Flatulence Underware

This is a dual product in itself. Not only is it under ware, but it prevents innocent bystanders from the methane emission from another person. It is very stylish as well for being a fart shield. The company called Shreddies claims that there is an activated carbon back panel that absorbs the odor and the fabric neutralizes the smell. The product design is simple under ware, but its function out weighs the need for aesthetics since not many people are going to see your under ware. This a great product for everyone! Throw away your Gas X and purchase your flatulent under ware today!

Asmo Smart Charger

The Asmo Smart Charger is the first smart charger to be created in the world. It will stop charging once your electronic device has reached 100 percent battery life. This is a great device, since we have a tendency to charge our cell phones and other devices overnight and are unable to unplug it once it is full. The design is simple, it is just a regular plug outlet distinguished by its ASMO logo. This is a great product that raises awareness towards global warming and also enables us to be smart about using our devices. The iPhone is not going away any time soon so why not be smart about it, and find other smart and green ways to conserves energy.  Like when we forget to unplug our devices we have a dummy proof system to fall back on like the ASMO charger. 

Miito Kettle

Miito is a redesigned kettle. Designed to heat the cup containing your beverage instead of a kettle containing water and having to wait the water to boil. There are two components, the induction plate and the metal rod. Once the rod is placed inside the cup, the induction plate will heat the rod and whatever liquid you have in your cup. It is very versatile and can heat mill, soup and other liquids. Instead of having to waste water, time, and energy to heat up a large kettle to make one cup of coffee, all you need to do is fill your cup and place the rod inside. This design is wonderful it breaks the traditional use of a tea kettle, which is a high heat resistant container that is wasteful. Miito has reversed and inverted the electric kettle. It has a futuristic, space age quality to  it. By itself it looks mysterious but when it is in use it makes you evaluate   how wasteful humans can be, and how to be more conscious of that. Taking something as simple as the everyday tea kettle and redesigning it to be more efficient and environmentally friendly. 

For more information check out their website: 

http://miito.de

Refold's Portable Cardboard Desk

Refold's Cardboard Desk is a lightweight, adjustable, and portable desk made from 100% durable and recyclable cardboard. Unlike many other cardboard designed furniture, this desk can be assembled and disassembled into six pieces and into it's own portable carrying case. This product raises awareness to both the environment and health issues of prolonged sitting. This desk enables you to work from anywhere. Breaking the traditional 9 to 5 job of sitting a windowless cubicle and trading it for sunlight and the outdoors. Refold's desk removes the restrictions of being immobile and stationary. Allowing people to get out more, and just move. The human body itself was not designed to sit for long periods of time. The overall design is phenomenal. It is ergonomical,  recyclable, durable, portable and a blank canvas that can be painted on, or not. I wish there were more product designs that incorporated this philosophy of both the wellbeing of the earth and mankind. 

If you are interested in purchasing a desk check out their website: http://www.refold.co

Osmo iPad game for kids

Osmo is a children's interactive game for the iPad that uses real pieces. Osmo uses a base and a red piece that attaches above the iPad and in front of the camera in order to redirect the camera to the game pieces. Three games are included. Tangram uses puzzles pieces that must be arranged to match the image displayed. Words, which is hangman, uses red and blue letter tiles that are arranged to spell out the word. Finally, Newton where children need to draw something in order to direct falling balls to their specific target. Each game requires an app to be downloaded, but it is very easy to use and setup. It can be played individually, or in teams. 

Osmo's product design is simple and uses a similar design as apple products. It is packeged in a white box, uses a black or faded gray colored typeface as well as combining multicolored letters. The box is not cluttered with images about the games. It is clean and simple.  Like the packaging it comes in, the interface uses a white background and colored images. With the exception of Words, which uses pictures to help guess the word. Both the program interface and package design are simple to use. But it was the success of Osmo's visual communication that makes the overall design successful. There are so many educational games for children, but this is the first that I have encountered that utilizes simple game concepts where a child does not get bored easily. With so many games out there that require intense visual images, Osmo combines the visual and touch senses of the iPad and the physical puzzle pieces. This type of game design is effective and successful. 

If your interested in purchasing an Osmo click on the link below:

https://www.playosmo.com/order/us/

Hello Barbie!

Hello Barbie is the new wifi capable, interactive doll that every little girl has been dreaming of. Mattel partnered with ToyTalk in order to produce this two way conversation barbie. The days of little girls voicing their pretend conversations with barbie is over. Hello Barbie is equipped with a microphone, video and audio recorder, speaker, rechargeable battery, and led necklace. All the child needs to do is press and hold down her belt buckle, ask a question, and the recorder is activated. Once the belt buckle is released she replies with the appropriate phrases and questions. The more your child plays with Hello Barbie, she will learn more and become accustomed to your child's personality. They have the option of playing with the internet connected Hello Barbie where she will converse with your child or the traditional way where children can use their imagination and she does not say anything. 

In regards to the privacy agreement between the parents and ToyTalk, the company will use whatever data is recorded onto their server to improve Hello Barbie's software. Parents will have access to transcripts of their child's recordings and authority over releasing any material to any third party via their parent account. However the privacy agreement can be altered. 

Barbie has been around for the last fifty-nine years. Finally, there is a voice active prototype for children. Mattel has not changed any of Barbie's physical traits, but merely updated her wardrobe. The product design in general has stayed the same for the last ten years. With her new voice command capabilities Mattel has not added any robotics to Hello Barbie that would accompany her new features. But that might take a few more prototypes. It seems to be a blessing and a curse. Here is a product that will enhance a child's sense of play, but will it affect their social skills towards other children. Having a product that is simulated to be a better friend may isolate them and feed their technological dependence. Hello Barbie's design is one that is more functional than aesthetics. There are not many modifications to her design, but like the scarecrow she has a new brain.  

Back to the Future Nike Air Mags

2015 is the year that Nike releases the Back To The Future II, Nike Air Mag with power laces. Although it is an iconic piece from the movie, the design of the Nike Air Mag is true to the time period of the eighties. Yet, people have paid top dollar to get their hands on the few non powered laced replicas that were released back in 2011 for Micheal J Fox's foundation. The color scheme of white and grey embedded with LED lights, and the traditional high top combination is outdated. If it were not for the movie's strong fan base and popularity the design of these shoes would have stayed in the eighties. Now with the integration of the powered laces, there is an even stronger hype for these shoes. The design still remains the same and will not be changed to accommodate it's new powered laced technology. Overall, with the new technological components and eighties heritage, the Nike Air Mags is a fun design that will make any Back To The Future fan overjoyed. 

Pepper the Robot

This is Pepper. Created for Softbank Mobile, a cell phone company in Japan by Aldebaran, he is the first robot created specifically to be a human companion. Pepper is programmed to understand human emotion and facial expression. The more time you spend with him, he will evolve and adapt to your personality. For instance, he will be able to play your favorite song when he senses that you are upset about something. He is able to connect on the internet, either to help you look up something, or to reference something himself. He has a built in 3D camera, and ultrasound system. Also, he is self-sufficient and capable of charging his internal battery and monitoring his body temperature. But do not expect Pepper to be like Rosie from the Jetsons. He does not cook, clean, and cannot climb stairs. 

Pepper's overall design is interesting. Pepper was meant to be a human companion, however, he does not resemble a person at all. His faculties and movements are close to resembling human gesture   except for his legs, which they decided to keep as a single unit. They did not include any hair, or possible clothing. The face is similar to a power ranger's mask. The facial features are to simple. Selecting to have an almost all white exterior makes Pepper appear to be another appliance, instead of a companion. With the advanced technology, why not give pepper two legs instead of one, and a mouth that will actually move. For such a fascinating piece of technology, the design needs to be updated.  

For more information click on the link below:       https://www.aldebaran.com/en/a-robots/who-is-pepper

Mini Battery

The paper battery is a concept in development by Tsung Chih-Hsien. Basically, using a biodegradable paper casing and a small battery that can be recycled after purchasing a new one. In general a person would be able to purchase different increments of battery time. Ranging from 2 hours to 6 hours. What makes this product stand out is it's small carbon footprint. Everyday, disposable batteries in general contain many harmful chemicals and find their way into landfills. But the mini battery, everything can be reused, if not recycled. The design is simple and self explanatory. The time is listed on the battery and plug it in. Even though it is not as efficient as a regular rechargeable battery, the concept inspires other designers to be more earth friendly and resourceful. 

To learn more click on the link below:

http://www.fastcodesign.com/3038609/wanted/this-tiny-cardboard-battery-is-like-a-vitamin-for-your-smartphone

Mod Laptop Case

The Mod Laptop case is a great gift for that friend obsessed with  organization. Made from premium leather, this case contains several pockets and holders for a laptop, iPhone, credit card, pens, charger, head phones, etc...  This must be a dream come true for Martha Stewart, if she has not made one herself. Finally, a case that can keep up with the technological needs for all our electronic devices.   A place where everything can easily be found, and a time saver when trying to locate a pair of headphones lost in a deep abyss of books and pens. The design is simple and elegant. The brown leather enhances the look and feel of the case. Making it more than a simple organizer for your things but gives the impression that you have your shit together. However, the premium price of $575.00 or more, depending on the size of your macbook, excludes a lot of consumers. Second, this case is customized for apple products only. Aside from that it revamps your typical computer case into an everyday home for the rest of your stuff.  

If you can afford the premium price click on the link below:

http://thisisground.com/collections/mod/products/mod-laptop?variant=981820616

Forever Pininfarina Cambiano Pen

Out of the many ink less pens, the Pininfarina Cambiano pen encompasses sophistication and luxury. Using a metal alloy instead of graphite or lead, it is permanent and smudge proof. Does not need to be sharpened nor, require any refills. Combining the permanence of the pen and the markings of a pencil users are guaranteed quality. The body of the pen was inspired by the Cambiano concept car using an aluminum frame and wood body. The design is sleek, utilizes elegant lines, and a walnut wood case. The product itself is a work of art that can be admired when it is not being in use. Anyone who uses this pen will not be disappointed in this craftsmanship and design. Made in italy, this pen can be purchased for about $137 US dollars.

If you are interested click on the link below to purchase this item:

http://store.pininfarina.com/en/forever-pininfarina-cambiano-21041.html

Smart Earplugs by Hush

Having a hectic schedule, I try to catch up on sleep whenever I can.     Whether it be in the car, library, or an abandoned classroom there is always some sort of sound that keeps me from achieving REM sleep. Also there is the worry of sleeping through my phone alarm and missing class. When Hush introduced the smart earplugs I thought it was something that was intended for the fatigued student. Turns out it was made by students who understood the importance of a goodnights sleep. The material selected was made to wear for long periods of time, especially when your trying to sleep next to your snoring boyfriend, or girlfriend. Also, it is sweat resistant, so you do not have to worry about it getting wet during the summer. These ear plugs are also technologically savvy. It comes with a small charging unit and a battery life that can last up to seven days.  With the downloaded app on your phone, you can customize it to block certain phone calls, text messages, play your favorite tunes and set your alarm so that you are the only who hears it. Making it easier for you to get up and go. If you lose it, you can easily locate it on the app. Overall, the design is simple. The product uses blue and white and a logo of a person shushing. It is a piece of technology that is simple and clever and an awesome design. I want one.    

For more information click on the link below:

https://hush.technology

Somabar

Technology is evolving to accommodate the smartphone revolution using applications and wifi connection. Somabar is literally a mini bar that can make 300 different types of mixed drinks both alcoholic or nonalcoholic with a touch of a button through the downloaded app on your smartphone. It uses precise calculations and measurement to make your drink of choice. Say goodbye to your martini shaker! The unit comes with 6 drink containers that you can fill with your necessary ingredients and are dishwasher safe. The design is aesthetically pleasing with the incorporation of the transparent drink containers that allows the colors of the various ingredients to be seen. The only drawback is that it's design is similar to the Keurig, and other drink dispensers. But it makes up for it through its large selection of drinks.

For more information about Somabar click on the link below:

http://www.somabarkickstarter.com 

Prynt Case Poloroid Camera

With everything becoming digital, there are still people, like me, who enjoy holding a picture in their hand. Since the majority of the population has a smartphone one company decided to bring back the concept of the polaroid camera. Prynt is a phone case with a built in printer that allows you to print directly from your phone.  It is compatible with both the apple and android platform and require the user to download the the Prynt app. Via bluetooth the printer and phone are connected and capable of printing a picture within 30 to 50 seconds. The second Prynt version includes more features. It will allow customers to print up to 10 photos at a time and introducing a unique feature  that will bring life to your photos. An augmented reality, where the camera will record a video before and after the picture was taken. When the photo is printed out, you can hold the image in front of your camera, as long as the Prynt app is open, the video will play. 

The overall design gives the impression of a camera body. However, it is not like your traditional case that covers the entire phone and cannot be relied on to protect your device. In order to use the Prynt case, you have to carry it separately and remove any protective phone cases. Also the design has not accommodated the phone/tablets like the iPhone 6 plus. Aside from that, the Prynt case idea is great idea, since it incorporates both something traditional and new. 

If your interested in the Prynt click on the link below. http://www.pryntcases.com    

  

Tile Bluetooth Tag

Tile is a bluetooth activated tracking device, meant to keep track of anything. For instance, your car keys, purse, pets, and even child can easily be located through the downloaded app. It can be attached via key chain, or with the adhesive sticker that can be applied to a flat surface. The battery power is said to last up to one year, however, the company is in the process of finding a solution to replace it. Whether to reissue a replacement tile or battery. When your item is lost, it does not have speed capability as a regular GPS, so there will be a delay. Similar to a metal detecter, the bluetooth signal gets stronger as you get closer and a specific melody plays. Once it is in your hands the tune will stop. But if your unable to find the device, there is a Tile lost feature in the app that allows other Tile users to be on the lookout and notify the owner. It is a compact design and fits the title it was given. The only downside to this device is the color. It only comes in white, making it standout in certain settings, and blend in with others. There should be additional colors and personal designs to select from for better visibility and distinction. All Tiles look the same and it would benefit the owner if they could easily recognize their own personal Tile.  

If your interested you can purchase your Tile here: 

https://www.thetileapp.com/how-it-works

TextBlade Multitouch Keyboard

TextBlade Keyboard is a pocket sized keyboard that will increase note taking and texting capacity on your mobile device. Divided into three individual pieces it resembles the layout of your standard keyboard and stays intact with built in magnets. Weighing at 1.5 ounces TextBlade is half as thick as the iPhone 6.  With a built in lithium battery that can be charged via USB. The design is sleek and simple and meant to replace the bulkiness of a laptop and increase the tablet usage. No more need to bring that bulky keyboard attachment, when you have a keyboard in your pocket. The product design is practical, however the grey and white keys resemble that of an old 90's laptop. With such an innovating and promising product, the design is plain. They should have used black and white keys in order to give it modern look. 

 TextBlade has not been released but is available for pre-order.

https://waytools.com/products/textblade/1/trailer

Senz Storm Proof Umbrella

On more than one occasion, I have bought a cheap umbrella from the dollar tree and ended up throwing it away because the wind turned it inside out. Under ideal circumstances, a regular umbrella would shelter you from the rain. Unfortunately there is no such thing as april showers all year round. Strong winds, heavy rain, or a combination of the two have resulted in many runny noses, and drenched backpacks. Unlike the traditional umbrella, the Senz Storm Proof Umbrella was built to stand against any type of weather. The design mimics the aerodynamics of an airplane wing. Having a short front and elongated back it becomes wind resistant and also protects you and your belongings.  It has been tested to withstand winds up to 70 mile per hour, depending on the style. A lot of research was put into redesigning a simple umbrella. The grip area is made of an air infused rubber. The pole and frame is made from ABS material, which is a strong, durable thermoplastic. Also the frame is slanted to protect your eyes from any possible injury in the instance the umbrella broke apart. These designers thought about everything when it came to this umbrella. As a child, I must have poked, or scratched something at least once a week, due to being very clumsy, and a cheaply made umbrella with rounded tips at the end of the frame. I am all for this umbrella. I like the sleekness and durability of this design an it actually works. As I am pursuing my graphics design career, I am reminded that design itself is not only creativity, but also scientific.  

   For more information click on the link below:

https://www.senz.com/en/explore/explore-our-umbrellas/

Ostrich Pillow

The Ostrich Pillow allows you to nap comfortable wherever you go. A perfect companion for students who need to power nap between classes, or for anyone who needs to catch up on their sleep after a late night. Incorporating the ostrich's defense mechanism of placing it's head flat on the ground these designers have translated it into pillow form. Made from a type of polyester and rayon fabric it was selected to have the touch and feel of your bed, pillow, and blanket. Also it is filled with micro beads to decrease external noises and add extra cushion. The pillow has a large hole for your head, a hole in the center for your face to breath, and two separate holes to put your arms inside. The Ostrich pillow creates a private space in a public area. The overall design and function is quite clever. Essentially a versatile travel pillow, but nowhere near your traditional square pillow. It looks a bit ridiculous when you put it on, as if someone is wearing a chicken pillow. So it will bring a lot of unnecessary attention from bystanders. 

Warning: Do not leave out any valuable items.  

If you want to purchase your own Ostrich Pillow Click the link below:

http://outgrow.me/collections/soo/products/ostrich-pillow

Mighty Mug Go

Staying awake longer and sleeping less is the life for most college students, while ingesting large amounts of caffeine in the process. When I first learned about the Mighty Mug, I was immediately attracted to it because I am prone to spilling drinks wherever I go. Whether it be in the car because I forgot to tightened the lid, or my arm knocked it over. It is intended for anyone on the go transporting a hot, or cold beverage. The whole purpose for the Mighty Mug Go, which is the one shown above, is to not fall over. It uses a smart grip technology where there is a foam style seal on the bottom of the mug that creates an airlock once you place it down onto a non-pourous surface. When you pick it up the pressure releases the airlock allowing you to lift it naturally. The Mighty Mug is made from plastic that is BPA free, consists of a leak proof lid, and is dishwasher safe. The materials selected guarantees the longevity of the product and is non-toxic to the consumer. Product design is simple and ergonomically designed for your hand to grip it easily. Focusing more on function and practicality than aesthetics. They keep the form of a typical thermos instead of trying to make it appear like some space age technology you would see from Star Trek. The only fault in this product is it needs to be on a flat non-porous surface. For instance, if your sitting on the new concrete benches in front of the student union the Mighty Mug's smart grip will not work and can fall. This is a good idea, because it is a one time investment if your willing to pay the premium price of $19.99. It pays for itself in the long run by saving you money and protecting your expensive electronic devices from your beverage. 

For more information go to their website: 

http://www.themightymug.com

3Doodler 2.0

The 3Doodler 2.0 is a pen that brings the capabilities of a 3D printer to your fingertips. As you draw, heated plastic exits the nozzle of the pen allowing you to create a two dimensional image, or three dimensional structure. It has an aluminum metal casing and uses a biodegradable colored plastic filaments. This product can be used immediately and does not require any software or computers. All you need is a place to plug it in and time to read the instructions. Essentially, it works like a hot glue gun. First, plug it in, wait for it to heat up, insert the plastic filament, push the button, and then wait for your piece to cool down. The 3Doodler 2.0 design evolved from the first 3Doodler pen and was intended to be a cost effective replacement to the 3D printer. It is much smaller, quieter, lighter and designed to look and feel like an actual pen. This pen is not for artists only, but for anyone with an imagination. It frees us from the limitations of an ordinary pen and pencil, and allows us to see our ideas literally pop up from the page. However, there are some drawbacks. First, in order to use this pen it needs to be connected to a power source. There is a battery pack included to make it portable, but without any electricity it is just a really expensive paperweight. Second, your limited to the amount of plastic filaments that you can afford. A pack of 25 colored refills cost $9.99. So if you like to work on a large scale it can get expensive. Finally, the plastic filaments have a tendency to jam inside and you might need to unclog it yourself. Aside from those three factors, the 3Doodler 2.0 pen is a great design and product because it is more affordable than a 3D printer. It takes a little practice, but once you get the hang of it you can draw on paper or in the air, but within the limitations of the power chord.   

Caution, this product is not recommended for small children without adult supervision. 

Place your order for the 3Doodler 2.0 

:https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1351910088/3doodler-20-the-worlds-first-3d-printing-pen-reinv

For more information check out their website

http://the3doodler.com