Windguard tackles windy campsites
Brisbane inventor solves problem of awnings and umbrellas blowing awayPortable shade and rain shelter devices that do a good job of combatting the wind are not unusual.
However, a Brisbane backyard inventor reckons he's solved the problem of regular off-the-shelf 4WD roll out awnings, beach umbrellas and portable gazebos taking off in the wind at the beach or when camping.
Launched in late-2018, the patented Windguard product range securely anchors a range of summer shade devices into the sand using just sand, water and the science of suction.
“The Windguard works by anchoring the shaft of the shade with a small peg under a large lightweight plastic anchoring plate," explained Windguard inventor Creig Adams. "This anchoring plate is then buried in the sand and drenched with water.
"The added water then displaces the air between the grains of sand which compacts them tightly and promotes a force of suction. It is the same principle that pulls your shoe off your foot when you are walking through mud.
Adams reckons the Windguard units, which costs $17 each or $59 for a set of four, could save you money in the long run.
“If you have ever had to stand helplessly by as the wind turns over your rollout awning and smacks the legs on top of the turret of your brand new 4wd you’ll appreciate the benefit, particularly if it is a very expensive wing type fold out awning," he said.
"Trying to rein in the legs on one of these during wind gusts can be tricky and downright dangerous. Likewise if you have ever had to chase a portable gazebo or beach umbrella down the beach you know that sinking feeling of trying to catch and stop it before it causes some real damage.”
The Windguard anchoring system can also be adapted for use on other surfaces including grass. The anchor plates feature large angled peg holes in each corner that can hold up to four large tent pegs.
"As the holes are all angled in different directions away from the centre of the plate they can withstand a vertical lifting force in excess of 100kg," he claimed.
The Windguard system can also be adapted for use on bitumen or concrete with the addition of one (or more) $17 Windguardian weight bags, which when filled with crusher dust, sand, water etc. can weigh up to 20 kg.
More info: Windguard.com.au
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