This Odu concept is by Hungary-based industrial designer Alberto Vasquez. It's a series of modular cubes holding omnidirectional drawers.The drawers register in the center position via detentes. And here's an interesting detail: When you lift one of the units up to move it, the drawer is meant to sink into a channel, preventing it from falling out. (However, while I see the arrangement in the right half of the animation below, I'm not seeing it in the left.)

Wege Prize, organized by Kendall College of Art and Designs Wege Center for Sustainable Design with support from the Wege Foundation, is an annual competition that ignites game-changing solutions for the future by inspiring college/university students around the world to collaborate across institutional, disciplinary, and cultural boundaries to redesign the way economies work. Participants contend for $65,000 (USD) in total cash prizes, all while helping to show the world what the future of proView the full content here

This SmartDrive is by Permobil, a company that makes mobility solutions for those with disabilities. It's a wheelchair add-on that provides a power assist, making it easier for users to open doors, deal with inclines, or simply travel further while reducing fatigue.Users control the device by means of either a wired speed controller, or via smartwatch. If using the latter option, users double-tap their hand against a surfacetheir knee, or the wheelchair itselfin order to start and stop. I was curious as to how well this would work, and you can see a demonstration in the user review below, where the reviewer runs down the good and the bad of the device:It seems the connectivity issues need to be addressed, which is a technical issue. On the physical design front, they could certainly use a better way to attach the device to the wheelchair; it looks incredibly frustrating.The units retail for $229.

It is fascinating to see what tradespeople fabricate for themselves to make their jobs easier. And for every Studley Tool Chest, there are probably thousands of unseen objects like in languishing in attics and basements.Tested's Adam Savage collects 19th- and 20th-century linesman's tools. This month he acquired a rare find: A handmade custom tool bag used by a 20th-century linesman. Purpose-built, this humble-looking bag is utilitarian design at its finest.The variety of materials used to make it suggests a careful attention to detail, function and manufacturability. The structure of the bag is leather, and the handle is attached by copper rivets, the insides of which have been well-flattened, even the ones near the bottom of the bag; its maker knew enough to take care of this before attaching the bag's bottom, which is made out of wood, by the way. (I'm guessing because the racetrack shape of the bottom is easy to make out of wood, and easy to replace if worn out.) The tool-organizing insert is made out of aluminum, presumably selected for its light weight; remember that a linesman would be scaling a pole with this slung over his shoulder. A second dogleg-shaped tool organizer, placed on the outside/non-body-interfacing edge of the bag, is made out of brass; this was obviously chosen for its easy workability. You can clearly see that the cutouts have been made by drilling holes, then using a file to connect them. "Whoever had this spent a lot of time making it right," Savage enthuses. "This was lovingly constructed by someone who was more than a passing enthusiast with leather, less than a master craftsman." Savage points out that he's not casting aspersions, but rather highlighting the dedication of the maker, who did his best to perfect something he would use every day. Here's the video of Savage going over every detail of the tool bag. If you want to skip the preamble and get straight to the bag, jump to 5:20 in the video. If I was a billionaire, I'd open up a museum filled with objects like this. Admission for ID students would be free.

Tecnos entry into the foldable smartphone market began with the Phantom V Fold 5G and the V Flip 5G. These devices introduced a fresh take on smartphone design, offering the flexibility of foldable screens and compact form factors. With the launch of the Phantom V Fold 2 and V Flip 2, Tecno has made notable improvements, focusing on design, functionality, and user experience. This article explores the changes between these first and second generations, showing how Tecno has refined its approach to meet modern needs.Phantom V Fold 5G vs. V Fold 2: A Thoughtful RedesignTecno Phantom V Fold 2 with new stylusDesign and Build QualityThe Phantom V Fold 5G featured a bold design with a large, circular camera bump that stood out on the back of the phone. This prominent feature added thickness, making the phone feel bulkier. While it made a statement, the design wasnt for everyone. Some found it too pronounced, disrupting the phones overall balance.Tecno Phantom V Fold 5G rear-facing camera setupTecno Phantom V Fold 5GLooking at the V Fold 2, Tecno appears to have taken a different approach, opting for a more streamlined and integrated camera module. The redesigned camera bump blends into the back of the phone, offering a cleaner look. This likely results in a phone that feels less bulky in hand, improving comfort during use. Adding a stylus is smart and appealing to users who want to take notes, sketch, or work on the go. This shift makes the V Fold 2 a versatile tool for personal and professional tasks.Tecno Phantom V Fold 2Display ImprovementsThe display on the V Fold 2 seems to show clear advancements over the first model. The V Fold had a decent screen with a 120Hz refresh rate, which provided a smooth experience, but users often noticed the crease in the screen, which detracted from the overall experience.Tecno Phantom V Fold 5GWith the V Fold 2, Tecno likely addressed these issues. The new model looks like it offers better brightness, more accurate colors, and perhaps improved crease management, making the internal screen more durable and enjoyable to use. The cover display also appears to have seen improvements in size and usability, allowing users to interact with the phone more easily when its closed.V Flip vs. V Flip 2: Embracing Trends with Functional UpgradesDesign and UsabilityTecno Phantom V Flip 2The Tecno V Flip introduced users to a new form factor with its flip-style design, but it was clear that there was room for refinement. The V Flips design was characterized by a large, circular camera bump that dominated the front of the device when closed, along with a smaller cover display embedded within this bump. While this design choice was unique, it limited the functionality of the cover display, making it less practical for everyday use.Tecno Phantom V Flip 5G Camera SetupThe V Flip 2, on the other hand, embraces the industry trend toward larger cover displays, significantly enhancing its usability. The cover display on the V Flip 2 looks larger and more functional, offering more screen real estate for interactions, notifications, and even quick replies without the need to open the device. This is a clear improvement over the V Flip, where the smaller cover display was often seen as a compromise.Camera Bump EvolutionThe camera bump on the V Flip 2 also appears to have undergone a redesign, moving away from the bold, circular module of the V Flip to a more integrated dual-camera setup. This change reflects a broader trend in smartphone design toward more streamlined, less intrusive camera modules. The V Flip 2s camera bump will likely be smaller and more seamlessly integrated into the back panel, contributing to a more cohesive and modern design.Tecno Phantom V Flip 2 cover display and camera setupThis evolution in design enhances the V Flip 2s aesthetic appeal while making it more practical. The reduction in bulk around the camera area suggests that the device is easier to handle and fits more comfortably in pockets or bags.Performance and FeaturesThe V Flip 2 is expected to feature performance upgrades similar to those in the V Fold 2, including a newer chipset that supports faster processing speeds and better multitasking capabilities. The original V Flip was functional but not groundbreaking in terms of performance, so these improvements should be well-received by users looking for a more responsive device.Battery life and charging are also areas where the V Flip 2 could see significant enhancements. A larger battery and faster charging technology would make the V Flip 2 more convenient for users constantly on the go, reducing the need for frequent recharging.A Promising Step ForwardThe transition from the Phantom V Fold to the V Fold 2 and from the V Flip to the V Flip 2 represents a promising step forward for Tecno. The brand seems to have addressed many of the shortcomings of its first-generation foldable devices, embracing design trends and enhancing functionality to appeal to a broader audience. Whether its the sleeker, more integrated camera designs, the improved displays, or the inclusion of a stylus for productivity, Tecnos latest offerings appear ready to compete more aggressively in the foldable smartphone market. However, it remains to be seen how these changes will resonate with users once the devices are widely used.For those who value a balance between cutting-edge technology, practical everyday usability, and thoughtful design, the V Fold 2 and V Flip 2 offer compelling choices. Additionally, price and value will play crucial roles in determining the success of these models as Tecno positions itself in the competitive foldable market.The post Tecnos Foldable Journey: The Evolution in Design from Phantom V Fold 5G to V Fold 2, and V Flip 5G to V Flip 2 first appeared on Yanko Design.

Grotesque alien creatures will probably be trending again thanks to the revival of a long-running movie franchise, but all extraterrestrial creatures will look horrifying. They might be breathtaking, defying all the preconceived notions of our limited human minds. They might not even be organic, at least as defined by what we know on earth. If we ever encountered an inorganic, metallic alien that didnt look like any biped or quadruped Earthbound creature, it could probably look like this metal stool with its symmetric tentacles that seemingly invite you to approach and, well, sit on it for your comfort.Designer: Riley MacKayAlien references aside, this metal and wood stool definitely doesnt look like your typical piece of furniture. There are technically still four legs, though they look double that number because of how each leg splits into two. The legs seemingly turn and swirl around the center of the stool, giving the impression of tentacles moving around a metallic creature.Unlike what youd see from a jellyfish or octopus, however, there is a strict symmetry to the stools geometric design. The legs protrude at a specific angle away from the body and to the side, creating the shape of a spinning star when the stool is viewed from the top. This design provides both visual and mechanical balance, giving the stool stability despite its seemingly thin and flat legs.There is also a sustainability angle to the Metal Stool, though perhaps a bit indirectly. The legs are made from sheet metal while the seat is birch wood, both of which can be sourced from sustainable or renewable options. The minimalist design could mean that these parts can be taken from factory offcuts as well, providing a new purpose for otherwise discarded and wasted materials.The Metal Stool is a prime example of a simple and subtle design that manages to look quite stunning just by shifting the formula just a little bit. Whether it reminds you of aliens, jellyfish, or abstract art, the stool has the same effect of catching your attention and adding a unique character to any space. And, of course, you can sit on it as well without fear of toppling over or, worse, being taken by metal tentacles into the depths of a dark void.The post Alien-like metal stool concept inspires awe rather than fear first appeared on Yanko Design.

My ideal place to live in is one that is near enough to the sea that I can go to it whenever I want but still be able to live in the city and all its creature comforts. Having a river where I can also swim in and do other activities without spending hours to go there would be the next best thing. Alas, I currently dont live in a place like that so I have to live vicariously through other people who live in cities that are blessed to be near bodies of water.Designers: X Atelier and Atelier BAUMLisbon is one such city although the nearby River Tagus is not immediately accessible to the city center. A couple of architectural firms have teamed up to propose an urban swimming pool to connect both residents and tourists to the river directly without having to travel or at least spend hours stuck in traffic jams. The Loop Pool Tejo is inspired by the movement of the water and wants to make several aquatic pursuits easier to access for whoever wants to spend a day at the river. It uses the industrial area of the Brao de Prata pontoon as the link from the city to the river.From the pontoon, you get a walkway to the circular center in the midst of the river which actually draws the circulation flow around it. There is a solarium and amphitheater facing the west and to the south, there is a second slope where people can sit and rest if they get tired from swimming. Its also the entry point to other activities like paddling and rowing. The west wing also has a diving jump point into the tank in the middle while underneath the water level there is a shaded rest area for those who want to escape the sun. If you just want to sit on the amphitheater, youll get a view of a rippling water drop and the steps around it create a looping effect. Its a pretty interesting structure to place in the city and in the middle of the river and can also be inspiration for other cities that also have a nearby body of water that can be used for recreation. The post Proposed urban swimming pool in Lisbon brings river closer to the city first appeared on Yanko Design.

Handheld gaming consoles are rocking the market again, in no small part thanks to the success of the Nintendo Switch nearly eight years ago. But for all the technological marvels these powerful computers bring today, theyre really just rehashing time-tested formulas, at least when it comes to the way we see and interact with games. Just like with much of computing, were simply seeing images rendered on a flat screen rather than the way we naturally see and interact with the world in three dimensions. Mixed reality and spatial computing are trying to challenge the status quote when it comes to typical computing scenarios, while this concept for a unique kind of console proposes a literally different perspective when it comes to the video games we play.Designers: Tatsuya Kato, Shion Ito, Toshikatsu Nakamura, Toshiki SatoUplight definitely looks like no other gaming console, not just because of the different controller configuration but primarily for the lack of a screen. The design concept flips the convention of game design, with the experience being designed to conform to the unique traits of the console rather than the other way around. In this case, the unique characteristic is a projector hidden in the base of the console that displays the game on three-dimensional acrylic screens that can take on different object shapes specific to the nature of the game.Think about those 3D puzzle games that require you to rotate a cube around to see it from different sides to solve the puzzle, except that cube is a literal and physical cube existing in the real world. This cube, made from translucent acrylic, is mounted on top of the Uplight console and displays the game projected into it. Players can use the consoles unusual controls to move the displayed image around or, better yet, use their own hands to actually turn the cube.The 3D acrylic screen can be any shape, in theory, depending on the game experience being designed. It could, for example, be a giant translucent jellyfish for an aquatic adventure game, or even a tree branch for a game related to planting or vegetation. The possibilities are nearly endless, limited only by the angle that the integrated projector can reach and, of course, the size of the console.That said, such a unique system will require games specifically designed for it, which also means designing new experiences that involve three-dimensional thinking as well as direct tactile interaction. Very few of todays games have that, which will definitely challenge the creativity and ingenuity of game designers should Uplight ever become an actual commercial product.The post Uplight game console concept with an interactive 3D screen changes the way you play first appeared on Yanko Design.

If youre on your way to university this August, then you most definitely need a collection of efficient, functional, and well-designed products to help you reach your utmost potential, and organize your life better. Having the right collection of designs by your side is crucial, as it helps you manage your uni life even better, making sure you complete all your tasks and maintain a healthy and well-planned daily routine. These products not only help you get your university work done easily and efficiently but also help you complete other tasks well. And, weve curated the collection of perfect back-to-university products for you enjoy!1. Van der WaalsMeet Van der Waals a speaker with a 9-inch ferromagnetic visualizer. This intriguing speaker not only lets you listen to music but also see it. Ferrofluid is a magnetic liquid developed by NASA, and it is used in rocket ships to control fuel in Zero Gravity. The designers have used this liquid in their speakers to offer music lovers lovely graphics to accompany their favorite songs.Why is it noteworthy?The speakers have been equipped with stunning illumination, with beautiful LED lights perfectly pairing up with the ferrofluid visuals. You can turn off the lights, and enjoy a drink while listening to your favorite tunes on the Van der Waals.What we likeYou dont simply listen to music, but you also watch itWhat we dislikeThe speakers look a bit difficult to maintain and clean2. Inseparable Notebook PenThe Inseparable NoteBook Pen has been created to be the perfect companion for your notebook. It merges with your notebook, allowing you to pen down your thoughts, memories, and ideas. It features a minimal design, comfy grip, and a seamless ink flow, making it more than just an ordinary writing tool but an important part of your work day.Click Here to Buy Now: $17.00Why is it noteworthy?The pen is simple yet elegant, and it is designed to be a natural and harmonious extension of the notebook. It features a sleek and minimalist form which is excellent for effortless writing. and it showcases timeless and elegant aesthetics which everyone loves.What we likeThe gel ink allows smooth and seamless writingCompact design that easily attaches to your notebookWhat we dislikeIt is positioned outside the notebook space, may cause it to get stained faster.3. MinepotIf youre a university student living alone, then you know how tasking it can be to cook meals for yourself, sometimes you make more than what is required, and either end up wasting the meal, or eating it for three days in a row both scenarios are pretty goddamn terrible. Hence, the Minepot is the ultimate lifesaver for you!Why is it noteworthy?Designed by Yifeeling, the Minepot looks like a food processor at first glance, but it is an air fryer or food fryer type of appliance. It is smaller than most kitchen appliances, and it prepares food for one, and in a quantity that is perfect for different users. You can create the food intake that is just right for you.What we likeOpaque or semi-transparent upper section which allows you to keep an eye on your food as it is being cookedHelps include cooking in your daily ritualWhat we dislikeIts still a concept, so we are unsure how well it would work as an actual product4. Whiteboard NotebookCalled the Whiteboard Notebook, this little stationery product is perfect for students heading back to university. It is an innovative analog notebook designed for the digital age. The notebook combines the power of magnets with a whiteboard-like experience. This notebook utilizes a unique material that allows you to erase pen marks, and reuse the page.Click Here to Buy Now: $79.00Why is it noteworthy?The pages are magnetically attached to the covers, and they can be removed and rearranged as and when needed. This offers you ample space to write and rewrite your different ideas.What we likeThe pages are removable, and they can stick to magnetic surfacesIt is made from an anti-glare material, which lets you easily take photosWhat we dislikeThere arent different options in colors and sizes to choose from, which are preferred by students.5. AirPods/AirPods Pro Neck StrapAnother nifty accessory to have by your side in university is the AirPods Neck Strap. If youre someone who loses their earbuds while working, then this AirPods/AirPods Pro Neck Strap is the design for you! They keep your precious AirPods close to your heart, ensuring you never lose your AirPods or AirPods Pro.Click Here to Buy Now: $39Why is it noteworthy?The neck strap is essentially a woven necklace which is pretty cute. You can wear it around your neck, keeping your precious AirPods close to you at all times. The neck strap is quite functional but also fashionable. It is equipped with the One-Click Magnetic Lock, which ensures the overall safety of your AirPods.What we likeKeeps your AirPods safe and secure, so you never lose themServes as a simple yet stylish fashion accessory around your neckWhat we dislikeSince the AirPods are held by a strap, they can easily get dirty or damaged6. BRuXMeet BRuX a portable pour-over coffee brewer bottle. This compact little pour-over system features fine filter papers, which enhance the sweet undertones with every brew while reducing the harsh acidic taste. The BRuX is very easy to work with, and you can take it anywhere with you to university, work, campground, or any other outdoor adventure.Why is it noteworthy?BRuX is a stainless steel container that is durable, and equipped with double-wall vacuum insulating, making sure your coffee stays hot for hours. The designers had to work with over 30 iterations of their initial idea to get the final product, making BRuX unique and super functional.What we likeEasy-to-carry and portable designElevate the sweet undertones of your coffeeWhat we dislikeYou can only prepare a limited quantity of coffee7. Craftmaster EDC Utility KnifeNamed the Craftmaster EDC Utility Knife, this minimal and stylish EDC knife is designed like an everyday paper cutter. It features an all-metal body, accentuated by a textured knob which allows you to deploy and lock the blade. The handle of the knife is quite weighted and grippy, so you can hold it with ease.Click Here to Buy Now: $79.00Why is it noteworthy?The Utility Knife has a simple and sophisticated aesthetic with a CNC-machined handle and an enclosed blade that is machined to perfection. Since the blade is enclosed, it glides through with smoothness and no difficulty at all, forming a seamless experience.What we likeFeatures a 45 slant to help you open boxes with easeEquipped with a metal scale, making it a multifunctional designWhat we dislikeIt is equipped with a magnetic back, so it can attract small metal parts8. SummyCalled Summy, this dedicated device keeps students connected, while planning out the number of interruptions and distractions they can carry out. The device is a voice messenger, daily planner, timer, and social network to be used among friends, or particularly amongst students in the same class or level. You can send short voice messages to the people in your circle.Why is it noteworthy?Summy makes use of a UI that is made up of small concentric circles and icons that are represented by old-school monochrome 8-bit characters. By tapping on a friends icon, you can send a voice message, and you can also look at your other friends daily schedules. You can even send them a Study with Me request.What we likeHelps you study with your friends, ensuring you look forward to the study sessionsWhat we dislikeIt is a concept, so we are unsure how well it will translate into a tangible product9. StacksSay hello to Stacks a metal cube desk accessory, and desk organizer. The aesthetically pleasing product is made of industrial steel and brass, forming a desk accessory that organizes cords and cables. It is a premium desk accessory that can be used on your desk as an organizer, or even as home decor.Why is it noteworthy?Stacks measures 6.35 mm x 6.3 mm and it is the perfect size for contemporary charging cables, headphones, or any other wires that need to be neatly organized. It is a neat wire passageway and is available in industrial steel and classic brass.What we likeAesthetically pleasing product that looks like a work of artWhat we dislikeIt is pretty small in size, so can be easily misplaced10. Beam BackpackThis is the Beam Backpack the most advanced solar power backpack out there. This solar-powered backpack charges your iPhones, tablets, power banks, or any other device that may need charging. You dont need to be anxious if your precious gadgets are running low on juice, because if the sun is out, it will power your backpack, which will in turn charge your devices.Why is it noteworthy?The Beam Backpack is also waterproof and features a YKK Water Resistant Zipper to keep any water. It has a clever ergonomic design as well as compression shoulder straps which stabilize the weight on your lower back.What we likeEquipped with a unique anti-theft buckle systemUtilizes Miasol Flexible Solar Cells to charge your devices on the goWhat we dislikeThere isnt any option between different sizes and colorsThe post Top 10 Cool University Must-Haves to Help You Gear Up for a Successful Academic Year first appeared on Yanko Design.

The original parkour hero is back for more zombie-stomping.Step back into the shoes of the original Dying Light's hero.