Patent attributes
A device that releases an operating collar from an open position on the mast of an opened beach or patio umbrella in the presence of a strong wind, allowing the umbrella canopy to close thereby diminishing the wind force acting on the umbrella. The device includes a locking pin and an associated biasing mechanism. In a working configuration of the device, the pin is exposed for insertion through certain holes in the mast. A distal end of the mechanism faces the mast while a proximal end of the mechanism applies a bias force to a proximal end of the pin. The collar rests on the inserted pin with enough force to overcome the bias force tending to eject the pin. When the collar is urged to rise because of a strong wind acting on the umbrella, the pin ejects thus freeing the collar to move downward as the umbrella canopy closes.
