4 ms·
The landing page doesn't communicate features, in particular, why this design is better than the old one - or even what the design is. This makes the whole thin
by javajosh 11y ago
The landing page doesn't communicate features, in particular, why this design is better than the old one - or even what the design is. This makes the whole thing highly suspect. It's hard to get enthusiastic about something who's utility is, at best, marginally better than what already exists.
I mean, if you want to improve the umbrella, you could make one with a highly reflective inner surface that doubles as a solar oven. Maybe even a solar oven on the top surface that works on sunny days, so you can keep the sun off you and cook food, at the same time. Or, I like umbrellas that have useful information printed on them, like subway maps. Or, how about a hollow handle made of clear material that lets you measure how much it's raining. Or maybe an umbrella on a gimbal, so that if it's windy some of the energy can be absorbed by angular momentum.
- Retra 11y agoIt feels like it's being sold as a conversation piece for people who want to promote the brand just because it has a quirk.
- underwater 11y agoThe Kickstarter page and video have a lot more information https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/kazbrella/kazbrella-revolutionary-inside-out-umbrella/description https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/kazbrella/kazbrella-rev...
- 2muchcoffeeman 11y agoThe web site does suck, but the umbrella design is explained. It sounds like a really good design actually.
- Alupis 11y ago> No Gimmicks I don't like gimmicks. > Pure Engineering I do like engineering. > The KAZbrella is an evolution of the conventional umbrella. OK, tell me more. > Through many years of research and engineering we have redesigned the mechanics of the umbrella whilst maintaining the familiar umbrella look. I'm on the hook... > The KAZbrella is a patented reverse folding umbrella. And... letdown. It's an umbrella that folds the other way... Sure, maybe the outside of it while folded won't "press up against your leg, soaking your trousers and bag and drips on the already wet floor", but this means the water stays trapped on the inside of the folded creases, leading to mildew and a musty smell, and the rest still "drips on the already wet floor". I don't see this thing taking the world by storm anytime soon.
- 2muchcoffeeman 11y agoWhy would the water be trapped? You still store the umbrella upside down. And lots of people already use mini umbrellas with similar folds in them.
- Alupis 11y agoWhen you close your umbrella and put the strap around it (like when you are on the bus or train, or at the office or home for the night), water is still on it and must evaporate. It takes time. But with a reversed umbrella, the water will be on the inside, not exposed to the open air.
- martin_ 11y agoFrom the FAQ on KickStarter: The canopy is made from breathable material with a hydrophobic coating so the water beads and rolls off the canopy without being absorbed. The KAZbrella is no more likely to get mould than a conventional umbrella. Mould will only occur if you leave dirt or mud on your KAZbrella.
- deleted 11y ago[deleted]