Yanko Design https://www.yankodesign.com Modern Industrial Design News Sun, 30 Jun 2024 20:04:46 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.5 Meet the Oasa R1, the world’s first robotic reel-mower that brings ‘golf course perfection’ to your lawn https://www.yankodesign.com/2024/06/30/meet-the-oasa-r1-the-worlds-first-robotic-reel-mower-that-brings-golf-course-perfection-to-your-lawn/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=meet-the-oasa-r1-the-worlds-first-robotic-reel-mower-that-brings-golf-course-perfection-to-your-lawn Mon, 01 Jul 2024 01:45:12 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=496584

Meet the Oasa R1, the world’s first robotic reel-mower that brings ‘golf course perfection’ to your lawn

Reel lawn mowers are categorically known to be better than rotary lawn mowers. They do a better job of trimming grass to a low height,...
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Reel lawn mowers are categorically known to be better than rotary lawn mowers. They do a better job of trimming grass to a low height, are much more energy efficient, and can be found at every single golf course for their ability to leave a turf looking flawless. The problem, however, is that reel lawnmowers are still fairly manual. Sure, they run on motors, but you still need a human to push the mower around – something that seems odd given that robotic lawnmowers have existed for a good 5 years at this point. Nobody ever tried building a robot version of the reel mower (don’t ask me why) until now. The Oasa R1 is bringing the advancements of autonomous mowers to the perfection of reel blade cutting. The world’s first lawn mowing robot to employ a blade reel, the Oasa R1 turns your backyard into a perfectly manicured turf, with precisely cut grass in every corner. The R1 maps your lawn out, trims the grass to its very edge, avoids humans/pets/obstacles, and takes care of your entire lawn just with the push of a button. It’ll stay away from your prized flower bed, will cross over pathways to get to different zones of your lawn, and will automatically retreat to its shelter once the job is done.

Designer: Oasa Team

Click Here to Buy Now: $1,199 $1,599 ($400 off). Hurry, 42/452 left! Raised over $685,000.

Most companies building lawn mowing bots prefer rotary mowers given how compact the entire mechanism is. Reel mowers, although much more superior in performance, use a much larger drum and blade that results in a bigger overall product. That didn’t stop Oasa from building the R1, albeit with a surprisingly small product footprint. The R1 bridges both worlds wonderfully, offering all the cutting-edge features of a self-driving mower, with the perfection that the spinning reel blade can offer. The blade’s cutting height can be adjusted down to as low as 0.8 inches, or as high as 4 inches (depending on how you want to trim your yard), and the R1 has a cutting path that’s an impressive 13 inches wide, covering more ground in lesser time. A LiDAR sensor hub and multiple cameras allow the R1 to map out your lawn as well as sense obstacles. The mower gets to work, choosing the most efficient path to get the job done, while avoiding obstacles and no-go zones perfectly.

An automatic blade resharpening system reduces the need for manual replacement or realignment, distinguishing it from other robotic and traditional reel mowers.

The reel blade is perhaps the R1’s crown jewel, setting it apart from other robot mowers. While rotary mowers tend to tear the blades of grass, the R1’s reel blade gives them a clean, scissor-like cut that leaves your lawn looking lush and perfect, and allows the grass to grow back in a healthy, non-patchy way too. Spiral blades on the reel help it shear the grass instead of ripping it apart, and here’s the kicker, the R1 has its own blade sharpening feature that automatically works in between mowing sessions to ensure that the blades are as razor-sharp as possible. Moreover, it’s also incredibly silent, with a working decibel level of under 60db, which is about as loud as a normal conversation.

Using the Oasa R1 is about as simple as using any automated lawn mower. The R1 performs a precursory 3D scan of your lawn for you, allowing you to determine different zones, pathways, fences, and even no-go areas. Once you’re done, all it takes is to press a button to get the R1 started. It automatically maps out its path, cutting precisely near fences and along edges, leaving just a 2-inch gap as it moves along fences, skirting, and walls. It relies entirely on LiDAR to navigate your lawn, eschewing GPS which can sometimes have signal issues. The advanced LiDAR tech allows the R1 to conveniently sidestep and avoid obstacles like humans, pets, parcels, or anything that may be blocking its path. Meanwhile, large treaded wheels allow the R1 to easily climb up 45% inclines, letting it cover every single inch of your lawn regardless of the terrain. The entire process can be tracked on Oasa’s smartphone app, which gives you insights on the mowing progress, as well as allows you to set up mowing routines/schedules on-demand. The app also lets you choose mowing height and pattern, as well as activate the R1’s blade-sharpening cycle, which takes mere minutes.

The R1 comes with its own charging shelter where it retreats to when it’s low on battery, when it detects rain, or when it’s done mowing your lawn. Although it doesn’t use GPS during mowing, it does have its own geofence that you set up when you first get the R1 – the minute the R1 leaves the geofence, you get an anti-theft alert along with your lawn-mower’s live location. Maintenance in between mowing routines is a breeze too, thanks to an IPX6 waterproof design that lets you hose down your R1 from either side to wash off any grass stubble that may be stuck to it.

The Oasa R1 ships globally, with a discounted starting price of $1199 – this includes the mower itself, along with the charging shelter, a 2-year warranty, and even the customs fee.

Click Here to Buy Now: $1,199 $1,599 ($400 off). Hurry, 42/452 left! Raised over $685,000.

The post Meet the Oasa R1, the world’s first robotic reel-mower that brings ‘golf course perfection’ to your lawn first appeared on Yanko Design.

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This ‘Not So Tiny’ Tiny Home in New Zealand fits an entire living space in just 7 meters https://www.yankodesign.com/2024/06/30/this-not-so-tiny-tiny-home-in-new-zealand-fits-an-entire-living-space-in-just-7-meters/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=this-not-so-tiny-tiny-home-in-new-zealand-fits-an-entire-living-space-in-just-7-meters Sun, 30 Jun 2024 23:30:16 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=496854

This ‘Not So Tiny’ Tiny Home in New Zealand fits an entire living space in just 7 meters

Named the Kōtuku, this quaint tiny home is designed by Build Tiny. It is substantially larger than of Build Tiny’s other models, measuring 10 m...
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Named the Kōtuku, this quaint tiny home is designed by Build Tiny. It is substantially larger than of Build Tiny’s other models, measuring 10 m in length. Usually, the tiny home makers’ houses measure around 7 m. However, this extra space has been utilized very well, resulting in a spacious and storage-packed interior – all cleverly placed on one level. The name of the home is quite unique and is a subtle reference to New Zealand’s Kōtuku bird. The home is towable and based on a triple-axle trailer. It features a subtle finishing of vinyl, paired with wooden accenting and a steel structural frame.

Designer: Build Tiny

The home has a width of 2.4 m, which is typical for a tiny home. It has a height of 3.2 m and is powered by a standard RV-style hookup. Double glass doors offer access into the home, where you are welcomed by a well-designed interior with balanced proportions. The interiors are finished in light hues, highlighted by poplar plywood and vinyl flooring. The result is a space that feels minimal, and soft, instantly helping you feel at ease. As you enter the living room, you come across some seating, as well as some storage space.

Located close is the kitchen, and it is quite spacious for a New Zealand tiny house. It features a fridge/freezer, microwave, sink, as well as an oven with a four-burner propane-powered stove. The kitchen also includes standard cabinetry, overhead cabinets, a pull-out pantry drawer, as well as a breakfast bar that can accommodate two people. The kitchen and bathroom are connected, and the bathroom is equipped with a composting toilet, vanity sink, shower, and washing machine.

However, the Kōtuku tiny home is only equipped with one bedroom. All the rooms have been placed on the ground floor, so it isn’t the typical loft-style bedroom you see in tiny homes. It has a proper double bed and plenty of space to stand upright. Although subtle factors, these do make quite a difference while living full-time in a tiny home. The bedroom is also blessed with loads of storage space. There is storage above, below, and on both sides of the bed. You can access the outdoors from the bedroom through glass doors. This lovely little home is delivered as a turnkey build, amped with all the furniture.

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Airiva: Modular Rotary Turbine Walls Revolutionize Urban Wind Energy https://www.yankodesign.com/2024/06/30/airiva-modular-rotary-turbine-walls-revolutionize-urban-wind-energy/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=airiva-modular-rotary-turbine-walls-revolutionize-urban-wind-energy Sun, 30 Jun 2024 22:30:23 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=495061

Airiva: Modular Rotary Turbine Walls Revolutionize Urban Wind Energy

Since introducing the concept for an energy-generating wall in 2021, designer Joe Doucet has been tirelessly working to turn this innovative idea into reality. Now,...
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Since introducing the concept for an energy-generating wall in 2021, designer Joe Doucet has been tirelessly working to turn this innovative idea into reality. Now, with the launch of Airiva, a modular rotary wind turbine wall designed for urban installations, this vision is closer than ever to being realized. Airiva promises to revolutionize how cities and infrastructures harness wind energy, bringing sustainable power generation directly to the places where people live and work.

Designer: Joe Daucet

Wind energy has been instrumental in reducing global dependence on fossil fuels. However, the adoption of wind turbines for residential and commercial use has been slow, largely due to their intrusive designs. Airiva addresses this challenge by combining functionality with aesthetic appeal.

The wind turbine wall is composed of multiple rotary blades that spin independently, driving a generator to produce clean, renewable electricity. This modular and scalable solution is tailored for urban and suburban environments, allowing it to augment or coexist with other power generation methods. The electricity generated can be used on-site, stored, or fed back into the grid. The system is not only efficient but also quiet and safe, making it suitable for a wide range of environments. Potential installation sites include municipal and public facilities, commercial buildings, transportation networks, and coastal areas, among others.

Airiva places a strong emphasis on sustainability. The manufacturing process aims to use at least 80% post-consumer and recycled materials, aligning with circular economy principles and minimizing environmental impact. This commitment to sustainability is a fundamental aspect of Airiva’s design and manufacturing strategy.

One of Airiva’s key strengths is its flexibility. The system’s modular design allows it to be easily transported and scaled to meet specific site requirements. Multiple units can be networked together, creating a flexible, clean energy system that can adapt to various use cases. Additionally, Airiva is designed to complement other distributed energy technologies, providing a versatile alternative that can enhance existing installations.

Airiva’s smart technology enables remote monitoring of system and site information, offering visibility and control over geographically dispersed installations. Each unit consists of two segments, each measuring 2100mm in length and height and 1050mm in depth, along with an end hub unit for controls, communications, and power management. This design facilitates global transport and distribution, ensuring that the system can be deployed wherever it is needed.

The initial idea in 2021 envisioned a wall of 25 vertical-axis turbines with a total peak power output of 10 kilowatts. While the intermittent nature of wind means that actual energy production can vary, the refined Airiva system is expected to produce approximately 2,200 kWh annually per unit. While this may not cover the entire energy needs of an average home, it can significantly reduce energy bills. Larger installations, such as those on commercial campuses or transportation hubs, can harness more power, demonstrating the system’s scalability.

Currently in the prototyping stage, Airiva plans to begin customer pilots in the latter half of this year, with orders expected to open in 2025. Although specific figures have yet to be disclosed, Airiva’s targeted Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE) aims to be competitive both domestically and internationally against other small-scale distributed energy resources. Upcoming pilots will be crucial in validating these claims and demonstrating the system’s effectiveness in real-world conditions.

The post Airiva: Modular Rotary Turbine Walls Revolutionize Urban Wind Energy first appeared on Yanko Design.

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This GoPro concept with Interchangeable Lenses brings DSLR abilities to the Action Camera https://www.yankodesign.com/2024/06/30/this-gopro-concept-with-interchangeable-lenses-brings-dslr-abilities-to-the-action-camera/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=this-gopro-concept-with-interchangeable-lenses-brings-dslr-abilities-to-the-action-camera Sun, 30 Jun 2024 20:45:39 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=496950

This GoPro concept with Interchangeable Lenses brings DSLR abilities to the Action Camera

The GoPro is, on paper at least, an incredibly high-resolution camera capable of recording 4K at high speeds of up to 120fps – that’s pretty...
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The GoPro is, on paper at least, an incredibly high-resolution camera capable of recording 4K at high speeds of up to 120fps – that’s pretty remarkable for a camera… but no photographer or videographer will ever take a GoPro seriously, because it lacks the one feature that most professionals look for – the ability to change lenses. The GoPro is perpetually stuck with its ultrawide lens, and that doesn’t appeal to most photographers. Designed to bridge this gap, Liam de la Bedoyere designed a GoPro that actually lets you remove and replace lenses, giving you the ability to choose between macro, telephoto, wide-angle, and fisheye shots… all while still retaining the GoPro’s gorgeously compact aesthetic.

Designer: Bored Eye Design

Bedoyere’s (better known by his online moniker Bored Eye Designs) concept isn’t what you’d call a traditional GoPro – its design is quite the overhaul, with a funky orange-meets-black aesthetic that sort of feels reminiscent of Rabbit, but with a more balanced color palette. The design features the GoPro’s main body, with the screen at the back, but also comes with a removable camera module, reminiscent of the recently launched Insta360 Go 3S. This removable module snaps onto the main body when it needs a battery boost, but can be removed and carried separately as a body-worn or handheld tiny cam. It also features those aforementioned removable lenses, allowing you to change your PoV on the fly.

Designed as a part of a Productober sprint (with daily prompts through the month of October), Liam de la Bedoyere created a rough draft of an action camera with the ability to remove and mount different lenses. Although Bedoyere barely made the deadline for the prompt, his concept existed just as a mere sketch. Taking some more time after Productober officially ended, he decided to flesh out the design by making a proper 3D CAD model of what this shapeshifting action cam could look like.

Bedoyere’s vision of a GoPro with interchangeable lenses is something that quite a few videographers have thought of. In fact, Canada-based hardware company Back-Bone also makes a modified version of the GoPro HERO12 with an armature on the front that lets you attach literal DSLR-style lenses on your action camera, with a choice between M12, CS, and C-mount styles!

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Solos AirGo Vision are the world’s first ChatGPT-4o powered smart glasses for interactive input https://www.yankodesign.com/2024/06/30/solos-airgo-vision-are-the-worlds-first-chatgpt-4o-powered-smart-glasses-for-interactive-input/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=solos-airgo-vision-are-the-worlds-first-chatgpt-4o-powered-smart-glasses-for-interactive-input Sun, 30 Jun 2024 19:15:07 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=497168

Solos AirGo Vision are the world’s first ChatGPT-4o powered smart glasses for interactive input

Smart glasses are the most practical wearables when it comes to your daily style statement. Compared to current generation AR headsets that are bulky, smart...
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Smart glasses are the most practical wearables when it comes to your daily style statement. Compared to current generation AR headsets that are bulky, smart glasses are feasible and the buck only stops at how much tech can be fitted inside the compact frames keeping the overall weight down and form factor indistinguishable from a regular pair.

The idea has gone mainstream in the last year or so with Ray-Ban Meta and OPPO coming on board the bandwagon. The latter brought AI-capable Air Glass 3 to the industry in the early half of this year, and Solos has now upped the ante. They’ve revealed a smarter pair of wearables that are the world’s first to have OpenAI’s latest generative AI.

Designer: Solos

This is the AirGo Vision, the next iteration of the AirGo 3 glasses. Powered by OpenAI’s latest ChatGPT-4o, the wearable is also compatible with Google Gemini and Anthropic Claude models. You can expect hands-free operation aided by voice commands to answer any queries or provide real-time inputs for things like reading foreign language hoardings or getting assistance for city directions. The latter is aided by the latest versions of the GPT-4o and generative AI applications, first for any smart glasses. In essence, the glasses will be a visual extension of search information and bring interactive features to make them wantable.

The wearer can capture pictures hands-free and instantly inquire about information. Solos is also giving the option for swapping the main frame with a secondary one that doesn’t have any front camera. Yes, unlike other smart glasses, this one has the camera lens embedded in the arms, instead of the frame. This swap comes in handy for places where a more formal style is acceptable. To keep the wearer aware of any important notifications or calls, there are flashing LED indicators on the frame.

Solos hasn’t yet revealed details about the specific release date or the price, but we can safely assume they’ll cost more than $250.

The post Solos AirGo Vision are the world’s first ChatGPT-4o powered smart glasses for interactive input first appeared on Yanko Design.

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From Vibram FiveFingers to Junya Watanabe x New Balance: A History of Minimalist Shoes https://www.yankodesign.com/2024/06/30/from-vibram-fivefingers-to-junya-watanabe-x-new-balance-a-history-of-minimalist-shoes/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=from-vibram-fivefingers-to-junya-watanabe-x-new-balance-a-history-of-minimalist-shoes Sun, 30 Jun 2024 17:20:38 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=497209

From Vibram FiveFingers to Junya Watanabe x New Balance: A History of Minimalist Shoes

My fascination with minimalist footwear has spanned over three decades, starting with the revolutionary concept of shoes that mimic the natural feel of barefoot walking....
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My fascination with minimalist footwear has spanned over three decades, starting with the revolutionary concept of shoes that mimic the natural feel of barefoot walking. This journey began with the iconic Vibram FiveFingers, those unique toe shoes with Vibram soles. While they looked quite unconventional, they provided an unmatched experience. I wore them everywhere, from casual outings to more formal settings like church, embracing the natural foot movement they offered.

My FiveFingers: The Original Barefoot Toe Shoes

Designer: Vibram

Back in the day, another minimalist trend I embraced was karate shoes. Over 30 years ago, these martial arts training shoes, also known as kung fu shoes, gained popularity beyond their intended use. Their simple, lightweight design made them a favorite for those seeking a close-to-the-ground feel, similar to what the FiveFingers provided. These shoes were comfortable, flexible, and offered a sense of freedom that traditional footwear couldn’t match.

Fast-forward to the present and my love for minimalist footwear has evolved but remains strong. Today, I find myself drawn to modern interpretations of this concept, like the Onitsuka Tiger shoes, which blend minimalist principles with stylish design. But one of the most exciting developments in this space is the collaboration between Junya Watanabe MAN and New Balance.

Designer: Onitsuka

The Junya Watanabe MAN x New Balance Minimus UX200L is part of the Spring & Summer 2025 collection titled “Dress Up Denim.” This collaboration brings together New Balance’s expertise in minimalist footwear with Junya Watanabe’s avant-garde fashion sensibilities, resulting in a shoe that is both functional and stylish. The shoes maintain a streamlined, low-profile design, characteristic of the Minimus line, promoting natural foot movement and a barefoot-like feel. Available in both black and white colorways, they offer versatility and a clean, modern look suitable for various settings.

Via tysikd: Junya Watanabe MAN x New Balance Minimus UX200L

The upper is made of a breathable mesh material with geometric patterns, ensuring ventilation and a lightweight structure. Perforations on the upper and tongue enhance airflow, keeping feet cool and comfortable during wear. Featuring a Vibram outsole, the shoes provide excellent traction and durability. The intricate geometric tread pattern ensures stability and grip on various surfaces. The sole’s flexibility complements the barefoot feel, allowing natural foot movements while providing necessary protection.

Designer: Junya Watanabe MAN and New Balance Minimus UX200L

Via tysikd

The New Balance branding is subtly incorporated into the design, maintaining the minimalist ethos. The Junya Watanabe MAN label is prominently displayed on the tongue, highlighting the collaboration and adding a touch of exclusivity. Designed for both performance and style, these shoes are suitable for activities ranging from trail running to casual everyday wear. They blend practicality with fashion-forward elements, appealing to a wide audience. These shoes represent the best of both worlds, combining the functional benefits of minimalist footwear with the distinctive style of Junya Watanabe’s designs. For someone who has journeyed through various phases of minimalist footwear, from Vibram FiveFingers to karate shoes, this modern interpretation is both a nod to the past and a step forward.

Via tysikd

Minimalist shoes offer several benefits that attract a variety of people. Designed to mimic barefoot walking and running, they allow for a more natural foot movement, which can help strengthen the muscles in the feet and lower legs, often underused in traditional footwear. With less cushioning and support, minimalist shoes can enhance your sense of balance and proprioception, the awareness of your body’s position in space, leading to better coordination and agility. Some advocates believe that minimalist shoes can reduce the risk of certain injuries by encouraging a more natural gait, potentially avoiding issues like heel striking, which can lead to repetitive stress injuries. The thin soles provide greater sensory feedback from the ground, improving reaction time and movement efficiency. Typically lightweight and highly flexible, minimalist shoes are comfortable for various activities and easy to pack for travel.

Via tysikd

People attracted to minimalist shoes often include runners, outdoor enthusiasts, fitness aficionados, and those interested in natural movement and barefoot training. These shoes appeal to individuals seeking a more natural and unencumbered experience, whether for running, hiking or everyday wear.

NEW BALANCE – MENS MINIMUS UX200

NEW BALANCE – MENS MINIMUS UX200

NEW BALANCE – MENS MINIMUS UX200

As a fan of Bad Bunny’s unique style, I find the collaboration between Bad Bunny and Adidas an exciting development in the world of footwear. This partnership combines Bad Bunny’s vibrant and bold fashion sense with Adidas’ renowned expertise in athletic shoe design. Fresh off a restock of their previous collaborations, Bad Bunny and Adidas appear to be making room for the next chapter of their relationship. The new “ballerina” sneaker, teased recently, showcases Bad Bunny’s unique style.

Designer: Bad Bunny and Adidas

Bad Bunny x Adidas

Based on Adidas’ Taekwondo model, these shoes offer superior comfort and support. The sneaker features a snug canvas construction and a normal collar, differing from the elastic detailing of past models. Features like responsive cushioning and durable outsoles ensure that the shoes perform well in various conditions. The collaboration utilizes premium materials to provide durability and a luxurious feel. This ensures that the shoes not only look good but also last long and maintain their quality over time. The sneaker offers convenient adjustable laces for easy on-off ability, blending style with practicality.

The collaboration is marked by exclusive branding elements from both Bad Bunny and Adidas, adding a layer of collectability and uniqueness to the shoes. The iconic Three-Stripes logos are slightly raised, and the shoes are topped off with classic splashes of white and black hues. These Bad Bunny x Adidas “ballerina” shoes are more than just footwear; they make a bold statement with their striking design and unique patterns, embodying Bad Bunny’s signature style. Whether you’re a fan of Bad Bunny, a sneaker enthusiast, or someone who appreciates innovative design, these shoes offer something special.

The post From Vibram FiveFingers to Junya Watanabe x New Balance: A History of Minimalist Shoes first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Flipper Zero Behind The Scenes: How a group of enthusiasts designed the ‘perfect’ ethical hacking toy https://www.yankodesign.com/2024/06/30/flipper-zero-behind-the-scenes-how-a-group-of-enthusiasts-designed-the-perfect-ethical-hacking-toy/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=flipper-zero-behind-the-scenes-how-a-group-of-enthusiasts-designed-the-perfect-ethical-hacking-toy Sun, 30 Jun 2024 11:40:54 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=496499

Flipper Zero Behind The Scenes: How a group of enthusiasts designed the ‘perfect’ ethical hacking toy

Although announced back in 2020, the Flipper Zero didn’t become a cult object up until 2022 when it gained popularity among the pentesting community for...
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Although announced back in 2020, the Flipper Zero didn’t become a cult object up until 2022 when it gained popularity among the pentesting community for being able to ‘hack’ into various everyday items. Governments and online retailers immediately panicked, attempting to ban or stop the sale of the Flipper Zero – a harmless game-inspired pentesting device… while the community that helped popularize the Flipper Zero had a valid counter-argument. If exposing the digital vulnerability of everyday objects like traffic lights, cars, air conditioners, or smart homes was so easy, is it really the Flipper Zero’s fault for pointing it out?

Old mobile phones like the Siemens C55 served as references. The orange color was taken from the Siemens C55 screen because of its nostalgic warmth.

Envisioned as a Tamagotchi that let you explore the world of electronics, the Flipper Zero is a tiny, handheld, versatile device that lets you play games, test electronics, build powerful devices, and even penetration-test gadgets around you. The product gained a cult following in 2022 when videos on TikTok showed how it could be used to clone RFID cards, tap into WiFi networks, and get into all sorts of mischief. That’s similar to having an outcry over hairpins because they open locks… or sellotape because it picks up fingerprints. Needless to say, the Flipper Zero sold out almost immediately, and I spent a good year and a half searching for a device of my own on eBay and Etsy. I finally got my hands on one last month, and even got in touch with the folks who built the Flipper Zero. Beyond asking them the obvious questions that every publication already had, we dove into the Flipper Zero’s approach, its design brief, and most importantly, its design process.

A view of the GPIO pins on the top for attaching newer modules

The IR blaster on the side, and the iButton reader/writer

The minute you understand the Flipper Zero’s origin story, its design makes a world of sense. It was envisioned in 2020 to help develop a more common interest in technology, cybersecurity, and electronics. Existing products in this domain were just way too complicated and boring – they had ultra-utilitarian designs, bare-basic aesthetics, wires, soldering, and they looked like something that would come out of an engineer’s workshop. This was in contrast to what sci-fi movies had us believe. Minority Report, Tron, The Matrix, Bladerunner, every movie showed a more concept-art-driven product future, but existing ‘hacker’ devices looked nothing like the ones we were used to seeing in movies. This was a great starting point for the folks at Flipper, who wanted to create a device that A. paid homage to decades of sci-fi films, and B. was the electronic equivalent of an EDC multitool – compact, multifunctional, awesome. “In a Swiss army knife, you have a blade, corkscrew, screwdriver, ruler, scissors, etc., all in one tool. The idea of the Flipper Zero was to combine all the hardware tools you’d need for exploration and development on the go,” the Flipper team told Yanko Design. “Flipper Zero has a 125 kHz or Sub-1 GHz antenna, CC1101 chip, built-in NFC module, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) support, 1-Wire connector to read iButton contact keys, infrared transmitter, and a microSD card slot. All in a toy-like body.” Moreover, despite all these features, the Flipper Zero came with GPIO handles on the top that let you explore the device’s open-source nature by adding PCB hardware and exploring even more features and capabilities.

Flipper Zero development process

The Flipper Zero’s design is actually pure genius if you look at how much they’ve managed to squeeze into a product that small. Yes, I did ask them whether they considered making something with a touchscreen, or something phone-like, but the Tamagotchi approach seemed to be the most convenient route – it was uncomplicated, and could be done without expensive OLED displays and other hardware. Ultimately, it did lend to the Flipper Zero’s overall charm, with its monochrome orange screen that was a hat-tip to the Siemens C55. “We went through several design iterations to achieve this functionality and look, constantly overcoming challenges in electronics design, component limitations, and multiple antenna designs,” the Flipper team mentioned. “For example, the first version of the hardware used an off-the-shelf main PCB, but we eventually decided to design our own. This gave us more freedom and flexibility regarding the shape and form of the device while also giving us more control over the supply chain and costs.”

Inspiration moodboard for the Flipper Zero’s Cyberpunk Design

The entire device is nothing without its mascot, the cyberpunk dolphin that forms the essence of the Flipper Zero’s experience. It functions quite literally as a Tamagotchi, growing and being happier and happier the more you explore the device’s features and play with the product. The idea of using the dolphin existed way back in the beginning, and you could think of the product’s shape as somewhat resembling a dolphin’s flipper too, albeit with sharper, cyberpunk-ish edges. The team told us, “The main inspiration was William Gibson’s cyber-dolphin Jones, from Johnny Mnemonic, who had a dark biography and could do very dangerous things. Our dolphin is a quirky, queer, and enthusiastic but simple and nice guy at the same time. We wanted to create a character that you’d want to be friends with.” The dolphin’s persona received a lot of design experimentation as it essentially was to serve as the product’s mascot, guiding you through the features, exploring uncharted electronic territories with you, and forming a codependent bond that allows you to get more and more familiar with and attached to your Flipper Zero. You loved your Game Boy because of all the Pokemon you caught, grew, and evolved on it – the same would apply to the Flipper Zero.

Sketches of in-house modules for the Flipper Zero

However, as a non-hacker myself (and with no coding background), owning a Flipper Zero was still quite an interesting experience. The interface immediately felt familiar to a guy who grew up on Nokia and Sony Ericsson phones, and the internet is FILLED with documentation and tutorials that allow folks like me to figure out how to use the Flipper Zero. For now, I’m proud to say that I managed to clone my buddy’s car key fob and can open her doors remotely. All done with consent, though. The device also allows me to save RFID cards, NFC codes, and even be prankish enough to change channels on televisions or control air conditioners using the infrared function. All these are gradual steps, and the interface makes it exceptionally simple to navigate. You can even play games on the Flipper Zero like Solitaire, Doom, Pong, Snake, and Tetris. Additionally, you can set a Pomodoro timer or metronome, check the nearest weather station, or encrypt a message to your friend using Caesar Cipher or Morse code apps. For anything else, there’s a burgeoning Flipper community that routinely explores everything the Flipper Zero has to offer, discussing new features, writing new lines of code, or creating new apps. After all, with more than half a million devices sold, there’s clearly a massive sub-culture of loyal Flipper Zero users ready to tinker with anything they find, just the way our parents were encouraged to take a screwdriver and pull apart objects so they could learn how to repair them. It’s an art that seems lost on our generation, especially with how complicated devices have gotten, and how ruthless companies are when it comes to creating terms and conditions that prevent us from looking under the hoods of the gadgets we own.

The Flipper Zero is just the beginning, though. Given the movement it stands for, and the resounding success of their flagship device, Flipper’s team is just getting started. They’re continuously working on new modules that can be attached to the Flipper Zero, giving it even more powerful new features… and yes, there’s a Flipper One in the works, although they’re pretty hush-hush about it right now!

Limited-edition transparent version of the Flipper Zero

The post Flipper Zero Behind The Scenes: How a group of enthusiasts designed the ‘perfect’ ethical hacking toy first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Put a Wind Tunnel on Your Desk and Experience Dynamic Aerodynamics with Windsible https://www.yankodesign.com/2024/06/29/put-a-wind-tunnel-on-your-desk-and-experience-dynamic-aerodynamics-with-windsible/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=put-a-wind-tunnel-on-your-desk-and-experience-dynamic-aerodynamics-with-windsible Sun, 30 Jun 2024 01:45:53 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=496851

Put a Wind Tunnel on Your Desk and Experience Dynamic Aerodynamics with Windsible

Your static die-cast car collection springs to life with the Windsible Wind Tunnel, a marvel of miniaturized engineering. Visual fluid dynamics ignite as air sweeps...
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Your static die-cast car collection springs to life with the Windsible Wind Tunnel, a marvel of miniaturized engineering. Visual fluid dynamics ignite as air sweeps over each model, and smoke trails accentuate every curve and contour. These models simulate racing through a gust of wind, mimicking the thrill of a racetrack or the precision of a design lab. Enhanced lighting transforms each car into a spectacle of speed, creating a scene reminiscent of a Formula 1 team’s testing facility right on your desk.

The beauty of Windsible lies in its ability to replicate real-world aerodynamic testing on a miniature scale. Watching your models respond to airflow gives you a new appreciation for the intricate designs and engineering that go into each vehicle. Visualizing how air interacts with different car shapes gives you insights into the principles of aerodynamics, offering both entertainment and education in a single, captivating package.

Designers: Jayden Han and Jarvis Jiang

Click Here to Buy Now: $129 $239 (46% off). Hurry, only a few left! Raised over $165,000.

Compact and Versatile Design

Windsible’s design is compact and portable, seamlessly fitting into any space, from a professional office to a cozy home. The device’s sleek, futuristic look complements your decor, whether on a desk, a living room shelf, or a display cabinet. Its portability means quickly moving it around, showcasing your collection in different settings, and sharing the excitement with others.

Imagine bringing Windsible to a car club meeting, where fellow enthusiasts can marvel at the dynamic displays. Or place it in your office, where it can serve as a conversation starter and a stress reliever during breaks. The ease of setup and use makes it a versatile addition to any environment.

Customizable Interactive Features

Customization is at the heart of Windsible. The LED lighting can be adjusted to highlight different aspects of each model, creating a fresh and exhilarating display every time. Interchangeable smoke nozzles allow you to create various visual effects, enhancing the realism and visual appeal of the display. This feature enables you to experiment and find the perfect setup that best showcases your models.

These interactive features make every display session with Windsible a unique experience. Each session becomes an opportunity to explore new ways to highlight the beauty and design of your car models, making Windsible a dynamic addition to your hobby.

Educational and Engaging

Windsible brings the science of aerodynamics to life. In the professional realm, wind tunnels are essential for testing and refining designs. By using Windsible, you can explore these principles in a hands-on way. It’s like having a miniature version of a wind tunnel testing facility at your disposal, perfect for both learning and fun.

Imagine a sleek sports car model competing in aerodynamic efficiency against a scale model of a cheeseburger. As smoke trails highlight the airflow, you gain a vivid demonstration of fluid dynamics. This interactive feature turns every test into a captivating lesson, perfect for sparking curiosity and innovation in both young and old. Windsible is a valuable tool for classrooms, workshops, and personal study.

This hands-on approach to learning makes complex scientific concepts accessible and engaging. Visualizing how air flows over different shapes helps you better understand the factors that influence aerodynamics. This knowledge can inspire new ideas and innovations, whether you’re an aspiring engineer, a student, or a curious enthusiast.

Comprehensive Protection and Versatility

Protecting your valuable die-cast models is crucial, and Windsible addresses this with a robust design. The dustproof and shockproof features ensure each model remains pristine, safeguarding them from potential damage. The gentle, oil-based smoke in the display protects the models, avoiding the possible harm that water mist could cause.

Available in three scales—1:18, 1:24, and 1:64—Windsible caters to various model sizes, ensuring every car in your collection gets the spotlight it deserves. This versatility suits many enthusiasts, from casual collectors to dedicated hobbyists. The durable construction and thoughtful design elements ensure your collection is always safe and well-presented.

The Journey and Community

Windsible’s journey began with a spark of inspiration at Cranfield University, ignited by Steven Smith, an engineer passionate about aviation and vehicles. The blend of Steven’s aviation expertise and vehicle design knowledge laid the foundation for this innovative product. He joined forces with Axia Rossi from Politecnico di Torino, who brought her deep understanding of vehicle engineering, and Jayden Brown, a vehicle designer, who added his flair for creating visually appealing designs. Their combined expertise ensured Windsible was technically sound, visually appealing, and user-friendly.

The development process was highly collaborative, involving feedback from model car enthusiasts and experts. Tank Johnson, an enthusiastic member of their Discord group, played a crucial role in managing external communication and gathering user insights. This community-driven approach ensured that the final product met the needs and expectations of its users. By listening to the voices of the community, the Windsible team refined and perfected the design, resulting in a product that truly resonates with its audience.

Embrace the Future of Model Display

Transform how you showcase and interact with your die-cast car models using Windsible’s cutting-edge technology, interactive features, and sleek design. Imagine your collection coming to life, each model animated by a miniaturized wind tunnel on your desk. Adjustable LED lighting and interchangeable smoke nozzles allow you to personalize your display, turning every interaction into a new adventure. This hands-on tool makes aerodynamics accessible, inspiring curiosity and innovation for students, educators, and enthusiasts alike.

Windsible’s dustproof and shockproof design ensures your models remain pristine, while versatile sizing caters to various collections. Rooted in expertise and community feedback, Windsible meets the highest technical and visual excellence standards. Join the community to experience the art and science of car model design in a new way. This ultimate desktop wind tunnel brings excitement, education, and enjoyment to your collection, making it an indispensable tool for every car model enthusiast.

Click Here to Buy Now: $129 $239 (46% off). Hurry, only a few left! Hurry, only a few left! Raised over $165,000.

The post Put a Wind Tunnel on Your Desk and Experience Dynamic Aerodynamics with Windsible first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Wave-Shaped Data Center Is Europe’s Biggest 3D-Printed Building Constructed In Only 140 Hours https://www.yankodesign.com/2024/06/29/wave-shaped-data-center-is-europes-biggest-3d-printed-building-constructed-in-only-140-hours/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=wave-shaped-data-center-is-europes-biggest-3d-printed-building-constructed-in-only-140-hours Sat, 29 Jun 2024 23:30:17 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=496997

Wave-Shaped Data Center Is Europe’s Biggest 3D-Printed Building Constructed In Only 140 Hours

Located in Heidelberg, the Wave House is designed to be a new data center in the urban heart of Germany. Designed by SSV and Mense...
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Located in Heidelberg, the Wave House is designed to be a new data center in the urban heart of Germany. Designed by SSV and Mense Korte, and built by Peri 3D Construction for the developer KrausGruppe, the Wave House was 3D-printed, adding an element of style and personality to the rather mundane arena of cloud-computing infrastructure. The end result is Europe’s largest 3D-printed building! The building measures 6600 sq ft and has a rather unique appearance, in an attempt to draw attention and make it unlike the typical 3D-printed structures we come across.

Designer: SSV, Mense Korte & Peri 3D Construction

“Due to the typical absence of windows and large openings in all or the main areas of data centers, for safety and other reasons, data centers tend to look quite dull and uninspiring,” said a press release by COBOD. “As long as such data centers are placed far outside the cities this problem is perhaps of less concern, but the trend towards making data centers more in the vicinity of the users and therefore locate them in suburban areas and cities has created a need to make the data centers more visually appealing.

This issue was resolved by imparting the walls with an innovative wave design, which also lends the building its name. The fascinating waves could not have been built using traditional construction methods, hence 3D-printed technology was adopted, to support creative and design freedom while producing the walls.

The construction process of the Wave House is similar to other 3D-printed projects we’ve come across. It was printed using a single COBOD BOD2 printer, the same model that has been utilized to build other 3D-printed buildings of importance. The printer extrudes a recyclable cement-like mixture in layers via a nozzle. This is done at a rate of 43 sq ft per hour to create the exterior walls which have a length of 177 ft, a width of 35 ft, and a height of 29.5 ft.

The entire printing process involved around 140 hours, after which, finishing touches were added to the project by humans. These touches include the doors, roof, lighting, as well as the wiring and gear needed for a data center well-connected to the internet. A robotic painter by Deutsche Amphibolin-Werke was utilized to paint the interiors of the building. How cool!

The post Wave-Shaped Data Center Is Europe’s Biggest 3D-Printed Building Constructed In Only 140 Hours first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Side table and shelf uses monochromatic lines and dots springing up from the ground https://www.yankodesign.com/2024/06/29/side-table-and-shelf-uses-monochromatic-lines-and-dots-springing-up-from-the-ground/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=side-table-and-shelf-uses-monochromatic-lines-and-dots-springing-up-from-the-ground Sat, 29 Jun 2024 22:30:40 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=497058

Side table and shelf uses monochromatic lines and dots springing up from the ground

When it comes to side tables and shelves, I’m the kind of person who prefers it to be functional (also, affordable) rather than aesthetic. But...
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When it comes to side tables and shelves, I’m the kind of person who prefers it to be functional (also, affordable) rather than aesthetic. But there are also those who prefer for their furniture to be both functional and also pieces of art. Fortunately, there are a lot of designers out there who are experimenting with form while still making them useful as their original purpose.

Designer: Taeg Nishimoto, TN/MOS

Lines and dots is one such kind of furniture wherein the side-table and free-standing shelf are both pieces that you can use to place your items but can also double as sculptures in your space. It uses various materials like clay, wood, sisal twine, discarded concrete chunk, and liquid rubber to bring you something that looks pretty unique with its “spontaneous geometry” kind of design.

The lines are actually intertwining pieces of twine that start from the bottom and up. The concrete chunk that serves as the base is used to attach the sisal twine which also passes through the circular, horizontal planes in the middle. Those planes are the shelves and even though they are round, they are not perfectly circular so you get a sense of movement. The twine lines are covered in clay by hand and the traces of the fingers applying it are left there. Afterwards, all parts of the side table and shelves are covered with white liquid rubber while the clay lines get black dots.

Since the side table and shelves are in white with black dots, it comes “alive” when you place objects with vibrant colors on it. The entire look of these lines and dots gives the impression that your furniture actually “grew” vertically from the ground up. You can only place a few objects on it because of its small size but the main point is adding to the aesthetic of your space.

The post Side table and shelf uses monochromatic lines and dots springing up from the ground first appeared on Yanko Design.

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