Gizmodo: Design Concept

I Don't Think The World is Ready For Aromatherapy Earphones

Sean Fallon — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 16:40:00 EDT

Hey, I love pleasing scents as much the next person, but I don't think people are quite ready for an MP3 player that pumps odors through your earbuds. Nonetheless, a group of designers has come up with that very idea and dubbed it "Sweet Honey." I highly doubt that you will see something like this on store shelves anytime soon, but there are plenty of crazy stupid aromatherapy gadgets out there already—so you never know. [Yanko]

V-Line Toaster and Induction Cooker Makes a High-Tech Breakfast

Sean Fallon — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 17:50:00 EDT

It kind of looks like a laptop if you ask me, but the V-Line toaster concept from designer Thibault Masclet is actually a toaster and an induction cooker all-in-one. It incorporates glass like other toaster concepts, but the induction cooker on the flipside is a new one on me. To be honest, I would prefer a griddle, but if you have something in a pot that needs heating or you simply want to keep your toast warm—it could come in quite handy. Whether it will ever become a real world product remains to be seen. [TrendsNow via The Design Blog]

Cutting Edge Algorithmic Architecture

Sean Fallon — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 15:50:00 EDT

Architecture has always been a mixture of art and engineering, but as we press on through the 21st century, the role of computers in the design process is becoming more and more integral. Algorithmic architecture is on the cutting edge of this movement, and the complex, rhythmic designs can be truly breathtaking. With that in mind, OObject has collected a list of 15 schemes that portray this emerging field at its best. [OObject]

Mouse Uses "Alien Technology" to Relieve Stress and RSI

Sean Fallon — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 17:20:00 EDT

Whenever a gadget is focused on ergonomics, buckle up for some seriously weird looking design. A prime example of this phenomenon can be seen in this "Alien Mouse" concept from designer Mizanur Rehman. The idea was to create a mouse that would strictly adhere to the principles of ergonomics and provide maximum comfort by molding itself to the user's hand with a body constructed of soft gel and cellulose. It even features a pulsating central core that reverberates throughout the frame to help relieve stress.

As for the controls—all functionality is handled by the sphere-shaped section at the top. A central joystick is flanked by fairly standard right and left click buttons, but the layout of the controls means that the mouse never needs to be physically moved. As mentioned, the Alien Mouse is only in the concept stage at this point, so I doubt that we will be seeing it on store shelves anytime soon. Hell, we may not even be using a computer mouse in 5 years time (if "experts" are to be believed). [Project Page via The Design Blog]

Rind Disposable Earplugs Are the Perfect Wallet-Sized Ear Protection

Jack Loftus — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 14:00:00 EDT

Next time you're headed to a rave and want some additional protection when things start to heat up, consider throwing a pair of these Rind disposable earplugs alongside that other well-known wallet-based protection. And because these plugs lie flat like a credit card when not in use, there will be no embarrassing ring-shaped mark pushing its way through the leather when it comes time to pay for drinks at the bar. When you're done, the plugs collapse and store back in the card, and remain effective for "several months" (instructions below). Try doing that with used latex!

[Yanko Design via TechEBlog]

The Backpack Bicycle For Ultra-Portable, Potentially Dangerous Transportation

Sean Fallon — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 14:40:00 EDT

The idea of a compact, folding bicycle is nothing new, but designer Chang Ting Jen is hoping to take the concept even further with his Backpack bike. According to the specs, a production version would weigh around 12 pounds and fold into a backpack that measured just under 2 feet in length. Naturally, that means that you could pick up and carry your bike around just about anywhere.

A bicycle as compact as this version promises to be would definitely be appealing—especially when gas prices are as high as they are right now. However, the plans call for plastics to be used in the frame instead of metal to keep the weight down. With all of the technology going into bike frames these days, you would think that a more advanced material could be used in the frame to add strength and drop weight. By the looks of things, this bike could be deadly to someone weighing over 150 pounds. [The Design Blog via Tech Digest]

The Nahamer T450 Toaster Eliminates Toast Popping For Toast Dropping

Sean Fallon — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 18:00:00 EDT

The Nahamer T450 toaster concept from Rob Penny gets a big thumbs-up in the design department with its good looks and viewing window. Plus, instead of popping up, the toast slides gracefully onto your plate—simplifying the mechanics in standard toasters.

[Yanko Design]

LG Projector Phone Is Like a Media-Throwing Web Shooter

Sean Fallon — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 14:40:00 EDT

The winner of LG's next phone design challenge has been announced—and by the looks of things, it appears that Spider-Man's web shooter was a major source of inspiration. The device is actually a pen-shaped cellphone/mobile projector that can throw images, video and other information on the back of the user's hand when mounted on a wrist strap. I'm not sure if LG still plans on manufacturing the winning concept phone, but slinging a mini or pico projector image around like a web shooter has definite geek appeal. UPDATE: This phone concept is actually a runner up. Hopefully we will know more about the winning entry from designer Dave Schultze soon.

[TelecomsKorea via Unwired View via AboutProjectors]

Concept Jewelry Celebrates Birth With Plasticized Human Milk

Kit Eaton — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 07:54:00 EDT

Did you know that science has made it possible to turn milk into a plastic by solidifying the casein it contains? Well, you do now. But I bet you'd never think of using the technique to turn human breast milk into a "jewel" of sorts, and then use that to make a necklace. But that's exactly what French design team Duende are suggesting. Titled "Perle de Lait" their jewelry range is part of a bigger upcoming art exhibit that celebrates birth and explores "sharing of food between mother and child." It's a pretty amazing idea, though I'm not sure I know many people who'd wear it. Also to be exhibited is a set of "placenta coffins." Weird. There's a detailed preview over at Dezeen if you've got the nerve. [Dezeen]

Alice Chess Set Features Pieces That Are Magically Transparent

Sean Fallon — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 16:20:00 EDT

Inspired by the Lewis Carroll's novel ‘Alice through the Looking Glass,' designer Yasmin Sethi developed a chess set that features pieces that "magically turn transparent" when they touch the board. In other words, when removed from the playing surface, a pawn would be opaque—nearly indistinguishable from any other piece on the board. However, when in contact with the board, the piece reveals its true identity. This effect serves to remind the player that the pieces have no value unless they are in play.

The effect works thanks to a board made out of a glass material with embedded LEDs (LightPoints) and chess pieces made from clear glass with the negative shape of a traditional, delicate Staunton chess piece enclosed within it. Placing the chess piece on the board completes a circuit that illuminates the negative shapes, making them visible. There is even a clever nod to a passage in the book where the White Knight talks about being able to think better when he is upside down. In the Alice chess set, all of the white knights on the board will not illuminate unless placed in the upside down position. All-in-all, the 'Alice' concept is interesting new twist on the traditional game. With any luck, a real world product will come down the line sometime in the future. [Project Page via Pan-Dan via DVICE]

Modular Ping Pong Table Allows For Crazy 12 Player Games

Sean Fallon — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 15:00:00 EDT

If you have ever watched a professional table tennis tournament (or Forrest Gump at least) you know that a two-person game can get completely insane. Now, imagine the mayhem that would ensue with up to 12 people battling it out at once. Thanks to designer Guenter Arndt and his modular table tennis system, this ridiculousness is a reality.

Simply put, users can arrange the tables in any configuration that they desire. You can even retro fit a traditional table to add wild new elements to your game. Currently, Arndt's table is up for a Next Big Thing Award for 2008, and a book is in the works that outlines configurations and rules for serious multi-player games. If it ever does go up for sale, all you would need is a really long Foosball table and some 3-player chess to complete the ultimate game room. [Project Page and Next Big Thing via Crunchgear]

Badkamer: Save Bathroom Space With Fixtures That Slide on Rails

Sean Fallon — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 17:50:00 EDT

In a dwelling where space saving is of the utmost importance, the Badkamer concept could make a tremendous difference in a small bathroom. Essentially, the design would allow users to slide their fixtures out of the way on an abacus-like rail system that doubles as plumbing. Only the toilet would have to remain stationary because of its need for larger pipes—the shower, sink, mirror and cabinets could all be re-configured on a whim. Apparently, the design is so efficent that it can turn a 6 1/2 sq ft space into a fully functioning bathroom. A truly ingenious design that will undoubtedly find its way into some cramped urban homes in the near future.

[Bart Nijssen via The Design Blog]

Doha, Qatar: A Future City as Envisioned by Syd Mead

Sean Fallon — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 16:30:00 EDT

You may know "futurist" Syd Mead from his design work on geek friendly movies like Blade Runner, Tron and Aliens—but in his most recent work he envisions a future city by the name of Doha, Qatar. Naturally, his work speaks for itself, but I must admit that it stands in stark contrast to the bleak world of Blade Runner. Maybe he has become more optimistic as the years have passed. Oh, also, Joel's interviewing Syd soon and I'm sure if you have questions, he'll ask them for you. [Syd Mead via PSFK via Treehugger via Boing Boing Gadgets]

Microsoft's Next-Gen PC Design Competition Winners Announced

Sean Fallon — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 20:00:00 EDT

Over the last six months or so, we have been keeping up with the entries in this year's Next-Gen PC Design competition, posting here and there on some of the unique ideas that came down the pipeline. Finally, Microsoft has announced the winners and, not surprisingly, there are a few familiar designs on the list. First place went to the Napkin PC, a concept that I mocked for being way too far out there. Nonetheless, Bill Gates must have like it, because he handpicked it as the winner of the $20,000 prize.

Second place went to a concept called WITHUS. The device is intended to "help preschool children shape the right values and human relationships by driving them into playing and learning with multi-human interactions." Children are encouraged to break away from traditional computing and make genuine connections with other human beings using an interactive, collaborative display.

Third place went to The Backpacker's Diary—a PC that focuses on travelers using a "book" with "pages" that offer different functions like GPS, media recording and solar charging.

Rounding out the list in the finalist category we find a number of familiar gadgets like the Alphagrip HC (which I thought was too ergonomic for its own good), Siafu (a computer for the blind that is made from a material that does not exist) and the Illusion PC (cool but not really next-gen). Hit the following link for the complete list. [Next-Gen PC via CNET]

Unicycle Transport Vehicle: Like a Segway, Only Lamer and Sweatier

Sean Fallon — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 18:30:00 EDT

This unicycle transport vehicle by designer Regimantas Vegele is tailor made for an unique breed of individual—the kind of person that cares about looking good, but does not care about looking foolish. Essentially, the device would take the concept of an elliptical trainer and turn it into an actual moving vehicle. So traveling would involve pedaling and moving your arms—sort of a hybrid between cycling and cross country skiing. It's not a bad concept from an exercise standpoint, but I have a hard time believing that there would be any sort of market for something like this.

[Yanko]

Speed Racing Motorcycle Inspired By Aliens

Sean Fallon — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 20:00:00 EDT

After one look at the Indian-branded "Speed Racer" motorcycle concept bike by Dan Bailey, it is easy to see how he incorporated the main characters in the Aliens movie franchise into the aesthetics. Using the specs on the Kawasaki Ninja as his framework, Bailey sought to design a bike that was rugged but maintained a sleek look—a mission he has certainly accomplished. I don't know if the Speed Racer will ever go into production, but for a design with the balls to take elements from three iconic franchises (maybe four if you count TRON), the bike holds up well. But how do you sit on it? [Daniel Bailey via Tuvie]

The Ottoman Bench Seamlessly Blends Exercise Equipment Into Your Decor

Sean Fallon — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 15:30:00 EDT

One of the major problems with home gym equipment is that it is bulky and often requires a dedicated room of the house to use. That is why, in my opinion, the future of home gyms will be equipment that is designed to blend in with the decor. A few weeks ago I came across a concept that attempts to tackle that design challenge, but the final product leaves much to be desired. I'm a certified personal trainer—and if I were to design a piece of functional exercise furniture, I would like to think that it would be something similar to Gabriel Prero's Otto-Bench.

The Otto-Bench conceals an adjustable bench with an Olympic press and free weights inside a stylish ottoman—it even looks as though a leg press could be incorporated into the design. Obviously, it does not give you all of the variety that a commercial gym can offer, but it does offer a good set of basics—which is a good thing because there are plenty of manufacturers out there that try and cram too much into a design making it confusing and impractical to use. To be honest, you would be surprised at the amount of things you can do with a simple bench and some weights. It even won a design competition put on by Life Fitness, so don't be surprised if you see an actual product based on the Otto-Bench design sometime in the future. [Otto-Bench via Born Rich]

Folding Bike Handlebars: So Obvious, It Took This Long to Think of It

Sean Fallon — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 16:45:00 EDT

At this very moment a bike is leaning against my living room wall taking up unnecessary space. A simple solution would be to replace the standard handlebars with collapsible versions so that the bike could be placed flush (more or less) to the wall. Thanks to designer Joe Wentworth, these retrofit folding handlebars would make a bicycle easier to store and more secure if locked into the collapsed position. Whether this concept will actually see the light of day remains to be seen—but it can't come soon enough for me. The last thing I need is to another groin-first trip into my exposed bike handlebars. [Tuvie]

Pillow Ring: Mobile Naps For People With Tiny, Tiny Heads

Sean Fallon — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 17:40:00 EDT

I am all about taking naps whenever the opportunity presents itself. The problem is that getting comfortable is often a major obstacle when there is no bed in sight. The Pilo Pilo ring from the Downstairs Studio offers a solution by attaching a tiny cushion to the end of a ring so that you can prop your head up on a soft surface. Unfortunately, those of us with freakish cartoon heads would probably find this method to be ineffective. What we need is something with more surface area—like a pillow book or pillow glove. [Downstairs Studio via Design Sponge via Neatorama]

Filterbrella: A Water-Filtering Umbrella For Freebie Drinks

Sean Fallon — Tue, 27 May 2008 19:20:00 EDT

If you have purchased a bottle of purified water recently, you know that it can be crazy expensive to get a drink that doesn't taste like it was filtered through a bucket of pennies. Still, if you live in a rainy climate and you can't bear to drink out of the tap, this Filterbrella concept could be your ticket to clean, pure, freebie water one day. Using a canopy made out of compostable polylactic acid plastic blends, Filterbrella channels rainwater through activated carbon filter in the rod, straight to a bottle that can be removed and fitted with a cap. Sounds like a great idea, but I still prefer to waste my umbrella water in a juvenile manner. [Coroflot via The Design Blog]

Lacoste Asks: How Will We Play Tennis In 2083?

Sean Fallon — Wed, 21 May 2008 21:10:00 EDT

How will we play tennis in 2083? From the looks of things, Lacoste believes we will be in a virtual room with collapsible rackets and cool looking robotic suits. Although, I have to admit that the video after the break portrays it as more like a futuristic version of racquetball to me—but either way, it is a sport I could definitely get into.

[Lacoste via Techpin via Gearfuse]

Brightdoor: Well, the Door is Securely Locked, But I Haven't Slept in Days

Sean Fallon — Mon, 05 May 2008 21:30:00 EDT

Remember those Brighthandle Alfa Door handles that would glow green or red depending on whether or not the door was locked? Yeah, that was a pretty clever idea—and clever ideas often don't need much improving. It appears that the folks at Lervik Design don't subscribe to that philosophy considering that they have "improved" upon the concept to include the entire door. My guess is that this concept won't ever see the light of day for many reasons—not the least of which being that it would waste power and make a good night's sleep damn near impossible. [Lervik Design via DVICE]

The Hi-Fi Foosball Table is Fully Loaded

Sean Fallon — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 19:20:00 EDT

This unique foosball table dubbed "Toto Treme Terra" is a project recently unearthed by designer Chelpa Ferro. Not much is known about the hardware fitted into this thing, but it certainly does look intimidating. What we do know is that it results in a game of foosball with some unique sound effects. An audio clip is available on the project page link—but it would be a pity if that was all those speakers were used for. [Project Page via VVORK via Likecool]

Jumplay: Double Dutch for the New Millennium

Sean Fallon — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 18:50:00 EDT

We have all seen those gadgets that display the time or a message using a rapidly oscillating wand fixed with tiny LEDs. However, only designer Jacky Wu was clever enough to apply this technology to a jump rope. After all, it makes perfect sense—as you jump, the device records each revolution then displays that figure (along with time and calories burned) using LEDs embedded on the rope.

The result is an illusion that makes it seem as if the counter is hovering in mid air. The only problem is that my gigantic feet would keep my jump count embarrassingly low. Not the kind of thing you want to advertise. Good thing for me that the Jumplay is only a concept at this point. [Yanko Design]

The Laptop Book Makes a Deep Statement, But No One Cares Because It's a PC in a Book!

Sean Fallon — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 14:30:00 EDT

Forget hiding your liquor or handguns, books are for computers now! With the laptop book, designer Kyle Bean attempts to make a statement about how society is becoming more virtual—something about not reading books I think. I was too busy looking at the pictures to get the whole story. At any rate, it appears that the actual device is nothing more than a simple lit screen and a CD slipped between the pages, but it certainly makes for an interesting concept. [Yanko Design]

The Unit: A Kitchen, Table, Fridge, and Bathtub All-in-One

Sean Fallon — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 21:00:00 EDT

When it comes to furniture design, finding a way to simultaneously maximize functionality and minimize size is all the rage these days. The "Unit" concept from Philippe Malouin falls neatly into that category with a design that combines a kitchen, table, refrigerator and a bathtub all-in-one. Not much information exists about the Unit, but it appears that the fridge would be located in the cabinet on the left while the bathtub doubles as a sink.

Ok, I realize that saving space is an issue for many urban dwellers, but there is something that is just not right about making dinner right next to the place where you scrub your junk. And there is definitely something wrong with making dinner while your freaky twin stares at you bare-assed in the tub. For those reasons and more, I wouldn't expect this idea to hit the market anytime soon.[Philippe Malouin via Likecool]

Brass Knuckle Umbrella is a Class 5 Weapon

Sean Fallon — Fri, 28 Mar 2008 19:00:53 EDT

According to the design page, this brass knuckle umbrella or "Umbuster" was categorized as a class 5 weapon by the Victorian Police—the primary law enforcement agency in Victoria Australia. That would make it illegal to own there without a license. I don't know about all of that considering that it appears to be a concept, but I do know you could do some serious damage with it. Then again, if you got in a scuffle in the rain, the drag from the open umbrella may render your punch harmless—resulting in a swift and brutal ass kicking. [Sruli Recht via Likecool]

The Pedal Boat Gets a Solar Powered Boost

Sean Fallon — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 20:30:00 EDT

They say that inventors should find a need and fill it. I don't know who needs a solar boosted pedal boat, but a design concept for one exists nonetheless. The boat features a center cockpit where up to four passengers can sit, alternating pedaling duties in two-person shifts. When you get tired (which should be after only a few minutes), switching to solar power can help lighten the load. I'm not sure if this concept will ever see the light of day, but in a world filled with non-solar powered pedal boats, it would be a welcome improvement. Video after the break.

[Tuvie via DVICE]

Tandem Umbrella For Clingy Couples

Sean Fallon — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 18:00:06 EDT

Much like a tandem bike, this concept tandem umbrella by designer Jasmine Rasnahan has a romantic vibe to it. However, it also has some of the same flaws. For example, I am 6'3" and my girlfriend is 5'3"—therefore it would be next to impossible for couples of vastly different heights to walk around comfortably under this thing. Second, it makes everyone around you want to puke. Personally, I say bring two umbrellas—or better yet, one gigantic umbrella. It is even more romantic that way and not nearly as lame. [Jasmine Rasnahan via Productdose]

Eco Drop Shower Gives You the Boot For Wasting Water

Sean Fallon — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 21:45:26 EDT

There has been a lot of emphasis in recent years on conserving water, but we all know that for most people self-regulation is damn near impossible. Enter designer Tommaso Colia and his Eco_Drop Shower. When the shower has decided that you have outstayed your welcome, concentric circles on the floor will rise&mdashmaking things too uncomfortable to continue. I don't know if this concept will ever see the light of day, but I vote for modifying it into a moving wall of spikes. Now that would be effective. Additional pic after the break.

[inewidea via BornRich via Trendhunter]

Washup: Toilet and Washing Machine All-in-One (Oh Yes!)

Sean Fallon — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 21:15:54 EDT

Alright, I get it. Eco-friendly types and people who have small apartments might appreciate a washing machine / toilet hybrid that recycles wasted wash water in the flush tank. It is a good idea, but there is something that is just plain wrong about having your clean clothes so close to the place where you poop—you know what I'm saying? Still, if you are a dude you could entertain yourself by watching the cycle spin while urinating.Nice. It may only be a concept, but I wouldn't be surprised to see this thing popping up in tiny apartments sometime in the near future. [Core77 via Apartment Therapy]

A Go-Kart That Makes KITT Look Like Crap

Sean Fallon — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 15:00:02 EDT

Well, it may not actually compare with KITT, but get a load of this go-kart-inspired concept from Florian Dobe. It sports tiny 10-inch rims and seats that can fold into the body to create a sculptural look when not in use. Given the fact that no performance specs exist, it appears that the main focus of the designer was aesthetics. Not that it matters though—there is little chance that this design will see the light of day as an actual product. And even if it did exist, where could you drive it? Seriously, a grocery cart rolling into the side of the vehicle in a parking lot could turn into a fatal accident. [Yanko Design]

LEDs Make Glass Bricks Cool Again

Sean Fallon — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 20:30:34 EDT

Remember those glass blocks you would see in homes way back in the day? That crap was pretty tacky, but you still see designers utilizing them from time to time even today. A new design for these bricks has emerged among the winners of the recent Red Dot Design Awards that utilizes LEDs to give the impression of changing light patterns stretching into an infinite space. Not much information exists beyond that, but I'm sure you can imagine how cool a room would look decked out in these. Then again, it could be tackier than the originals—just in a 21st century kind of way. [Red Dot Awards via DVICE]

The Natural Radio Takes UIs to Strange and Stupid New Places

Sean Fallon — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 16:30:43 EDT

Imagine, if you will, stripping a radio of all its buttons and dials and replacing them with a set of scales. Now imagine changing the station or frequency on this radio by placing rocks on specific areas of the scale. The more rocks you place, the higher the volume and so on. Yeah...its never gonna happen. The idea behind this Natural Radio concept is that you would have "organic control" over the radio, but I like my gadgets like I like my fruit—big and shiny. Organics just don't cut it. [Yanko Design]

Backpack Fridge For High-Tech Picnic Action

Sean Fallon — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 18:15:39 EDT

Coolers get the job done, but you have to deal with ice and the fact that the bulky boxes are often awkward to carry. I'm lazy, which means that I want to get my beer from point A to point B as easily as possible (and I'm not willing to ride a Cruzin Cooler to do it.) The "Boxcooler" concept from designer Sebastian Bertram offers a stylish solution with a backpack cooled by refrigeration.

Thermoelectric Peltier elements would replace traditional freezer batteries to keep food fresher, longer and the compact design makes it easy to pack and carry. However, even with a space saving design I don't see much room for all that beer I was talking about earlier—and it would probably be the most expensive picnic basket of all time. On the plus side, check out the exposed thong in the drawing. Nice. [Yanko Design]

Swan Desk: Turn Your Loose Cables Into Art

Sean Fallon — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 19:15:11 EST

Loose cables hanging around all bunched up and twisted around a workspace is absolutely infuriating. Organizing them neatly is definitely the way to go, and there are a number of products out there that can help you get the job done—but the Swan Desk can accomplish that feat with a little artistic flair. As you can see, the cable slots are organized in such a way that it becomes possible to weave your cords into a pattern.

At this point, the table is just a concept piece from designer Louis Beliveau—but it definitely has a minimalist style that many would find appealing. And any design that can help reduce all the cable clutter is worth investigating. [Les Chics Types via MoCo Loco]

Barcode Scanner Bins Make Recycling Fun For Nerds

Sean Fallon — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 18:20:55 EST

Don't get me wrong, I'm all for recycling, but it's the process I'm not so thrilled about. For bottles and newspapers things are fairly simple, but there is a whole gray area that makes knowing what is appropriate for recycling more complicated. The Barcode Trashcan offers a high-tech solution that utilizes the product barcode to help sort and separate items.

Many recyclables feature a number value that denotes whether it can or can not be recycled. When scanned, these bins read that number and the corresponding can opens for your convenience. Unfortunately, the only real benefit I see in this concept is that I would spend less time thinking about which bin to throw my beer bottles into. The real tough recycling questions generally don't have a barcode slapped on the side. So, it appears that I will have to continue utilizing the woods and trash dump runs under the cover of darkness to deal with those issues. [Yanko Design]

Racetrack Fishbowl For Goldfish Daredevils

Sean Fallon — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 18:30:13 EST

Goldfish lead boring lives. Granted, they are probably not intelligent enough to realize what they are missing, but with the threat of a porcelain grave constantly looming—these little guys need to live for the moment. This "Speedfish" bowl allows them to do just that with a design that focuses on the exciting world of head to head, edge of your seat fish racing competition. Unfortunately, the Speedfish track is only a concept piece, which is a bummer to Goldfish and racing fans everywhere. [R'pure via OutNext via Coolbuzz]

Solution w/o Problem: Water Tree Light Also Serves Water

Kit Eaton — Thu, 07 Feb 2008 11:12:31 EST

This pendant lamp concept by a group of Korean designers has an extra function as a dinner table water fountain: hot and cold water is delivered by the globe "fruits" you can see plugged into it. So yes, it's a nice idea and certainly seems convenient, but no no no! Water supplies, light bulbs and electrical wiring all hanging over your head ready to plunge down and zap your dinner party into the next life? Sounds like too much of an electrical Sword of Damocles to us. [Yanko Design]

Noro No-Drip Lip Keeps Sticky Spills Off the Table

Charlie White — Wed, 26 Dec 2007 10:55:55 EST

Gooey substances such as syrup and olive oil spill all over the place with their containers' drippy lips, but not if they're dispensed from the no-drip two-lip pouring system from a Barcelona designer who calls himself Noro. It's about time somebody designed one of these drip-free decanters for viscous and edible liquids, because we've seen a similar technique in containers of liquid laundry detergent for years. Check out the gallery for the beautiful bottle designs associated with Noro's design concept. [Behance Network]