Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

In an awning such as a house trailer or recreational vehicle awning, plural ribs are disposed against the underside of the awning. The ribs run transversely from the wall to the tube which supports the outboard end of the awning; this tube is horizontal, and parallel to the wall. The ribs are flexible, and slightly longer than the distance from the wall to the tube. When the ribs are put into place they acquire an upward bow, which crowns the surface of the awning. This encourages water runoff, decreases wind flapping, and improves appearance. Each rib has two parts for length adjustment. One part has an integral clamp to hold the other part in a fixed position; when the clamp is loosened the two parts can slide relatively. To hold the ribs in position various means may be used, including rib end pockets on the awning, straps, and fingers on one rib end mating with holes in the tube surface. The clamp may have a stiffening element attached by screws, and has an opening at each longitudinal end into which is inserted a projection on one end of a truss bar. The other end of the truss bar is attached to a rib by a truss knob to provide additional strength to the rib. In a second embodiment a slidable and lockable bracket mounted on a track pivotally holds one end of a rib having a circular cross-section, the other end of the rib being attached the tube.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim