An LED umbrella is not much different in terms of function than any other type of umbrella. They may sport similar features, like the ability to be collapsible and protect against sun, rain, and wind. The major difference is that they may feature LEDs (light emitting diodes) somewhere in their construction, thus giving it a unique aesthetic and appearance.
The LEDs will be a source of light on the umbrella itself, and will need to have a small power source to keep them lit. These lights can last for a relatively long period of time. Very common types of umbrellas that contain LEDs are ones where the LEDs are lined up along the canopy of the umbrella, typically surrounding the outer edge. LED Umbrellas can also include LEDs on the inside of the shaft of the umbrella.
What are LEDs?
LEDs are small lights that serve a different function that incandescent lights, though they are capable of emitting as much light. An LED is comprised of a semiconductor that can receive a charge, which results in electrons shifting from one orbit down to a lower orbit of the nuclei of many particles. As this change occurs, energy is set free, and by restricting how far the electrons lower in orbit, different colors of light and spectrums can be created. Most of the time when LEDs are used on an umbrella, one can expect to find them on the canopy or on the handle and shaft.
LEDs on canopy
An LED umbrella that sports LEDs around the canopy will generally have many individual LEDs connected along the ribbing and outer edge of the canopy. This is done for various reasons, though typically this kind of LED umbrella is meant to increase the visibility of the individual wielding the umbrella at night or in situations where visibility is low. Despite the capability of the lights on an LED umbrella being any color, the colors used most frequently are yellow and white because they are great at increasing visibility.
LEDs on shaft
Another popular style of LED umbrella will feature LEDs within the handle and shaft of the umbrella, instead of on the canopy. This style of umbrella is typically designed to make others more visible, and to make the umbrella look more unique. Umbrellas with illuminated shafts were created as a prop to be used in the classic film Blade Runner, so they are referred to as “Blade Runner style” umbrellas. As the actual shaft of the umbrella is lit up in this kind of LED umbrella, the light emitted is typically blue or white.
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