...has created a prototype umbrella incorporating a gauge that can detect and measure raindrops hitting the canvas.

Who the fark carries an umbrella made of canvas?

OTOH, I geek out on the weather a bit. I have a personal weather station and like to get online and be able to look at the weather at home, no matter where I am. It also helps, because weather is weird here. It can be raining cats and dogs in one part of the Valley, and be clear in another. Or it can be snowing at one place and be rain just to miles away. A flurry at my house, but a foot of snow a the U, which I can see from my bedroom window. So it's also practical, since "going outside" doesn't tell me anything about what is happening at the house.