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Portable Parasolar gathers energy, might be a great picnic companion
Parasols are good for more than just decorating those fruity tropical cocktails. For example, Parasolar, a design concept by Oded Shorer, has an easily carried case that opens up to reveal a cloth canopy with integrated photovoltaic panels. Neat.
Holding it steady in its base is a battery that’s charged up by all that solar energy, and you can tap into it via a 12v outlet or two USB ports. And hey, if there’s no sun that day, it looks like it might also function as an umbrella in a pinch. The symbiosis of combining shade and solar energy just makes sense.
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By Jen at 5:21 AM ON 04/08/08
It would be very cool if this concept became reality. I would be a bit iffy leaving my parasol unattended on the beach while swimming, but for a picnic it would be awesome. Plug the mp3 player and the speakers and tada! music.
By Bridgit at 4:41 PM ON 04/08/08
I agree with Jen's comment. I want one. I want to bring it to the beach. Since it's cutting edge, why not incorporate voice technology so only the owner's voice can operate it, or maybe a user code to reduce the risk of theft?
By weee at 5:43 PM ON 04/08/08
How much is it?
By hinkman123 at 6:48 PM ON 04/08/08
I agree with Bridgit and when would they be avalible to by?
By Noah Veil at 7:27 PM ON 04/08/08
Screw the parasol. Needs to be a full size beach umbrella that'll power your ipod and your laptop and your boombox and your fridge.
By Lupus at 7:33 PM ON 04/08/08
All you need is the stubbie-cooler. If it cools that, and maybe heats a barbie, I'm happy.
By Isadorabelle at 2:06 AM ON 04/09/08
Really looking forward to seeing these on store shelves!
By StartLaGirl at 6:21 PM ON 04/09/08
Looks and sounds great! When, where, how much.
By rickeyrat at 2:19 PM ON 04/12/08
Great for the hiker on a mountain top. Portable power for hikers.
By bobo at 10:54 PM ON 04/16/08
Good idea.. up until a strong wind comes along and screws things up. It would be better as a portable windmill, then you could harvest energy day-or-night.
By Tiago at 10:47 AM ON 05/07/08
How can i buy it?