Introducing 'rain gas' to rain protection

A torch-shaped device can be used as a shield and protect the user against rain, wind, snow, or even tear gas.

Wang Chuan, 37, from Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, and his friends studied and developed the cell for two years. Before the umbrellas became the symbol of the protest movement in Hong Kong, Wang came up with the idea after seeing how the wind could change the direction of the rain on the roof of a building.

The special umbrella is shaped like a small, battery-operated torch and can help people protect the rain, wind, even tear gas. (Photo: SCMP)

Theoretically, the wind will create a "stealth" overlay. The special umbrella uses a device that has a high-energy fan to create a shield. In 2012, Wang and his friends at the Nanjing Aeronautics and Space University completed the prototype, but it had the disadvantage of being too heavy and cumbersome.

According to the SCMP, two feasible models were then carried out with the support of the research team in Beijing. Air Umbrella was born, can stop rainwater for about 30 minutes. The device is powered by lithium batteries, which can charge within an hour, without creating noise or vibration.

In addition to preventing rain, this type of cell can also form a shield against tear gas. However, according to Wang, the device is designed with a high-tech toy model and can not be considered a defensive weapon.

In Hong Kong, swimming goggles, medical masks, raincoats, T-shirts, or umbrellas became the protector of the protesters from tear gas. To protect themselves, the protesters cover their eyes by wearing swim goggles and reinforcing the outer layer of nylon, or by using a medical mask and specialized respirators.

The title has been changed.