At one small seed we believe in the power of unique ideas and novel concepts. Ranging from technology, design, art and music, we’ve compiled a collection of crazy, fascinating, funny and bizarre findings that we think would be of interest to you. Here are some of our favourite finds this past week. Stay tuned for weekly material…
Cassette Is Not Dead is a Spanish design project dedicated to reviving cassette tapes through interior design. The project aims to curb the destruction of cassettes by refurbishing them as lamps that can be used in homes, making the tapes usable in an age where they are being replaced by more advanced music equipment. Cassette Is Not Dead explains that cassettes are a symbol of a generation and each day more and more cassettes are disappearing, leaving behind a cultural vacuum. Their funky lamps are an innovative way to save cassettes, and keep their cultural memory alive. The lamps are created in a box structure where cassettes are tied together to hold the frame in place. The system works through a trade initiative where people send old cassettes to the design team, and are then given gifts like wallets or lamps in return.
Throughout their time as industry giants, Coca Cola has always promoted the idea of sharing in their brand campaigns. Joining forces with Ogilvy, the famed beverage company has created a new way to enjoy a sip of Coke. The split can is a can that is connected by two parts, allowing Coca Cola lovers to twist off one half so that they are left with a can in one hand and a can-like cup in the other. It’s always easy to share a bottle of Coke with friends, and Coca Cola has taken this concept one step further by making cans a convenient way to share. The cans have swept through the streets of Singapore, but were not sold via vending machines or shops. Instead a ‘happiness truck’ handed the drinks out to passersby.
No matter where you are staying hydrated is an important way to keep healthy and look fresh. While most humidifiers are too bulky and inconvenient to carry around, South Korean design outfit Amazing Grace has created a portable humidifier that can be attached to any water bottle. Dubbed the Amazing Humidifier, the little device adjusts to fit on the mouthpiece of the water bottle. The system is powered by a laptop or phone charger using a USB-to-mini-USB cable, allowing the humidifier to suck water through its detachable filter, dispensing vapor at a rate of 30 ml per hour. In order to get a good night’s rest, a 500ml bottle of water will provide all the hydration you need. The nippy humidifier automatically turns off after eight hours so the machine won’t be overworked.
Colgate-Palmolive is attempting to make brushing a more enjoyable experience by creating a toothbrush that releases a chemical in the mouth when it’s being used. The company has filed a patent application that outlines the design of the toothbrush which has a patch on the back of the head storing toothpaste that is infused with flavourant chemicals. The new toothbrush will push Colgate-Palmolive to the front of the hygiene industry, while providing consumers with a sensory experience that excites an otherwise mundane activity. The patent has yet to be accepted, but Colgate has already begun exploring the flavours of mint, caffeine, and fruits as possible taste infusers for the toothbrushes.
Adidas has debuted the Smart Ball — a soccer ball that tracks a player’s movement and posts feedback via a mobile app. The ball allows players to improve their technique by providing important information about speed, rotation and distance. After three years in the making, the innovative sports company has designed a product that uses integrated sensors to keep players updated on the skills. The mobile app provides immediate analysis, direct feedback, a series of challenges and a record book to motivate technique refinement and an all-round better developed skillset. The automated system acts as a virtual coach, allowing avid soccer fans to produce their best in their own time rather than relying on expensive trainers with busy schedules. If all goes according to plan, the ball will be released in 2014.
Leather and Wood Lollipop Case
Most people love candy and Japanese design studio LIFE has found a way to give your sweet-tooth a fashionable outfit. The designers have created a wearable lollipop case made from African mahogany that is tailored to Chupa Chups. Leather straps are attached to the spherical covers enabling them to perch on your belt. These cases will protect your sweets from roaming hands and keep you looking fresh.
Game Theory from Ithaca Audio on Vimeo.
Game Theory is well-known as a system of strategic decision-making, but Ithaca Audio has twisted this concept to create an audio visual mashup of famous songs, games, and movie clips. The piece was performed live using re-wired video game controllers. Ithaca Audio created Game Theory as a tribute to 35 years of video game music (Space Invaders, released in 1978, was the first game to feature a continuous soundtrack). The creatives took a walk back through time and delved into the video game music of the past and present to mashup this dizzying sound-movie display. They also incorporated some of their favourite current tunes to add some zest to the clip.
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