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  • Insanely thin wristwatch at 1.75mm thick

    The close collaboration between Ferrari and Richard Mille

    The incredibly thin RM UP-01 wristwatch is a collaboration between Ferrari and Swiss watch brand Richard Mille. With the RM UP-01 Ferrari, Richard Mille is proud to present an ultra-flat watch that is only 1.75 millimeters thick. This remarkable technical feat is due as much to the reframing of design methods in a way that makes it usable in everyday situations as it is to approaching the watch mechanics with new eyes.   For such a project, we had to put aside all the knowledge amassed over years of practice and all the watchmaking standards imaginable. This was done while collaborating with the laboratories of the Audemars Piguet Le Locle. Shaving off the last hundredths of a millimeter of depth was a very demanding and time-consuming process. The RM UP-01, a collaboration with the Ferrari team, is the result of years of work, dozens of prototypes, and more than 6000 hours of development and laboratory testing.   To meet the challenge of an ultra-flat watch, a traditional movement with superimposed gears and hands could not be used, so Richard Mille opted to distribute what could not be stacked over a broader surface area, with the movement and case working in perfect harmony, ensuring the necessary rigidity of the other. The design and execution of the entire watch is a testament to the comprehensive conceptual approach in which the movement and case are developed in perfect harmony. The watch is a new and easily recognizable form, the first in the Richard Mille collection. Its uncompromising slimness perfectly symbolizes Richard Mille's philosophy that technology determines aesthetics, once again transforming the tonneau shape and adapting it to new situations. As evidenced by the numerous manufacturing processes required for the bezel, monobloc caseband and caseback, the RM UP-01's case has the same characteristics, with sleek lines and meticulous attention to detail.   Link to original article: core77.com/posts/126316/An-Insanely-Thin-Wristwatch-by-Ferrari-and-Richard-Mille?utm_source=core77&utm_medium=from_tile_image   Originally published by Core77 

    2023-12-0819
  • Redesigning a 50-year-old Linn Sondek LP12 turntable

    50 modular hardware upgrades

    Former Apple chief design officer Johny Ive has given audio brand Linn's turntables a respectful and gentle redesign for its  50th anniversary.   The project marks a return to music player design for Ive, who was responsible for several generations of iPods during his time at Apple, and the designer worked with his new studio, LoveFrom, on the LP12-50 turntable. Ive describes the studio's contribution to the design as a series of respectful and gentle refinements that honor the turntable's evolution, which has remained aesthetically unchanged since its launch in 1972, but has undergone a number of technical upgrades. The most noticeable intervention is the design of the primary switch, which is now circular and flat, and the more rounded shape of the board under the arm, both of which create a more tactile appearance. The dust cover, hinges, and badge have also been subtly tweaked, and Linn's engineers have also developed a plinth with an entirely new manufacturing approach.   "I've always had a deep love of music and have had the wonderful opportunity and privilege to design a number of different music players and headphones ­– most notably the multiple generations of iPods while I led design at Apple," said Ive.   The Sondek LP12 has always been entirely retrofittable, and Linn has released 50 modular hardware upgrades for the machine, an idea that Ive appreciated, saying that he could actually enjoy a better product than the one he bought years ago. The Sondek LP12 is Linn's flagship product and was once voted the most important hi-fi component ever sold by Hi-Fi Choice magazine reviewers. The Linn x LoveFrom LP12-50 is available in a limited edition of 250 and comes in a choice of wood or white finish.   Link to original article: https://www.dezeen.com/2023/07/10/jony-ive-gives-redesign-to-50-year-old-linn-sondek-lp12-turntable-design/   

    2023-12-0818
  • Hands-free IV for disaster zones

    Korean university students design humanitarian product

    The Golden Capsule, a non-powered, hands-free intravenous device designed by students at Hongik University in South Korea, has won this year's James Dyson Awards International prize.   Designed by Yujin Chae, Daeyeon Kim, Yeonghwan Shin, and Yuan Bai, the device was developed in response to the limitations of existing intravenous (IV) packs identified following the Turkish-Syrian earthquakes in February 2023. Unlike existing IV packs, which rely on gravity and electricity to operate, the Golden Capsule uses elastic forces and air pressure to operate, allowing it to be used hands-free.   "These limitations of traditional IV packs are even more pronounced in disaster situations such as earthquakes," the team told Dezeen. "In the aftermath of an earthquake, the site can be extremely challenging due to aftershocks, debris, and other hazards. The device is made of a fluid-filled balloon inside a low-pressure transparent shell, which, once opened, allows air to enter the shell and deflate the balloon, releasing fluid into the patient."   A speed regulator uses a roller mechanism to control the airflow, allowing the medication to be injected at a uniform speed, eliminating the need for manual squeezing. The design also includes a clip to securely attach the device to the patient or medic. According to the team, the Golden Capsule was intentionally designed to resemble existing IV packs so that healthcare professionals can use the product intuitively. The team now hopes to commercialize the device as a replacement for existing IV packs in both emergency situations and hospitals. This year's James Dyson Awards recognized three global prizes of equal merit, including winners in the Humanitarian, International, and Sustainability categories, each receiving £30,000 to support the development of their inventions.   Link to original article: https://www.dezeen.com/2023/11/15/non-powered-iv-international-prize-james-dyson-awards-2023/ 

    2023-12-0333
  • An e-scooter that folds down to the size of a carry-on bag

    A more intuitive and comfortable riding position

    British company Pure Electric has created the Advance Flex, a folding electric scooter with footpads on either side of the chassis that allow for a natural forward-facing posture. The scooter is designed to compacted down into a neat package for easy transportation and storage, even in small urban homes.   A foldable version of the brand's scooter, which launched in 2022, it allows riders to ride it like a Segway, facing completely forward for better control and overall safety.   Unlike conventional e-scooters that require you to stand with one foot in front of the other, the Pure Advance has dedicated footpads that allow for a more intuitive and comfortable riding position, according to the company.   "Rider experience and safety were at the core of the design process, so from the beginning it was designed to allow riders to naturally assume a forward-facing stance with their feet apart."   In addition to improving overall stability, the new format allows riders to shift their weight slightly to either side when steering, just like when riding a bike. Other advantages of the riding position include the ability to more easily turn in either direction to check for hazards. The scooter is also equipped with the company's Pure Control system, which uses a spring-loaded steering mechanism to self-center the front wheel and improve the scooter's stability. When not in use, it can be folded down using a catch on the side of the chassis, allowing the front end to swing under its own weight to align with the rear section. The footpads hinge upward while the handlebars and stem fold down to create a compact package that's slightly smaller than a carry-on suitcase. The scooter is based on a 500-watt motor and a battery that provides a range of up to 50 kilometers.   Link to original article: https://www.dezeen.com/2023/11/23/pure-advance-flex-electric-scooter-pure-electric/ 

    2023-12-0329
  • Glass tables of heat and passion blown by artisans

    Side table with a rugged artistic flair

    Greek designer Yiannis Ghikas and Italian furniture brand Miniforms have launched two new versions of their SodaSoda glass side table, called Oval and Square. As the name suggests, the Soda Oval has an elongated circular tabletop, while the Soda Square has a square-shaped top softened by rounded corners. Blown, pulled, and shaped by three glass artisans, the result is a single volume of glass with three large petals that form a stem. Similar to the original soda table, the Oval and Square are hand-blown Murano glass and made in Venice, Italy. The Oval combines two thick tubular legs into one solid base, while the Square blends four cylindrical legs into a central column. When the table's surface is illuminated, indescribable shadows of light spread in all directions. Available in pumpkin and gray, as well as amethyst and blue, the side tables are stunning on their own, but can be combined to create a colorful big table. However, the brand cautions that while you might mistake the Soda for a stool at first glance, don't forget that it's a side table. Link to original article: https://www.miniforms.com/en/products/5_coffee_tables/252_soda/

    2023-11-2825
  • Straightforward small van with interchangeable panels, modular interior

    Configurable to the driver s preferred interior

    Tokyo-based startup HW Electro has unveiled its electric Kei van concept vehicle, PUZZLE.   It's a small rectangular vehicle just over 11 feet (about 3 meters) long and just under 5 feet (1.5 meters) wide. Designed for mobile vending and disaster relief, the vehicle is equipped with a socket, USB port, WIFI transmitter, and first aid kit behind the front panel. Charging will be done via solar panels.   PUZZLE has been thoroughly streamlined to give form to function, and this design philosophy is clearly reflected in its exterior. For example, the panels under the headlights, the leading edge of the roof, and the left front door and right rear door are made from the same exterior panel. By standardizing every detail and using common panels that are compatible in various locations, we eliminated waste and increased productivity during manufacturing. The rational design optimizes all resources in the manufacturing process, and the funds saved on hardware costs will be used to develop software and connected services.   "PUZZLE was designed to minimize wasted space when loaded, with comfort as a mode of transportation a top priority. Its squarer appearance than a typical minivan is the result of a near-cubic cargo space that makes the most of its given dimensions. Until now, cargo space in typical one-box vehicles has often tapered off towards the roof, meaning that every inch of the space originally provided is not utilized."   "User-friendly interior layouts are different for everyone. PUZZLE's interior panels are made in the form of a pinboard, allowing you to flexibly arrange the various interior parts as if you were organizing your own room. Even if one unit is used by multiple users, it's easy to swap in and out the kit you need where you want it - each driver can drive with the interior they want. "   HW Electro says the PUZZLE will be available in the U.S. in 2025, but there's still a ways to go. Plans are reportedly underway for a production model based on the concept car, and pricing has not been announced.   Link to original article: core77.com/posts/126315/A-Tiny-Rectilinear-Electric-Van-With-Swappable-Panels-Modular-Interior?utm_source=core77&utm_medium=from_title Originally published by Core77 

    2023-11-2823
  • From warmth to fragrance, the Tornado Heater

    Minimize fuel consumption, prioritize user safety

    Italian design brand Egloo has created a chimney-shaped heater powered by bioethanol. Made of heat-resistant terracotta, the Tornado heater is named after the spinning shape of the flame visible through the opening on the front. In addition to being fun to look at in the form of a chimney, it aims to help reduce energy consumption by generating heat from natural and cost-effective bioethanol. "The Tornado is a unique and groundbreaking product that combines contemporary design with the timeless appeal of fire, resulting in a beautiful synergy of form and function," said Egloo. Inside the heater, the natural heat rise of the fire works synergistically with the terracotta structure to accelerate and rotate the air, an effect that increases heat flow by 500% without requiring additional energy.  Tornado is also efficient, using the natural fuel bioethanol to minimize fuel consumption and eliminate the need for costly infrastructure or maintenance, which can significantly reduce heating costs.  The benefits don't end there. The ceramic wool inside the tank increases Tornado's efficiency while also prioritizing user safety. Known for its high-temperature resilience and insulating capabilities, the material acts as a protective barrier to prevent potential fuel leaks and ensure that bioethanol is consumed in a controlled manner. The presence of this material ensures that the flame is stable and contained, minimizing the risk of explosion. Tornado can also be used as an essential oil diffuser. It's handmade in Italy and comes in six colors: orange-brown, white, black, beige, blue, and red, which are characteristic of terracotta.  Link to original article: https://eglooinfo.it/product/egloo-tornado/?v=38dd815e66db      

    2023-11-2835
  • Reusable 2-in-1 water bottle and coffee cup

    All components use recyclable materials

    London studio Seymourpowell has combined an insulated water bottle and a cup with a lid into one in Bottlecup.   Bottlecup's Kate and Mark Arnell realized that around 2.5 billion single-use coffee cups are used and thrown away in the UK every year, and only 1 in 400 of them are recycled, so they asked Seymourpowell to create a single item that could replace both disposable water bottles and coffee cups.   Recognizing that while reusable cups are available, people often forget to carry containers with them, the project team found a way to combine a vacuum insulated bottle with a cup with a lid that can be used for to-go beverages.The team realized that existing reusable bottles or flasks on the market either do not provide a cup lid or the bottle and cup cannot be used independently of each other.    "Bottlecup was innovated to combine a reusable water bottle and a reusable cup and cup lid into one seamless item, with both items functioning as independently of each other as possible without compromise," the designers explain.   The stainless steel water bottle fits inside the cup and can be twisted into place when carrying both items. Each element features a gently curved silhouette that enhances ergonomics. The cup can be easily removed and used on its own, or it has a built-in silicone lid at the bottom so you don't have to carry a separate cup for smoothies, beer, soups, and other beverages. With multiple color options for the silicone band and cup lid, you can customize your Bottlecup by choosing your favorite color at the time of purchase.   Sustainable design was a key concern throughout the project, and the use of no mixed materials resulted in a product where all components are easily recyclable. The 18/8 stainless steel used in the bottle and cup can be collected through curbside recycling services, while the band and cup lid are made from food-grade silicone and can be returned to Bottlecup for responsible recycling.   Link to original article: https://www.dezeen.com/2023/11/26/seymourpowell-reusable-water-bottle-coffee-cup-bottlecup/ Originally published by Dezeen. 

    2023-11-2833
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