarp 114 has the front side 138, the backside 140, a right side 142, and a left side 144. The top tarp 114 comprises more than one top loop 122 along the perimeter of the top tarp 114, more than one corner 120, more than one leg-notch cutout 124, and more than one side-notch cutout 160. The front side 138 and the backside 140 are configured to have the top loop 122 adjacent to each side of the leg-notch cutout 124 and each side of the side-notch cutout 160. Each of the right side 142 and the left side 144 comprise at least one of the top loops 122. A portion of each of the corners 120 forms a tie-down edge 178.
The generator canopy 100 further comprises at least two of the side tarp 110. Each of the side tarp 110 can be a trapezoid shape having a long edge 156 and a short edge 158 that is parallel to the long edge 156. The long edge 156 of the first side tarp is positioned proximate to the front side 138 edge and the long edge 156 of the second side tarp 110 is positioned proximate to the backside 140 edge. The side tarp 110 comprises more than one side loop 106. At least one side loop 106 is positioned at each end of the long edge 156 and at least one side loop 106 is positioned proximate to the center of the long edge 156 fitting within the side-notch cutout 160. More than one frame tube 136 has hollow ends. The short edge 158 of the side tarp 106 hangs freely. The method then moves to step 1104.
In step 1104, the method continues by locking the frame tube 136 in position by way of a corner connector 146. In this regard, more than one corner connector 146 slides into the ends of frame tube 136 forming a rigid perimeter that holds the top tarp 114 taught. Each of the tie-down edge 178 fastens to the corner connector 146 preventing the corner connector 146 from slipping out of the frame tubes 136. The method then moves to step 1106.
In step 1106, the method then continues by extending and securing into position more than one leg 104. Each of the legs 104 has more than one adjustment hole 108. Each of the legs 104 passes through the leg-notch cutout 124 and fastens to the frame tube 136. The method then moves to step 1108.
In step 1108, the method continues by positioning in a secured manner each side tarps 110 by way of more than one ring eyelet 118. The ring eyelets 118 are fastened to the side tarp 110 proximate to each corner of the short edge 158. In operation, one or more of the side tarp 110 can be extended and secured in a mostly horizontal position to a fixed object that is proximate to the generator canopy 100 by way of the ring eyelets 118 tieing with a cord, rope, or other suitable connector to extend the horizontal inclement weather protection to a protected object 202 such as a generator 202 that is placed under the generator canopy. Alternatively, one or more of the side tarp 110 can be secured in a mostly vertical position to the legs 104 to extend the vertical protection of the protected object 202 that is placed under the generator canopy 100. The method then moves to step 1110.
In step 1110, the method continues by placing the generator canopy 100 over the top of the protected object 202. The method is then exited.
Referring to FIG. 25 , there are illustrated exemplary embodiments that can interchangeably be used with the methods of the present invention.
In step 1202, at least one anchor clip 126 that fastens to the telescopic leg 104 proximate to the ring eyelet 118 is added. The ring eyelet 118 is removably attached to the anchor clip 126. In operation, the side tarp 110 can be secured from flapping by fastening the ring eyelet 188 to the anchor clip 126. In the alternative, when the side tarp 110 needs to be extended to provide an extended cover, the ring eyelets 188 can be detached from the anchor clip 126, the side tarp 110 extended, and the ring eyelets 118 used with rope, bungee cord, or other restraints to hold taught the side tarp 110. In this regard, the rope, bungee cord, or other restraints can be tied at one end to the ring eyelet 118 and tied at the other end to a fixed object.
In step 1204, more than one leg leveler 102 can be added and fastened to at least two of the mounting 104.
In step 1206, a tie-down tether 134 can be fastened to the frame tube, and in step 1108 the generator canopy can be secured to a fixed object. The fixed object can be a recreational vehicle, a table, a tree, or other suitable fixed objects.
In step 1210, the length of each leg 104 can be adjusted by way of a pin 168 that is attached to leg 104. The pin is retractable allowing the leg 104 to change length position (shorter or longer). The pin 168 then engages at least one of the adjustment holes 108 to secure leg 104 into a fixed-length position. Each leg 104 can be adjusted independently allowing the top tarp 114 to be angled as needed to effectuate the flow of water off the top tarp 114 and away from the protected object 202 such as a generator 202 underneath the generator canopy 100.
In step 1212, the generator canopy 100 can be secured to a protected object 202 such as a generator 202 under the top tarp 114 by way of a tie-down tether 134 that attaches the frame tube 136 and secures the generator canopy 100 to the protected object 202. The tie-down tether 134 comprises a semi-circle bend 310 at at least one of a tether end 172. The tether end 172 folds backward mostly flat with respect to frame tube 136 with a radius of the semi-circle bend 310 selected to allow the semi-circle bend 310 to fiction-fit, in a removable manner in almost any location along the frame tube 136.
In operation, the tie-down tether 134 can be attached to the protected object 202 such as a generator 202 to prevent the generator canopy 100 from moving. Alternatively, the tie-down tether 134 can pass through the handle 208 of the protected object 202, and both ends of the tie-down tether 134 can be attached to the frame tube 136 to prevent the generator canopy 100 from moving.
In step 1214, the generator canopy 100 can be stored after use by folding legs 104 inward by way of a hinged leg clamp 166 that is fastened to the top of leg 104 and fastened to frame tube 136. The hinged leg clamp 166 is repositionable allowing the legs 104 to be folded inward towards the top tarp 114 and secured in a removable manner as well as extended outward and secured in a removable manner during use of the generator canopy 100.
The flow diagrams depicted herein are just examples. There may be many variations to these diagrams or the steps (or operations) described therein without departing from the spirit of the invention. For instance, the steps may be performed in a differing order, or steps may be added, deleted, or modified. All of these variations are considered a part of the claimed invention.
While the preferred embodiment of the invention has been described, it will be understood that those skilled in the art, both now and in the future, may make various improvements and enhancements which fall within the scope of the claims which follow. These claims should be construed to maintain the proper protection for the invention first described.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A generator canopy comprising:

a top tarp having a front side, a backside, a right side, and a left side, the top tarp comprises more than one of a top loop along perimeter of the top tarp, more than one of a corner, more than one of a leg-notch cutout, and more than one of a side-notch cutout, the front side and the backside are configured to have the top loop adjacent to each side of the leg-notch cutout and each side of the side-notch cutout, each of the right side and the left side comprise at least one of the top loop, portion of each of the corner forms a tie-down edge;

at least two of a side tarp, each of the side tarp is trapezoid-shaped having a long edge and a short edge that is parallel to the long edge, the long edge of first of the side tarp is positioned proximate to the front side, and the long edge of second of the side tarp is positioned proximate to the backside, the side tarp comprises more than one of a side loop, at least one of the side loop is positioned at each end of the long edge and at least one of the side loop is positioned proximate to center of the long edge fitting within the side-notch cutout;

more than one of a frame tube having hollow ends, the frame tube fits through each of the top loop and each of the side loop, the short edge of the side tarp hangs freely and is repositionable;

more than one of a corner connector slides into end of the frame tube forming rigid perimeter that holds the top tarp taught, each of the tie-down edge fasten to the corner connector preventing the corner connector from slipping out of the frame tube;

more than one of a leg having more than one of an adjustment hole, each of the leg passes through the leg-notch cutout and fastens to the frame tube, each of the leg is extendable and secures into position by way of the adjustment hole; and

more than one of a ring eyelet, the ring eyelet is fastened to the side tarp proximate to each corner of the short edge;

wherein one or more of the side tarp can be extended and secured in a mostly horizontal position to a fixed object by way of the ring eyelet to extend horizontal inclement weather protection to a protected object placed under the generator canopy or one or more of the side tarp can be secured in a mostly vertical position to the leg to extend vertical protection of the protected object placed under the generator canopy.

2. The generator canopy in accordance with claim 1, the side loop at end of the long edge is positioned beyond end of edges of the front side and backside such that when the top tarp is stretched taught edges of the front side and the backside stretch taught during assembly of the generator canopy the long edge of the side tarp.

3. The generator canopy in accordance with claim 1, each of the corner has a relief cut between the tie-down edge and the front side, backside, left side, and right side allowing the top tarp to be pulled taught at the tie-down edge without binding material of the top tarp in areas of the corner.

4. The generator canopy in accordance with claim 1, further comprising:

at least two of a cross-frame tube, first of the cross-frame tube interconnects between the leg on the front side, and second of the cross-frame tube interconnects between the leg on the backside.

5. The generator canopy in accordance with claim 4, further comprising:

a frame tube socket fastened on the leg, the cross-frame tube presses in and is fastened to the frame tube socket, the frame tube socket orientates the cross-frame tube parallel to and a fixed distance from the frame tube.

6. The generator canopy in accordance with claim 1, further comprising:

a pin is attached to the leg, the pin is retractable allowing the leg to change length position, the pin then engages at least one of the adjustment hole to secure the leg into fixed-length position.

7. The generator canopy in accordance with claim 1, further comprising:

at least one of an anchor clip fastens to the leg, the ring eyelet is removably attached to the anchor clip securing the side tarp from motion to the leg.

8. The generator canopy in accordance with claim 1, further comprising:

more than one of a leg leveler is fastened to at least two of the leg that are adjacent.

9. The generator canopy in accordance with claim 1, further comprising:

a tie-down tether attaches to the frame tube, wherein the tie-down tether secures the generator canopy to the protected object.

10. The generator canopy in accordance with claim 8, the tie-down tether comprises a semi-circle bend at at least one of a tether end, the tether end folds backward mostly flat with respect to the frame tube with radius of the semi-circle bend selected to allow the semi-circle bend to fiction-fit, in a removable manner in almost any location along the frame tube.

11. The generator canopy in accordance with claim 9, the tie-down tether passes through handle of the protected object, each end of the tie-down tether attaches to the frame tube to secure the generator canopy to the protected object.

12. The generator canopy in accordance with claim 1, further comprising:

a hinged leg clamp fastens to the top of the leg and fastens to the frame tube, the hinged leg clamp is repositionable allowing the leg to be folded inward towards the top tarp and secured in a movable manner as well as be extended outward and secured in a movable manner during use of the generator canopy.

13. The generator canopy in accordance with claim 11, the hinged leg clamp is semi-circle in shape wrapping around the frame tube sufficiently to allow a fastener to be inserted into the hinged leg clamp through the frame tube and exit from the hinged leg clamp.

14. The generator canopy in accordance with claim 12, the hinged leg clamp further comprises a cord attachment, wherein a cord is interconnected with the cord attachment to secure the generator canopy to a fixed object.

15. A method of using a generator canopy, the method comprising the steps of:

passing more than one of a frame tube through each of a top loop and each of a side loop such that one of a side tarp hangs proximate to a front side edge and one of the side tarp hangs proximate to a backside edge, a top tarp having the front side, the backside, a right side, and a left side, the top tarp comprises more than one of the top loop along perimeter of the top tarp, more than one of a corner, more than one of a leg-notch cutout, and more than one of a side-notch cutout, the front side and the backside are configured to have the top loop adjacent to each side of the leg-notch cutout and each side of the side-notch cutout, each of the right side and the left side comprise at least one of the top loop, portion of each of the corner forms a tie-down edge, at least two of the side tarp, each of the side tarp is trapezoid shape having a long edge and a short edge that is parallel to the long edge, the long edge of first of the side tarp is positioned proximate to the front side and the long edge of second of the side tarp is positioned proximate to the backside, the side tarp comprises more than one of the side loop, at least one of the side loop is positioned at each end of the long edge and at least one of the side loop is positioned proximate to center of the long edge fitting within the side-notch cutout, more than one of the frame tube having hollow ends, the short edge of the side tarp hangs freely and is repositionable;

locking the frame tube in position by way of a corner connector, more than one of the corner connector slides into end of the frame tube forming rigid perimeter that holds the top tarp taught, each of the tie-down edge fasten to the corner connector preventing the corner connector from slipping out of the frame tube;

extending and securing into position more than one of a leg, each of the leg having more than one of an adjustment hole, each of the leg passes through the leg-notch cutout and fastens to the frame tube;

positioning in secured manner each of the side tarp by way of more than one of a ring eyelet, the ring eyelet is fastened to the side tarp proximate to each corner of the short edge, wherein one or more of the side tarp can be extended and secured in a mostly horizontal position to a fixed object by way of the ring eyelet to extend horizontal inclement weather protection to a protected object placed under the generator canopy or one or more of the side tarp can be secured in a mostly vertical position to the leg to extend vertical protection of the protected object placed under the generator canopy; and

placing the generator canopy over the top of a protected object.

16. The method in accordance with claim 15, further comprising the step of:

adjusting length of each of the leg by way of a pin that is attached to the leg, the pin is retractable allowing the leg to change length position, the pin then engages at least one of the adjustment holes to secure the leg into fixed-length position.

17. The method in accordance with claim 15, further comprising the step of:

securing the generator canopy to a protected object under the top tarp by way of a tie-down tether that attaches to the frame tube and secures the generator canopy to the protected object, the tie-down tether comprises a semi-circle at at least one of a tether end, the tether end folds backward mostly flat with respect to the frame tube with radius of the semi-circle bend selected to allow the semi-circle bend to fiction-fit, in a removable manner in almost any location along the frame tube.

18. The method in accordance with claim 15, further comprising the step of:

storing the generator canopy after use by folding the leg inward by way of a hinged leg clamp fastened to the top of the leg and fastens to the frame tube, the hinged leg clamp is repositionable allowing the leg to be folded inward towards the top tarp and secured in a removable manner as well as extended outward and secured in a removable manner during use of the generator canopy.

19. A generator canopy comprising:

at least two of a side tarp, each of the side tarp is trapezoid-shaped having a long edge and a short edge that is parallel to the long edge, the long edge of first of the side tarp is positioned proximate to the front side and the long edge of second of the side tarp is positioned proximate to the backside, the side tarp comprises more than one of a side loop, at least one of the side loop is positioned at each end of the long edge and at least one of the side loop is positioned proximate to center of the long edge fitting within the side-notch cutout;

more than one of a leg having more than one of an adjustment hole, each of the leg passes through the leg-notch cutout and fastens to the frame tube, each of the leg is extendable and secures into position by way of the adjustment hole;

a tie-down tether attaches to the frame tube and secures the generator canopy to a protected object; and

a hinged leg clamp fastens to the top of the leg and fastens to the frame tube, the hinged leg clamp is repositionable allowing the leg to be folded inward towards the top tarp and secured in a removable manner as well as extended outward and secured in a removable manner during use of the generator canopy;

wherein one or more of the side tarp can be extended and secured in a mostly horizontal position to a fixed object by way of the ring eyelet to extend horizontal inclement weather protection to the protected object placed under the generator canopy or one or more of the side tarp can be secured in a mostly vertical position to the leg to extend vertical protection of the protected object placed under the generator canopy.

20. The generator canopy in accordance with claim 19, the tie-down tether comprises a semi-circle bend at at least one of a tether end, the tether end folds backward mostly flat with respect to the frame tube with radius of the semi-circle bend selected to allow the semi-circle bend to fiction-fit, in a removable manner in almost any location along the frame tube.

21. The generator canopy in accordance with claim 19, the hinged leg clamp is semi-circle in shape wrapping around the frame tube sufficiently to allow a fastener to be inserted into the hinged leg clamp through the frame tube and exit from the hinged leg clamp, the hinged leg clamp further comprises a cord attachment, wherein a cord is interconnected with the cord attachment to secures the generator canopy to a fixed object.