Tag Archives: heat

Laptop cooling system concept extends its back to let air flow even better

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Laptops today have become quite powerful beasts, capable of handling AAA games and even multimedia creation that their predecessors would choke at. But with great power comes great heat generation, the bane of CPU performance and battery life. Keeping a laptop cool has been a very big puzzle for laptop designers, mostly because of the problem of squeezing an efficient cooling system inside an extremely thin chassis. There are many existing solutions available today, ranging from extra large fans to vapor cooling chambers, but this particular concept offers an additional level of thermal management where a portion of the laptop’s rear extends to facilitate better airflow to and from the internals.

Designer: Wistron

Laptop cooling systems might come with different names and gimmicks, but they all function with the same principle. You draw heat away from the processors and battery and blow out the hot air while simultaneously drawing in cooler air. Whether it’s passive cooling with vapor chambers or active cooling with fans, proper airflow is still a critical element in the system. Unfortunately, due to design requirements, laptop air vents are actually small and too few.

This design concept tries to fix that problem by almost literally opening up a part of the laptop in order to create more and bigger openings for air to pass. Dubbed “dynamic airflow,” the design has one part of the laptop extend and move, exposing more vents for better airflow. In this case, it’s the back of the laptop that moves further back once you open up the lid. Conversely, that rear panel retracts again as you close the lid.

This moving part can house the laptop’s “heat module,” which can be, for example, small fans that move the air around. Normally, thermal cooling systems are placed on top of the laptop’s motherboard, which ironically leaves little room for the air to flow. Separating this thermal component not only frees up more space for airflow, it also makes it theoretically possible to make the laptop even thinner with this arrangement.

Of course, it’s easier said than done, as the design will also have come with its own consequences. For one, it makes the laptop design more complicated with more moving parts and mechanisms to extend and retract that component, which, in turn, could introduce structural compromises and new points of failure. Given the company behind the design, we might actually see this dynamic airflow concept tested in the wild by some major laptop manufacturers, which will then give us a better handle on how effective the solution really is.

The post Laptop cooling system concept extends its back to let air flow even better first appeared on Yanko Design.

How the world’s whitest paint can keep buildings cool while also saving the planet

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White is the new black, at least in terms of being the cool color, especially when it comes to minimalist product designs. That said, it can apparently also be literally cool, at least in one form that could also save the world if adopted as a global standard. Pure white isn’t a color you often paint on houses and buildings, but you might actually be tempted to coat your dwelling with the world’s whitest paint for its “extra features” and not because of its aesthetic value (depending on your tastes). Apparently, this ultra-white material is so white that it actually reflects sunlight and the heat that it brings, allowing the surface and, consequently, the building to keep naturally cool, reducing the use of air conditioning machines and electricity, and saving the planet in more ways than one.

Designers: Xiulin Ruan, Purdue University Engineers

Although psychology can play an important role in the choice of colors, so can physics, especially when considering how certain colors and materials can have an effect on the light that touches and bounces off it. Black is black because it absorbs light and doesn’t reflect it back to our eyes, while white is the opposite, reflecting all the colors of the spectrum. When it comes to sunlight, however, it isn’t just light that is reflected but also heat that is sent back to the atmosphere.

This is the kind of effect that Purdue University researchers were aiming for in order to create a more sustainable way to keep surfaces, roofs, and buildings cool without having to use electrical or chemical methods. In this case, the paint’s ability to reflect sunlight is so good, up to 98.1%, that it can effectively cool down the surface it’s on by as much as 18°F (-7.8°C). This means that a building is less likely to absorb heat from sunlight, which effectively translates to savings in energy and money by reducing the need for cooling machines inside.

The whitest paint on Earth also has a second effect that could help save our planet. Because it reflects the heat coming from the sun, it can effectively offset the greenhouse effect that heats up the planet. Best of all, that waste heat doesn’t just get moved to the surface of the atmosphere but goes outside the planet and into outer space.

Purdue University researchers have created a new formula for the world’s whitest paint, making it thinner and lighter. The previous iteration (left) required a layer 0.4 millimeters thick to achieve sub-ambient radiant cooling. The new formulation can achieve similar cooling with a layer just 0.15 millimeters thick. This is thin and light enough for its radiant cooling effects to be applied to vehicles like cars, trains and airplanes. (Purdue University photo/Andrea Felicelli)

This seemingly magical super-reflective property of the world’s whitest paint is thanks to barium sulfate, the same chemical compound used in white photo paper and cosmetics. Because it scatters the light it reflects, it doesn’t blind anyone who wants to bear witness to its all-white beauty. There are still ways for the paint to be improved, especially when it comes to its quality and durability, but there seem to already be many manufacturers and industries interested in putting this innovative whitest paint that could save you money and the planet in the long run.

The post How the world’s whitest paint can keep buildings cool while also saving the planet first appeared on Yanko Design.

How to Keep Your Home Cool Without AC

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Let’s admit it. We live in a world where the increasing effects of climate change and the scorching summer heat is unbearable in many areas. As the temperatures continue to rise, it can be challenging to keep your home cool during the summer without relying on an air conditioner. In addition, the summer heat can lead to heat strokes and exhaustion, making it crucial to implement these methods to keep your home cool without using an AC. By reducing our dependence on air conditioning, we can not only lower our electricity costs but also contribute to a more environmentally friendly approach.

Designer: Cortney Bishop

Use Curtains and Drapes

Designer: Helena Jonsson

Leaving windows uncovered during peak sun hours allows a significant amount of heat to enter your home. Research shows that about 75 percent of sunlight transforms into heat that can penetrate indoors. By covering your windows, especially if they are north or west facing with curtains and drapes, you can prevent the harsh rays of the sun from entering the interiors. Opt for blackout curtains as they act as protective barriers, reflecting sunlight and reducing heat by approximately 33%.

Install Double-Glazed Windows

Designer: U Fit Sash Windows

Double-glazed or insulated windows provide excellent thermal insulation, reducing the amount of heat that enters or exits your home. These modern aluminum or uPVC windows consist of two glass panes filled with inert gases like xenon, argon, or krypton, creating an insulating barrier between the indoors and outdoors. This is an effective way to enhance your air conditioner’s performance, reduce power consumption, and minimize your carbon footprint.

Unplug Appliances

Plugged appliances have the tendency to emit heat even when they are not in use. Hence remember to unplug appliances such as TVs, laptops, dishwashers, washing machines, and dryers, as they can emit heat and contribute to the increase in the indoor temperature. If you are planning to buy a new air conditioner, consider one with a high energy-star rating that can reduce the running cost of the AC.

Install Awnings

Designer: The Terrace Room Company

By installing awnings above windows, you can significantly reduce the amount of heat that comes in. Awnings are available in four shapes, namely sloped, domed, concave, and convex; they can be fixed or retractable and can provide external shading to the windows. They are available in fabric, metal, and polycarbonate.

Insulate Doors and Windows

Weather stripping and caulking around doors and windows is a cost-effective method of preventing heat from entering the indoors. Hence if you notice any gaps in external doors and windows, seal them using weather stripping.

Keep Windows Closed During the Day

Designer: Classy Homes

If the outdoor temperature is higher than the indoor temperature, it is advisable to keep the windows closed. This helps maintain a cooler environment inside your home for a longer period. However, if the temperature cools down at night, you can open the windows before going to bed or early in the morning to let in the cool air. Remember to close the windows when the temperature starts to rise. Additionally, close the doors of any unused rooms, especially if you have a central air conditioning system, to optimize cooling efficiency.

Cross Ventilate

Designer: Romina (toujourspaloma)

Cross ventilation keeps your indoors cool by allowing free airflow through doors and windows. If you have two windows that are opposite or diagonally opposite each other, open them to promote cross ventilation. However, this should be done early morning or after sunset so that the cool breeze enters and facilitates cross-ventilation. It’s a great way to reduce indoor temperature and minimize the need for air conditioning.

Switch on the Fan

Designer: Sofucor Fan

Turning on the fan creates a comfortable indoor environment. In dry climates, you can use an evaporative cooler, which adds moisture to the air and reduces indoor temperature.

Use Exhaust Fans in the Kitchen and Bathroom

Designer: Khushi Suriya (Matter of Space)

Switching on the exhaust fan in the kitchen helps eliminate hot and moist air generated during cooking. Similarly, using the bathroom fan helps expel hot and humid air from indoors to outdoors, especially after a steamy shower.

Swap Incandescent Bulbs

Designer: Carmen Cyrzan

Incandescent bulbs waste approximately 90 percent of the energy they consume. Consider switching to CFL (compact fluorescent lamps) or LED (light-emitting diode) bulbs. Not only do they help keep your home cooler, but they also reduce your electricity bill, have lower carbon emissions, and do not contribute to global warming. During the day, it is advisable to maximize the use of natural light by refraining from switching on the lights.

Install a Dehumidifier

Designer: Xiaomi

In humid climates, high humidity levels can make the summer months uncomfortable. Therefore, investing in a dehumidifier can help maintain a comfortable environment in your home during these humid months. It’s important to note that a dehumidifier does not directly reduce the summer temperature but rather controls the hot and sticky humidity that contributes to discomfort. These devices extract moisture from the surrounding air, and it is recommended to keep indoor humidity below 60 percent.

Consider Insulated Window Films

Designer: Window Makeover

Consider installing insulated window films, as it forms an insulating barrier between the indoors and outdoors. It helps in reducing energy costs by preventing the penetration of sunlight indoors and allows one to enjoy outdoor views.

Bring in Plants

Designer: Time with Liberty

Plants and trees help keep the surrounding air cool via the process of transpiration. Planting vines that grow along the windows can provide natural shade and help block sunlight that heats the external walls. It is advisable to grow shady deciduous trees along the boundary of the house as they cast shade over the home in summer and bring in sunshine throughout winter.

Choose Organic Materials

Designer: Piglets in Bed

Good sleep is essential for rejuvenation, so one must not let heat disturb your sleep. Switch your bed linen seasonally, as materials like silk or polyester are best suited for cooler nights. Consider using light-colored bed linen and cotton sheets, as they are breathable materials that promote good ventilation and airflow. Additionally, these natural fibers help you stay cool while sleeping. Opt for soothing shades such as white and pastel colors, as they reflect light and absorb the least heat. On the contrary, darker shades absorb heat and radiate it around the home.

Invest in a Cooling Pillow or Pad

Designer: Nantong Jialang Home Supplies

A cooling pillow or pad can draw heat from the head and is a great way to reduce or eliminate night sweats.

Bare the Floor

Designer: FCML Coimbatore

Carpets and rugs can raise the indoor temperature as they absorb and retain heat, radiating it back into the room. Consider removing carpets and rugs to reduce the indoor temperature.

Paint the Terrace White

Roofs receive a significant amount of heat from the scorching sun. One effective measure is to paint the roof with white reflective paint so that it reflects the heat of the summer sun. This is highly recommended for houses directly under the roof of a high-rise building.

Create a Green Roof

Designer: Green World Studio

Create a green roof or add plenty of potted plants. A roof garden helps to block heat as the plants and soil in the potted plants effectively absorb the heat that hits the roof. It is one of the simplest ways to prevent heat from entering through the roof and keeps the indoors cooler.

The implementation of these strategies will surely help individuals maintain a cool environment, minimize the use of air conditioning, and effectively beat the summer heat.

The post How to Keep Your Home Cool Without AC first appeared on Yanko Design.

This Heated Jumpsuit Will Keep You Toasty Even If Your Heat Is Broken

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Are you one of those people who is cold no matter what? Perhaps you need some heated pajamas to keep you warm. The Damegi 4GW Heated Jumpsuit should do the trick. Sure, you might look silly wearing this outfit if you venture outside, but if you’re parked on your couch playing video games and nibbling on Doritos, you should be just fine.

Sitting somewhere between a snuggie and a heated blanket, the Damegi 4GW is designed for gamers and anyone else who could use a warm-up. It’s made from a soft and stretchy velour fleece that won’t limit movement in case you wear it while VR gaming, or even while you toss and turn in bed. It’s got a pair of USB-powered heaters inside which start warming up in just about 5 seconds and achieve their maximum temperature in under 4 minutes.

If you need to go to the bathroom while wearing it, the jumpsuit includes an easy access flap for that too. Or as Google translate explains: “Toilet System 6.0 while wearing on: provides a more comfortable buttocks.”  Yeah, Toilet System 5.0 is so last year. And if tend to lose all your heat through your head, they’ve got you covered, literally. This thing has a hoodie built-in, and you can even zip it up to cover your face, though they’re very clear that you shouldn’t sleep with it covering your face if you want to breathe.

So if you’re feeling chilly today, you can grab the Damegi 4GW from Amazon Japan for ¥14,220 or about $132 USD.

Facebook used 86 percent renewable energy in 2019

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In 2018, Facebook declared a goal to power its operations with 100 percent renewable energy by the end of 2021. Ahead of that deadline, the company appears to be on track. In its first ever sustainability report, published today, Facebook announced t...

Ford disinfects police cruisers by ‘roasting’ them

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To help keep police safe from the coronavirus, Ford is introducing a new way to disinfect police cruisers. The company has developed software that cranks the heat in its Police Interceptor Utility vehicles until the temperature inside reaches 133 deg...

USB-powered Bears Keep Your Hands Warm While Typing

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Do your hands get cold while you type away at your computer keyboard? Mine do here in my drafty office with the snow falling outside my window. And while I could just type with gloves on, I think some USB-powered hand warmers might be better a better idea. These should do the trick.

These Smoko Toasty Handwarmers should keep your hands from freezing up while click-clacking all day at your keyboard. Just strap one of these plush Kawaii-style bears to each of your mitts, and you’ll feel toasty and look good doing it. They offer two different temperature settings and plug into a standard USB charger to generate warm and fuzzy feelings.

They’re available for pre-order now for $35 a pair over at Urban Outfitters, and are expected to start shipping on 2/19/2020, so we’ll should still be in the depths of winter here in much of the Northern Hemisphere at that point.

Jaguar’s ‘sensory steering wheel’ heats up to deliver notifications

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Much of the technology developed for new cars has to do with safety, and that's for good reason -- in 2017, distracted driving killed 3,166 people in the US. Like other manufacturers, Jaguar Land Rover hopes it can prevent fatalities, but the way it...

Corgi Butt Heated Pillow Warms Your Buns with Dog Buns

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Corgis are very cool dogs. They are super short, have big fluffy butts, and can run really fast. If you are a fan of the corgi and ever thought what you really need to keep warm in the office is a toasty corgi butt to sit on, here is your chance.

This is a Corgi Butt Heated Pillow that you can plug into your USB port to keep your back or butt warm. It’s a great way to warm yourself in the office without turning up the heat, making your co-workers want you dead.

The heating element doesn’t run directly from the USB port, it runs from a battery that charges via USB. A full 2 hour charge is good for 4-6 hours of toasty corgi sitting. ThinkGeek has the Corgi Butt Heated Pillow for $24.99.

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