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September 30, 2008
Showing my True Colors
It’s common to focus on emotions while ignoring or having any awareness of what that goes on inside our body. This lack of understanding between the two can lead to health problems, for serious. So if we could keep track of how our emotions and bodies relate, what would that look like?
This portable device lets the wearer express emotions with colors by correlating them with biometric data. The idea is to create another way to externalize how we feel in a language anyone can understand. Someone walking down the street with flash red might be upset, in a hurry, or angry. A computer keeps track of your colors, sort of a diary of emotions that can be turned into choreographed motion graphic pieces.
It’s an esoteric concept but one grounded in scientifically proven models. We all react to colors and in most cases, can assign specific colors to a range of human emotions. I’d love to see this concept come to fruition.
via Yanko Design
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September 22, 2008
Exquisite Graphite
So much more than just a writing implement, these exquisite graphite objects are decorative sculptures. Meticulously crafted in the studio of San Francisco artist Agelio Batle, he combines carbonaceous graphite (mineral remains of prehistoric plant life) with smudge-resistant compounds under intense pressure to create his source material. The resulting material is then fused into representations of various forms found in nature; our collection highlights land, water and air objects. All the surfaces of each object can be used for writing; they will not smudge the hands. The graphite wears very slowly; if used everyday each object should last 7 to 9 years. Comes in Leaf, Shell and Quill.
Posted by tranism at 12:56 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
September 13, 2008
Hexagons Sound Good
There is something about the hexagon shape thats captivating, maybe the various possibilities of combining the shape is what attracts me. Anyways,
I'm considering these speakers designed by Oskar Daniel for my living room. The speakers are combined with one single hidden cable on the back and can be individually turned or tilted.
Posted by diverseawareness at 10:14 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
September 5, 2008
Panda Shower? Hells Yeah!
Linea Creativity is a collection of modern shower panels from Colarcril. It's novel and fun and although there are other panels like a woman's or man's body, I'm all about the panda. I need this ASAP. Colacril, hook it up please!
Posted by tranism at 8:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
LED Lightbulb Looks Familiar
The truth is incandescents are still winning. CFLs are great and all but toxic mercury is used to make them. So the only viable alternative at the moment are LEDs. They're getting cheaper to produce, clean, and last 30+ years. The hurdles are heat dissipation and illumination power. Frog Design believes they've figured out both.
Their bulb uses aluminum to channel heat out and away. The LED is powerful enough to disperse the same amount of light as an incandescent. It even looks like one to make the transition easier for consumers. It's not on the market yet but lets hope soon.
via YD
Posted by tranism at 12:37 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Speaker Balls like Peas in a Pod
The Pea Speaker concept by Lu Le is pretty fan-fucking-tastic. Pardon my language. The tower holds 7 bluetooth wireless speaker spheres that can be tossed about to create dynamic audio environments. Tho not true surround sound, the concept is unique and from a tech standpoint, well thought out. Recharging happens via induction in the tower. DO WANT!
via YD
Posted by tranism at 12:31 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
A Really Modern Rocking Chair
The Purity Rocking Chair by Scott Wilson is pure sex on wheels. No wait. . . sex on rockers? Anyways, I love the design; shiny lacquer finish, the polyurethane mesh, and of course the sexy clam shell shape. Just a concept now but one can dream.
via YD
Posted by tranism at 12:27 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Prius vs. Insight
Honda finally wised up and figured out people who buy hybrids buy them partly because of unique styling - a signature if you will. Their latest Prius fighter is the new 2009 Insight. The shape is a bit familiar (cough - Prius) but chalk that up to a universally efficient design. The roomy 5 seater supposedly has more power and more room than a Prius all while breaking the 70 mpg fuel economy barrier. What about cost? How does $18k sound?
I'm definitely interested. As a Prius owner my only loyalty is to great transitional technology away from petrol fuels. The Prius is king right now but Honda may change that with the new Insight and do a greater extend, their fuel cell Clarity. But Toyota is no slouch. The 2010 Prius set to debut in 2009 is just around the corner along with their all electric contender to battle Chevy's Volt.
Man it's gonna be awesome!
Posted by tranism at 12:22 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Alien Looking Technology Keeps the Light Shining
Yes it looks a little sinister but the Stimuli 3.0 is a lighting system whose shape and therefore light output sensitively varies inversely with the surrounding natural light intensity. At the heart of this device is a unique 3 axis gear box which enables this subtle alteration of lighting through an attractive and striking change in form of the device.
via YD
Posted by tranism at 12:01 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
August 20, 2008
Tabbed Mobile Phone by KDDI au
Making sure to flex its concepting muscles, KDDI au just announced their PLY mobile phone concept inspired by sandwiched plywood. Each section is tabbed to core functions like a dialpad, keyboard, gamepad, touchscreen, pico project, and printer! Will it ever see the light of day? Hard to say. Miniaturizing some of those proposed functions seems beyond what science and technology can achieve now but never underestimate the Japanese.
More pics after the jump.
Posted by tranism at 11:47 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
August 13, 2008
Windshape by nArchitects and SCAD
Windshape, a structure commission by the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) near their campus is Lacoste, France takes weaving to new heights - literally. SCAD students spent 5 weeks carefully hoisting and weaving the structure together. It now serves as a public meeting space, hosted concerts, and art exhibitions. More pics after the jump.
More at Archdaily
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August 11, 2008
Spaces made from cable ties
From Shane Crozier of Yanko Design,
If you thought China's opening ceremony was impressive for its scale and teamwork then spare a thought for the 52 German design students who were handed the knee weakening task of creating a temporary 200sqm world that tries to translate sociological terms like self-portrayal, community and retreat into tangible spatial situations. As impressive as it is, the real treat is in the details. The entire space was created by lashing together almost 1.3 million cable ties. The result is nothing short of amazing. Visitors are invited to explore the surreal landscape of cocoons, webs and light called "The Third Space" that took a staggering 16,870 hours to complete.
Posted by tranism at 5:21 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Cool me where I want it
Climate control zones are nothing new but those systems are pretty pricey to install. The Free Wind concept uses a smart control system to determine where air currents flow making sure people who need cooling stay cool and those that are freezing get relief.
Looks like a giant Apple designed aircraft. Do want!
via Yanko Design
Posted by tranism at 5:01 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Giant Knit
Speaking as someone who knits, this 300 Knitted Carpet project by Sebastian Schonheit really impressed me. I can barely get a handle of 11" needles. What he's working with is just insane and all those knit stitches look perfect. Boy must have spent hours doing just a few rows. Kudos!
Posted by tranism at 4:26 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
August 2, 2008
A camera for the blind
One of the 2008 International Design Excellence Awards (IDEA) winners is the Touch Sight camera. When we think of cameras, we think of recording bouncing photons off mirrors. So how would a visually impaired person use this? This camera records sounds and displays imagery via 3D embossing allowing the person to relive the moment by two other senses, hearing and touch. Just brilliant!
Posted by tranism at 6:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
July 28, 2008
Philips webcam makes me hate spiders even more
This wireless Philips webcam by Flynn Product Design gives me the creeps. Fortunately my nightmarish dreams won't come true since it doesn't actually move. The legs are just there to help you reposition the camera in weird angles, perfect for those umm. . . voyeuristic captures.
Posted by tranism at 12:21 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
July 25, 2008
Lotus Evora, my pants are getting tight
The most beautiful Lotus to date. I've always thought Lotus DNA looked a little insectoid but the new Evora is beauty personified. This 2+2 coupe is powered by a Toyota inspired 276 hp V6 weighing in a scant 2,976 lb. The interior is finally updated offering luxury appointments and a technological prowess. Now where's my all electric version?!?
Price is TBD but expect delivery in 2009. More pics after the jump.
Posted by tranism at 11:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
July 24, 2008
A humanscale jungle gym
If the title doesn't excite you then you are dead inside, just stone cold. LISTEN, imagine your neighborhood transformed with ramps, wall climbs, tubes, and slides - interconnecting every building in ways that encourages exercise but also lets you explore your home turf in from new perspectives.
Liber toit, a concept by Aureline Ranson is just that. Although I'm sure there are zoning and safety issues involved to implementing such a system in a public space, I don't see why private properties with sprawling campuses can't embrace the idea.
More pics at Yanko Design.
Posted by tranism at 12:17 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
July 9, 2008
Ecofriendly Lotus, wait what?
To begin with, the Eco Elise uses a host of sustainable materials to make up the body and trim, including hemp, "eco wool," sisal and a new high-tech, water-based paint that can be applied by hand, while still maintaining the grade-A finish you'd expect. All of these elements reduce the Eco Elise's footprint throughout its lifecycle, limit the amount of energy used during production and simultaneously slashes 70 pounds from the standard Elise's curb weight.
But Lotus hasn't stopped there. It's fitted a set of flexible solar panels on the hard top to help power the electrical systems, reducing the drain on the engine and improving efficiency. And there's a new green shift light on the instrument panel that assists drivers in maximizing fuel efficiency.
Watch for its official debut at the London Motor Show later this month. More pics after the jump.
Posted by tranism at 2:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
I'm singing in the rain
The Bluetooth Umbrella is my wet dream, literally. I'm always on the damn phone and the ability to talk handsfree into the handle is just aces. It also doubles as a radio for those times when I. . . okay I hardly ever listen to the radio but hey, it doesn't hurt to have it.
Just don't call me crazy when you see me walking down the street in pouring rain talking into my umbrella handle. I'm not crazy!
via Yanko Design
Posted by tranism at 12:46 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
July 3, 2008
Making use of tires
Tires are one of the most abundant waste products on Earth yet it's the most recyclable. I mean 100% of it can be turned into a number of useful products but the most green thing to do is repurpose it just as is. The Re-Tyre concept by Carl Menary cleans and remolds tires past their prime into unique and surprisingly comfortable seating.
via Yanko
Posted by tranism at 6:04 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Bizarre organics
I'm frightened and in raptured with these bio-mechanical robots designed artist Choe U Ram (for real that's his name). They glow, move eerily life-like, and they even respond to each other - moving appenditures and all! Gizmodo has tons more pics and a video to make you run to your room and cry.
Actually after some further thought and a couple of NyQuil to make me feel nifty, I would like to have my room covered in these robots, but they have to respond to my every whim. Enter my domain at your own risk.
Posted by tranism at 5:21 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
June 20, 2008
Ride a horsey
I swear I dreamt of this a long time ago. You see, in my dream I worked in a paper mill to make ends meat. My long work days were met with an aching back and the realization I'd have to do it all over again. Only my daydreams saved me from insanity but the constant lapse in concentration gets me into an accident. I get caught in one of the mill presses. As I lay there slowly drifting into unconsciousness, I see myself folding a giant origami horse, hop on its back and ride away to peace.
Enjoy this video. It's a solar powered kinetic paper horse.
Posted by tranism at 1:53 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
June 11, 2008
This BMW feels like silk
I've never been a fan of BMW's aesthetics (ducks from fanboys throwing rocks) but their GINA Light Visionary Model concept provides a peek into what future advance materials may mean for the proverbial automobile. Instead of typical sheet metal, this vehicle is covered in a flexible, super strong, memory retention textile stretched across a frame.
Various aspects of the vehicle's substructure can move via electo-hydraulic controls, dynamically morphing the skin. For example when headlights are turned on, fabric stretches open to reveal LED lights. BMW envisages a future where rigid body panels are a thing of the past. Today's cars are designed to absorb impacts in their frames, not sheet metal. Switching to a textile base shell significantly reduces body weight which improves performance and efficiency.
This is exactly the type of thinking I want to see from industries that shape so much of the future. Not to sound cliche but BMW thought "outside the box" and totally hit a home run IMO.
More pics after the jump.
Posted by tranism at 12:49 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
June 8, 2008
Tattoos activated by touch
Tattoos and physical mutilation are amongst the oldest forms of personal expression and identity. Subcultures have used tattoos as a form of self representation; a visual language communicating personality and status. Philips Design examined the growing trend of extreme body adornment like tattoos, piercing, implants and scarring in a project called SKIN: Tattoo.
The Electronics Tattoo film expresses the visual power of sensitive technology applied to the human body. The film subtly leads the viewer through the simultaneous emotional and aesthetic transformations between two lovers. Your touch activates the tattoo and conversely, hides it.
Posted by tranism at 8:28 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
2016 Olympic City Applicants
Here they are ladies and gents, the 2016 Olympic city applications. Which do you prefer?
Posted by tranism at 6:46 PM | Permalink | Comments (13)
June 6, 2008
A whale of a vase
As Editor in Chief on the best industrial design blog, Yanko Design - I come across many designs with potential. Some are more viable than most and this is one of those concepts. Designer Alessandro Beda's Whale vase is simple, elegant, and easy enough to mass produce. He's currently looking for a way produce it so I'm going to use all my clout to see if I can help.
Posted by tranism at 5:26 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Seeding urban landscapes one seed at a time
The Bloom device is meant to be a subversive and inspirational tool for our concrete jungles. Similar to the tuft of a dandelion as the wind carries the seedling, we propose a way of dispersing seedlings with bubbles and bicycling. Seeds are co-mingled with a bubble mixture and upon pedaling to your destination , you release the floating seeds which land in cracks and crevices throughout the city streets. Over time, the seeds grow into flowers and plants to create a green "fringe" to our sidewalks and streets.
Using natural ingredients; vegetable based soap and seeds, combine together to make a dissolving "nugget". The resulting mixture resides in a reservoir inside Blooms aluminum housing. The housing is attached to the lower frame near the rear tire, similar to a exhaust pipe. Upon pedalling, air enters the front of Bloom and spins a pinwheel inside which picks up a small drop of the seed/bubble mixture and blows a bubble carrying a seed out the back as "exhaust".
Our inspiration comes from the tale of Johnny Appleseed, where he would spread seeds everywhere he went planting apple trees for future generations.
via Make
Posted by tranism at 5:22 PM | Permalink | Comments (6)
Putting the Speak in Speaker
Speech bubbles made into speakers. Clever and a product that should have been conceived a long time ago. Designed by Sherwood Forlee.
via Yanko Design
Posted by tranism at 5:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
How Does A Stormtrooper Go On Holiday?
Speaking as a former Imperial Stormtrooper myself, I can tell you I love my Nereus craft. Designed by the brilliant Mathias Koehler, this waverunner is totally kite powered, way quieter than those speeder bikes. This fuel free craft provides hours of fuel free fun above and below the water. Steering is managed via foot pedals while the handlebars pivot the craft forward/backwards. Most importantly it matches my armor - white and post modern.
via Yanko Design
Posted by tranism at 5:06 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
May 30, 2008
Dior's Black Diamonds
When it comes to mobile phones there are 3 classes. You have your mass market which is the largest segment. It's what most people have. Then you have your tech market with devices like the HTC Diamond and iPhone. This class tends to innovate and push technology forward. Finally you have your luxe class, such as the case with the new Dior Black Diamond phone. It's no longer about market segment, it's no longer about tech. It's all about the cache that comes with a $5,000 phone.
Money man, so much money.
Posted by tranism at 10:06 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Lifesaver, Clean Water For All
The LIFESAVER is the world's first all in one ultra filtration water bottle. It can remove both chemicals and microbiological pathogens without using iodine or chlorine. This is quite possibly the most revolutionary invention, more so than OLED TVs, iPhones, or multi-touch screens. The LIFESAVER has the potential to become a key player in disaster relief and to provide clean drinking water for the nearly 1 billion people who are still without access.
via Yanko Design
Posted by tranism at 9:53 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
May 23, 2008
Steampunk Tunnel Connects London To New York
Hardly anyone knows that a secret tunnel runs deep beneath the Atlantic Ocean. In May 2008, more than a century after it was begun, the tunnel will finally be completed. Immediately afterwards, an extraordinary optical device called a Telectroscope will be installed at both ends which will miraculously allow people to see right through the Earth from London to New York and vice versa.
Of course artist Paul St. George doesn't mention you can't physically enter these Telectroscopes because they're only connected via fiber optic cables letting one side view the other side by way of live video. Cheeky!
Both ends will be open to the public 24/7 this May so get your cosplay gear ready and I'll meet you there with my optomatrized monocle and sprocket walking stick.
via Tiscali
Posted by tranism at 5:56 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Shredder Surfboard
I live in L.A. and work 2 blocks from the beach so I should be up on my p's and q's about surfing. Sadly I'm not but this surfboard has my interests peeked. See my ears perking up like a kitty?
To all my surfer readers out there. Would you surf on a board made of cardboard? No? We'll here me out. This may be way better than your typical foam core fiberglass composites. The interior of the Shredder is built like a honeycomb, one of nature's most efficient and strongest geometric properties. The board’s frame contains nearly 400 corrugated-paper slats precisely cut by a computer-controlled saw. The slats intersect at interlocking notches, forming a pattern of triangles and hexagons that provides strength by evenly dispersing force throughout the board. Designer Mike Sheldrake makes it watertight by wrapping it in fiberglass cloth hardened with epoxy resin (similar to traditional boards).
Sheldrake has already sold one to a pro-surfer so lets hope he moves into full scale production like soonish.
via PopSci
Posted by tranism at 5:49 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
May 17, 2008
Digital Escapism
Imagine seeing the world at its most beautiful, peaceful, and greatest regardless of what "reality" is. With increasing pollution, devastating wars, poverty, and climate change, human society may be turning for the worse. Although nobody suggests ditching any last efforts to fix our problems, no one can argue with the need to escape every now and then.
Frog Design's "A Digital Escape" is a mask that augments reality into a more serene place. You could look at a pile a rubble surrounded by death and see nothing but glorious sunshine; beautiful architecture set amongst a bed of dandelions. This virtual escapism provides a sort of virtual drug to make the world appear a better place even if just for a moment.
Posted by tranism at 2:42 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)
Clutter Free Kitchen
The kitchen is one of the most common rooms where clutter seems to build up fast. Modern kitchens have become more than cook work horses. They're also a gathering place and for some, a working place. Imagine having everything within arm's reach, where tools are neatly stored away in a pantry, the cook and work top exists as a bench, and organization is an integral part of the system's design. That's the Balthaup B2 kitchen. It's minimalist, glorious, and most important it works.
Posted by tranism at 2:28 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
May 9, 2008
Giant Cobras or Solar Shades?
The greenest form of energy is still the sun. It's free and it's everywhere. Australian design firm Buro North in partnership with the Victorian Eco Innovation Lab show off their VEIL Solar Shades installation. Photovoltaics aren't new but these cobras as I like to call them do more than collect solar energy, they also provide shade. Sun's great and all but I can't stand the heat. These cobras are right up my alley. Just don't bite me.
via Josh Spear
Posted by tranism at 2:58 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
May 7, 2008
A Really Blingy Watch
Made of pure white ceramic, covered in 200 square cut topaz gemstones, and created by a designer with a very blingy name himself; Vlad Icobet - it's no wonder this concept Shine watch could potentially be the next big hit with celebs and socialites if it were real. Time is displayed digitally using a proprietary laser projection system. The gemstones only help to amplify the light which essentially "shines" thru.
Do want! via Yanko Design
Posted by tranism at 12:18 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
May 6, 2008
Who Designed The HTC Touch Diamond?
So with all the press the HTC Touch Diamond is getting, no one's really discussing its origins. Sure it's HTC branded but the smartphone is actually a collaboration between HTC in Taiwan and One & Co. in San Francisco. HTC has the hardware chops but One & Co. knows how to meld the minimalist with the meaningful. Hit the jump for more beauty shots.
Posted by tranism at 10:26 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
April 14, 2008
Olympic Nike Footwear
Wow the first day of the Nike Beijing Innovation Summit is already off to a great start with the unveiling of Olympic footwear, one for each event. Notcot picked out some of their favorites which are mine too. If you wanna see more from the event, hit the press page. Otherwise hit the jump to see a detailed version of the picture above.
Is it weird that I want the gymnastic shoes for indoor use?
Posted by tranism at 12:35 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
April 10, 2008
My Assistant Is A Cube
Because it does it all. Tame is a concept device, cube like in nature, that syncs with all your other devices and applications. You store different status messages on each face of the cube and just by rotating it, activate that status. Now your phone, voicemail, Facebook, Myspace, twitter, etc. all reflect the same status message. There's even a web application that reports the status of everyone equipped with a Tame cube. The color coded system correlates with the color you set on your Tame cube so people know your availability at a glance.
via Greener Gass
Posted by tranism at 4:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
April 8, 2008
Dynamic, Kinetic, Interactive
Those 3 words should tell you all. The KILYKA system - a markerless motion caption system that interprets body movements and kinematics into audio and visual. Imagine if Cirque du Soleil got their hands on this. They need something fresh anyways. Their shows are becoming homogenous.
My boy Hierro.
Posted by tranism at 7:22 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Most Beautiful Foosball Table
Schedule to be shown at this year's Milan Furniture Design show, the "11" is the world's most beautiful foosball table. No, seriously! A joint collaborative effort between GRO design and Tim Modelmakers, the duo wanted to elevate typical football (soccer) table design since sports stadiums have increasingly become more modern. I'm sure it'll cost 2 arms and a few other unmentionable limbs but I want one bad.
More after the jump. Spanx MoCo
Posted by tranism at 6:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Rainpod Lands To Drench You
You've got a lawn, flowers, trees, hell - you've got a whole ecosystem out there that needs watering. By natural law, nature provides just enough to sustain. Of course, your garden being artificially implemented means you need to help but why waste precious city water? If it rains at least once a month where you live, then get the Rainpod - a rain collector that looks like it came straight out of Pikmin.
The shape and height uses gravity to provide just enough water pressure for a light hosing. Ecologically sound and your plants don't really care if its water comes from tap or blue sky.
Posted by tranism at 6:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Just PLANE Unexcusable
I suspect designer Jaime Hayon was too busy smoking cuban cigars, sippin' cristal, taming women, and yammering away on his Swarovski jeweled iPhone to know the laws of aerodynamics, gravity, and plain common sense would make his jet concept ill advised.
Entitled Jet Set, this design will be shown at the Milan Funiture Show complete with a glamorous hanger, leather appointed seats, and a 1st class lounge area. No it doesn't really fly. Like P. Diddy, it's all for show kids.
via Yanko Design
Posted by tranism at 5:50 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
April 4, 2008
Glowing Swing?
Hell yea! Where do I sign up? Alexander Lervik has created a glow in the dark swing made of fiber optic cables. Granted this picture looks like it looks damn near neon than glow in the dark but who cares, I'm like an insect when it comes to luminous things in the dark.
Off topic but this is one of the most well dressed kids I've seen.
via Slashgear
Posted by tranism at 1:27 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
April 1, 2008
Artlebedev Defendius Door Chain
Paranoid about home security? Don't trust that APC security system? Dog doesn't bark at all, like AT ALL when strangers walk in? Then maybe you need the Artlebedev Defendius Door Chain.
hit the jump for a closer look.
Posted by tranism at 3:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (7)
March 31, 2008
Drumming A Beat
My mother used to yell at me every time I tapped out a beat on the dining table. Now there's a table that encourages it. The Musical Rumba Series is built around the idea of interchangeable tiles, each containing a percussive instrument. Get together with friends and really beat one out!
Posted by tranism at 3:28 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
March 30, 2008
How To Call A Deaf Dog
A cool story about a dog owner distraught with how to could call his deaf dog. So he fashioned a vibrating collar from the guts of an RC car. Make has all the info and if you have a weekend, you can build one too.
Posted by tranism at 4:52 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
March 29, 2008
Luna Furniture
There's a funny duality to the moon. It's not particularly beautiful from space but from our planet reflected sunlight sets the moon a-glow and thats how most of us think of the moon. This beautiful silvery sphere in the sky. Hell put anything shiny and silver in front of me and I go ape sh*t. The Fullmoon sideboard table by Sotirios Papadopoulos for Ennezero is just the kind of thing I'm taking about.
Created using some kinda super glow eco-paint, this terrestrial moon seems to illuminate when the lights are out. You lucky Milanese can check it out at the SOHO temporary gallery during the dEMOsign exhibition this April 18-20.
via Yanko Design
Posted by tranism at 3:36 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
March 22, 2008
Selective Hearing Much?
Check out these Batphones and yes that's what they're really called. Designed out of injection molded plastic, these easily slip on like a head band and amplify sounds entering the ear canal. They're not designed to replace hearing aids but if you're a little hard of hearing... or have selective hearing, then you need one of these. I suspect Oprah will have these on her list of favorite things. Before long, we'll see housewives forcing them on their husbands everywhere.
Posted by tranism at 1:33 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
The Measure of a Man
Listen, I think it's kinda cute this towel has a built-in tape measurer but I'm not like a Bowflex model or anything and the last thing I want to be reminded of is how wide my waist is. Damn you industrial designers! Why?!? Why?!?!
via Yanko Design
Posted by tranism at 1:29 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Really Fast Instant Coffee
As if instant mixer coffee weren't fast enough, here's another way to shave off an additional 4 seconds. This design mimics those sugar/honey sticks you find in coffee shops around the country. I mean, why couldn't it work for instant coffee? You get just the right amount and a stirrer. If you're so inclined, you can even fold the stirrer into a star. That's what I do with drinking straws.
via Yanko Design
Posted by tranism at 1:25 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Urban Bike Keeps You Visible
Those little flashing lights night bikers dawn don't really register as a moving vehicle. They need to be bigger and brighter so drivers can actually see them. The Tong City Bike by Niklas Galler has all that by integrating light tubes inside the chassis and wheels. To top it off, the bike is super low maintenance with the brake, drive train, shock absorbers, and gears housed in one unit. Unfortunately it's just a concept for now but one can dream can't they?
Hit the jump for another picture.
Posted by tranism at 1:19 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
March 6, 2008
Phone Has Something For Your Ear
I love this mobile phone concept dubbed "Mooon+" by Sunman Kwon. It's even more awesome the designer's name has the word 'Sun' in it but I digress. See this phone has all the goodies; mulit-touchscreen, slick design, slim, and a camera. What I really like is the mouth piece detaches and turns into a bluetooth headset.
Wrote about it at Yanko Design.
Posted by tranism at 10:53 AM | Permalink | Comments (12)
Helping The Blind Go Hi Tech
A blind person's walking stick may soon make the leap into hi-tech by integrating sensors and tactile feedback. The Smart Wand by Jin Woo Han is pretty small and ergonomically fits in one's hand. If there is an obstacle in the way, the surface of device can actually raise small bumps to alert the person.
via Tuvie
Posted by tranism at 6:48 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Bees Sniff It Out
Moma Online has an interesting exhibit called Bee's Project. A number of hand blown glass objects houses bees in intricate chambers designed to detect your current health condition. Bees have a highly advance sense of smell which can be trained to sniff out certain forms of cancer, the common cold, even pregnancy. I wonder if they're covered under my medical insurance. I can't wait to tell my physician he's wrong cuz the bees told me differently.
If you jump to the Moma Online site, just type "bees" in the search field and follow the path to the entries. There's a few more pics after my jump too.
Posted by tranism at 6:41 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
February 28, 2008
New Way To Own A Mobile Phone
New mobiles with updated technologies come out every year so why are we stuck in a model that forces encourages us to buy instead of leasing?
That's the idea behind the Linc, a concept mobile phone and platform by Greener Grass. You sign a contract and they send you a phone. A year from now you send it back for the latest and greatest. Kinda sorta similar to what some companies allow now with trade-ins except your old Linc actually gets recycled, like all of it. This model demonstrates a sustainable cradle-to-cradle solution instead of our current cradle-to-waste system.
Would you be into it? I think Kitsune Noir is.
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Squeeze My Tentacle
Board room meetings are kind of boring. A bunch of people hunched over the table spitting out random ideas, speaking over each other, being anything but productive. The Sensor Squid aims to change all that by making the collaborative spirit fun. Just grab onto a tentacle and speak your mind, control that powerpoint presentation, share information, or lead a brainstorm.
via Make
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February 27, 2008
Mighty Morphin Computer Tablet
One of the new miracle materials is a magnetized oil called magneclay. By using controlled electric and magnetic fields, magneclay can take on almost any shape. Designer Jonathan Lucas uses this technology in his Siafu concept, a tablet designed for people with vision loss and impairment.
The tablet can display brail, create tactile surface imagery, and even bring up dynamic menus for a revolutionary interface.
via Yanko Design
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Ripple Ball
As if designers haven't made some faucets difficult enough to use, designer Smith Newman & Touch 360 Studio felt they should take it a step further. The Ripple faucet has a magnetized ball that controls temperature and water pressure in relation to its position from the center. Hot and cold water flow from two separate channels meeting in the middle for the perfect mix.
Just make sure you don't lose the ball. More at Yanko Design.
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February 25, 2008
Woodbot
After reading this interview about Mike Rea and his wood working prowess, I have renewed interest in wood shop. Unfortunately my skills with a saw is about as good as throwing a football more than 10 yards. Seriously this guy can make anything out of wood.
If you live anywhere near Virginia, he's having an exhibition at the Contemporary Arts Center this April. GO SEE IT!
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Automated Brooming
Look, it totally works if you only dirty the floor directly beneath the track okay? Living like the Jetsons I tells ya.
More at Oh Gizmo
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A Green Car
I'm a Playsam collector, well sorta. I have the white and black versions of this car. Although the company swears up and down their simple wooden toys are for kids, I've only seen adults with them, especially since they cost $40-60 each.
But that's neither here nor there. Playsam wants you to know it's green now and to celebrate, this April you'll be able to pick up the Playsam Miljobil. The wood comes from recycled beechwood, the lacquer and paints are non-toxic, and the packaging has gone from the slick black Apple-esque packaging to plain brown fiber.
So who wants to buy me one?
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Nokia Wants You To Believe!
In the future, your phone is like paper thin okay? It can sniff fruit and self-cleans. It can fold into a phone, a watch, and possibly an origami crane. Okay that last one was a stretch but wouldn't it be cool if it did?!?
Now that I'm back on the Earth, check out Nokia's latest concept device dubbed Morph. A joint collaboration between Nokia Research and the University of Cambridge, it promises a future where flexible materials literally bend to your every whim.
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New Meaning To Mile High
Standing over 5,000 feet, the proposed MILE tower in Jeddah City Saudi Arabia will someday claim the coveted title of world's tallest building. Although technically we can build as high as we want, other variables prevent skyscrapers from every going this tall. Issues like transport, safety, and evacuation.
But that's not gonna stop the investors in this project. If anything it's more a symbol of power and wealth in the Middle East. Still this is chump change compared to Japan's proposed XSEED.
Posted by tranism at 4:33 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Glowing Bamboo
Those newbie ID graduates from METU are at it again. Designer Sevcan Yardim is totally proud of her Bamboo Lights, a sustainable lighting concept. She envisages gardens lit up with this very eco-friendly alternative to lamp posts. Illuminated by small LEDs, the whole thing looks like an organic light saber, which may or may not be a good thing. I'd probably try to dig one up to test out my non-existant Jedi skills.
The Force has left me. Thanks Core77.
Posted by tranism at 4:22 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Squeeze This
ID people have it tough. They have to forecast the future based on current trends; not an easy job. That's why we always see concepts stretching the bounds of our imaginations. It can be difficult separating what's real from fantasy so here's a hip-tip. In general look for a commonality and that's probably what we'll see hit mass 10-20-30 years from now.
One example are flexible electronics. They come in every form via a designer's imagination so we can be sure our electronics will be flexible in some way in the future. One example is a Soft Phone by Qian Jiang. In lieu of a traditional screen, there's a electric cellulose fabric stretched between rings. The fabric registers deformations as input so just about anything from typing, dialing, to squeezing can be used for navigation. Fascinating concept really.
More at Yanko Design
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February 24, 2008
Human Zoo
This should totally be my Halloween costume this year. Hit the jump to see more.
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February 20, 2008
Relief In A Barrel
The Bedu concept is a remarkable solve for quick basic relief in disaster stricken areas. Designed by Toby Mcinnes, everything for basic medical care, food, water, and shelter comes in a barrel that can be air dropped.
via Yanko Design
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February 18, 2008
Bambi Borg
It's a little steampunk, a little borg, and a little disturbing. Still I somehow can't refrain from staring at these pictures. Check out artist Lisa Black for more of her assimilated creations. More after the jump.
via Notcot
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February 15, 2008
Mersey Observatory Liverpool England
Phos Architects have recently been shortlisted in an international competition to design an iconic structure in Liverpool.
The Mersey Observatory will offer unrivalled panoramic views of Liverpool Bay, the city’s famous skyline, the busy working docks and international shipping traffic on the River Mersey. The form of our design, in combination with the setting, is intended evoke thoughts of industry, and ship building. We have designed the Mersey Observatory to be tapered and extend upwards to create a coastal beacon, similar to a lighthouse.
Way more exciting than anything being built so far for the London Olympics. More after the jump.
via Deezen
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February 14, 2008
Aura Healing Concept
Frog Design Studio just introduced their latest concept called Aura, a futuristic health oriented device that combines both traditional and ethereal healing methods. By monitoring a patient's vital signs, customized regimens of light, sound, and aroma can be combined with medicine for an all encompassing treatment, revitalizing both the body and mind.
Posted by tranism at 11:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
February 11, 2008
Air Drying The Dyson Way
Dyson, the company behind those super vacuums and hand dryers are at it again, this time with drying clothes. We all know electric/gas dryers use up boatloads of energy, which is bad for the wallet, bad for the environment. Hang drying is the only green alternative until now. The Dyson Air-line uses wind and solar energy to air dry your clothes.
I believe it's just a concept for now but the Dyson vacs were once also too and you know how successful that became. The Air-line promises to dry your clothes in the same amount of time using no electricity whatsoever.
Another pic after the jump. Thanks Gearfuse.
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Stockholm Furniture Fair 2008
So this year's furniture fair wasn't too exciting. Some of the lamps were cool but nothing we haven't seen before. True to form the furniture was very Scandinavian. However, if that's your steelo then you'll love what was shown, many of which you'll find in stores this year. Hit the jump to see all the photos.
Thanks Richie!
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Write And Send
This pen has a secret. It can transmit what you write as text messages. Wirelessly connected to your phone, just write down the name of your recipient and draw a circle around it. Man if I had one of these in school, tests would have been so much easier.
via Yanko Design
Posted by tranism at 8:22 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Glove Tracking
As a kid I was totally envious. . . okay jealous of Penny and her book computer. You know, Inspector Gadget's niece, or was it his daughter? Whateves. Point being I wanted some sort of mini computing device. Tho we live in a society of notebooks and smartphones, I really like the Vie - a GPS enabled pair of gloves. They help you keep track of your route, jog, and progress. They'll also send out an SOS should you get lost or come across a mountain lion while jogging on those trails that say, "beware of mountain lions".
via Gearfuse
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Dream Little PSP
This fan made PSP is a whole lot better than the real thing. Amazingly it looks more Sony than the real PSP too.
Posted by tranism at 2:21 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
February 8, 2008
Soap Bits
Bar soap lovers, let me ask you this. Don't you get tired of that last bit, too small to hold, too mushy to get a good lather? It's one of the reasons why I switched to liquid body wash. Fret not because some designers came up with this ingenious contraption called the Soap Bank.
It suction cups to tile, holds bar soap and when that dissipates into small bits, slip it into the mesh net. Makes for an easy lather and makes use of the entire bar.
Posted by tranism at 2:51 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Computer Mug To Go
I posted this