A simple metal ring spring (or two) wishes to spring open into a circle.

A large circle of waterproof material covers the spring ring.

Threads connected to the control handle in the center, and to the ring spring, stop it from doing so. When released the strings move up (just like the internal spikes in a regular umbrella) and you have an open umbrella that cannot turn inside out (because the threads are holding it).

See my old Folding Wheel (collapsable) halfdea.
-- pashute, Jul 21 2011

Folding wheel with similar technology Folding Wheel (collapsable)
The folding wheel is more complex, because it must hold when pressed on. [pashute, Jul 21 2011]

I like it. It would work and it has enormous potential for mischievous misuse. [+]
-- Alterother, Jul 21 2011


Oh, and the folding wheel is sort baked; check in the trunk (boot) of a 1970s Porsche 911
-- Alterother, Jul 21 2011


Regular umbrellas are under tension in use, relaxed when stored. This would be the other way.
-- bungston, Jul 21 2011


I can't. It's my other car. And my other is on a trip to Europe.
-- pashute, Jul 21 2011


define: safe. I thought this was about poking people's eyes (out).
-- po, Jul 21 2011



random, halfbakery