Rainy Daze

 In our second class at Artscape, we consider whether the umbrella needs reinventing. We've all had an uncomfortable encounter with an umbrella. Whether it's the classic inside out one in a wind squall or colliding with a passerby on a crowded sidewalk or just the damp soggy dripping mass after the rain. And could the umbrella just be more fun or do more?

Sometimes invention is about adapting a pre-existing design. Quite a few attempts have been made to innovate and beautify the umbrella. Here are our attempts. Some of our students wanted to see more clearly when walking with the umbrella. In this design a whole segment of the umbrella is replaced with clear material.

This design improved the underside of the umbrella by adding animated video game characters.

This defensive umbrella included a slingshot and ammo basket on the underside.

This designer considered functionality by adding a backpack shield and later a hanging storage unit and  removable front visor screen. Nice job!

This umbrella will extend above the crowd with a seussical candy-striped handle.

Two of our inventors, decided to turn the umbrella into a water collector. Tubes were connected to the top surface and the water drips down into a drinking cup attached to the handle. In one case there is also a filter unit. 

And here's a space like poncho design for those sudden downpours.