Monthly Archives: April 2024

The Vank Cube Is A Modular & Flexible Furniture System For Spaces That Require Adaptability

Posted on by

Called the Vank Cube, this modular furniture system was developed by the Polish brand Vank. The furniture system includes intriguing “building blocks” which are made from flax and hemp fibers. Designed by Vank’s creative director Anna Vonhausen, the Vank Cube can be combined and merged to fulfill a bunch of purposes, such as functioning as storage, space dividers, or even as base tables and desks. It is the kind of innovative and modern furniture solution we need in our homes, one which is sustainable, and has versatile functionality.

Designer: Vank

The various blocks feature a natural color palette, which is because they’ve been crafted from flax and hemp fibers. Vank says that the material choices are perfect for clients who want a minimalist or Japandi aesthetic, something that is subtle and clean, and yet functional. The aesthetic and appeal of the collection allow it to artfully merge with any space, it has a neutral vibe that seamlessly complements different rooms. This system is designed for interior spaces that need a lot of adaptability and versatility, such as cafes, schools, event venues, and offices.

The Vank Cube system utilizes reversible connectors and fasteners which allows for easy modification in “only a few moments”, according to the company. This allows users to customize and change the furniture system as and when needed, enabling them to create a space that perfectly suits their needs and requirements.

The system also includes certain optional add-on elements which support customization. These elements include an upholstered seat cushion, side panels built from biomaterial, and lightweight tops crafted from plywood. These can be finished in oak veneer or with different color coatings. If you’re seeking a well-designed and sustainable furniture solution, then the Vank Cube is the one for you. It is a flexible and modular furniture system that is designed to meet your modern-day requirements, whether they’re in an office, venue, or even your own home.

The post The Vank Cube Is A Modular & Flexible Furniture System For Spaces That Require Adaptability first appeared on Yanko Design.

Koenigsegg Envera portable EV charger sets new precedence for convenience, versatility and luxury

Posted on by

The number of electric cars on the roads is increasing exponentially, and so is the need for charging stations required for them. Options for personal charging stations that can be installed in your garage are also rising. Not only the conventional manufacturers, but the supercar makers also have the transition to electric vehicles as their long-term agenda. Mercedes Vision EQXX Concept, Maserati GranTurismo Folgore, Ariel Hipercar, and of course the Tesla Roadster are some good examples.

Along the same lines, a pair of designers have proposed a portable battery charging station for the Koenigsegg brand known for its high-performance vehicles. The reason is, to enhance the whole experience of buying an electric supercar and the premium experience of plugging it into a portable charger.

Designer: Aditi Aagrwal and Harsh Ambarkar

Just like the Koenigsegg brand known for its groundbreaking engineering innovations like the Direct Drive transmission and Freevalve engine technology, this concept charger also boasts innovative features including dihedral synchro-helix doors. The use of advanced materials like aerospace-grade alloys and carbon fiber further adds to the exclusivity. The form is important to make it distinct from other similar products, hence the aggressive design honed by the sleek and aerodynamic lines.

Dubbed the Envera, this portable EV charger is tailor-made for on-the-go charging of your power-hungry hypercar or supercar. Capable of supplying 7.2 kW of power it supports Level 2 charging with voltage compatibility from 100 – 400 volts AC. It has Type 1 and Type 2 AC charging ports too and an optional DC rapid charging adaptor. The designer is also mindful of safety, hence the inclusion of overcurrent, over-voltage, short circuit and ground fault protection. In case the charger overheats, there is an automated shutdown in place.

The sleek body of the charger is inspired by the Koenigsegg Agera, and is not limited to just charging this speed beast. It can charge any other Koenigsegg supercar, or any other electric car from other brands. It is built from an IP65-rated shell for premium protection against wear and tear with the ability to operate in temperatures from -20 Degrees Celsius to 50 Degrees Celsius. To make charging the least of the hassles, it comes with a 20-foot flexible charging cable. Just like other portable chargers, this one gets an LCD to show the real-time charging status and diagnostics.

Truly, the Koenigsegg Envera sets new standards for portable EV chargers, giving us a glimpse of how cool the future is going to be. Of course, the unparalleled convenience, versatility of use, and luxury quotient of using a premium brand’s product will always be there.

The post Koenigsegg Envera portable EV charger sets new precedence for convenience, versatility and luxury first appeared on Yanko Design.

One of these concept lunar vehicles could join NASA’s Artemis V astronauts on the moon

Posted on by

Three companies are vying for the opportunity to send their own lunar vehicle to the moon to support NASA’s upcoming Artemis missions. The space agency announced this week that it’s chosen Intuitive Machines, Lunar Outpost and Venturi Astrolab to develop their lunar terrain vehicles (LTV) in a feasibility study over the next year. After that, only one is expected to be selected for a demonstration mission, in which the vehicle will be completed and sent to the moon for performance and safety tests. NASA is planning to use the LTV starting with the Artemis V crew that’s projected to launch in early 2030.

The LTV that eventually heads to the moon’s south pole needs to function as both a crewed and uncrewed vehicle, serving sometimes as a mode of transportation for astronauts and other times as a remotely operated explorer. NASA says it’ll contract the chosen vehicle for lunar services through 2039, with all the task orders relating to the LTV amounting to a potential value of up to $4.6 billion. The selected company will also be able to use its LTV for commercial activities in its down time.

Lunar Outpost's Lunar Dawn LTV concept is pictured in a rendering showing it driving on the moon
Lunar Outpost
Venturi Astrolab's concept lunar terrain vehicle, Flex pictured alongside renderings of a solar powered rover and lander on the moon
Astrolab

Intuitive Machines, which will be developing an LTV called the Moon Racer, has already bagged multiple contracts with NASA as part of the Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) program, and in February launched its first lander, Odysseus, to the moon to achieve the first commercial moon landing. Venturi Astrolab will be developing a vehicle it’s dubbed Flex, while Lunar Outpost will be working on an LTV called Lunar Dawn. All must be able to support a crew of two astronauts and withstand the extreme conditions of the lunar south pole. 

 “We will use the LTV to travel to locations we might not otherwise be able to reach on foot, increasing our ability to explore and make new scientific discoveries,” said Jacob Bleacher, a chief exploration scientist at NASA.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/one-of-these-concept-lunar-vehicles-could-join-nasas-artemis-v-astronauts-on-the-moon-202448277.html?src=rss

One of these concept lunar vehicles could join NASA’s Artemis V astronauts on the moon

Posted on by

Three companies are vying for the opportunity to send their own lunar vehicle to the moon to support NASA’s upcoming Artemis missions. The space agency announced this week that it’s chosen Intuitive Machines, Lunar Outpost and Venturi Astrolab to develop their lunar terrain vehicles (LTV) in a feasibility study over the next year. After that, only one is expected to be selected for a demonstration mission, in which the vehicle will be completed and sent to the moon for performance and safety tests. NASA is planning to use the LTV starting with the Artemis V crew that’s projected to launch in early 2030.

The LTV that eventually heads to the moon’s south pole needs to function as both a crewed and uncrewed vehicle, serving sometimes as a mode of transportation for astronauts and other times as a remotely operated explorer. NASA says it’ll contract the chosen vehicle for lunar services through 2039, with all the task orders relating to the LTV amounting to a potential value of up to $4.6 billion. The selected company will also be able to use its LTV for commercial activities in its down time.

Lunar Outpost's Lunar Dawn LTV concept is pictured in a rendering showing it driving on the moon
Lunar Outpost
Venturi Astrolab's concept lunar terrain vehicle, Flex pictured alongside renderings of a solar powered rover and lander on the moon
Astrolab

Intuitive Machines, which will be developing an LTV called the Moon Racer, has already bagged multiple contracts with NASA as part of the Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) program, and in February launched its first lander, Odysseus, to the moon to achieve the first commercial moon landing. Venturi Astrolab will be developing a vehicle it’s dubbed Flex, while Lunar Outpost will be working on an LTV called Lunar Dawn. All must be able to support a crew of two astronauts and withstand the extreme conditions of the lunar south pole. 

 “We will use the LTV to travel to locations we might not otherwise be able to reach on foot, increasing our ability to explore and make new scientific discoveries,” said Jacob Bleacher, a chief exploration scientist at NASA.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/one-of-these-concept-lunar-vehicles-could-join-nasas-artemis-v-astronauts-on-the-moon-202448277.html?src=rss

This Starfish Inspired Coffee Shop And Bar Brings Buildings To Life With Biomimetic Design

Posted on by

Have you seen buildings that sometimes resemble plants, flowers, or animals? Wonder what that’s called? Biomimetic Architecture is a fascinating concept that takes inspiration from nature to design buildings. It’s about bringing the efficiency, resilience, and beauty of nature into our built environment. The Starfish Coffeeshop & Bar, a stunning architectural marvel, epitomizes this ethos with its seamless integration of organic forms and sustainable materials.

Designer: Thilina Liyanage

At first glance, the structure resembles a starry creature from beneath the waves. This organic aesthetic is no accident; it’s a deliberate tribute to the starfish, with its graceful arms extending outward. This innovative design approach not only captivates the eye but also serves a functional purpose, creating a space that feels naturally harmonious and inviting.

The central disk, reminiscent of a starfish’s body, serves as the nucleus of the coffee shop & bar. Supported by five columns beneath each arm, the structure exudes stability and balance. Here, customers can gather around a 360-degree bar, enjoying cocktails amidst a tropical ambiance. The surrounding seating areas, arranged in a radial fashion, invite visitors to linger and savor the experience, similar to relaxing in a beachside shack with open views on all sides.

One of the most striking features of this coffee shop & bar is its emphasis on natural light and ventilation. Glass panels, resembling the ampullae of a starfish, beautify the ceiling, allowing sunlight to filter through during the day. This not only illuminates the space but also reduces the need for artificial lighting, enhancing energy efficiency.

Moreover, the use of speculative locally sourced materials such as bamboo and wood underscores the project’s commitment to vernacular architecture. By leveraging indigenous resources, the structure seamlessly blends with its surroundings while minimizing its environmental footprint. This emphasis on sustainability extends beyond mere aesthetics, embodying a holistic approach to responsible design.

Perhaps the crowning touch of the Starfish coffee shop & bar is the lifelike sculpture suspended above the bar. Resembling a starfish or octopus, this installation adds a whimsical touch to the space, infusing it with a sense of wonder and playfulness. For customers seated beneath, it creates a sense of being immersed in an underwater world, further enhancing the overall experience.

With its open-air design and ample seating, the coffee shop & bar provides the perfect setting for leisurely conversations and shared moments. Families can gather around the central bar, enjoying refreshing beverages while soaking in the tropical atmosphere. Children can delight in the whimsical surroundings, imagining themselves exploring an underwater kingdom teeming with life.

For those seeking respite from the heat, the coffee shop & bar offers a cool oasis, where icy beverages and frosty beers provide welcome relief. Whether you’re sipping on a craft cocktail or savoring a cold brew, every sip is accompanied by the gentle rustle of leaves and the soothing sounds of nature.

As the sun sets and the temperature cools, the ambiance shifts, casting a soft glow over the surroundings. Couples can enjoy a romantic evening under the stars, sharing sweet moments amidst the enchanting backdrop of the starfish-inspired architecture.

The post This Starfish Inspired Coffee Shop And Bar Brings Buildings To Life With Biomimetic Design first appeared on Yanko Design.

Apple’s second-generation AirPods Pro are back on sale for $190

Posted on by

Apple’s second-generation AirPods Pro have dipped to under $200 in a deal from Amazon. The AirPods Pro, which normally cost $250, are $60 off right now, bringing the price down to just $190. That’s the same price we saw during Amazon’s Big Spring Sale. The AirPods Pro offer a number of premium features over the standard AirPods, including active noise cancellation for when you want to shut out the world, and an impressive transparency mode for when you want to hear your surroundings.

The second-generation AirPods Pro came out in 2022 and brought Apple’s H2 chip to the earbuds for a notable performance boost. It offers Adaptive Audio, which will automatically switch between Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency Mode based on what’s going on around you. With Conversation Awareness, they can lower the volume when you’re speaking and make it so other people's voices are easier to hear.

We gave this version of the AirPods Pro a review score of 88, and it’s one of our picks for the best wireless earbuds on the market. The second-generation AirPods Pro are dust, sweat and water resistant, so they should hold up well for workouts, and they achieve better battery life than the previous generation. They can get about six hours of battery life with features like ANC enabled, and that goes up to as much as 30 hours with the charging case. Apple says popping the AirPods Pro in the case for 5 minutes will give you an hour of additional listening or talking time.

AirPods Pro also offer Personalized Spatial Audio with head tracking for more immersive listening while you’re watching TV or movies. The gesture controls that were introduced with this generation of the earbuds might take some getting used to, though. With AirPods Pro, you can adjust the volume by swiping the touch control.

Follow @EngadgetDeals on Twitter and subscribe to the Engadget Deals newsletter for the latest tech deals and buying advice.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/apples-second-generation-airpods-pro-are-back-on-sale-for-190-142626914.html?src=rss

Apple’s second-generation AirPods Pro are back on sale for $190

Posted on by

Apple’s second-generation AirPods Pro have dipped to under $200 in a deal from Amazon. The AirPods Pro, which normally cost $250, are $60 off right now, bringing the price down to just $190. That’s the same price we saw during Amazon’s Big Spring Sale. The AirPods Pro offer a number of premium features over the standard AirPods, including active noise cancellation for when you want to shut out the world, and an impressive transparency mode for when you want to hear your surroundings.

The second-generation AirPods Pro came out in 2022 and brought Apple’s H2 chip to the earbuds for a notable performance boost. It offers Adaptive Audio, which will automatically switch between Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency Mode based on what’s going on around you. With Conversation Awareness, they can lower the volume when you’re speaking and make it so other people's voices are easier to hear.

We gave this version of the AirPods Pro a review score of 88, and it’s one of our picks for the best wireless earbuds on the market. The second-generation AirPods Pro are dust, sweat and water resistant, so they should hold up well for workouts, and they achieve better battery life than the previous generation. They can get about six hours of battery life with features like ANC enabled, and that goes up to as much as 30 hours with the charging case. Apple says popping the AirPods Pro in the case for 5 minutes will give you an hour of additional listening or talking time.

AirPods Pro also offer Personalized Spatial Audio with head tracking for more immersive listening while you’re watching TV or movies. The gesture controls that were introduced with this generation of the earbuds might take some getting used to, though. With AirPods Pro, you can adjust the volume by swiping the touch control.

Follow @EngadgetDeals on Twitter and subscribe to the Engadget Deals newsletter for the latest tech deals and buying advice.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/apples-second-generation-airpods-pro-are-back-on-sale-for-190-142626914.html?src=rss

One iPhone Gesture Everyone Needs to Know

Posted on by

In the realm of iPhone use, a treasure trove of shortcuts and hidden gestures awaits discovery, capable of transforming the user experience into something more fluid, intuitive, and surprisingly simple. Among these, the long press gesture stands out as a singularly powerful tool, offering a gateway to a multitude of functionalities that many users may […]

The post One iPhone Gesture Everyone Needs to Know appeared first on Geeky Gadgets.