Interesting patent

Title of the invention: Beerbrella

Publication number:      US6637447 B2

Publication type:            Grant

Application number:     US 09/981,966

Publication date:           28 Oct 2003

Filing date:                     19 Oct 2001

Inventors:                        Mason Schott McMullin, Robert Platt Bell, Mark                                                   Andrew 

ABSTRACT: The present invention provides a small umbrella (“Beerbrella”) which may be removably attached to a beverage container in order to shade the beverage container from the direct rays of the sun. The apparatus comprises a small umbrella approximately five to seven inches in diameter, although other appropriate sizes may be used within the spirit and scope of the present invention. Suitable advertising and/or logos may be applied to the umbrella surface for promotional purposes. The umbrella may be attached to the beverage container by any one of a number of means, including clip, strap, cup, foam insulator, or as a coaster or the like. The umbrella shaft may be provided with a pivot to allow the umbrella to be suitably angled to shield the sun or for aesthetic purposes. In one embodiment, a pivot joint and counterweight may be provided to allow the umbrella to pivot out of the way when the user drinks from the container.