Vinayan Ravikumar designed the Broombrella, which is dependent on origami folding techniques and inspired by a NASA experiment. The project was crafted for unfolding foil shades and sails in space with a folded cluster that opens itself outwards which becomes a perfect octagonal parasol for protection against sun and rain. The design is inspired by the dianthus flower bloom.
The flower bud unfurls itself when bloomed which is also the same influence behind the NASA Starshade. As a result, the umbrella is unique and it is visually hypnotic when opening and closing. The fabric creases and increases when it is closing and opening. Ravikumar notes, “The umbrella is an interesting object. As designers, we don’t notice or revere it the way we see chairs, cars, or lamps. Yet when caught in a sudden downpour, it becomes a lifesaver. An object of understated elegance and functionality, its form hasn’t changed much over the past hundred years. Drawn to this fascinating contraption that has sheltered us for millennia, I felt it was the perfect canvas to explore tension in motion.”
Image Credit: Vinayan Ravikumar
What Makes This Trend Stand Out
- Origami-inspired Products
- Folding techniques derived from origami are now infusing everyday products with enhanced functionality and unique aesthetics.
- Space-tech Adaptations
- Technologies originally developed for space missions are finding innovative applications in consumer goods, offering advanced performance benefits.
- Biomimicry Design
- Nature-inspired designs are becoming popular, providing new ways to solve engineering and design challenges with elegance and efficiency.
Sectors Adopting This
- Consumer Goods
- Everyday consumer products are increasingly incorporating complex design elements from diverse fields like origami and aerospace.
- Aerospace
- Innovations in this field are breaking ground by transferring advanced space technologies into practical applications beyond their original scope.
- Fashion and Accessories
- The umbrella's unique and visually appealing design reflects a broader trend towards stylish, multifunctional accessories.
