solar powered cumulus parasol by studio toer self-inflates in the sun

solar powered cumulus parasol by studio toer self-inflates in the sun
all images courtesy of studio toer

with summer just around the corner, netherlands-based studio toer has designed ‘the cumulus parasol’, a solar powered shade which self-inflates when the sun starts shining. energy generating modules fixed to the top of the stand-alone shade activate a fan with the presence of natural light, inflating the body of the fabric umbrella. expanding to its full size in in about 20 seconds, the cloud canopy doesn’t have a metal core structure; the curved shape is aerodynamic, allowing it to withstand windy weather, a silicone coating keeps it resistant to water, and its nylon skin makes it durable, lightweight, and strong. the whimsical shape refers to a cumulus cloud, billowing overhead and protecting those beneath it from harsh rays under its two meter diameter expanse. in dim skies, the parasol will either deflate automatically, or can be switched off manually using a mechanism integrated in the pole. the parasol is being presented at milan design week 2014.

the solar panel, fixed to the top of the canopy

when the sun shines, the parasol autonomously inflates

the inflated cloud covering balloons overhead

fully open

the parasol remains deflated when the sun is not out