When thinking about umbrellas you think about the typical umbrella and the typical problems associated with them. So, when I started designing a new umbrella I thought about the things that I dislike most about the modern umbrella. I wanted an umbrella that can withstand some wind and can be easily opened and closed because no one wants to get to their car door when its raining outside and have to fight to get the umbrella closed. You end up getting just as wet with the umbrella as you would have without it. I also thought about the cradle to cradle idea and how I could apply it to my umbrella. The modern umbrella has over 100 parts, breaks easily, and is then thrown away. The Popalm is a unique umbrella that you push from the bottom handle to the open position. It uses polyproplene, memory wire and nylon fabric which is very flexible and can be compact but, when not compressed holds its position. It has under 10 parts and is easily repaired. It has a longer life, therefore minimizing waste. You push from the bottom which will push the umbrella to its open position. When you are done utilizing the umbrella simply pull the handle back down and it will go back down into the shaft, so you don't get wet and your belongings don't get wet. It is 3 feet wide and 39 inches long when closed, and 19 inches long when opened.

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