Product Development Story | AirTag™ Compatible Folding Umbrella Handle
A smart answer to keep your favorite watch for a lifetime
I want to break the sad, negative cycle of using disposable umbrellas.
You get off the train and suddenly realize your hands are lighter. "Oh, I can't find my umbrella." Everyone has probably had that experience at least once. That indescribable sense of loss when you lose your favorite umbrella. Then you buy a plastic umbrella as a stopgap, only to forget it somewhere again... As an umbrella specialist, I have long wanted to do something about this "negative loop" of umbrellas. Continuing to use and cherish your umbrella not only helps you improve your lifestyle, but also contributes to environmental consideration.
Taking on the difficult challenge of retrofitting, based on 30 years of experience
"Isn't it possible to add a tracking function to prevent umbrellas from getting lost?" When I thought about this, I decided to go the route of "replacing the handle" rather than making a new umbrella from scratch. This is because I thought there would be value in making the beloved umbrella you currently have in your hand smarter. However, this was not an easy task. The screw diameters and shaft structures of folding umbrellas on the market vary enormously. I mobilized all the knowledge I had gained from researching umbrella structure for over 30 years and measured a huge number of samples. I arrived at the standard of "13-14mm screw diameter," which is the most versatile and provides the strongest possible fastening, and made repeated adjustments down to the millimeter.
Functional beauty and reliable engineering packed into 5 grams
The most challenging aspect of development was finding a design that could accommodate AirTags while still functioning as an umbrella. If the umbrella were too heavy, it would lose its balance. Therefore, we used lightweight and durable ABS resin, bringing the weight down to just about 5g (excluding AirTags). The design remains consistent even when attached, and the matte black finish feels comfortable in the hand. Simply open Apple's Find My app and you'll always know where your umbrella is. To achieve this simple sense of security, the internal structure was meticulously designed to prevent AirTags from rattling and make them easy to insert and remove.
How to change rainy days from "anxiety" to "comfort"
This AirTag™ compatible folding umbrella handle is more than just a gadget. It's a tool that supports your determination to "continue to use the things you treasure for a long time." Freed from the anxiety of losing your umbrella, the scenery on rainy days will look a little different. Walk anywhere with your favorite umbrella. Experience this new way of life for yourself. As umbrella professionals, we confidently recommend it.
