Semi-automatic umbrella
An umbrella is an essential and certainly a useful accessory in the modern world. Models with a semiautomatic mechanism greatly simplify operation. But, like other umbrellas, the semiautomatic device has not only advantages, but also disadvantages.
Difference between automatic and semi-automatic
To understand the fundamental difference between these two mechanisms, you need to understand how they work and what are their pros and cons.
Umbrellas with a semiautomatic mechanism are easier to use. The handle is equipped with a button that opens the umbrella. But the dome has to be opened manually, as well as closed.
This is the main difference between automatic and semi-automatic. The automatic mechanism is faster to open. You just need to press a button and it will shelter you from the rain. This is especially useful if your hands are busy with other things. Closing takes place automatically and with one hand.
Speed is the main advantage over a semiautomatic device.
The automatic umbrella is equipped with a special mechanism that protects against strong winds and the canopy turning inside out. This feature is not always present on semi-automatic umbrellas.
In addition, some automatic models have a locking system against unplanned opening. The semiautomatic device is deprived of these functions.
The price of a semiautomatic device is in the middle price range. But in relation to fully automatic models, it is much lower. The price also depends on additional features such as anti-wind. It is she who will keep the product in bad weather.
The semiautomatic device is considered the most popular among consumers. The size varies depending on the design of the model.
How to choose?
The first thing you should pay attention to when choosing an umbrella is the mechanism. The most durable of all umbrellas is considered to be a mechanical hand-held umbrella. The main advantage of such an accessory is considered to be a large dome in comparison with other models and the elegance of its design.
When choosing, it is important to take into account the material of the dome... Manufacturers use polyester for cheap models. For more expensive, high-quality items, the base is a blend of polyester and cotton. And in the cheapest models, the material for the dome is nylon.
But there are also umbrellas with more modern materials that are of high quality. From such a surface of the dome, water rolls off immediately, and the surface always remains dry. These include pongee and Teflon-impregnated material.
As for the quality, it is determined by its skeleton, namely the spokes and the rod. It is on them that the strength and durability of the product depend. The entire metal structure is made of three types of materials: steel, aluminum, fiberglass.
In the first case, the product will be much heavier, but stronger and more resistant to wind gusts. The aluminum construction is less durable than the rest. But fiberglass meets all the needs of the buyer - it is light and strong.
How to care?
Like anything, an umbrella needs proper care to keep it long lasting.
The first thing to look out for when leaving is proper drying.
Never dry umbrellas fully unfolded and near radiators or heating objects. Better if you just unfasten it and hang it in this position on a doorknob or hook.
In addition to proper drying, it is necessary to properly clean the product from dirt. Open your umbrella and lather it with soap or detergent, as long as it is gentle. Then wipe with a soft sponge or cloth and rinse with warm water.
Do not use aggressive liquids such as kerosene, gasoline or acetone for cleaning.
They will easily damage the material from which the dome is made. You can use a soft eraser to remove minor scratches and dirt.
After that, it remains only to dry the accessory as indicated above. With proper cleaning and drying, the product can last for several years.
Today, in addition to the usual materials, lace, vinyl, guipure and many others are used in the manufacture of umbrellas.
Recently, transparent polyvinyl semi-automatic cane umbrellas are especially popular. How to take care of them?
Sometimes for production, manufacturers cover the transparent dome with a special powder that prevents the material from sticking. If during cleaning you have removed all the powder and the dome has stuck together, then just gently open it with your hands, and then mechanically.
Wash an umbrella made of this material with cool water and only outside. And it is dried open, avoiding heat sources.