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Expendable Umbrella
Introduction – Why This Project Matters
When rain pours down, an umbrella is the first thing we grab. But what if you’re walking to school with friends and only one umbrella is available? A regular umbrella barely covers one or two people, leaving others to struggle.
That’s where the Expendable Umbrella steps in. Designed as a part of Inspire Award-winning projects, this smart innovation not only protects up to four students at once but also folds back into a compact size for easy carrying.
This project is more than just an umbrella—it’s about problem-solving, teamwork, and creative engineering. Students can learn practical applications of mechanics, electronics, and design thinking, all wrapped up in one simple yet powerful idea.
Components Used in the Expendable Umbrella
To make the umbrella expandable and reliable, we used simple yet effective components:
🔹 2 × BO Gear Motors – provide the push-pull force to expand or contract the umbrella.
🔹 Drawer Channels – help in smooth sliding movement during expansion.
🔹 DPDT Slide Switch – controls the motors’ direction (open/close).
🔹 2000mAh Li-ion Battery Pack – supplies long-lasting power.
🔹 TP4056 Charging Module – ensures safe charging of the battery.
🔹 2-core 14/36 Wire Umbrella Stick – acts as the central support.
🔹 Wooden Frame + Transparent Tarp Sheet – creates a sturdy yet waterproof canopy.
🔹 Hinges – allow folding of the umbrella for compactness.
🔹 Glues (Fevicol, Hot Glue, Super Glue) – for fixing the parts.
🔹 Tapes (Masking, Electrical, Cello Tape) – for support and finishing.
Each component plays a role in ensuring the umbrella is not just functional but also easy to make at a student level.
Making Process – Step by Step (Simplified)
Here’s a short process overview for students and teachers who want to replicate this project:
Frame Preparation:
Create a strong wooden base and fix drawer channels for sliding motion.
Motor Setup:
Attach BO gear motors on both sides of the frame and connect them to the drawer channels.
Waterproof Canopy:
Use a transparent tarp sheet and fix it with hinges and glue to the wooden structure.
Electrical Connections:
Connect the motors, DPDT switch, and battery pack using wires.
Add the TP4056 charging module for recharging the battery.
Finishing Touches:
Use tapes and glues for strength.
Test the umbrella for expansion and folding before final use.
Within a few hours, the Expendable Umbrella is ready to use!
Why This Project Stands Out
This project has already gained attention as an Inspire Award-winning idea because:
🌧 Real-life use case – solves the problem of limited umbrella space.
👩🎓 Student-friendly build – uses low-cost, easily available materials.
🛠 Hands-on learning – teaches both electronics and mechanical concepts.
🎒 Portable – folds back into a small size, making it practical to carry.
💡 Innovative yet simple – turns a daily-life product into a problem-solving tool.
Conclusion
The Expendable Umbrella is proof that big ideas can come from simple problems. With the right mix of creativity and effort, students can transform everyday challenges into award-winning innovations.
This project is not just about keeping dry in the rain—it’s about inspiring young minds to think differently, work on real-world issues, and present solutions that are practical, affordable, and impactful.
At New Tech Experiments, we continue to work on such projects to support students and teachers in competitions like the Inspire Award Manak. Whether you are looking for new project ideas, guidance for making models, or inspiration to start your own journey, we are here to help.
