What materials are umbrellas made of and what are their parts?
Basically, umbrellas are made of various materials, and this is because they are made up of different parts that compose them and that have a specific function.
Each part must have the right material for optimal performance in its functionality, this has a lot to do with flexibility, hardness, wear due to friction, lightness, resistance and impermeability.
What are the parts of the umbrella and what are they called?
Parasols or umbrellas are essentially made up of three parts: Saddle or Linkage, Fabric, and Cuff or Handle.
However, to be more precise we must go into more detail, in this way we can divide these three parts into many more, giving us a clearer idea of the elements that make it up.
In the following image we can clearly see each of these parts: Ferrule or cap, rod plug, Extender or Ray, Hinge, top tab, bottom tab, Rod or Rib, Walking stick.
What materials are umbrellas made of, and what are the functions of their parts?
Next, you will see the most used materials in the manufacture of umbrellas, although, with technological development, many other materials are being inserted in this design and creation process.
This responds to very marked interests in reducing its weight, increasing its durability, improving UV protection, guaranteeing impermeability and, above all, satisfying the needs of those who buy the umbrella.
1.- End or Cap: Metal or Plastic.
It refers to the part that is located at the top of the frame and that serves as a support for the fabric.
2.- Rod Block: Wood, Metal or Plastic.
Attach the umbrella cloth to the ends of the pole or frame. It is an important component that helps keep fabric stretched and prevents it from wrinkling or premature wear.
3.- Extender or Spoke: Metal, Wood or Plastic.
It is a component that sits at the bottom of the fabric and extends from the rod or frame to the periphery of the fabric. The extender or beam is an important component that helps keep the fabric stretched and provides a greater shading surface.
4.- Cane: Metal, Wood or Plastic.
Its function is to support the umbrella and the entire structure that forms it. It is the part that is grabbed to move or position the umbrella.
5.- Fist: Metal, Wood or Plastic and some other non-slip materials to achieve better grip.
The fist is the part where we regularly grab the umbrella, it can have different shapes and sizes.
6.- Fabric: Cotton, Polyester and a wide variety of materials, it can be waterproof, but not necessarily.
The fabric of an umbrella is the component that provides shade and protection. It is a key component in the umbrella's ability to fulfill its function and appearance.
7.- Hinge: Metal, Wood or Plastic.
Allows the umbrella to open and close in a smooth and controlled manner. The hinge joins the Extender or Ray and the Rod or Rib.
8.- Upper tab: Metal, Wood or Plastic.
Piece that keeps the umbrella open.
9.- Bottom tab: Metal, Wood or Plastic.
Piece that keeps the umbrella closed.
10.- Rod or Rib: Metal, Wood or Plastic.
It is the part that is responsible for holding the fabric in place. The rib is a critical component in the structure of an umbrella, and is designed to allow the umbrella to open and close.
These are the parts and some of the materials with which most are manufactured, however, this depends on the use for which it is designed. For this reason it is of great importance to know how it will be used.
Umbrellas taking into account the materials.
It is important to point out that, due to the diversity of materials, it is vital to know what material an umbrella is made of, and thus know if it will be useful to us or not.
Main structure of metal, wood, plastic or light and resistant materials.
The use of these materials is focused on the final destination, example:
The umbrellas with structure of light materials They are used in umbrellas that we use frequently and that we must carry with us.
those of wooden structure They are more aimed at outdoor umbrellas (terraces, patios, swimming pools, or beach) with the aim of finding harmony with the Patio furniture, this is valid for parasols with metal structures, also to guarantee the integrity of the parasol against inclement weather.
plastic structures They are less resistant and are more used in toys for children. children y girls and in umbrellas that do not require great features. They are light and easy to use.
Cloth or Cover of Polyester, Cotton, Straw, Paper, or with Ultraviolet Protection.
The umbrellas with polyester or cotton cover They are basically used to protect us from sunlight, either with or without UV protection, they can be waterproof or not.
The straw covers They are excellent protectors from sunlight and rain, they are frequently used in Beach umbrellas, riding a terraces and swimming pools, and provide a very natural environment, they are used for decorative and protective purposes.
Una covered with paper or similar material, it is nothing more than a disposable umbrella, this means that they are used for short-term decorative purposes and we can see them in the decoration of cocktail bars in bars and restaurants. Also in other longer-term decorations such as interior spaces where its utility is visual and is not related to the concept for which the umbrellas are created.
How is the process of making an umbrella?
The process of making an umbrella involves several stages, from design to final assembly. The manufacturing process of an umbrella is described in general below:
- Design: The design of the umbrella is carried out taking into account aspects such as size, shape, number of panels, the opening and closing mechanism, and the type of handle. The type of fabric and the colors to be used are also decided.
- Fabric cut: The fabric panels are cut according to the chosen design. The panels are often triangular or rectangular in shape, and are cut in multiple layers to enhance the strength and durability of the umbrella.
- Sewing: Panels of fabric are sewn together, usually using specialized sewing machines. During this process, trimming or other decorative details can also be added.
- Frame and ribs: The umbrella frame is manufactured, consisting of a central axis, ribs and struts. These elements are usually made of materials such as steel, aluminum or fiberglass, which offer resistance and flexibility.
- Assembly: The rods are inserted into the previously sewn fabric panels. The end of each rod is attached to the frame and locked in place.
- Opening mechanism: Depending on the type of umbrella, the opening and closing mechanism is installed. It can be a manual system with a strap or a button, or an automatic mechanism that is activated by a button.
- Handle: The handle is added at the end of the central axis to facilitate the grip and handling of the umbrella. Handles can be made of plastic, wood, metal, or other materials.
- Final finish: The umbrella is checked and adjusted to guarantee its correct operation. Minor modifications can be made and all components are checked to be in place.
- Quality tests: Quality tests are carried out to make sure that the umbrella meets the standards of wind resistance, waterproofness and durability. These tests may include tests for repeated opening and closing, wind resistance, and water resistance.
- Packaging: Finally, the umbrellas are packaged and labeled for distribution and sale.
It is important to note that the manufacturing process may vary depending on the manufacturer and the type of umbrella. Some more specialized umbrellas, such as folding umbrellas or golf umbrellas, may require additional steps or specific features.
Conclusions.
Surely now you have a clearer idea of the level of detail that makes up a standard umbrella and some of its uses according to the materials used to make them. In addition to the precision with which its parts must fit and function in order for it to work correctly.
Frequent questions.
The number of rays in an umbrella can vary depending on the design and size of the particular umbrella. The most common umbrellas usually have between 8 and 10 rays, which extend from the central axis to the edges of the umbrella. These rays unfold when the umbrella is opened and are responsible for supporting the structure of the fabric. However, there are umbrellas of different sizes and styles, some with fewer or more rays to provide greater resistance to the wind. In general, the number of spokes in an umbrella is designed to balance the stability and functionality of the umbrella in various weather conditions.
Initially, Germany led umbrella production, but Japan later took over in the 1970s. Production later shifted to Taiwan in the 1980s, until China eventually became the major player in the market. from the 1990s to the present. Currently, most of the umbrellas manufactured and exported globally come from China.
It is important to note that umbrella manufacturing has become a globalized industry, with different countries specializing in different aspects of the production process, such as design, frame manufacturing, or fabric making. Therefore, not all umbrellas come exclusively from China, but are manufactured in different parts of the world to meet global demand.
Having all this in mind will help us choose the one that is 100% effective.
We hope you have found this brief summary of the parts and materials of umbrellas useful 👍
