ori is the world’s first frameless origami umbrella
A new hardware startup led by MIT engineers and world-renowned origami innovators reimagines one of the most unchanged everyday objects: the umbrella. Called Ori, it features a frameless, origami-engineered design that compresses a traditional 1-meter canopy into a pocket-sized 3.5 × 23 centimeter cylinder, turning the canopy itself into the structural framework. Drawing on NASA-grade folding principles, Ori eliminates ribs, fabric, and typical failure points, creating an entirely new category of personal weather device.
Ori gold edition canopy | all images courtesy of Ori
folding architecture meets digital features
Unlike traditional umbrellas, Ori uses a patented Miura-based folding architecture that allows the canopy to become a rigid, self-supporting structure with a single degree-of-freedom motion. The umbrella opens with one actuation, and its compact form is achieved through precise crease pattern engineering and material experimentation. The team has filed four patents covering the folding system, locking mechanism, and internal core, reflecting the technical development behind the minimal exterior.
In addition to its structural approach, Ori incorporates a set of digital features within the canopy itself. A built-in display provides air-quality readings (AirSense), visual themes that adapt to mood or weather (MoodShift), customizable color palettes (Display Aura), and one-tap open/close interaction (Smart Touch). These elements introduce an interface layer to the product, combining mechanical innovation with an interactive, user-responsive surface. The first Founder Edition units are planned for 2026, marking a new chapter for an object that hasn’t changed in a century and a half.
Ori uses a patented Miura-based folding architecture
Ori silver edition canopy
Ori silver edition
the umbrella opens with one actuation
Ori blue edition canopy
Ori gold edition
Ori boasts a set of digital features within the canopy
the first units are planned for 2026
the new weather tool incorporates an interactive, user-responsive surface
the umbrella is engineered to be tiny and compact
the OLED display is easily customizable and controllable
the built-in display provides air-quality readings, visual themes, and more
project info:
name: Ori
designer: Ori World | @oriworld.co
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edited by: myrto katsikopoulou | designboom
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