CROSSBAR ASSEMBLY AND AWNING ASSEMBLY FOR ATTACHMENT TO GOLF CARTS

Abstract

In one aspect, the present invention provides an awning assembly configured to mount to a support structure of a golf cart. This awning assembly includes at least an awning canopy sheet, a mounting bracket, a pair of support arms and support legs. In another aspect, the present invention provides a crossbar assembly for installation on the roof of a golf cart. This crossbar assembly includes at least two crossbars and a plurality of support members, which serve as the support structure for the awning assembly. The crossbar assembly is uniquely configured to be compatible with any standard golf cart by using different groups of support members. In still another aspect, the present invention provides an awning kit including an awning assembly and a crossbar assembly, both of which are designed for attachment to a golf cart, particularly to the top roof of a golf cart, providing users with a convenient, adjustable, and reliable shade or shelter. In a further aspect, the present invention provides a method for mounting a crossbar or an awning to the roof of a golf cart.

Claims

1. An awning assembly for mounting to a support structure on a roof of a golf cart, comprising a mounting bracket configured to mount to the support structure on the roof of the golf cart; a first frame removably engaged with the mounting bracket; an awning canopy sheet having an inner edge secured to the first frame, and an outer edge attached to a second frame, wherein the awning canopy sheet is sized to particularly suit the dimension of the golf cart; at least one support arm attached to the first frame; at least one support leg attached to the second frame; and an enclosure means coupled to the first frame, wherein the enclosure means defines a space that is sized to receive at least the awning canopy sheet and the support arm; wherein the enclosure means has an opening operatively sized to allow the awning canopy sheet and the arm to be moved into and out of the enclosure.

2. The awning assembly of claim 1, wherein the support structure of the golf cart is one or more crossbars on the roof of the golf cart.

3. The awning assembly of claim 1, wherein the support arm has an inner segment configured to attach to the first frame and an outer segment having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the outer segment is pivotably connected to the inner segment, and the second end of the outer segment is outwardly pullable to adjust the length of the support arm.

4. The awning assembly of claim 1, wherein the support leg has a first segment configured to attach to the second frame and a second segment having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the second segment is pivotably connected to the first segment, and the second end of the second segment is outwardly pullable to adjust the length of the support leg.

5. The awning assembly of claim 1, further comprising an anchor rope having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the proximal end is attached to the second frame and the distal end is extendable to attach to the ground.

6. The awning assembly of claim 5, the distal end of the anchor rope is attached to the ground via a peg.

7. The awning assembly of claim 1, wherein the awning canopy sheet is extendable, and is configurable in a compact state, partially extended state or fully extended state.

8. The awning assembly of claim 1, further comprising a fastening element for securing the awning canopy sheet to the support arm, when the awning canopy sheet is in the extended state.

9. The awning assembly of claim 8, wherein the fastening element is a velcro strap attached to the awning canopy sheet.

10. The awning assembly of claim 1, wherein at least one of the support arm and the support leg further comprises a locking member to secure the support arm or the support leg at a fixed length.

11. The awning assembly of claim 1, wherein the second frame further comprises a receiving aperture for receiving and affixing the second end of the outer segment of the support arm.

12. A crossbar assembly for mounting to a roof of a golf cart, comprising: a plurality of support members, each configured to be secured to the roof of the golf cart, at least two crossbars, each having a first end and a second end, wherein each crossbar is configured to be secured to the support member, such that the crossbar is removably assembled on the top roof of the golf cart.

13. The crossbar assembly of claim 12, wherein the two crossbars are arranged to be parallel to each other and are aligned in a common horizontal plane, after being assembled on the top roof of the golf cart.

14. The crossbar assembly of claim 12, wherein the support members are categorized into different groups varying in size or shape, to be compatible with different standard golf carts.

15. The crossbar assembly of claim 12, wherein the support members are categorized into front support members and rear support members, optionally having different size or shape, thereby ensuring that the two crossbars are aligned in a common horizontal plane after installation, even if the roof of the golf cart is not uniformly level.

16. An awning kit configured for attachment to a golf cart comprising: a crossbar assembly configured to mount to a roof of a golf cart, comprising: a plurality of support members, wherein each support member is configured to be secured to the roof of a golf cart, at least two crossbars, each having a first end and a second end, wherein each crossbar is configured to be secured to the support members, such that the crossbars are removably assembled on the top roof of a golf cart; and an awning assembly configured to mount to the crossbar assembly, comprising: a mounting bracket configured to mount to at least one crossbar of a golf cart; a first frame being removably engaged with the mounting bracket; an awning canopy sheet having an inner edge secured to the first frame, and an outer edge attached to a second frame, wherein the awning canopy sheet is sized to particularly suit the dimension of the golf cart; at least one support arm attached to the first frame; and at least one support leg attached to the second frame.

17. The awning kit of claim 16, wherein the support arm has an inner segment configured to attach to the first frame and an outer segment having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the outer segment is pivotably connected to the inner segment, and the second end of the outer segment is outwardly pullable to adjust the length of the support arm; and the support leg has a first segment configured to attach to the second frame and a second segment having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the second segment is pivotably connected to the first segment, and the second end of the second segment is outwardly pullable to adjust the length of the support leg.

18. The awning kit of claim 16, wherein the support members are categorized into front support members and rear support members, optionally having different sizes, thereby ensuring that the two crossbars are aligned in a common horizontal plane after installation, even if the roof of the golf cart is not uniformly level.

19. A method for mounting an awning to a roof of a golf cart, comprising the steps of: providing a crossbar assembly comprising at least two crossbars and a plurality of support members; securing the support member to the roof of a golf cart using a fastener; mounting the crossbar on the support members to allow the crossbars arranged in parallel to each other and aligned in a common horizontal plane; providing an awning assembly comprising an awning canopy sheet, a mounting bracket, a support arm and a support leg; wherein the awning canopy sheet is sized to particularly suit the dimension of the golf cart; attaching the awning assembly to the crossbar using the mounting bracket.

20. The method of claim 19, further comprising a step of extending the awning canopy sheet to an extended configuration and supporting the awning canopy sheet by the support arm or the support leg.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0051] These and other features, aspects and advantages are described below with reference to the drawings, which are intended to illustrate but not to limit the inventions. In the drawings, like reference characters denote corresponding features consistently throughout similar embodiments.

[0052] FIG. 1 is an overall view of an exemplary golf cart with an awning according to one embodiment of the present invention mounted to crossbar on the top roof of the golf cart.

[0053] FIG. 2A is a side view and FIG. 2B is a top view of the exemplary golf cart with the awning as shown in FIG. 1.

[0054] FIG. 3A is an overall view of the awning assembly mounted to a pair of crossbars on the top roof of a golf cart by using mounting brackets, according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3B is a closer view of FIG. 3A, showing the position of the L-shaped mounting bracket.

[0055] FIG. 4A is a perspective view of an extended awning assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4B is a perspective detail view taken from Detail A in FIG. 4A, showing the first end or the first segment of the support arm is pivotably connected to the first frame.

[0056] FIG. 5A is a perspective view of an awning assembly installed on a pair of top roof crossbars according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5B is a perspective detail view taken from Detail B in FIG. 5A, showing the second end or the second segment of the support arm, which is received by a receiving aperture on the second frame and affixed thereto using a butterfly nut.

[0057] FIG. 6 is a schematic representation of one embodiment of a pair of crossbars, each having a first end and a second end. Optionally, the crossbar can have end caps attached to the first and the second end.

[0058] FIGS. 7A-7E are perspective views of a plurality of support members for mounting onto the top roof of different golf carts. These support members are categorized into different groups, varying in size or shape, for different standard golf carts, to facilitate easy installation to any standard golf cart.

[0059] FIGS. 8A, 8C, 8E and 8G are exploded views, and FIGS. 8B, 8D, 8F and 8H are corresponding assembly configurations of representative crossbar assemblies (including support members and crossbars) for various standard golf carts.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0060] While the present description sets forth specific details of various embodiments, it will be appreciated that the description is illustrative only and should not be construed in any way as limiting. Furthermore, various applications of such embodiments and modifications thereto, which may occur to those who are skilled in the art, are also encompassed by the general concepts described herein. Each and every feature described herein, and each and every combination of two or more of such features, is included within the scope of the present invention provided that the features included in such a combination are not mutually inconsistent.

[0061] It must be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms a, an, and the include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0062] As used herein, the terms comprising, including, and containing and grammatical equivalents thereof are inclusive or open-ended terms that do not exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps.

[0063] As used herein, the phrase consisting of and grammatical equivalents thereof exclude any element or step not specified in the claim.

[0064] As used herein, the term front refers to the portion of the roof of a golf cart that is close to the windshield or the steering wheel. The term rear refers to the portion of the roof that is distal to the front, near the back of the golf cart. Accordingly, the phrase front support member or front crossbar denotes that the support member or crossbar is positioned at the front of the golf cart's roof. Similarly, the phrase rear support member or rear crossbar denotes that the support member or crossbar is positioned at the rear of the golf cart's roof.

[0065] As used herein, the term horizontal refers to a direction that is parallel to the horizon or ground level. In other words, it is a flat line or plane that runs from side to side, rather than up and down.

[0066] The present invention is directed to an awning assembly designed for mounting on a crossbar of a golf cart, as well as a crossbar assembly for installation on the roof of a golf cart to support the awning assembly. As used herein, the term assembly generally refers to a combination of parts or components that are put together to form a complete unit or system. Consequently, the present invention also includes an awning kit, which comprises both the awning assembly and the crossbar assembly described above. The awning kit is characterized by its compatibility to various standards of golf carts, and its easy deployment and retraction for user convenience. In addition, the present invention provides a method for mounting the awning kit to the roof of a golf cart.

I. Awning Assembly

[0067] FIG. 1 shows an exemplary golf cart (10) with an awning mounted to the crossbar on the top roof of a golf cart. The awning assembly (200) is mounted to the crossbar assembly (100) by use of mounting brackets. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the awning canopy sheet is fully extended and supported by support legs (210) and anchor ropes (212), providing shade or shelter. The awning canopy sheet is sized to fit the golf cart's size. Unlike the larger awning sheet typically mounted on the sidewall of a campervan or a motor house, this awning canopy sheet is mounted on the top-roof crossbars of a golf cart and is compact and suitable for smaller golf carts. For example, the dimension of the awning canopy sheet is about 2.5 m2 m, or about 2 m1.5 m. To meet various needs, the size of the awning canopy sheet can be adjusted by partially extending it. And the golf cart can be any standard. Components of the awning kit according to the present invention may include, but are not limited to, a crossbar assembly (100) and an awning assembly (200).

[0068] FIG. 2A is a side view, and FIG. 2B is a top view of the exemplary golf cart with an awning mounted thereto shown in FIG. 1. As illustrated, the awning canopy sheet is fully extended and comprises a rectangular shape.

[0069] FIG. 3A is an overall view of the awning assembly mounted to a pair of crossbars (101) assembled on the top roof (11) of a golf cart by use of a pair of mounting brackets (103). As illustrated, the awning canopy sheet is in a compact configuration, folded within a protective enclosure (220). The enclosure provides an efficient storage solution when the sheet is not actively in use. As exemplified, the enclosure (220) is an awning bag with an opening, and the opening is closed using a zipper. During transit, the enclosure is zipped closed to protect the awning canopy sheet and other components of the awning assembly from falling out of the enclosure and damaging the golf cart. Upon arrival at the destination, when the need for shade or shelter arises, the golf cart is stationed, and the enclosure is unzipped. The awning canopy sheet is then pulled out through the opening of the enclosure and set in an extended configuration. In some embodiments, the awning canopy sheet is made of light weight material, such as a nylon fabric or other suitable fabric. In some embodiments, the awning canopy sheet is made of waterproof material, providing protection from rain or other precipitations. In some embodiments, the awning assembly can be detached from the crossbar if its use is not required. The awning assembly is designed for easy operation, allowing for swift transition from its compact or folded state within an enclosure to a fully deployed or extended state, offering instant shelter and comfort. FIG. 3B is a closer view of FIG. 3A, showing the position of the mounting bracket (103). The mounting bracket takes an L shape. One leg of the L is secured to the crossbar (101), while the other leg of the L is secured to the first frame (204). The mounting bracket (103) may further include pre-drilled holes or slots to facilitate easy attachment and fastening. Additionally, the mounting bracket can be equipped with corresponding nuts and bolts, ensuring a secure and stable connection. The mounting bracket is made from durable material to ensure strength and longevity.

[0070] FIG. 4A is a perspective view of an extended awning assembly. The size of the awning canopy sheet is designed to fit the size of a golf cart. In some embodiments, the size of the awning canopy sheet is adjusted by partially extending it. As illustrated, the awning canopy sheet (202) is in a rectangular shape, having an inner edge and an outer edge. The inner edge of the awning canopy sheet is secured to the first frame (204), and the first frame is aligned parallel to the side of the golf cart. The outer edge of the awning canopy sheet is secured to a second frame (206). As seen from FIG. 4A, the awning assembly also includes a pair of support arms (208), each having an inner end and an outer end. The inner end of the arm is pivotally and operably connected to the first frame (204), and the outer end of the arm is designed to be extendable, facilitating attachment to the second frame (206). The length of the arms can vary as the awning canopy sheet is extended or retracted. While the awning canopy sheet is in an extended configuration, the arm can be extended towards the second frame (206) and secured thereto using a fastener, as shown in FIG. 5B. Without any limitation, an example of the fastener is a fastening nut (220).

[0071] Referring to FIG. 5B, the second frame (206) further includes a receiving aperture (222). The outer end of the arm is extended and engaged within the receiving aperture (222) of the second frame, thereafter, being secured thereto by use of a fastener (220), e.g., a butterfly nut.

[0072] Referring back to FIG. 4A, in some embodiments, the arm (208), to facilitate its extendable feature, includes an inner segment (232) and an outer segment (234), each segment having a first end and a second end. The first end of the inner segment (232) is attached to the first frame (204) and the second end of the inner segment is pivotably connected to the first end of the outer segment (234) via a joint (230). This pivotal connection allows the arm to be retracted to its compact configuration and folded into the enclosure (e.g., an awning bag), or allows the arm to be extended to attach to the second frame, providing support for the fully extended awning canopy sheet. Optionally, the support arm further includes a locking member, designed to secure the arm in a fixed length. Without any limitation, an example of the locking member is a twist lock.

[0073] FIG. 5A is a perspective view of an awning assembly installed on a top roof crossbar. As illustrated, the awning canopy sheet (202) is fully extended and supported by support arms (208), support legs (210), and anchor ropes (212). The support legs (210) each have a first end and a second end. The first end of each support leg is pivotally and operably connected to the second frame and the second end is extendable to attach to the ground. The support leg is adjustable in length to accommodate different heights of the golf cart, enabling the second end to be anchored to the ground.

[0074] In some embodiments, the support legs (210), to facilitate its extendable feature, includes a first segment (224) and a second segment (226), each having a first end and a second end. The first end of the first segment is pivotably and operably connected to the second frame (206), and the second end of the first segment is pivotably connected to the first end of the second segment, and the second end of the second segment is outwardly pullable to adjust the length of the support leg. Optionally, the support leg includes a locking member (216), which is configured to secure the support leg in a fixed length once the desired adjustment has been achieved. In some embodiment, the lock member is a twist lock, a clamping device or a threaded fastener, providing robust and reliable fixation, thereby enhancing the structural integrity and stability of the awning canopy sheet when extended. This feature ensures that the awning remains steadfast in varying weather conditions, offering consistent shelter and convenience to the users.

[0075] In some embodiments, the awning assembly includes a pair of anchor ropes (212), each having a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal end is pivotally and operably connected to the second frame (206), while the distal end is anchored to the ground. In some embodiment, the distal end of the rope is secured to the ground via a peg (214).

[0076] In some embodiment, the awning assembly optionally includes a fastening member (218) designed to secure the awning canopy sheet to the support arms along the edge of the awning canopy sheet. This fastening member enhances the overall stability of the awning assembly in an extended configuration. In some embodiments, the fasten member is velcro strap (218) attached on the awning canopy sheet, which offers easy use and reliable attachment, and ensures that the awning canopy sheet remains securely affixed to the support arms, even in varying weather conditions or gusty winds.

[0077] When shade or shelter is unnecessary, the awning canopy sheet can be placed in a folded or compact state. To dismantle the awning canopy sheet, the sheet is freed from the anchor ropes and the support legs. Subsequently, the support arms are retracted to their collapsed state and folded into the place adjacent to the first frame. The canopy sheet is then rolled or folded and placed within the enclosure, such as an awning bag, for compact storage and transportation.

[0078] It should be appreciated that the awning assembly may be further utilized in other scenarios, provided that a suitable support structure for mounting the awning assembly is available.

II. Crossbar Assembly

[0079] Another aspect of the present invention is a crossbar assembly. Given that golf carts typically do not include a build-in support structure for mounting of an awning on its top roof, the present invention also provides a crossbar assembly for installation atop a golf cart's roof, which served as a support structure for the awning installation and/or other subjects to be attached thereto. Specifically, the support structure in the present invention includes a pair of crossbars mounted on the roof of a golf cart. FIG. 6 is a schematic representation of the pair of crossbars (101), each having a first end (107) and a second end (109). In some embodiment, the crossbar assembly further includes end caps (111), wherein these end caps are tailored to envelop the outer surfaces of the respective ends of the crossbar, providing additional protection and aesthetic value, although their application is not obligatory.

[0080] The crossbar (101) is mounted to the roof of a golf cart by using support members (105). Recognizing the diversity in golf cart roof designs across different models, the crossbar assembly includes several different groups of support members, to be compatible with the different standards of golf carts. FIGS. 7A-7E exemplify multiple support members, ensuring compatibility with any standard golf carts generally available on the market. These support members are designed according to the various roof designs of different golf carts. Support members shown in FIG. 7A are designed for golf cart model of Club Car DS. Support members shown in FIG. 7B are designed for golf cart model of Club Car Precedent. Support members shown in FIG. 7C are designed for golf cart model of E-Z-GO TXT. Support members shown in FIG. 7D are designed for golf cart model of YAMAHA DRIVE/G29. Support members shown in FIG. 7E are designed for golf cart model of E-Z-GO RXV. In some embodiments, the roof of a golf cart does not maintain a uniform horizontal alignment, different support members may be employed for the front and rear crossbars to ensure a precise and secure fit. In some embodiments, the support members can be further categorized into front support members and rear support members, wherein the front and the rear support members are either identical or different in size or shape. For example, two front support members for the front crossbar and two rear support members for the rear crossbar. This design ensures that the assembled crossbars are aligned in a common horizontal plane after installation, even if the roof of the golf cart is not uniformly level. The scope of the present invention encompasses support members of any size or shape. In some embodiments, the support member is made of durable material, such as metal, though any type of material is contemplated.

[0081] FIGS. 8A, 8C, 8E and 8G are exploded views, and FIGS. 8B, 8D, 8F and 8H are corresponding assembly configurations of representative crossbar assemblies (including support members and crossbars) for various standards of golf carts. FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate the installation of the crossbar on the golf cart model of Club Car DS. FIGS. 8C and 8D illustrate the installation of the crossbar on the golf cart model of E-Z-GO TXT. FIGS. 8E and 8F illustrate the installation of the crossbar on the golf cart model of E-Z-GO RXV. FIGS. 8G and 8H illustrate the installation of the crossbar on the golf cart model of YAMAHA DRIVE/G29. As illustrated, these support members used for different models of golf carts are different in terms of shape and size. These differences can be attributed to different roof designs of golf carts.

III. Awning Kit and Method of Installation Thereof

[0082] In another aspect, the present invention provides an awning kit comprising a crossbar assembly and an awning assembly. It will be understood that the features previously described for the awning assembly and the crossbar assembly as shown in FIGS. 1-8 may be included in the awning kit.

[0083] In still another aspect, the present invention provides a method for mounting the crossbar assembly and the awning assembly to the top roof of a golf cart.

[0084] As seen from FIGS. 8A-8H, the installation process beings with the secure attachment of the support members to the golf cart's rooftop. Depending on the roof design of a golf cart, different support members are utilized. Following this initial step, the crossbars are mounted atop the support members using fasteners. The illustration shows two crossbars arranged transversely and in parallel across the golf cart's roof. Upon successful installation of the crossbars, the awning assembly can be removably mounted onto the crossbar, at either end, using mounting brackets, as shown in FIGS. 3A-3B. In some embodiments, the mounting bracket may take an L shape. One leg of the L is secured to the crossbar (101), while the other leg of the L is secured to the first frame (204). The mounting bracket includes pre-drilled holes or slots to facilitate easy attachment and fastening. Additionally, the mounting bracket can be equipped with corresponding nuts and bolts, ensuring a secure and stable connection. The invention envisages the use of any suitable fasteners, including, but not limited to, screws, nails, bolts, nuts, washers, adhesives, welding, or comparable securing means. It is within the contemplation of the present invention that the fasteners, as illustrated and described, may be the same or different.

[0085] The method may further include more steps according to different needs, for example, a step of opening the awning bag and extending the awning canopy sheet to a fully extended state, followed by supporting it by support arms and support legs, and a step of locking the support arms or legs in a fixed length. Moreover, the method may further include a step of stabilizing the awning using the anchor ropes.

[0086] The foregoing disclosure and description of the invention are illustrative and explanatory of the invention, and various changes in the size, shape, and materials, as well as in the details of the illustrated construction and process may be made without departing from the spirit of the invention, all of which are contemplated as falling within the scope of the appended claims.