The Design blog |
- AIR lawn mower harnesses the power of compressed air
- Energy generating furniture to perk up your lifestyle
- Automated plane delivers quick supplies to remote areas
- Glasshouse living the dream of dwellers and stealing hearts of viewers
- YBR Bus Shelter is a green bus stop for future urbanities
- Zero Gravity Roller Coaster takes your breath away at 150 mph
- iAcoustic antique gramophone inspired iPhone/iPod Touch dock
- Eco homes promising a smart, high end lifestyle
- Solar Lift paves path for wheelchair ridden people on steep slopes
- Skydiver to ride in special capsule to edge of space for 23 mile freefall
| AIR lawn mower harnesses the power of compressed air Posted: 12 Mar 2012 06:15 AM PDT Jaspreet Kaur Walia: Mowing the lawn is definitely a tedious task. But, have you ever contemplated how much petrol we waste while using the lawn mower for just an hour? You will be shocked to learn that the amount of petrol consumed can take you for a good 500 km ride when used as a fuel for your beloved coupe. A petrol powered lawn mower is another reason for adding harmful emissions to the already polluted atmosphere. So, its time you switch the conventional gardening tool with a compressed air powered one.
 Air Powered Lawn Mower Christened A.I.R, the compressed air powered lawn mower has been designed to impress. The curvy silhouette houses the air flow controller at the center of the handle at the top. The base of the eco friendly design has been fitted with the roller, which is responsible for cutting the grass evenly and giving it a smooth appearance. The rotating dial present will give a user the flexibility to tweak the cutting height of the internal spindle as per his/her requirements. The rotating spindle has been fitted inside the body of A.I.R. The rotation is air driven, which collects the grass and directs it towards the cutting edge. The grass is cut when the air driven oscillating wire meets the cutting edge, which forms a perfect combination of rotation and oscillation in turn making sure that the grass is cut without being uprooted. This compressed air powered lawn mower will give a neat appearance to your lawn by making good use of the air present around us. So, save fuel even while giving the lawns a well manicured look with A.I.R. Via: Annobooks
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| Energy generating furniture to perk up your lifestyle Posted: 12 Mar 2012 06:02 AM PDT Jayanti Anubhav: The concept: In the quest for sustainability, the new concepts are originating everyday as we are finding innovative ways to conserve and generate renewable energy. In the effort to find new and efficient ways to convert kinetic energy into electrical power, the concept of using the furniture as the source of renewable energy originated. Although, both the entities have functionality which have no links with each other, the concept combines the two without compromising on the basic utility of the furniture that is aesthetics as well as functional. The furniture that can generate the renewable energy are not only sleek and contemporary in design but are also functional. These furniture will not only enhance the visuals of the house but will also add a great value and significance to its functionality by harnessing the sustainable energy.
 Energy generating furniture
The Inspiration: While renewable energy and furniture seem to be poles apart in terms of their utility, the industrial designers have taken up the tough task of merging the two. The difference of functionality between the two is not easy to deal with as renewable energy requires specialized system to bring them close to the natural source of energy, whereas furniture is utilized for the aesthetic values. Breaking away from the conventions, the industrial designers have successfully merged the renewable energy into the furniture, creating significance to its visual appeal. Eco Credentials: The concept of furniture generating renewable energy is an efficient method that uses the rocking motion or the waiting time in the public places to generate power. You can use these innovative pieces of furniture to generate power, while on the beach in the daytime and can use the power at night as electricity. The energy generating furniture can utilize the solar power and convert it into the sustainable energy to power the laptops and other portable electronic devices . The energy generating chairs are made of recycled material and can be flattened to carry around or to be shipped easily. The energy generating furniture is sleek, modern and technological and also comes with LED lights for the cozy, warm lighting effect. The unique furniture generates sufficient power for the functioning of your gadgets along with your daily tasks. Feasibility: The new range of innovative energy generating furniture is inspirational to produce eco friendly, functional furniture with aesthetic values to serve as a great source of energy. The concept of energy generating furniture can prove to be a breakthrough in pacing up the efforts to conserve energy in our daily lives. The energy generating furniture will help us harness the sustainable energy without putting an extra effort. The concept is surely going to change our way of living in coming years. Related trends: 1. SOLo Lounge Table
 SOLo Lounge Table The sleek SOLo lounge table with great contemporary design is no ordinary table but is a solar panel with the embedded silicon cells in the glass surface that collects and coverts the solar energy into efficient and clean electricity to be used. The lounge table with minimalist yet striking design has the capacity to harness around 17 kilowatts of solar energy every year when placed outdoors. You can also charge your devices on SOLo lounge table without plugging them in. The smart system has the Bluetooth technology that collects, distributes and displays the information on the LCD display screen on the top of the table and also between the computer and the internet. The lounge table also has the connectivity options for recharging the electronic devices such as laptops and other portable media devices. The SOLo lounge table is not only a great addition to the aesthetics of your house but is a breakthrough innovation too that is going to grow leaps and bounds in years to come. 2. Multi-functional furniture 'GO'
 Multifunctional furniture GO ‘Go’ by Indonesian designer Rizki Tarisa is multifunctional furniture that combines a desktop, lounge chair and an exercise bike into one with the help of advanced technology. Sleek and modern GO helps to achieve sustainable lifestyle while performing your daily tasks. The multifunctional furniture harnesses the human energy to generate green energy, when you pedal the exercise bike to keep fit it generates energy to charge up your gadgets. You can also relax in the extreme comfort of the lounge chair while listening to music or surfing through internet. 3. Black Rocking Chair
 Black Rocking Chair Black rocking chair by the industrial designer Ryan Klinger is an innovative concept that captures the energy generated from the swing of the chair and the renewable energy can be used via USB and other outlets to the portable electronic devices. The rocking chair with sleek appearance is made of recycled material and can be flattened to pack to ship around easy. 4. Rocking Shell Chair
 Rocking Shell Chair Rocking shell chair by designer Petr Novak has creatively converted human instinct to move the body to and fro while sitting on a chair into a great and natural source of energy. The rocking chair has LED lamps to harness the energy generated by the movement of the chair. The rocking shell chair incorporates a special kinetic mechanism similar to a steam engine to generate the renewable energy. There is a lever running flywheel disk underneath the seat of the chair that powers the LED lamp while you go back and forth on the chair. Rocking shell chair is an excellent concept to harness the sustainable energy. 5. Chaise Lounge by Vlada Davydova
 Chaise Lounge This Chaise lounge by Vlada Davydova has a clean, contemporary design of a folding chair with three separate pieces and each piece of the Chaise lounge has the solar panel to convert the solar energy into the clean electricity. The Chaise lounge can be used as a garden chair to harness the sustainable energy efficiently. The renewable energy generated by the chair is then used by the chair itself to charge the laptop or for the back-lighting. With a sleek design and innovative concept of sustainable energy, Chaise lounge by Vlada Davydova will surely change the way you live.
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| Automated plane delivers quick supplies to remote areas Posted: 12 Mar 2012 05:48 AM PDT Radhicka S Saxena: Although it looks like a futuristic craft in flight, this idea is not that far flung. The jet is actually an electric medical supply vehicle piloted autonomously and this invention is definitely a tremendous advancement. Not only does it save time but it also carries out the required delivery at a low cost. Earlier people had to wait long hours for products to reach them but with this plan, the delivery can be carried out at an express speed. The breakthrough dubbed as Autonomous Aerial Vehicles (AAV) has been developed by Matternet, a newly founded company.
 Flying Robot
Operating these aircrafts will be easy and the management administered by Al will optimize all functions and expenses. The air bound plane will carry light loads weighing about 2 kgs between its ground stations, usually located at a distance of 10 kms. The solar powered stations planned will have remote connections with health care provisions and also Wi-Fi access. To achieve scalability, all you have to do is spread out the network by establishing new nodes, thus the entire arrangement is a lot like the internet. Additionally, the cost of rolling out the plan is not much and will mostly be less than the amount spent on building paved roads. Dominican Republic has opted for implementing the pilot project in this scheme. One of the biggest advantages with this system is that it can reach places that do not have a well developed infrastructure. In fact, remote areas can be reached without spending billions of dollars on building roads, bridges, and sea links. Just pilot the aircraft to the destination you want, whether it has a developed transportation network or not. In fact, this system will be useful in developed albeit crowded cities also where the cost of transporting goods is quite high.
Flying RobotFlying Robots Deliver Aid To Remote Communities Via: psfk
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| Glasshouse living the dream of dwellers and stealing hearts of viewers Posted: 12 Mar 2012 05:06 AM PDT Jaspreet Kaur Walia: The concept: Noting can beat the comfort that a home provides. From thatched huts to concrete buildings, a house has got many forms but still manages to spill the same warmth. Now is the time to greet a glasshouse as being nothing less than a heavenly abode. Nico Van Der Meulen Architects from Johannesburg, South Africa has come up with a staggering Greenhouse, which will realize people's dream of staying in a glass creation. The house is nothing less than a dream with the idea of staying surrounded by glass walls adding to the overall charm.
 Glass House
The 26,000 square foot home looks as if it has popped out of a fairytale and looks every inch a dream. It has a pattern, which is like a semi circle and nicely surrounds the garden area of the beautiful construction. Towards the north side it forms a horseshoe shape that is quite noticeable. The bewitching structure will not restrict sun rays from entering the premises, which will enliven the house and give it a mesmerizing effect. An unrestricted and aesthetically pleasing view is what you will get to savor from all the rooms of the house. The house gives a very open feel and is very glamorous, complete with pools, fountains, decks and patios. Interiors: The inside is as magical as the outside and manages to draw plenty of attention. From the living area to bedrooms and kitchen to bathrooms, everything is just so perfect. The dining room has been placed a feet above the family room and its 6mm high glass window, in the form of a curved enclosure, comprises of sheets of glass that further lean over the previous sheet which are held in place with the help of glass fins. The most striking part is the frameless glass folding door, which will wow just anyone and make jaws drop. The door runs all along the family room, dining room, gym, indoor pool and lanai, as it stretches for a good 70m. The family room awesomely gushes into the heated pool and lanai. If food is your weakness, then the kitchen will be a place to fall in love with a bar and BBQ all ready to greet your guests in style. When everything has been taken care of, how can your beloved rides get neglected? The basement has enough space to park 12 cars, while unfurling views of the pool and an art gallery.
The luxury: Not every day do we come across home designs that give its owners the luxury to swim to the gym from the pool? Simply, plunge into the pool of water right from the main bedroom and go for your workout session. The outer pool along with the deck greets the lanai, which connects the kid's splash pool placed at the bottom. Read book in style as you enter the study at the top of the staircase, which is in the form of a glass top, and has been placed above the pool. The shaded porch and balcony will help you unwind as you connect with the deep blue skies and fresh air. Enjoy a cup of tea/coffee with your loved ones while savoring the freshness around. The main suite features a built in kitchenette as well as a small lounge along with a projector and drop down screen, which are perfect ingredients to watch your favorite movie or serial. Eco credentials: The awe amazing Glasshouse has exhibits enough traits to declare it as a clean and green structure. The stainless steel and glass structure is poised over a heated pool, which works as a temperature stabilizer during summers and doubles as a heater when the temperature gets cold. The presence of an atrium between the family room and the kitchen proves to be a great way to ventilate as well as cool the room naturally. The use of LED light to illuminate the living space when dusk sets in save a lot of energy, while the use of a lot of glass doesn't restrict the entry of natural light during daytime. Related trends: 1. Modern New Zealand Glass House
 Modern New Zealand Glass House Slip into a state of total amazement as you set your eyes on the modern Glasshouse situated in Auckland, New Zealand, by Hillery Priest Architecture. The stylish construction is bound to steal glances with its bold frames and magnanimous windows. Adding to its sumptuousness are five rooms, five bedroom and not to miss the stunning views. 2. Astounding Modern Glass House: Catskill Mountain House
 Catskill Mountain House Catskill Mountain House is a stunning blend of brilliance and beauty. The focus is primarily on the expansive windows that unfold panoramic views. The attention grabbing housing structure strongly connects the inside with the outside, with its simple geometry and comfy space. 3. Modern steel and glass home in Toulouse
 Modern steel and glass home in Toulouse This steel and glass home literally brings the nature inside. The spacious living space is situated in Toulouse, France, and vows to enrich the living experience with its transparent facade. It feels nothing less than a contemporary beacon that has been placed midst natural surrounding because of the natural views it puts forward.
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| YBR Bus Shelter is a green bus stop for future urbanities Posted: 12 Mar 2012 05:05 AM PDT Asmita Prasad: The YBR Bus Shelter Concept by designer Eliel Cabrera incorporates original modularity philosophy in its design and is integrated and designed with elements that have been a part of the YBR design range for many years now. This urban bus shelter can be adapted to meet the character of the city and the needs of the city's public transport services. The bus-shelter can also be customized to other needs of the city's administration with its modularity adapting to the environment it is situated in as well.
 YBR bus shelter
Made in cast iron, the 3500mm high bus shelter is a companion design to the YBR bus stop project. The bus shelter is painted in black forge Oxiron paint over an anti-oxidant phosphatizing primer. The YBR mupi module was used as an inspiration for the bus shelter's information panel. The exterior part of the structure has a level with internal reinforcement to bear weight of the structure better. One or two benches can be easily installed in the shelter with an extra area being reserved for providing information regarding the QR code, route schedule, logo signal, etc. Depending on the character that municipalities want to give the shelter, plastic injection, wood slats and steel mesh can be used to finish the seats. Tweezers from YBR bus stop will be used to anchor the info panels with the poster anchoring several modules of the roof. The roofing of the YBR bus shelter will be fashioned in unbreakable reinforced polyester with fiberglass being used to reinforce the space between the double layers of polyester. Metal green colored powder coating treated with oven-dried polyester would be used to finish the aluminum structure and the YBR bus shelter can be incorporated with solar panels, eco resin panels and inorganic and organic materials to make it as green as possible. Via: Eliel Cabrera
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| Zero Gravity Roller Coaster takes your breath away at 150 mph Posted: 12 Mar 2012 05:04 AM PDT Radhicka S Saxena: The concept Roller coasters are the hub of attention at amusement parks. Steamrolling through steep cliffs and twisty turns, these rides are for those who dare to feel the rush. High peaks, sharp slopes, chilling tunnels, scary ghosts and splashes of water are some common ploys used by roller coaster rides around the world. But, here is something absolutely new that will make adrenaline junkies whoopee with frenzy. This all new design for a roller coaster can actually defy gravity. Put forward by a Southern California design firm called BRC Imagination Arts, this one of a kind floating in space experience is formulated to last for eight seconds in every go.
 Zero Gravity Roller Coaster
The Inspiration The breakthrough idea bounced from a craft used by NASA to train its astronauts, namely the Vomit Comet. The new ride that can give you a feel of a coasting rocket ship will be out only by 2013. Building the speedster will cost a staggering $50 million. Where we are now The first roller coaster supposedly developed in the Russian mountains. Some historians believe that this was in Russia while others think it comes from France. The Cyclone that operated at Coney island during 1972 is also historically significant development in this realm. Today, the roller coaster is a lot more than a mere ride. The gliding tour is not complete without turns that make the car wind about its course, twists to swing along, drops that send a chill down your spine and slopes on which the coaster thrusts forward with a gargantuan momentum. But the new design put forth by BRC takes the joyride a step further. It incorporates loops that are capable of dampening gravitational forces, thus the passengers experience a feeling of floating freely in a vacuum. Roller coasters are the most popular rides at amusement and theme parks. They have a universal appeal and are liked by children, teens, youngsters and even adults. How it works A simple trick of free fall is used to bring about the sensation of weightlessness when this roller coaster sweeps along the tracks. This weightless sensation will last all the while the auto goes up the steep incline and then descends downwards. The coaster will be slightly decelerated when it reaches a speed of greater than 100 mph on its way up. This will fling the occupants off their seats. While tumbling up and veering down, a computerized system will tweak the speed relative to the passengers. This will make the feeling of hovering in empty space linger along for some time. So essentially, the methodology of a linear induction motor system that hurls the coaster forward and then slows it down is applied in this mechanism. The car will be built to match its outer space inspired theme. Gull wing doors are fitted at the entryway and gear like a ball, gyroscope and a cup filled with water will be stationed on a stand to heighten the drama. Thus, one will be able to view how objects behave in vacuity. The occupants will have to sit straight looking forward. The belt fastened at two points will be left slightly loose, which will easily allow people to buoy up in the air. But watch out when you decide to take this trip as airsickness and nausea are common side effects of this tour. However, in case people throw up, this coaster is equipped to handle the situation. The car has inbuilt drains and arrangements have been made to hose down the chamber.
Picture Gallery  Zero Gravity Roller Coaster takes your breath away at 150 mph What makes it stand out? Although the concept is somewhat like the Superman's escape from Krypton ride in Six Flags Magic Mountain at California, the speedsters fully closed chamber is a novel idea. The occupants will not be free falling in open air but floating in an enclosed chamber. This also means that the occupants will not be able to fathom how fast they are traveling as there will be no stationary objects around to compare the speed of the car with. BRC has not revealed the speed of the car yet, but it will surely be greater than 100 mph. It will not move about a curvaceous arc but will run along straight and then dash up an erect tower. The path traversed by the roller coaster will be similar to a trajectory and will be constructed out of solid steel. Where do we go from here? With advancement in science and technology, the machinations of roller coasters will also evolve. Today, most are run by computerized systems, which apply accurate calculations to determine movements. These special controls help to rule out heights and falls that can be hazardous for the passengers. They will tell you precisely how much speed and gravitational pull the body can stand because if the force is beyond limits, then the human body will cease to pump blood. Detailed geometry programs are used to ascertain their speed. The amount by which gravitational forces can be curtailed is also calculated beforehand. Thus, you can enjoy the thrill with assurance of safety. The future roller coaster designs will be even more complicated, adventurous, delightful and exhilarating. Related trends: Here are a few more cutting edge roller coaster designs. 1. Son of Beast roller coaster
 son of beast Touted to be one of the fastest and tallest roller coasters in the world, this one is built at Kings Island. It is located at Mason in Ohio which is on the outskirts of Cincinnati. It is the only wooden car with a vertical loop that incorporates trademark beastly growling noises. 2. Manta roller coaster
 Manta roller coaster This one has not rolled out as yet but it will hit the track in 2012 at SeaWorld in San Diego. Screening of gigantic rays and marine displays set this one apart from others. 3. World's Fastest Roller Coaster
 Ferrari Roller Coaster The fastest speedster, even amongst roller coasters, is from brand Ferrari. Dubbed as Formula Rossa, it will race at a theme park in Abu Dhabi. It uses a technology applied in fighter jets known as the hydraulic launch system to propel the car at a mind boggling speed of 150 mph in just 4.9 seconds.
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| iAcoustic antique gramophone inspired iPhone/iPod Touch dock Posted: 12 Mar 2012 05:04 AM PDT Asmita Prasad: The mother of all awesome steampunk creations aimed at the iPhone/iPod Touch, this antique gramophone dock for your i-gadgets really does offer you the best of both antique and modern luxuries. Dubbed the iAcoustic, the dock comes with a wood base and a real metal horn though the gizmo still functions like a modern acoustic amplifier. Offering a slightly different music output experience from what you would get from your ordinary speaker, the quality of its amplified sound takes users back to the ambiance of a bygone era.
 Rebirth of Antique Gramophone
Picture Gallery  Rebirth of Antique Gramophone for your iPhone/iPod Touch Without using any external power sources, the iAcoustic uses the built-in speakers of the iPhone or iPod Touch and amps them up to around 60 decibels which is a remarkable audio output given how the amp works using just basic principles of acoustics. The resonant, deep, warm and rich sound that the iAcoustic offers is a refreshing change from what a regular electronic amp speaker outputs. Using the built in audio source from an iDevice, the amp passes the sound through its solid wood base and wind instrument type horn to give the sound a dramatic richness that cannot be reproduced by an artificially made amp. The wood base of the iAcoustic also comes with a path-through slot that can be used to fit a charge/sync cable to charge the iPhone/iPod touch while it is still docked. iAcoustic is compatible with most additional cases and bumpers for the iPod Touch and all versions of the iPhone as well.
Rebirth of Antique GramophoneRebirth of Antique Gramophone for your iPhone/iPod Touch Source: aBITE Design
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| Eco homes promising a smart, high end lifestyle Posted: 12 Mar 2012 05:01 AM PDT Jayanti Anubhav: The current scenario: The concept of a Smart Home is getting popular as technology has become an integral part of our lives and households. There are many Japanese firms that are making commercialized versions of Net Kaden system available for residents. Net Kedan system facilitates the complete control over home and monitoring the activities by linking the system to high speed broadband networks and also to mobile phones. The system enables to keep a tab on the kids' activities at home or can also monitor any trespassers outside the house. The system sends out images to the cellphone linked with the system. The renowned electronic devices manufacturing firms such as Matsushita Electric Industrial Co. and Toshiba Corp. have come together to market Net Kedan. Hitachi Ltd. and Sony corp are also planning to launch similar products in the market.
 Eco smart home
The Need: As we progress to make new innovations in all fields, homes are also not left behind. There are plenty of people who visualize their homes to be smart, futuristic and technologically sound. The amalgamation of technology in our lives have made us expecting everything at home to be remote controlled and monitored, right from the burglar alarm to opening up the door. However, as per a survey in the UK the consumers are a little worried about any sort of malfunction in the system that would be difficult to rectify. People falling in the age group of 15-34 have shown the interest in a Smart Home whereas the aged, physically challenged and infirm were not very keen to have smart homes. Approximately 70 percent of the people had the opinion that Smart Homes are advantageous while others were apprehensive about the device and the system. Affordability is also a major concern with Smart Homes. However, the concept seems to be promising in the long run as the concept of Smart home will not only make our lives better but will also help us save the energy as the gadgets will be turned off after doing the needful. The Inspiration: As the consciousness towards environment is spreading rapidly, people have begun to understand that they require sustainable and Green options for their homes. The builders and architects have come together to build energy efficient homes that not only generate renewable energy but also supply sufficient energy to the electricity grid as well. Soon, the concept of Green houses will be popular enough to make all households capable of generating their own sustainable energy to be used in the house. What makes them stand out? The concept of Smart home integrates the automation technology and modern building techniques that enables total control with the touch of a button also facilitates monitoring of the house when the residents are away from home. The Smart homes bring in the convenience of the remote access of systems such as intercom, music system, heating or cooling systems and other multimedia devices in the house. Smart homes also ensure the security of the house with integrated motion sensors, security cameras and link to the local police station. The key cards and fingerprints identifier replace the conventional lock in the Smart homes making it more secure and difficult to barge in. Accessibility and energy efficiency are also key features of Smart Homes as the elderly and disabled can access and control the devices remotely. The Smart homes are energy efficient with the automated tasks that switch off the gadgets after the use. Eco Credentials: Smart homes are also green homes with increased efficiency as fossil fuel resources and natural energy are preserved and used in the household that reduces the consumption of water, gas and electricity. The solar panels in Smart Homes reduce the requirement for conventional fossil fuels for energy. The Smart Homes have rain gardens, green roofs and sustainable vegetable gardens that add up to the eco credentials of these innovative homes. The problems: The innovations and advanced technologies in the Smart homes surely bring security, comfort and convenience; however also pose some challenges to make it a sustainable living option. The state-of-the-art features of Smart Homes invariably increase the price tag to make it an expensive deal. Maintaining and repairing of the system also adds up to the cost of living. The Smart homes also need you to learn how to use your own house. Unlike traditional homes, Smart home needs you and your family to be tech-savvy to utilise the benefits of Smart home optimally. Green structures have now become a necessity considering the rapidly growing cities and the burden of catering to the energy requirements of the citizens. Awareness is also an important aspect to be worked on to make Smart homes a sustainable concept. Feasibility: Although, the progress and development of Smart technology is a bit slow, it will gradually and surely climb up the ladders of popularity as many companies are coming up with the smart solutions for Green homes. Google has launched Powermeter- a software package that educates people on the amount of energy used by them in a month. PassivSystems is another company which is working towards the development of control mechanism for Smart homes. Any traditional home can be converted into a Smart home by incorporating the energy saving mechanisms. Gradually, people will understand and accept the need for the green sustainable homes in the years to come. Related trends: 1. Samsung C&T unveils zero-energy Green Tomorrow House
 Green Tomorrow House Samsung C&T has developed and unveiled zero-energy Green Tomorrow house that incorporates 68 energy generating or energy saving systems that can harness sufficient energy to power a household without using an electricity grid and alternate fuel source. The Green Tomorrow house also reduces the consumption of energy by up to 56 percent and there are 176 solar panes installed on the roof to provide the remaining 44 percent of energy. The house also includes energy efficient lighting, heat insulating boards and three layers windows. 2. Villa Akarp
 Villa Akarp Villa Akarp is designed by Karin Adalberth in collaboration with the utility company E.ON. The Villa Akarp is built in the outskirts of Swedish city Malmo. Villa Akarp has 32 square meters of photovoltaic panels on the rooftop and an efficient system to keep the house low on carbon. The Villa Akarp also ensures that the residents can make money by selling the surplus energy to electricity grid. 3. Vision Zero by Dow Chemical
 InVision Zero Making Green homes accessible to the common people, the Dow Chemical Company and Cobblestone Homes have launched net-zero energy efficient homes in Michigan in affordable price range. The Vision Zero homes will incorporate Dow's energy saving solutions to save approximately $3507 of energy cost and will avert 44,855 lbs of CO2 every year. The house also has solar shingle by Dow that generates sufficient energy to be used in the house and also the surplus that can be sold to the local electricity grid. The house has geothermal pumps to cool or heat the house along with solar water heating system, LED bulbs and appliances that are energy efficient.
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| Solar Lift paves path for wheelchair ridden people on steep slopes Posted: 12 Mar 2012 04:40 AM PDT Jaspreet Kaur Walia: The unfortunate plight of all the paraplegic and handicapped people all around the world is the impossible task of climbing ramps. It’s a well known fact how they suffer on the hands of technology, making them disabled when it comes to sitting in a wheelchair and climbing steep ramps. In order to curb this problem, designer Corry Blackburn has come up with an ingenious idea to create the Solar Lift. His lift in turn guarantees to make these ramps all the more user friendly for people who are wheelchair ridden.
 Solar Lift
Incorporating the uses of solar energy into his neat design, he has been able to well amass the praises of not one but many people around him. His main idea consists of a solar powered lift, letting the user ride the steep ramps on the electric powered wheel chair. The whole concept has been built around a ramp walk, which has been fixed with concealed solar cells. These cells convert the solar energy into usable electric energy, allowing it to be channelized into running and powering the walkway.
Further, the walkway has been fixed with some glowing LED’s to provide the much needed support at night. The lithium ion batteries keep the whole contraption going day and night, making it an obvious choice for everyone around. The rolling grill has been fixed with a rod or a handle, thereby enabling the seated person to pull himself across the walkway. The handle extends outwards and follows a rotational pattern, making its use all the more convenient and conventional. The whole mechanism is very useful, if you get into the nitty-gritties of it all. The design of the whole device has been facilitated in a way to provide maximum comfort to the person using it. A multiple handle system has been placed inside the rolling lift while being powered by a 24v electric motor. The motor not only delivers a very stylish look to the whole device, but also keeps everything running for all its worth. The whole concept has been devised by the young graduate in a very time conserving manner. The idea behind it is way too conservational, as it uses solar energy to charge up the cells all the time. This version once in place would make not one but many people way too happy as they transcend up such steep ramps with the help of this lift. This is indeed a very subtle way to enthuse an idea of energy conservation within people. Energizing the lift with solar energy was a fantastic idea to use. It’s not only going to generate enough power to keep the device going day and night, but it will also be a clean and effective way to keep people motivated to use such sources of energy. [Cheers Corry]
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| Skydiver to ride in special capsule to edge of space for 23 mile freefall Posted: 12 Mar 2012 04:26 AM PDT Asmita Prasad: Felix Baumgartner is an Austrian daredevil who is all set to break the speed of sound as he undertakes a 23 mile freefall right from the edge of space. Baumgartner will make the journey to the upper reaches of the stratosphere is a pressurized spaceship-like eight-foot-capsule that is built to the skydiver up to 120,000 feet above sea level and withstand temperatures less than -70 degrees F.
 skydiver capsule
At 23 miles above the surface of the earth, the freefall will break the speed of sound and make Baumgartner the first person ever to go supersonic outside a vehicle. The Austrian is known for base jumping stunts from the Petronas Towers and other famous high rises in the world and will wear a special bodysuit resembling the pressuring spacesuits worn by astronauts to be able to withstand the extreme and near vacuum like conditions at the edge of the stratosphere. Full of helium, the adapted weather balloon would take the skydiver up 120,000ft in the atmosphere and after Baumgartner jumps, it would take him a mere 10 minutes to reach the ground in which he will travel towards the surface of the earth at speeds of more than 690mph and would even break the sound barrier in the first 35 seconds of making the jump. Using an oxygen tank and the astronaut suit to keep himself alive during the first half of the jump, the Austrian helicopter pilot would not deploy his parachute till he has reached the elevation of 5,000ft above ground. The fall will give Baumgartner a chance to break as many as four world records including the records for fastest freefall, longest distance traveled in freefall, highest manned balloon flight, and highest-altitude freefall. Via: Daily Mail
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