Eclipse v4 Canopy Arm

Eclipse v4 Canopy Arm

Eclipse v4 Canopy Arm Design and Strength Explanation

The Eclipse umbrella was redesigned and released as Eclipse v4 in the summer of 2024/25. One of the key structural improvements in this version is the updated canopy arm profile.

Previous Eclipse models used a fully oval canopy arm profile. The Eclipse v4 now uses a hybrid profile, featuring a flat (square) top with an oval-shaped bottom. This design change was introduced to improve structural rigidity and reduce the likelihood of bending under load.


Why did we do this?

From an engineering perspective, tube shape plays a major role in how a component behaves under bending forces. The square-top canopy arm profile used in Eclipse v4 provides greater resistance to bending than a fully oval profile of similar size and material.

In practical terms, this means a significantly higher amount of force is required to deform the canopy arm, improving durability under wind load and everyday outdoor conditions.

Key reasons the Eclipse v4 arm is harder to bend:

  1. Flat surfaces resist deformation
    A flat face distributes force more evenly than a continuous curve, making it harder for the material to begin deforming.
  2. Higher resistance to bending
    Square or flat-sided profiles offer greater bending resistance than fully rounded or oval profiles made from the same material.
  3. Improved load distribution
    The hybrid square-top design distributes force over a larger surface area, reducing stress concentration points.

In simple terms, due to the revised square-top profile, the Eclipse v4 canopy arm can handle up to three times more force to bend compared to the previous oval design, depending on load direction and conditions.


Wind Damage Considerations

If a canopy arm on an Eclipse v4 umbrella is bent, this indicates the umbrella has been exposed to very high wind loads or extreme conditions.

Due to the reinforced profile:

  1. Minor gusts or normal operating conditions are unlikely to cause deformation
  2. Bending typically occurs only when wind forces exceed recommended operating limits

As with all umbrellas, Eclipse v4 should be closed and secured during strong or gusty winds. Please note that wind damage is not covered under warranty.


Replacement Canopy Arms

In the event you need to replace canopy arms on your umbrella, you can order replacement canopy arms that can be collected from our warehouse in Braeside, Melbourne or sent via a courier.
Attached is a handy guide on how to replace these parts -