The Oto Shigure is a Japanese umbrella made from bamboo and paper... and has a built-in speaker system!
The Oto Shigure umbrella works like a personal, portable sound system; but while it doesn't seem like something sturdy for bad weather, it would be fun to take it singing in the rain!
"Developed by Keio University and IT company Toa Engineering, Oto-Shigure looks like an ordinary traditional Japanese umbrella made of bamboo and oiled paper, but the entire object emits sound when connected to an iPod or other portable audio device," Pink Tentacle says.
Check out some more awesome umbrellas below!
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Smart Umbrellas
- The integration of technology into umbrellas, such as built-in speakers, creates new opportunities for personalized and portable sound experiences.
- Multifunctional Accessories
- Umbrellas that serve multiple purposes, like being a sound system in addition to their primary function, disrupt traditional notions of accessories and offer added value to consumers.
- Tech-infused Traditional Crafts
- The combination of traditional craftsmanship with modern technology, as seen in the Oto Shigure umbrella, opens up possibilities for innovative and unexpected creations.
Where This Applies
- Consumer Electronics
- Incorporating speaker systems into everyday items like umbrellas expands the consumer electronics market and provides new avenues for product innovation.
- Fashion Accessories
- The integration of technology into umbrellas creates a new category of fashion accessories that not only protect from the weather but also enhance the overall user experience.
- Crafts and Artisanal Products
- By infusing traditional crafts with modern technology, the Oto Shigure umbrella represents a disruptive innovation opportunity for the crafts and artisanal products industry.
