Technology has changed everything, from how we work to what we do in our spare time. At Fulton Umbrellas, we wanted to see how the ever-changing world of technology has changed the traditional umbrella and what the future holds for its use, shape and function.
Check out the top hi-tech umbrella designs we can find that might move from idea to reality soon…
Bulletproof umbrellas
Imagining that you could stop an assassin with a simple flick of your umbrella is an exciting idea. This James Bond style gadget was used in the film ‘Kingsman: The Secret Service’ and now many people are wondering how — and if — bulletproof umbrellas work.
We, of course, already have bulletproof fabrics that prevent fatalities and could, in theory, be used in umbrella form. However, there are snags that need fixing first before this hi-tech umbrella design can get off the ground.
- You’d still feel the tremendous energy and impact of the bullet, which might make it difficult to hold onto an umbrella during multiple shots.
- The dome shape would cause any bullet to ricochet in all directions, making it dangerous for people standing around you.
- The weight of a bulletproof umbrella would be much greater than a standard umbrella, so it’d be hard to hold up in the first place.
Windproof umbrellas
We all know how frustrating it is when an umbrella turns inside out on a windy day, which is where the practical wind-resistant design steps in. This hi-tech umbrella, like the windproof types we have in our Sport Umbrellas range that can withstand up to 78mph, is designed to maintain its structure even in terrific winds and sudden gusts. To do this, windproof umbrellas typically feature:
- Double canopy: the canopy on the inside has vents that even out the pressure on the outer canopy and lets air pass through, which eases the strain on the umbrellas support structure.
- Elastic: a cord built into the canopy that prevents it from ripping and helps to retain the overall shape.
- Durability: very tough materials, polycarbonate joints and fibreglass shafts that can take more stress and strain than standard umbrellas.
Parachute umbrellas
If you needed to make a quick escape from a multi-storey building, what better tool to have in your arsenal than a parachute umbrella? Parachute umbrellas would allow you to land safely from a great height when danger is close. This is a great idea, however, to make this design functional, the canopy would have to be several metres wide. Although this isn’t practical right now, who knows what future designers will come up with to get around the problem.
Web umbrellas
Taking technology up a level, there are also rumours of an umbrella that can project the Internet. Using embedded cameras and Wi-Fi, this design can upload photos and videos to the web, before showing you them online via the underside of the umbrella’s canopy! This means you can browse the Internet when you’re waiting for a taxi or bus, and there’s even scope for integrating GPS sensors to help you find locations in your local area.
Browse our wide range of men’s, women’s and children’s umbrellas.