Tag Archives: Product Design

DIY Mini-Mutoscope Kit Revives the Charm of Analog Animation and Escape Digital Live Photos

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For most of us, the term “mutoscope” might sound like a fresh, modern concept. But in reality, this ingenious device is a blast from the past, harking back to the early days of cinema. Tentacle Media, a UK-based animation studio, has taken this vintage technology and given it a contemporary twist with their latest creation: the Mini-Mutoscope.

Designer: Tentacle Media and Typoretum

The Mini-Mutoscope is a nod to the earliest days of film, where the magic of motion was first captured and presented to wide-eyed audiences. Imagine the tech behind the very first films, now condensed into a charming, miniature version that you can hold in your hands. It’s almost as if the moving images from history have been resurrected and transformed into a compact, personal experience.

James Wilkinson, the creative director at Tentacle Media, introduces this device as a modern take on 19th-century motion picture technology. Essentially, the Mini-Mutoscope functions as a mechanical flipbook, featuring 36 still frames that, when viewed in quick succession, create the illusion of movement.

The company emphasized the analog quality of the Mini-Mutoscope, noting that it was a deliberate departure from the digital screens that dominate modern life. The creative director expressed that while they loved animation, consuming it only digitally lacks the tactile quality, texture, and presence of print media or physical art. The Mini-Mutoscope, according to Wilkinson, reintroduces that tangible connection, offering a physical interaction with animation that he likened to experiencing a live photo on a phone, but with a vintage, handcrafted feel.

Tentacle Media collaborated with Typoretum, a studio renowned for its antique and vintage printing expertise, to design a visually striking body for the device. The result is a plywood-based product that’s not only durable but also aesthetically pleasing. With bold colors, crisp lines, and a satisfying tactile feel, the Mini-Mutoscope is as much a piece of art as it is a tool for animation. The importance of the design was emphasized, with a focus on creating a device that would be visually appealing and something people would want to display on their desks or shelves for a touch of animated inspiration.

Beyond its design, the Mini-Mutoscope also embraces sustainability. The mechanical components are locally sourced in the UK, and the studio partnered with The Laser Hut, a laser engraving and cutting service, to create precise mechanics from plywood. This sustainable approach makes the Mini-Mutoscope not just an object of nostalgia but also a forward-thinking product in terms of environmental responsibility.

Available as a kit, the Mini-Mutoscope is accessible to craft enthusiasts and easy enough for anyone to assemble. The initial release offers a selection of five custom animations featuring vintage movie monsters, appealing to fans of classic cinema. For those who wish to personalize their experience, there is also an option to purchase a version with blank frames, allowing users to create their own unique animations.

The post DIY Mini-Mutoscope Kit Revives the Charm of Analog Animation and Escape Digital Live Photos first appeared on Yanko Design.

Hands-On with the Rolex Le Mans Daytona: Experiencing a Century of Racing Legacy

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Happy Wristwatch Wednesday! Boy, do I have a treat for you today. Over the weekend, as a guest of Rolex at Monterey Car Week, I had the rare opportunity to see and briefly try on the Rolex Le Mans Daytona. This was an encounter with a piece of history, capturing Rolex’s long-standing relationship with motorsport, especially the iconic 24 Hours of Le Mans. The experience was made even more special knowing that the watch I tried on belongs to an owner and is the only one in all of Argentina, adding a unique layer of exclusivity to the moment.

Designer: Rolex

When I first laid eyes on the Le Mans edition, it was impossible not to be drawn to its unique details that set it apart from any other Daytona. The “100” marker on the bezel immediately caught my attention, a subtle yet powerful tribute to the 24 Hours of Le Mans centenary. This watch is a celebration of an iconic moment in motorsport history.

The dial, with its clean layout and striking red accents, evokes the spirit of the race. The subtle red details, while understated, carry a certain weight, reminding me of the legendary teams that have graced the track at Le Mans. The watch’s overall design is unmistakably Daytona, but it has nuances only a true enthusiast would fully appreciate.

Rolex

The sub-dials on the Rolex Le Mans Daytona are a defining feature, reflecting its historical roots and homage to the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Unlike traditional Daytona models, this edition features sub-dials with a layout reminiscent of the classic Daytona models from the 1960s, particularly the black and white “panda” dial design that has become iconic among collectors. However, what truly distinguishes these sub-dials is their functionality. Powered by the exclusive caliber 4132, these sub-dials include a chronograph function that tracks hours over an entire 24-hour period rather than the standard 12-hour format. This feature directly ties the watch to the 24 Hours of Le Mans, allowing it to track the entire race duration. This innovation adds practicality and historical significance to the timepiece.

The Rolex Le Mans Daytona, introduced in 2023 to mark the 100th anniversary of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, is a tribute to endurance racing’s storied legacy. The “100” marker on the bezel, the red accents, and the solid 18-karat white gold case collectively honor a century of motorsport excellence.

Rolex

When I had the watch on my wrist, I first noticed its weight—a substantial, reassuring presence that speaks to Rolex’s impeccable craftsmanship. The 18-karat white gold case feels substantial, as it should for a piece honoring such a historic event. The size strikes a perfect balance, being noticeable without overpowering the wrist, making it wearable yet distinctive.

The sensation of the watch on my wrist was a revelation—solid yet comfortable, with a subtle and bold presence. The bracelet, seamlessly integrated with the case, fits snugly, reinforcing the sense that this watch is built to last, much like the cars that compete in the endurance race it celebrates.

Through the sapphire case back, the movement of the Rolex Le Mans Daytona reveals a unique feature that sets this timepiece apart from its predecessors. This original edition is powered by the caliber 4132, a movement specifically adapted for the Le Mans Daytona. While this movement is an adaptation of the caliber 4131 found in other modern Daytonas, it includes a 24-hour chronograph function rather than the standard 12-hour format. This modification is a deliberate nod to the 24 Hours of Le Mans, allowing the watch to track time over the full duration of the race.

Rolex

This innovation enhances the watch’s functionality for those involved in endurance racing and underscores Rolex’s commitment to creating timepieces that resonate deeply with the events they commemorate. The ability to measure time over a full day is a fitting tribute to the endurance and perseverance required to compete in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, making the Le Mans Daytona a true symbol of the race’s enduring legacy.

Wearing the Le Mans Daytona, even for a brief moment, was a powerful reminder of why Rolex has remained at the pinnacle of horology. Nearly a decade ago, as an automotive journalist at an epic event with Audi during their last Le Mans race, I was privileged to drive the new S4 on the track right before qualifications, pushing it as hard as it would go. The brief time I had the Le Mans Daytona on my wrist brought that moment rushing back, and I felt more alive than ever.

A Special Cosmograph Daytona 100TH Anniversary of Le Mans Model

As I left Monterey Car Week, I couldn’t help but reflect on the legacy of the Le Mans Daytona. This watch carries a rich history, crafted to honor one of the most legendary races in the world. For those who appreciate the finer details in life, the Le Mans Daytona reflects the enduring spirit of Rolex and the world of motorsport.

Le Mans 2016 with Audi

The post Hands-On with the Rolex Le Mans Daytona: Experiencing a Century of Racing Legacy first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 10 Aesthetic Mugs To Amplify Your Daily Tea And Coffee Brewing Rituals

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I’m sure you have a beverage of choice that you need whether in the morning, the evening, or night – usually, it is coffee or tea. For me personally, it is coffee!  I love coffee, I need it to start my day, or else I simply refuse to start my day! It’s the boost of energy, dose of motivation, and rush of serotonin that I need every morning. And, I’m pretty sure that’s the case for most of us. We all need our cup of tea or coffee. There is a different satisfaction and pleasure in sipping caffeine that you know is the result of your hard work, something precariously prepared with your personal touch to it. And, you need the perfect mug or cup to drink from it. Hence, we’ve curated a collection of well-designed, functional, and aesthetically pleasing cups and mugs that will make a great addition to your kitchen.

1. Hug Cup

Called Imre’s Hug Cup, this cute little mug was designed to embody the designer’s belief that, “we give special attention to things we use in our everyday life. We like to have a personal relation to the objects we touch closely, such as a cup.” The innovative design offers a unique take on the mug’s traditional side handle.

Why is it noteworthy?

The mug allows users to securely grip the Hug Cup while letting them feel the warmth of the liquid contents inside. Imre says “The whole cup creates an intimate tunnel through the cup itself for your finger, you may enjoy the heat of your beverage without burning your palm.”

What we like

  • Provides an innovative and contemporary twist on a typical mug design

What we dislike

  • It could take a while to adjust to the new form of the handle. Some users could find it uncomfortable to use

2. Ceramic Mug

Say hello to the Ceramic Mug – this lovely little mug is the perfect example of earth meets wood. It is a symphony of textures that is designed to be an excellent treat to your fingers and lips. When you slowly drink from the mug, you experience an enriching sensory stimulation, which creates a whole new drinking experience for you.
Click Here to Buy Now: $60

Why is it noteworthy?

As you drink tea from the mug, you slowly come into contact with the surface, which forms a relaxing and soothing mood for the whole tea-drinking experience. The mug is an engaging product with interesting contrasts.

What we like

  • Built from quality Japanese ceramics
  • The mug is quite smooth and interesting to touch and drink from

What we dislike

  • You cannot put the mug in a microwave, which is quite inconvenient

3. Eterna Glass Mug

Say hello to the Eterna Glass Mug – a stunning mug that lets you enjoy your favorite beverage in style while ensuring you also look after the planet, owing to its glass design. The mug is made from recycled glass, and it is a 100% recyclable product. The drinkware is pretty stunning, merging expert craftsmanship with a love for the environment.

Click Here to Buy Now: $35.00

Why is it noteworthy?

The delightful mug showcases a mesmerizing display of light in every drink. Each glass is made by hand and displays little bubbles, which gives each glass a unique and captivating character. The mugs also showcase a rather luxurious and elegant appearance.

What we like

  • Sustainable and recyclable product
  • Boasts an aura of elegance and style

What we dislike

  • Seems quite delicate, and must be handled and cleaned with care

4. Biomorphic Mugs

These fascinating mugs are inspired by the real and organic beauty of coral reefs, cellular structures, and the networks of mycelium. The diverse pieces seem to be alive with movement. The handles seem to sprawl and move around like living extensions of the cups, forming intriguing web-like patterns, which offer a new identity to the same-old mugs.

Why is it noteworthy?

The handles feature curves and twists, which allow you to playfully interact with the mugs, converting the everyday act of holding a mug into something engaging and sensory. The mugs are also visually quite attractive and unique, allowing them to add some personality to your kitchen or dining table.

What we like

  • Plays around with the concept of mugs

What we dislike

  • The handles have a unique form, and they may be tough to hold and drink from

5. Unfiltered Titanium Whisky Glass

Named the Unfiltered Titanium Whisky Glass, this lovely glass draws inspiration from metallic hues in turn building a captivating light and color interplay. This glass provides an exciting visual experience as it is amped with a 1/f fluctuating pattern which reminds you of a murmuring stream. The glass is made from pure titanium and elevates your drinking experience.

Click Here to Buy Now: $65.00

Why is it noteworthy?

Built using cutting-edge technology which creates an interesting color play. The glass is biocompatible and safe, in fact, even more than platinum or glass. It is resistant to odors and stains and maintains long-term hygiene.

What we like

  • Makes use of advanced space development technology

What we dislike

  • You’re unable to see how much liquid you’re pouring into the glass

6. Earth-Friendly Tumbler

Called the Earth-Friendly Tumbler, this eco-friendly glass is made from PAPLUS – a new thermoplastic resin that uses biodegradable paper to add durability, moldability, and heat resistance. Normal PLA usually lacks these qualities, making the tumbler pretty amazing.

Click Here to Buy Now: $25

Why is it noteworthy?

PAPLUS builds a rather unique and novel texture that is similar to ceramic or wooden cups. When you take a sip from the tumbler, you taste a lovely flavor, which also forms an engaging sensation on your lips.

What we like

  • Makes drinking water a whole new sensory experience
  • Equipped with a heat resistance of f 120°

What we dislike

  • The natural color does become uneven and fade from use, which may not be preferred by all users

7. Eatsy

The designer Jexter created Eatsy by asking himself the simple question, “How might we design an adaptive tableware to enhance the dining experience for the visually impaired?”. The collection includes a set of multi-functional tableware including a plate, bowl, cup, and other utensils integrated with a silicone flap.

Why is it noteworthy?

Eatsy includes a unique silicone flap that can be utilized to increase the ease of usage while eliminating the stigma by combining it with existing tableware. The collection is created for the visually impaired, and it enables them to feel the edge of the container, helping them get through their tasks, and letting them pour water correctly.

What we like

  • Subtly offer unique sensory cues for the visually impaired

What we dislike

  • Requires user to have a firm grip on the cup

8. Floating Mug

Called the Floating Mug, this unique little mug is designed with beauty in mind. It is an elegant drinking solution designed to be not only a mug but also a coaster. It serves as two handy products, packed in a minimal and compact form, which is pretty easy to use. The mug doesn’t need any coaster to prevent any stains, since it has an in-built coaster.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Floating Mug is truly a wonder for tea and coffee drinkers, as it functions as two products as one. You don’t need to add a coaster under the mug since it already has one attached to it. You can handle the mug as any other standard drinking glass, and it works just fine as that too.

What we like

  • Serves as two products in one

What we dislike

  • The handle is breakable, so it should be used with care, and like a regular mug

9. Mμ

Say hello to Mμ – a coffee cup designed to celebrate the everyday rituals. These stunning Porcelain coffee cups are designed to push the boundaries of ceramics manufacturing. They are designed to be frictionless, and they feature a ribbed design which ensures that your beverages stay hot, and ready for you to drink whenever you wish to.

Why is it noteworthy?

The coffee cup is designed for speed and convenience, and they are made with complete attention to detail, using premium materials and craftsmanship, elevating your everyday tea or coffee drinking ritual.

What we like

  • The unglazed porcelain exterior offers a tactile feel to the cup

What we dislike

  • They aren’t portable, so you can’t use them for on-the-go coffee

10. Ceramic Travel Cups

These stunning travel cups by Rebecca Heasman are truly unique and one-of-a-kind. These travel cups are made on a pottery wheel and the rim of each travel cup is thrown at a precise width which enables the silicone lids to fit properly after firings. The designer spent hours testing, measuring, and calculating to finally create the perfect travel cups.

Why is it noteworthy?

The travel cups are designed to be unique pieces of art, and you can admire them as you drink coffee or tea from them. They’re great for your daily commute, work, and when you’re simply chilling at home. Each cup is a beautiful blend of shape and design, and you can choose your preferred liquid amount and have it created.

What we like

  • Unique and colorful aesthetics that make the mugs stand out

What we dislike

  • Ceramic is still a fragile material

The post Top 10 Aesthetic Mugs To Amplify Your Daily Tea And Coffee Brewing Rituals first appeared on Yanko Design.

The MERAKI Espresso Machine is what you get if Apple and Dyson collaborated to design a coffee maker

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A clean design, flawless and silent operation, and perfect results with just the right amount of tech. That’s what the Meraki promises, as compared to other espresso machines which can be cumbersome, archaic, and sometimes outright messy.

Ask any true-blue coffee lover and they’ll tell you that the Nespresso and Keurig aren’t coffee machines. They’re merely water boilers that pass hot water through a pod filled with coffee grounds. That isn’t how coffee should be extracted or savored. The true magic is in going from bean to cup, covering the grinding, tamping, extracting, and pouring process in one singular cycle. While the idea of grinding beans every time you want a cup of coffee may feel tiresome to most, devices like the Meraki make the ritual more foolproof and enjoyable. Touted as the ‘ultimate’ espresso maker, this nifty device uplifts coffee-making using a combination of design and innovation.

Designer: Meraki

Click Here to Buy Now: $1199 $1799 (33% off). Hurry! Limited time offer—over $1.2 million raised.

The first thing that really catches your eye is the Meraki’s design. Best described as futuristic-yet-contemporary, the espresso maker has a matte exterior with metallic accents, sleek surfaces, and a circular display on the top that guides you through the espresso-making process. The somewhat monolithic device handles grinding, extraction, and frothing, and clearly separates the three functions into distinct zones from left to right. This linear approach optimizes and simplifies your coffee-making ‘workflow’ while still preserving the artistry and authenticity of barista-crafted espresso. The Meraki literally takes you on a coffee-making journey, starting first with an NFC reader on top that analyzes your coffee beans to adjust coffee-making practices (which Meraki calls its CoffeeSense™ tech), and the circular display that either guides you through the fairly automated process, or allows you to manually adjust settings based on your preference. If you already have a favorite coffee-blend, you can use it with the Meraki too, eschewing the entire NFC scanning process. At the end of this journey, you’re greeted with a cup of coffee that feels like it was brewed at a specialty coffee shop, bringing world-class coffee to you instead of the other way around.

Meraki partnered with TIMEMORE®, a leader in coffee grinding technology, to develop a grinder that offers stepless adjustment and utilizes a conical burr design. This ensures consistent grinds, which are essential for unlocking the full flavor potential of coffee beans. Unlike other 3-in-1 machines that often compromise on grind quality, Meraki’s grinder is designed to maintain the integrity of the coffee, preventing heat and moisture from affecting the beans. The grinder’s design also includes an innovative magnetic dosing cup that attaches securely, making the process of dosing and prepping your puck more efficient and stable.

Extraction is made easy thanks to its commercial-grade components. The rotary pump ensures a consistent 9-bar pressure, which is crucial for the rich, flavorful extraction that espresso lovers crave. Additionally, Meraki employs a sophisticated temperature control system that includes an independent extraction boiler, PID technology, and a dedicated group head heater. This triad works in harmony to maintain a steady steeping temperature, eliminating the fluctuations that can ruin a shot of espresso. Real-time feedback allows users to fine-tune their coffee to perfection, whether they prefer a light and fruity shot or a deep, robust espresso. This level of control is typically reserved for high-end commercial machines, but Meraki brings it into the home kitchen.

Beyond its grinding and extraction capabilities, the Meraki also excels in milk frothing – the final step in your coffee-making journey. The machine boasts an independent steam boiler and a 360° adjustable steam wand, allowing for precise control over milk texture. Separate boilers for coffee-extraction and for steaming mean the Meraki can simultaneously handle both tasks. High-pressure steam from the boiler, along with an integrated temperature sensor ensures that your milk is heated to the perfect temperature, whether you’re aiming for silky microfoam or airy froth. The steam wand’s design is also user-friendly, eliminating the wait times associated with traditional machines and allowing for uninterrupted frothing. This makes it easier than ever to create café-quality drinks, complete with latte art, right at home.

Meraki’s user interface is another design highlight, offering an Auto Mode that simplifies the coffee-making process. Users can select their desired coffee grounds, liquid weight, and milk temperature through an intuitive touchscreen, and the machine takes care of the rest. The dual integrated scales in the Auto Mode stop the grinding and extraction processes once the preset parameters are achieved, ensuring consistency with every cup. This feature, combined with the aforementioned CoffeeSense™ technology, makes the Meraki accessible to both novice coffee drinkers and seasoned baristas. CoffeeSense™ utilizes NFC chips embedded in Meraki’s coffee bags to automatically set the optimal grinding and extraction parameters for each specific bean type, taking the guesswork out of making great coffee. The folks at Meraki have even worked extensively with coffee roasters from across the world to curate a ‘global coffee library’ that you can tap into, allowing you to explore coffee across different countries and cultures.

The Meraki ships with everything you’d need to make coffee, right down to the minor details like a full-fledged portafilter and tamping setup to a milk-frothing jug and even a cleaning brush to maintain your all-in-one espresso maker. The Meraki comes in both matte black and matte white variants, although I personally prefer the former for its slick, mysterious appeal. With its gorgeous design and simplified coffee-making process, the Meraki is for anyone who loves their coffee but is exhausted by how multiple appliances can complicate the ritual of making a great cup of coffee. By handling every step of the coffee-making process, down from expertly grinding the beans to extracting a shot and even frothing your milk to a silky smooth consistency, the Meraki is your at-home barista that puts you in the ‘driver’s seat’, allowing you to own the experience from start to finish without spending hundreds on sub-standard Keurig coffee-pods, or overpriced lattes at your local cafe. In fact, the Meraki takes you well beyond your local cafe too, giving you the ability to explore high-standard blends from specialty cafes around the world, right in the comfort of your own kitchen. The ‘ultimate’ espresso machine ships to the United States, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, Germany, Spain, Italy, France, Hong Kong, Taiwan, South Korea, Japan, Singapore, Sweden, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Denmark, Malaysia, Poland and the United Arab Emirates, with a 2-year warranty to cover any issues, and customer service in all aforementioned regions.

Click Here to Buy Now: $1199 $1799 (33% off). Hurry! Limited time offer—over $1.2 million raised.

The post The MERAKI Espresso Machine is what you get if Apple and Dyson collaborated to design a coffee maker first appeared on Yanko Design.

Jellyfishbot vs. Beatbot iSkim Ultra: A Tale of Two Robotic Cleaners Designed for Different Worlds

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The Jellyfishbot, developed by IADYS in 2016, is a robotic cleaner emphasizing practical design and versatility to combat water pollution effectively. Launched in 2018, it has revolutionized how marinas, ports, and other hard-to-reach areas are cleaned, thanks to its thoughtfully engineered design. Unlike larger machines that often struggle with precision, the Jellyfishbot is compact and agile, allowing it to navigate tight spaces and around obstacles. This capability makes it ideal for handling various tasks, from picking up everyday debris like plastic waste to managing more severe environmental threats like oil spills. Its design is not just about getting into difficult areas; it ensures those areas are thoroughly cleaned.

IADYS has created several models of the Jellyfishbot, each tailored to specific tasks:

Jellyfishbot Classic: This original model is well-suited for general cleaning tasks in marinas, ports, and smaller bodies of water. Its compact design and ability to be remotely operated make it particularly effective in accessing and cleaning areas that larger vessels cannot reach, making it a reliable choice for routine maintenance.

Jellyfishbot Expert: Building on the Classic’s foundation, the Expert model integrates advanced sensors that provide real-time water quality monitoring and depth measurement. It’s designed for more complex environments, such as industrial sites, where it can handle cleaning and environmental monitoring, making it an efficient dual-purpose tool.

Jellyfishbot Mobile Oil Skimmer: This model is specifically engineered to respond to oil spills. It efficiently skims oil from the water’s surface without needing disposable materials, reducing costs and environmental impact. The design allows it to operate in narrow, shallow areas, making it particularly effective in sensitive environments like riverbanks.

Jellyfishbot Custom: IADYS offers a custom version of the Jellyfishbot for clients with unique or specialized requirements. This model can be equipped with additional sensors, tools, or features to meet specific environmental challenges, ensuring the robot is fully capable of addressing the exact needs of any situation.

The differences between the Jellyfishbot and a consumer product like the Beatbot iSkim Ultra, reviewed by Yanko Design, are significant in terms of design and application. The iSkim Ultra is designed especially for pool cleaning, focusing on high-speed, efficient debris removal within the controlled environment of a swimming pool. Its design emphasizes quick and thorough cleaning of a confined area, ensuring the pool remains clear of debris like leaves and dirt.

On the other hand, the Jellyfishbot is built to operate in much more varied and complex environments. It’s designed for natural and industrial water bodies, tackling larger-scale challenges such as macro-waste, oil spills, and environmental monitoring. While the iSkim Ultra excels in maintaining the cleanliness of swimming pools, the Jellyfishbot’s versatility and adaptability make it suitable for a wide range of outdoor water cleanup tasks that demand more robust and flexible solutions.

Both robots share key design elements, such as compactness, maneuverability, and the ability to operate autonomously or under remote control. These features highlight their shared emphasis on providing user-friendly, automated solutions for surface cleaning in water environments. However, the Jellyfishbot’s design includes additional capabilities, such as sensors for water quality monitoring and the ability to manage hazardous waste, which extends its utility far beyond the iSkim Ultra.

After reviewing the Beatbot iSkim Ultra, Yanko Design recommended enhancing its functionality by incorporating features that pool owners care about. These features include monitoring pH levels, analyzing water chemistry, and recommending chemical adjustments. Such upgrades would transform the iSkim Ultra from a device focused solely on surface cleaning into a comprehensive pool management tool, addressing a broader range of maintenance needs. While the iSkim Ultra currently excels in clearing debris from the water’s surface, these potential enhancements would align it more closely with the Jellyfishbot’s multifunctional approach, offering users a smarter, more integrated solution for pool care.

The variety within the Jellyfishbot lineup reflects IADYS’s commitment to addressing diverse environmental challenges with specialized tools. Each model is crafted to meet specific needs, whether it’s handling routine debris in marinas or dealing with the complexities of oil spill cleanup. The Jellyfishbot’s design focuses on delivering functionality and efficiency, ensuring that, regardless of the task, there’s a model equipped to tackle it effectively.

In contrast, the Beatbot iSkim Ultra is purpose-built for the specific environment of swimming pools. Its design is tailored to quickly and efficiently clean this controlled environment, where debris is typically more predictable and less hazardous than what the Jellyfishbot encounters. While the iSkim Ultra handles its intended job with precision, the Jellyfishbot’s range of models is engineered to tackle a broader spectrum of water cleaning tasks, especially in environments where precision and adaptability are crucial.

The post Jellyfishbot vs. Beatbot iSkim Ultra: A Tale of Two Robotic Cleaners Designed for Different Worlds first appeared on Yanko Design.

2024 Toyota RAV4 Woodland Edition Review : A True Adventure Upgrade or Just a Facelift

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PROS:


  • Green and bronze looks great

  • Subtly improved off-road capability

  • Typical RAV4 utility

CONS:


  • Reduced fuel economy

  • Worse on-road manners

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

The Woodland Edition adds a strong dose of rugged style and a bit of extra capability, but the return may not be worth the efficiency and financial cost.

The auto market is being flooded with semi-rugged, lightly off-road editions of everyday SUVs, and Toyota’s getting in on the game with this. It’s the RAV4 Woodland Edition, a version of its ubiquitous and perpetually popular SUV that looks a little more ready for adventure than its lesser versions.

But is it actually a functional upgrade, and is it worth the roughly $3,000 over a base RAV4 Hybrid LE? That’s what I aimed to find out in my week with this green and gold hybrid.

Design

Before we even get into the functional upgrades on the Woodland Edition, I’m tempted to say this flavor of Toyota’s RAV4 SUV is worth the extra cost for the color scheme alone. That color, which Toyota calls Army Green, works remarkably well on this car. It’s not quite a military olive drab in that it definitely has a glossy hue to it, but it’s certainly in the same chromatic family.

Pairing that with a set of satin bronze wheels is an act of genius, resulting in an SUV with far more presence than any of the dozen other RAV4s you’ll likely find in the average parking lot. This is the best color combination available in Toyota’s crossover at the moment, and you can only get it in the Woodland edition.

That said, even the base RAV4 is not a bad-looking machine. Though its facelift is getting a bit familiar at this point, its angular styling cues and the dramatic, downward sweep of the lines running from the rear fenders all the way to the front grille give it an active stance that works perfectly with the attitude of the Woodland Edition.

Pick the Woodland, and you get the roof rack with rails standard, plus those 18-inch wheels and the all-terrain tires they’re covered in.

Things are less dramatic on the inside. Where that green and cold combo dominates your view as you approach, the only special touches on the inside are on the floor: a set of all-weather floor mats with Woodland Edition embossed on them, plus a few pine trees emblems. Those mats provide a functional upgrade for sure, but hardly a striking one visually.

The rest of the interior is standard stuff, thoughtfully laid out and featuring durable materials, but not much to look at. The RAV4 seats five maximum, with rear seats ample for two but only passable for three passengers. A separate heating vent plus a pair of USB-C ports are the only creature comforts available to those in the back.

The two front seats feature prodigious heating, toggled with chunky physical switches that stay in whatever position you left them last.So, if you’re the sort who wants a perpetually warm backside, you won’t have to reach for that button every time you start up this SUV. The steering wheel heating is less effective, but it too at least stays enabled between car starts.

Seat upholstery is of a basic fabric embossed with a geometric pattern that adds just a bit of visual appeal to an otherwise dark interior, though the light headliner helps. The dashboard, door cards, and center console are a mixture of leather-textured black vinyl and hard black plastics, with a few slashes and hints of matte silver plastic throughout.

Again, it’s not much to look at on the inside, but the numerous pockets and storage compartments leave ample opportunity for stashing stuff, while the cargo net out back in the hatch ensures that whatever you put in the 37.6 cubic feet of cargo space will stay put. The rear seats fold down with a 60/40 split, expanding that cargo volume to 69.8. 

Other than those seat heaters, tactile controls are limited to the HVAC system, which features some oversized, chunky knobs that are a pleasure to spin. There’s a smaller volume knob as well and a small knob for cycling between Eco and Sport modes, but that’s about it. 

Software and safety

Most interior controls are available through the eight-inch touchscreen running Toyota’s Drive Connect system, which offers integrated navigation and a voice assistant. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are also available, which I found to be a far more appealing option. 

The gauge cluster features a series of traditional analog gauges with a digital, virtual gauge system in the center. This display is customizable to cycle through a series of vehicle settings, parameters, or navigation prompts if you like. There’s nothing particularly notable here, but it’s all perfectly functional.

In terms of active safety, the Woodland Edition features Toyota’s Safety Sense 2.5 system, which includes features like automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, roadside sign detection, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. The adaptive cruise worked well, but the lane-keep assist was a little less reliable in my testing. It often struggled to detect road markings and only made very late, very indistinct corrections to keep the car centered.

On (and off) the road

The RAV4 is a simple, pleasant SUV to drive in most situations. The Woodland Edition doesn’t do much to change that formula, but it does add just a hint of additional capability. The suspension in this version has been retuned, slightly stiffer with up-rated bump stops, capable of handling the trails that Toyota apparently thinks people will be hitting in this thing.

Additionally, there’s a Trail drive mode, which Toyota says helps to maximize grip, but in my testing in slippery conditions, I couldn’t detect any difference. The front wheels always seemed to break loose first and most significantly before the rears got much in the way of power from the hybrid system out back.

The Woodland Edition’s biggest change, regardless, is what it rolls on. 18-inch Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail tires have been mounted on all four corners, far chunkier and more aggressive than the usual all-seasons found fitted on the RAV4.

Does any of it make a difference in terms of off-road performance? The suspension upgrade should make the Woodland Edition survive slightly harder stuff offroad, and there’s no doubt the tires will provide more grip on loose surfaces. 

On-road, the changes are definitely noticeable, with some increased road noise and a slight decrease in everyday ride quality. While far short of harsh, the Woodland Edition was less pleasant over the bumps and frost heaves that plague the roads near me as we come out of an extended winter season. Whether it’s the tires, suspension, or some combination of the two, I can’t say for sure, but if on-road poise and comfort is your priority, you might want to go for an XLE instead.

In terms of power, as in any other RAV4 hybrid, the 219 horsepower hybrid system in the Woodland Edition is more than adequate but far from breathtaking. The car accelerates cleanly and has plenty of power to keep up with traffic, plus reasonable throttle response, largely thanks to the hybrid system. However, when most people are shopping for Toyota Hybrids, their top priority is fuel economy, and I wasn’t blown away there. 

The Woodland Edition is rated for 38 mpg in the city, 35 on the highway, and 37 combined. In my mixed testing, I did substantially worse, coming in at 32.3 mpg. An XSE, meanwhile, is rated for 39 mpg combined. Those all-terrain tires here surely don’t help, nor does the roof rack up top.

Options and pricing

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 starts at $28,675 for a base LE edition. For a Woodland Edition, you’re looking at a minimum of $34,695. My model included the $925 Weather Package, which adds on heated seats and steering wheel, plus $500 for that exterior color, which brought the total price to $37,470 after a $1,350 destination charge. That compares favorably to its most direct competitor, a Subaru Forester Wilderness Edition, which starts at $34,920.  

Is it worth the extra $3,000 over a RAV4 LE hybrid? I don’t know if it is. While I appreciate the desire for something with more off-road capability and love the look and color scheme here, I can’t say that I’m convinced the on-road penalty combined with the extra cost is worthwhile. The mpg hit also doesn’t seem worthwhile unless you’re frequently going to be making use of those all-terrain tires or that roof rack.

In general, I’d recommend sticking with the RAV4 XLE hybrid, which is an excellent SUV and continues to be a value leader and saves. But, if you want something with a smidge more attitude and have a bit more to spend, I don’t blame you for being tempted by this green and bronze charmer.

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Someone Made A Deadpool & Wolverine LEGO Set in 2022 And We’re Only Discovering It Now…

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Popular LEGO stop-motion animator Hachiroku24 gave us a taste of Deadpool & Wolverine two full years before the real deal. Even though the final movie was star-studded with more cameos than we could possibly hope for, Hachiroku24’s LEGO build is no less, featuring a fight scene between Logan and the merc within the hallways of X-Mansion, with Prof. X, Cyclops, and Storm in the background watching with what I can only assume is a sense of despair as the two immortals absolutely trash the mansion.

Designer: Hachiroku24

Given that the diorama was created two full years before the movie, a lot is left to Hachiroku24’s imagination… and with good reason – the LEGO scene fun, chaotic, and captures a slow-motion build-up of the two superheroes going at each other’s throats – something we all expected early on. I wouldn’t be surprised if it’s because of Deadpool either being outright obnoxious or flirting with Storm. Wolverine has his claws out, lunging towards a suited Wade Wilson, who has his non-golden pistoleros pointed in obvious self defense.

The rest of the scene is literal chaos. Furniture broken, curtains and decor knocked over, a marble bust on the floor along with a croissant and a mug of coffee. Meanwhile, rather than intervening, Xavier, Cyclops, and Storm just stand aside and let the two supes go at each other’s throats, knowing that Logan’s temper and Deadpool’s incessant blabbermouthery cannot be controlled.

Although LEGO won’t sell this set, the fact that Hachiroku24 built it on his own means it’s technically possible to source the parts required to put this diorama together. If you’re reading this, Hachiroku24, we’re waiting for you to drop a DIY video on YouTube!

The post Someone Made A Deadpool & Wolverine LEGO Set in 2022 And We’re Only Discovering It Now… first appeared on Yanko Design.

Tecno’s Foldable Journey: The Evolution in Design from Phantom V Fold 5G to V Fold 2, and V Flip 5G to V Flip 2

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Tecno’s 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 Redesign

Tecno Phantom V Fold 2 with new stylus

Design and Build Quality

The 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 wasn’t for everyone. Some found it too pronounced, disrupting the phone’s overall balance.

Tecno Phantom V Fold 5G rear-facing camera setup

Tecno Phantom V Fold 5G

Looking 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 2

Display Improvements

The 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 5G

With 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 it’s closed.

V Flip vs. V Flip 2: Embracing Trends with Functional Upgrades

Design and Usability

Tecno Phantom V Flip 2

The 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 Flip’s 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 Setup

The 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 Evolution

The 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 2’s 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 setup

This evolution in design enhances the V Flip 2’s 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 Features

The 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 Forward

The 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 it’s the sleeker, more integrated camera designs, the improved displays, or the inclusion of a stylus for productivity, Tecno’s 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 Tecno’s 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.

Alien-like metal stool concept inspires awe rather than fear

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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 didn’t 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 MacKay

Alien references aside, this metal and wood stool definitely doesn’t 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 you’d see from a jellyfish or octopus, however, there is a strict symmetry to the stool’s 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.

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Uplight game console concept with an interactive 3D screen changes the way you play

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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, they’re 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, we’re 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 Sato

Uplight 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 console’s unusual controls to move the displayed image around or, better yet, use their own hands to actually turn the cube.

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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 today’s games have that, which will definitely challenge the creativity and ingenuity of game designers should Uplight ever become an actual commercial product.

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