An umbrella is an integral and, of course, a useful accessory in the modern world. Models with a semi-automatic mechanism are much easier to operate. But, like other umbrellas, the semi-automatic has not only advantages, but also disadvantages.
The 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 semi-automatic mechanism are more easy to operate. 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 the automatic and semi-automatic. The automatic mechanism is faster to open. Just press the button and it will hide 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 the semi-automatic.
The automatic umbrella is equipped with a special mechanism that protects against strong winds and the inversion of the dome. On semi-automatic umbrellas, this function is not always present.
In addition, some automatic models have a lock system against unplanned opening. The semiautomatic device is deprived of these functions.
The price of a semi-automatic is in the average price range. But in relation to fully automatic models, it is much lower. The price also depends on additional features, such as anti-wind, for example. It is she who will keep the product in bad weather.
The semiautomatic device is considered the most popular among consumers. Size varies by model design.
How to choose?
The first thing you should pay attention to when choosing an umbrella is a mechanism. The strongest of all umbrellas is considered a mechanical manual umbrella-cane. The main advantage of this accessory is a large dome compared to other models and the elegance of design.
When choosing it is important to consider the material of the dome. For cheap models, manufacturers use polyester. For more expensive and high-quality products, the base includes a mixture 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, the water rolls 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. The strength and durability of the product depends on them. All metal construction is made of three types of materials: steel, aluminum, fiberglass.
In the first case, the product will be much harder, but stronger and more resistant to wind gusts. Aluminum construction is less durable than others. But fiberglass meets all the needs of the buyer - it is light and strong.
How to care?
Like any thing, an umbrella requires proper care so that its service life is long.
The first thing you should pay attention to when leaving is proper drying.
Never dry your umbrellas in a fully open form and near a battery or heating objects. It is better if you just unzip it and hang it in that position on the door handle or hook.
In addition to proper drying, it is necessary to properly clean the product from contamination. Open the umbrella and soap it with soap or detergent, as long as it is gentle. After 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 this, it will only be necessary to dry the accessory as described above. With proper cleaning and drying, the product can last for several years.
Today, in addition to the usual materials, lace, vinyl, lace and many others are used in the manufacture of umbrellas.
Transparent semi-automatic cane umbrellas are especially popular lately. How to care for them?
Sometimes for production, manufacturers cover a transparent dome with a special powder that prevents the material from sticking. If during the cleaning you removed all the powder and the dome stuck together, then just gently open it with your hands, and then mechanically.
Wash the umbrella of such material with cool water and only outside. And dried in the opened form, avoiding sources of heat.