New invisible umbrella uses air to protect you from the rain

An umbrella that deflects raindrops to create an air barrier around the user could be the next must-have winter gadget.

New invisible umbrella uses air to protect you from the rain

An umbrella that deflects raindrops to create an air barrier around the user could be the next must-have winter gadget.

'Air umbrella' is a new invention that creates a 'force field' of air to create an invisible shield from downpours.

It works thanks to a fan powered by a lithium battery, hidden in the umbrella's handle.

The disadvantages of the design are that the device needs to be charged after 30 minutes of use and the fact that those around you might not be too happy with you deflecting the rain in their direction.

Air umbrella currently only exists as a prototype but has already raised more than three times its funding target on crowdfunding website Kickstarter.

It is expected to hit the market in December 2015 and supporters can reserve a model for a starting pledge of $88.

The umbrella is undergoing something of a design revolution at the moment -- earlier this month designers Matthew Walden and Justin Nagelberg debuted the 'Sa', an origami-inspired alternative to the traditional umbrella design.