Tag: Design

Batteries made from paper can be an environmentally-friendly source of electricity. Now, a Swiss startup is aiming to replace batteries used in small devices entirely (a process that’s already begun in Sweden). Energy will come through perovskite solar cells previously developed in a research lab. Their properties and size can be tailored to customer requirements and device design. Manufacture...

In future, an automatic device could service human blood vessels. Industrial infrastructure also needs regular monitoring. Flying support is nothing new, but now a Swiss startup has developed a maintenance drone with 360° aerial mobility, which can get just about anywhere. It’s all possible thanks to two tiltable propellers installed at the side and an additional rotor at the...

A mini-pacemaker could ensure affected babies have a smooth start in life. In critical situations, endotracheal (ET) tubes are important for people of all ages. Now a female-led startup in Boston has developed a patented support which prevents tubes from slipping or causing injuries. Based on an invention by army therapists, the frame is secured in the mouth through...

Laser light can cool down high performance processors. It can also make things hot for viruses and bacteria… A US startup’s new photonic chip, measuring the size of a 1 cent coin, can render pathogens inactive with the help of far-UVC light. By using the so-called ‘Second Harmonics’ effect. When blue laser light with a 445 nm wavelength is...

Yeast accelerates hydrogen production. Which could be of interest for a French startup and its newly designed business jet with fuel cell drive. The eight-person aircraft is equipped with two electric duct propellers, powered by six 400 kW fuel cells and should be able to cover up to 800 nautical miles from 2030. Meaning 80% of business flights in...

A special debit card can improve women’s credit ratings. But when it comes to signing contracts or taking notes, a pen is still helpful. Enter a New York based startup and its credit card shaped pen. The designer item’s reinforced structure comprises 54 individual parts, is just 2 mm thick and weighs 28 grams. Lying flat, the movable parts...

Unfolding pasta saves on packaging. Now a Finnish consortium is experimenting with different folding techniques to create a durable cardboard packaging alternative to plastic and polystyrene. Inspiration came from the Japanese Miura origami method. The team pooled its knowledge of geometry, maths, art and design, as well as materials science and mechanical engineering, to create a number of 3D...

A headset with smart technology is helping blind people be more independent outside of their homes. Now a London-based product designer is focusing on providing simple support for the community inside with soft patterned surfaces. Her rectangular pads can be applied to walls as signs, with each pattern allowing users to feel different information on their surroundings. Thus straight...