The springy nature of the plastic joints pop the umbrella open. Pull the middle of the internal structure to control the 5 stretchers. The stretchers connect to the friction joints that push the 5 ribs connected to the top. The 5 joints are flat enough for easy collapse of the umbrella to store for another rainy day.

Please note this resource was tailored for US schools and may require adjustments to suit UK schools.

🇬🇧 Teacher Notes

Overview

Materials

Create the handle and the umbrella's top

Make locked joints held by friction

Fit the joints to the umbrella's top then create the internal hub

Slide the hub along the handle and connect to the joints

Close the handle and attach straws for tips then test

Build

STEAM Classroom

United States

Engineering Design

Forces

Make an Umbrella