Tag Archives: solar-powered

IKEA’s versatile solar-powered lamp lets you switch on virtual sun in planetary magnificence

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It’s high time we adopt alternative energy solutions like solar power for lighting up our homes. IKEA is heedful of this need, and so is Little Sun, founded way back in 2012 by engineer Frederik Ottesen and Olafur Eliasson artist.

The unison between the world’s most recognized home furnishing retailers and the determined creative duo goes back to 2019 when they released a prototype of a solar-powered lighting collection dubbed SAMMANLÄNKAD.

Designer: IKEA and Little Sun

After delays in the launch of these solar-powered lighting accessories for the masses, four years henceforth, the collection is finally ready to hit select IKEA stores from April 2023. There’s an aesthetically designed table lamp and a cute portable light bringing the spotlight to an “alternative source of energy to power everyday objects,” according to IKEA. The essence here is, to make the resounding aura of the sun “tangible in beautiful and purposeful design objects.”

According to Olafur Eliasson, the complete transition to renewable energy in the next ten years demands each one of us “recognize the opportunity of solar energy.” For this vision, Little Sun and IKEA want to raise awareness for smooth energy access and reiterate in our subconscious the “potential to co-shape our world” with SAMMANLÄNKAD (meaning “connected” in English).

The solar-powered table lamp piqued our interest due to its cohesion with the movement of planet earth at an angle and path around the sun. Thus, the half-sphere-shaped light is encapsulated by a reflective metal plate and the Earth’s planetary motion is closely mimicked by the two metallic rings. Ultimately it’s an enactment of a planetary symphony that any astronomy enthusiast would deeply appreciate, without ever getting bored.

The icing on the cake, well, the $98 lighting accessory doubles as a pendant lamp thanks to the adjustable metal frame. The light source can be removed from the housing for use as a torch if need be.

The portable lamp with a yellow strap, on the other hand, is tailored for outdoor use and comes with a price tag of $11. Both the lighting accessories can be charged via USB-A or USB-C ports if you hit a patch of cloudy days.

The post IKEA’s versatile solar-powered lamp lets you switch on virtual sun in planetary magnificence first appeared on Yanko Design.

This futuristic travel trailer pops-up into a luxurious home in the great outdoors

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If you’re looking for an expandable home on wheels to tow behind your EV, you have a few existing options already. However, if you’re not instantly in the market for a towable, and can wait for a couple of years, a ground-breaking travel trailer is in the works. It is solar-powered, furnished with modular furniture, and customizable to user requirements, but that’s not it!

Camping with family, friends or even when you’re in the outdoors all solo, a travel trailer ensures convenience and comfort. A towable with the ideal balance of luxury and convenience maintains unforgettable outdoor adventure, and this is what this Grounded RV’s towable with a unique aerodynamic design guarantees.

Designer: Grounded

Made from advanced composite materials, the expandable towable is designed durable and lightweight. This streamlined layout reduces drag to make sure you get enhanced fuel efficiency, while the RV’s unique hydraulic system ensures smooth transition between towing and living model.

The very compact trailer is easy to store and maneuver. But once you are ready to camp, the trailer’s roof pops-up (in its entirety) to create 6.5 feet of headroom. Furnished with large glass windows for a panoramic view the trailer has a spacious interior equipped with a fully-functional kitchen, modular furniture, customizable queen bed, pull-out table, dry toilet, and spacious sitting area, thereby offering all the comforts of the home in the great outdoors.

The interior is insulated while the rooftop 1,500W solar panels power the remotely controlled electronics and appliances. Based on a modular layout, the travel trailer can be customized to suit each occupant’s requirement, fitting piece by piece according to need.

The Grounded RV’s futuristic towable is expected to ship in 2025 with a weather-resistant exterior and modern aesthetics to leave most RV makers thinking. With all the fancy antics, the interesting concept puts durability, comfort, and sustainability at the forefront, which has left the outdoorsy in me excited.

The post This futuristic travel trailer pops-up into a luxurious home in the great outdoors first appeared on Yanko Design.

BLUETTI Spring Sale brings all the power you need for an enjoyable time outdoors

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Spring is in the air, as they say. Although there are still some areas experiencing the last bits of freezing weather, it will only be a matter of time before white gives way to green. Spring is associated with many things, including life and feeling alive, especially after being cooped up indoors. Although “glamping” has become trendy, there are still plenty of people who prefer an authentic camping experience, but with just some of the conveniences that electricity brings to our modern lives. With a wide selection of portable power generators from BLUETTI, you can lay your anxieties to rest and enjoy the joys of enjoying the sun and the air while still keeping your laptops powered and your drinks cold.

AC500 & B300S

Although most people imagine camping or going outdoors to be full of moving around and cramped spaces, there will be times when you’d want to go big and bring everyone along for the adventure. Since you’ll never really know what you’ll need and when, picking a power storage solution that adjusts to your needs becomes more important than simply having power in the first place. The modular AC500 portable power station and its partner B300S battery module let you bring as little as 3,072Wh or as much as 18,432Wh of power, depending on your needs or your carrying capacity. That’s enough for a few nights of off-the-grid camping or even for powering your whole house during a power outage. A single AC500 and two B300S batteries start at $7,098, a big $500 discount off its regular $7,598 combo price.

Click Here to Buy Now: $4,599 $5,099 ($500 off). Hurry, Spring Sale ends Mar 23rd!

EB3A

On the flip side, you might be looking for something really lightweight and portable, just enough for a few hours to escape the hectic city life. At only 10lbs, this 268Wh BLUETTI EB3A power station can power up a car fridge for 4 hours, a 10W light for 22 hours, and a 60W laptop for 4 hours straight. And since it can be charged with a solar panel for maximum of 200W charging power, you don’t have to race back to the city to scramble for a power outlet when its battery dips. Normally at $798, you can get the BLUETTI EB3A and a 200V PV200 Solar Panel for just $658, a $140 discount in time for spring camping.

Click Here to Buy Now: $209 $299 ($90 off). Hurry, Spring Sale ends Mar 23rd!

EB70S

You might, however, need something that steps up the power just a wee bit. That’s where the EB70S comes in, with its 716Wh battery rated for 800W of power. It has plenty of ports to keep all kinds of devices and appliances powered up at a camp or a cookout, even including a wireless charging pad at the top for your phone. Although a bit hefty at 21.4lbs, the foldable handle makes it easy to carry around and keeps it compact enough for storage. The $519 starting price, an $80 cut from the usual $599, also makes this portable power station an all-around solution for most of your clean and green power needs.

Click Here to Buy Now: $519 $599.99 ($80 off). Hurry, Spring Sale ends Mar 23rd!

AC300

BLUETTI’s lineup is filled with choices for every need and budget. For example, you might want a modular power station system but don’t need all the bells and whistles just yet. The AC300, with its 3,000W pure sine wave inverter and its 3,072Wh B300 expansion battery, have you covered, providing up to 12,228Wh of power when you finally do need that much. Whether just camping or living the RV life, this duo will bring lights and life to your outdoor trips. For just $5,397, which is $800 less than the standard $6,197 price tag, you can get the AC300 with not just one but two B300 batteries to give you the freedom to bring only what you need when you need it.

Click Here to Buy Now: $3,398 $3,898 ($500 off). Hurry, Spring Sale ends Mar 23rd!

AC200MAX

While the AC500 and AC300 offer maximum flexibility, the AC200MAX brings the best of both worlds. On its own, it already puts out 2,048Wh of power, but you can stack up to two B230 batteries or two B300 batteries for a whopping total of 6,144Wh and 8,192Wh, respectively. It can power up to 14 different devices, thanks to its plethora of output ports, including not one but two wireless charging pads. The BLUETTI AC200MAX teams up with three PV200 solar panels to offer completely sustainable portable power for only $3,046, a large $450 discount from its $3,496 SRP.

Click Here to Buy Now: $1,699 $1,999 ($300 off). Hurry, Spring Sale ends Mar 23rd!

AC200P

Packing a 2,000Wh battery in its 60.6lbs body, the AC200P offers well-balanced versatility and power in a compact package. When paired with a B300 battery module, you can boost that up to 5,072Wh, perfect for making coffee in the great outdoors or keeping a room chilled with the air conditioner during an emergency. This pair goes for only $3,398 during this spring season, bringing the regular $3,998 price down by $600.

Click Here to Buy Now: $1,399 $1,699 ($300 off). Hurry, Spring Sale ends Mar 23rd!

Portable Solar Panels

While BLUETTI’s portable power stations are already impressive on their own, what really makes them special is how they can be charged completely through solar power only. Not only does that mean you don’t need to panic when the batteries go into the red, it also means you can leave off the grid far longer with green energy. Of course, you’ll need a high-efficiency portable solar panel for that, and unsurprisingly, BLUETTI also has got you covered. Using monocrystalline cells, these foldable solar panels boast 23.4% conversion efficiency, and the ETFE covering protects them from scratches and splashes. The 350W PV350 solar panel goes from $849 down to $769, saving you $80 for spring camping and trips.

Click Here to Buy Now. Hurry, Spring Sale ends Mar 23rd!

The post BLUETTI Spring Sale brings all the power you need for an enjoyable time outdoors first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 10 solar-powered designs all sustainability advocates need to add in their lives

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One resolution that we should all be striving towards collectively by now – is to start living more consciously and in an eco-friendly manner, which includes paying attention to, and giving consideration to our energy sources. Curbing fossil fuel consumption has now become a priority, and we have a more positive energy source in mind as an alternative – the Sun! Solar energy has pretty much won over the world, and we see it being utilized in all aspects of design, whether it’s solar-powered kitchen appliances, homes, or even hotels. And, we’ve put together a collection of ingenious solar-powered products that will make a MAJOR difference in your everyday life. From a paper-thin solar cell that could bring solar power to any surface, to solar-powered umbrella canopies inspired by Acacia trees – these solar-powered designs are bound to make some eco-friendly waves this year.

1. The Sunne Light

Dutch lighting brand Sunne partnered up with designer Marjan van Aubel to create their first product – a self-powered solar light that harvests by energy day to light up your home at night. Called, the Sunne light, the sunlight-mimicking lamp gathers solar energy and is in turn exclusively powered by it. It aims to bring the power of the sun into your home!

Why is it noteworthy?

The Sunne light has been equipped with photovoltaic cells and is meant to be hung in front of a window. The suspended lighting fixture collects solar energy through the entirety of the day, and at night it utilizes this energy to illuminate your home. It features an integrated battery that stores the solar energy it collects and hence eliminates any reliance on an external or additional power source.

What we like

  • Inspired by the horizon
  • The lamp remains suspended in the air

What we dislike

  • Hefty price tag

2. The Luci Beam LED

Designed by Mpowered, the Luci Beam LED is a 2-in-1 solar-powered headlamp and flashlight, that is power-packed in a water-resistant body, allowing it to be utilized in all kinds of situations without any hassle. The product can provide up to 300 lumens of brightness, which should come in handy in so many use cases: whether you are searching for something in the store room or illuminating your pathway during a hike.

Why is it noteworthy?

Luci Beam’s ability to transform from a handheld to a headlamp is what makes it stand out from other lighting designs in the market! The 2-in-1 headlamp and flashlight is solar-powered but can also be recharged via USB if there is no sun, so you are never left stranded in the middle of an adventure.

What we like

  • Features a micro-USB cable to charge on the go
  • A secure headband for the headlamp and the wrist strap for the flashlight make sure that the device is always securely strapped on

What we dislike

  • We’re not sure how sturdy it is to handle the rough outdoors

3. Paper-thin Solar Cell

MIT researchers created a paper-thin solar cell that is so thin and lightweight, that you can place it on almost any kind of surface! solar panels can generate 370 watts per kilogram of power, which is actually 18 times more as compared to regular solar cells.

Why is it noteworthy?

Not only does this mean that they are viable alternatives to heavy panels that burden your roof, but they can also be installed on almost any surface, including flexible ones like boat sails or tents. This paper-thin solar cell is excellent for tents, especially when they are situated in disaster-stricken areas, where power grids may not be operable at times.

What we like

  • 18 times more powerful compared to conventional cells
  • Can be bent or rolled like a piece of paper

What we dislike

  • Missing a protective layer that will protect the cells from the environment

4. The Invisible Solar

The Invisible Solar are panels that look like these clay tiles but actually have cells underneath them that will be able to generate solar energy and power the building they are placed on.

Why is it noteworthy?

The common monocrystalline silicon cells are made from non-toxic materials and are the “invisible” part of the solar panels. Each panel is able to reach a 7.5-watt peak (peak energy capacity) and weighs around 2 kilograms each.

What we like

  • The ceramic tiles look opaque but are still able to absorb the sun rays that will power the cells
  • They are even self-cleaning as it has photocatalytic properties

What we dislike

  • Aesthetics are unassuming

5. Ecacia

Designed by Samuel Wilkinson, Ecacia is a tree-like structure inspired by one of the species of the Acacia tree that grows in eastern and Southern Africa. This huge umbrella-like structure not only provides shade from sun and rain but can also power amenities located near it or charge electric vehicles as well.

Why is it noteworthy?

It features four programmable LED lamps that give off light to the surrounding areas at the night. Prototypes in the future will also be amped with a cooling mist function so that the public areas can be cooled down during the warm season. The umbrellas will provide a temporary respite to passersby.

What we like

  • Features 708 monocrystalline solar panels to capture solar energy

What we dislike

  • It’s still in the prototype stage!

6. The Tesla Solar Range Extending Trailer

Tesla quietly launched one of its innovations at IdeenExpo in Hannover German. The EV giant unveiled a prototype of yet another product they’re working on – a trailer that attaches to the back of your EV and has been amped with fold-out solar panels and battery packs that help expand your EV’s range.

Why is it noteworthy?

Called, the Tesla Solar Range Extending trailer, the electric vehicle is quite simply put – massive. It’s as big as the other large trailers on the market, and it boasts fold-out solar panels that charge a pretty large battery pack placed below it. This battery pack can be used as an additional power source for the EV.

What we like

  •  Features a SpaceX Starlink internet terminal
  • Amped with solar panels

What we dislike

  • We don’t know if or when it will be launched

7. The Parelio

The Parelio looks like a super fun design, and it is! It is a  solar-powered beach umbrella that is able to harness the power of the sun to create sustainable energy. The accessory is ideal for both lawns and beaches, and it can absorb sunlight, and convert it into electricity that can be used to power phone chargers, coolers, mini-fridges, and machinery as well!

Why is it noteworthy?

Instead of the usual beach umbrella design that folds down towards the earth, this one folds upward towards the sun as it absorbs its energy. The inspiration for the design is a combination of origami and the solar systems on NASA spacecraft.

What we like

  • Amped with foldable photovoltaic panels
  • Folds upwards towards the sun, rather than towards the earth

What we dislike

  • It’s still a concept!

8. The Solgaard Solarbank Boombox

Solgaard Solarbank Boombox Shell 1

Solgaard Solarbank Boombox 3

Choosing a decent Bluetooth speaker is always a task, but now sustainability has been added to the mix as well! Your tech needs to be more eco-friendly as well now. The aim now is to make “greener” choices for the future of the planet. For this reason, the new Solgaard Solarbank Boombox portable speaker enters the market with a sustainable design.

Why is it noteworthy?

The upcycled plastic design refers to speaker cloth and outer shell from plastic waste. These are waste materials but had been upcycled and used instead. This process is part of the brand’s initiative to pull about 5 lbs of plastic for every product sold.

What we like

  • The Solgaard Solarbank Boombox lets you enjoy music while the battery harnesses the power of the sun
  •  It is sand-proof, water-proof, and drop-proof

What we dislike

  • The speaker’s looks are unimpressive and quite common

9. Stil

Humans need water to survive, however, and people in remote parts of the world are forced to drink unclean, bacteria-laden water just to live, only to get sick from the same. Deploying water purifiers to these locations might sound like the simplest solution, but most of these require electricity which is also difficult to come by, even with solar generators. This concept, however, harnesses the power of the sun in a different way and offers a solution that is sustainable through and through.

Why is it noteworthy?

Stil, in contrast, uses solar energy, not to power electronics but to clean the water almost directly. It uses the age-old method of heating up water to boiling point and then collecting the condensation as clean, distilled water.

What we like

  • Can be positioned and used anywhere

What we dislike

  • No complaints!

10. The Matte Works Solar Watches

In today’s day and age, the world of smartwatches is run over by those with disposable lithium-ion batteries and planned obsolescence life cycles, the Matte Works solar watches are literally quite a refreshing change! These minimal and clean watches feature an evergreen aesthetic, that quite smartly conceals the solar panels placed below the watch dial.

Why is it noteworthy?

Unlike a smartwatch that ends up becoming ‘old news’ after the company launches its next version a year later, the Matte Works solar watches stay classy and functional for years, while underscoring the importance of relying on renewable energy.

What we like

  • The watch comes with a classic aesthetic that conceals its powerful feature underneath a tinted dial

What we dislike

  • Aesthetically looks quite similar to other watches on the market

The post Top 10 solar-powered designs all sustainability advocates need to add in their lives first appeared on Yanko Design.

Solar-powered Water Purifier is a completely sustainable way to get clean water

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While the world is three-fourths covered with water, not all of it is drinkable. Those who live in cities and even in some rural areas have the luxury of access to purified water, but a lot of people could be miles away from the nearest natural well. Humans need water to survive, however, and people in remote parts of the world are forced to drink unclean, bacteria-laden water just to live, only to get sick from the same. Deploying water purifiers to these locations might sound like the simplest solution, but most of these require electricity which is also difficult to come by, even with solar generators. This concept, however, harnesses the power of the sun in a different way and offers a solution that is sustainable through and through.

Designer: Hans Ramzan

Conventional water purifiers, at least the small ones at homes, clean water by making it pass through different kinds of filters. Some simply require water to go through them using pressure that comes from faucets, while others use electricity to power motors and other electronics. Neither of these methods is feasible in remote areas that don’t even have access to electricity, let alone clean water from natural wells. While you can indeed hook up such a purifier to a solar generator, the use of batteries and electronics still limit the purifier’s sustainability.

Stil, in contrast, uses solar energy, not to power electronics but to clean the water almost directly. It uses the age-old method of heating up water to boiling point and then collecting the condensation as clean, distilled water. Since there is no electricity or electronics involved, this kind of purifier can be positioned and used anywhere, with access to sunlight being the only hard requirement to get Stil to work.

As simple as the process might sound, the design of this environment-friendly water purifier isn’t exactly trivial. The Fresnel lens that collects sunlight, for example, is dome-shaped so that sunlight can hit it from all angles. The metal core is a thick rod that, when heated, causes the water to boil evenly. There is a covered overflow hole that prevents the dirty water from mixing with the clean water. And the parts are made so that they’re easy to take apart for cleaning.

The exterior of the container itself is made from an opaque bamboo composite, making it eco-friendly from start to finish. The level indicator for dirty water is just a strip, but the container for clean water is clear and completely transparent, creating a visual effect that emphasizes the contrast between dirty and clean water. It can be put up on any flat surface or propped up on snap-on metal legs in the middle of an open space for maximum effect. Without cords or heavy motors, Stil can focus completely on just purifying the water, providing up to 12L of clean water that can save thousands of lives.

The post Solar-powered Water Purifier is a completely sustainable way to get clean water first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 10 solar-powered designs you need to achieve your go green resolution in 2023

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Welcoming 2023 has sure been a fun and ecstatic affair, we’re all brimming over with excitement and ambition, and have an arsenal of resolutions to achieve. And one resolution that we should all be striving towards collectively – is to start living more consciously and in an eco-friendly manner, which includes paying attention to, and giving consideration to our energy sources. Curbing fossil fuel consumption has now become a priority, and we have a more positive energy source in mind as an alternative – the Sun! Solar energy has pretty much won over the world, and we see it being utilized in all aspects of design, whether it’s solar-powered kitchen appliances, homes, or even hotels! And, we’ve put together a collection of ingenious solar-powered products that will make a MAJOR difference in your everyday life. From a paper-thin solar cell that could bring solar power to any surface, to solar-powered umbrella canopies inspired by Acacia trees – these solar-powered designs are bound to make some eco-friendly waves in 2023.

1. The Luci Beam LED

Designed by Mpowered, the Luci Beam LED is a 2-in-1 solar-powered headlamp and flashlight, that is power-packed in a water-resistant body, allowing it to be utilized in all kinds of situations without any hassle. The product can provide up to 300 lumens of brightness, which should come in handy in so many use cases: whether you are searching for something in the store room or illuminating your pathway during a hike.

Why is it noteworthy?

Luci Beam’s ability to transform from a handheld to a headlamp is what makes it stand out from other lighting designs in the market! The 2-in-1 headlamp and flashlight is solar-powered but can also be recharged via USB if there is no sun, so you are never left stranded in the middle of an adventure.

What we like

  • Features a micro-USB cable to charge on the go
  • A secure headband for the headlamp and the wrist strap for the flashlight make sure that the device is always securely strapped on

What we dislike

  • We’re not sure how sturdy it is to handle the rough outdoors

2. Paper-thin Solar Cell

MIT researchers created a paper-thin solar cell that is so thin and lightweight, that you can place it on almost any kind of surface! solar panels can generate 370 watts per kilogram of power, which is actually 18 times more as compared to regular solar cells.

Why is it noteworthy?

Not only does this mean that they are viable alternatives to heavy panels that burden your roof, but they can also be installed on almost any surface, including flexible ones like boat sails or tents. This paper-thin solar cell is excellent for tents, especially when they are situated in disaster-stricken areas, where power grids may not be operable at times.

What we like

  • 18 times more powerful compared to conventional cells
  • Can be bent or rolled like a piece of paper

What we dislike

  • Missing a protective layer that will protect the cells from the environment

3. Ecacia

Designed by Samuel Wilkinson, Ecacia is a tree-like structure inspired by one of the species of the Acacia tree that grows in eastern and Southern Africa. This huge umbrella-like structure not only provides shade from sun and rain but can also power amenities located near it or charge electric vehicles as well.

Why is it noteworthy?

It features four programmable LED lamps that give off light to the surrounding areas at the night. Prototypes in the future will also be amped with a cooling mist function so that the public areas can be cooled down during the warm season. The umbrellas will provide a temporary respite to passersby.

What we like

  • Features 708 monocrystalline solar panels to capture solar energy

What we dislike

  • It’s still in the prototype stage!

4. HeliaSol

Designed by German brand Heliatek, HeliaSol has been around the market since 2017. It functions as a nifty sticker that you can stick onto or set up in schools, wind turbine facilities, and other spaces with large surfaces. And the brand has now come up with a new innovation called the HeliaFilm.

Why is it noteworthy?

HeliaFilm is a stick-on roll of film, that can stick to materials such as concrete, metal, and glass. The HeliaFilm can generate 170 watts per square meter and can be installed on all sorts of surfaces. The solar film can produce a 17.2% yield when utilized on a roll-up textile base.

What we like

  • Created by material recycling
  • Uses organic photovoltaic technology

What we dislike

  • No complaints!

5. The Tesla Solar Range Extending Trailer

Tesla quietly launched one of its innovations at IdeenExpo in Hannover German. The EV giant unveiled a prototype of yet another product they’re working on – a trailer that attaches to the back of your EV and has been amped with fold-out solar panels and battery packs that help expand your EV’s range.

Why is it noteworthy?

Called, the Tesla Solar Range Extending trailer, the electric vehicle is quite simply put – massive. It’s as big as the other large trailers on the market, and it boasts fold-out solar panels that charge a pretty large battery pack placed below it. This battery pack can be used as an additional power source for the EV.

What we like

  •  Features a SpaceX Starlink internet terminal
  • Amped with solar panels

What we dislike

  • We don’t know if or when it will be launched

6. The Parelio

The Parelio looks like a super fun design, and it is! It is a  solar-powered beach umbrella that is able to harness the power of the sun to create sustainable energy. The accessory is ideal for both lawns and beaches, and it can absorb sunlight, and convert it into electricity that can be used to power phone chargers, coolers, mini-fridges, and machinery as well!

Why is it noteworthy?

Instead of the usual beach umbrella design that folds down towards the earth, this one folds upward towards the sun as it absorbs its energy. The inspiration for the design is a combination of origami and the solar systems on NASA spacecraft.

What we like

  • Amped with foldable photovoltaic panels
  • Folds upwards towards the sun, rather than towards the earth

What we dislike

  • No complaints!

7. The Solgaard Solarbank Boombox

Solgaard Solarbank Boombox Shell 1

Solgaard Solarbank Boombox 3

Choosing a decent Bluetooth speaker is always a task, but now sustainability has been added to the mix as well! Your tech needs to be more eco-friendly as well now. The aim now is to make “greener” choices for the future of the planet. For this reason, the new Solgaard Solarbank Boombox portable speaker enters the market with a sustainable design.

Why is it noteworthy?

The upcycled plastic design refers to speaker cloth and outer shell from plastic waste. These are waste materials but had been upcycled and used instead. This process is part of the brand’s initiative to pull about 5 lbs of plastic for every product sold.

What we like

  • The Solgaard Solarbank Boombox lets you enjoy music while the battery harnesses the power of the sun
  •  It is sand-proof, water-proof, and drop-proof

What we dislike

  • The speaker’s looks are unimpressive and quite common

8. The Adidas RPT-02 SOL

Dubbed the Adidas RPT-02 SOL, these pair of over-the-ear cans juice up with natural light or even artificial light. So, they’ll not need to recharge any time soon.

Why is it noteworthy?

These headphones are a follow-up to the RPT-01(not solar-powered) and promise almost double the playback time at around 80 hours. Not to forget that the RPT-02 SOL are solar powered, and the battery keeps topping up as long as you are exposed to good lighting conditions.

What we like

  • Crafted out of recycled plastic
  • Used a highly flexible light-cell material by Powerfoyle

What we dislike

  • No complaints!

9. The Matte Works Solar Watches

In today’s day and age, the world of smartwatches is run over by those with disposable lithium-ion batteries and planned obsolescence life cycles, the Matte Works solar watches are literally quite a refreshing change! These minimal and clean watches feature an evergreen aesthetic, that quite smartly conceals the solar panels placed below the watch dial.

Why is it noteworthy?

Unlike a smartwatch that ends up becoming ‘old news’ after the company launches its next version a year later, the Matte Works solar watches stay classy and functional for years, while underscoring the importance of relying on renewable energy.

What we like

  • The watch comes with a classic aesthetic that conceals its powerful feature underneath a tinted dial

What we dislike

  • Aesthetically looks quite similar to other watches on the market

10. Sunnyside

We love bento boxes – they’re super cute, compact, and functional. Now, meet Sunnyside, a nifty bento box quite literally powered by the sun! The bento box features a self-heating and cooling feature that ensures your meal is always at the right temperature. A heating coil around the metal container helps evenly conduct thermal energy around your food, keeping hot stuff hot, or if you’ve got something like an egg/potato salad that’s out in the sun, a pair of fans located on the bottom of the lunchbox pull out warm air, ensuring your food doesn’t spoil in the heat

Why is it noteworthy?

However what sets Sunnyside apart from other bento boxes on the market is that it relies almost entirely on a solar panel built right into its lid, working off renewable energy. A solar panel built into the lid helps charge the Sunnyside’s internal 10,000mAh battery that powers the lunchbox’s heating and cooling features, and a tiny LCD screen and buttons on the side help you control your Sunnyside, choosing how hot or cool you want the contents of your box to be.

What we like

  • Doubles up as a wireless power bank to charge your phone, AirPods, or even your laptop

What we dislike

  • No complaints!

The post Top 10 solar-powered designs you need to achieve your go green resolution in 2023 first appeared on Yanko Design.

Solar-powered beach umbrellas can keep your ice cream cold and save the planet

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The height of summer in the Western hemisphere means a lot of beach days, time spent outdoors, and suntanning in the backyard. But it also means pressure on energy sources, especially for towns that have an influx of tourists during this season. This year in particular has been brutal with much of Europe experiencing record-breaking heat which also means a drain on a lot of resources. It’s always welcome when we hear of products and concepts that will help lighten the load and still bring comfort and convenience to its users.

Designer: CRA-Carlo Ratti Associati for Sammontana

Italian desserts brand Sammontana commissioned an innovation firm to come up with an innovative product that will be useful for this season but also sustainable. The Parelio is a solar-powered beach umbrella that is able to harness the power of the sun to create sustainable energy. The lawn and beach accessory can absorb sunlight and convert it into electricity for things like coolers, mini-refrigerators, phone chargers, and even to power machinery.

Instead of the usual beach umbrella design that folds down towards the earth, this one folds upward towards the sun as it absorbs its energy. The inspiration for the design is a combination of origami and the solar systems on NASA spacecraft. On top you get foldable photovoltaic panels that are able to convert the energy into electricity. Don’t worry so much about getting too much sunlight as the top is still able to provide enough shade, which is the primary purpose of beach umbrellas.

It is 2.5 meters high with a diameter of 3.2 meters. The mini-refrigerator attached can keep your drinks and food cold, which is where the dessert brand comes in. One umbrella is powerful enough but if you have a network of them in one area, it can provide electricity for more than just your mini ref. Multiple Parelios can even power an entire establishment so even if you get a lot of visitors, you’re still able to manage your consumption.

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Solar-powered lunchbox keeps your food hot or even cool, depending on what’s inside

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The biggest benefit I can think of for a self-heating lunchbox is the sheer ability to avoid using your office microwave. Think about it. Tony from HR decided to bring tuna salad for lunch and now the entire microwave and lunchroom smell like funk. It’s a good thing you don’t need to microwave your lunch, because Sunnyside kept it hot for you.

Designer: SunnySide

Click Here to Buy Now: $69 $125 (45% off). Hurry, only 3/125 left!

Meet Sunnyside, a nifty bento box with a self-heating AND cooling feature that brings your lunch to the right temperature just before your meal. A heating coil around the metal container helps evenly conduct thermal energy around your food, keeping hot stuff hot, or if you’ve got something like an egg/potato salad that’s out in the sun, a pair of fans located on the bottom of the lunchbox pull out warm air, ensuring your food doesn’t spoil in the heat. However, the most impressive bit? Sunnyside relies almost entirely on a solar panel built right into its lid, working off renewable energy.

Sunnyside is a spacious, leakproof bento box with a modular divider system that lets you organize your lunch. A solar panel built into the lid helps charge the Sunnyside’s internal 10,000mAh battery that powers the lunchbox’s heating and cooling features, and a tiny LCD screen and buttons on the side help you control your Sunnyside, choosing how hot or cool you want the contents of your box to be. The 10,000 mAh battery is more than enough to power your lunchbox, and even doubles up as a wireless power bank to charge your phone, AirPods, or even your laptop as you wait for lunchtime to finally arrive!

Built-in Power Bank to Charge your Devices – With the built-in 10,000 mAh battery, you can not only heat or chill your meals but also charge your devices right from the lunch box.

Modular Dividers – Consists of removable dividers/separators so you can easily portion your meals, making it easier to follow a healthy diet.

Built-in Thermometer – The thermometer keeps a tab on the temperature and shuts it down automatically if it goes beyond a point. It can heat food in 7 minutes and has an auto cut off mode trigger so it doesn’t overheat your food.

Each Sunnyside comes with a safe, cordless design that’s also dishwasher friendly. An internal thermometer allows you to constantly gauge your food’s temperature, which gets displayed on a small screen on the side of the Sunnyside; or better still, Sunnyside’s own smartphone app allows you to set and control your lunchbox’s temperature anytime! Now if only the app also let you see if someone’s trying to steal your lunch!

Click Here to Buy Now: $69 $125 (45% off). Hurry, only 3/125 left!

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Zaha Hadid Architects designed a luxury yacht that can run on 100% solar power

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Christened the Oneiric, this twin-hulled catamaran sports Zaha Hadid Architects’ signature fluid design and comes with a solar-paneled roof that lets the yacht run entirely on renewable energy.

The Oneiric isn’t your usual yacht. Developed in partnership with Italian shipyard Rossinavi, the yacht sports a uniquely organic form on the inside and the out. Inspired by the shape of waves, Zaha Hadid Architects hopes that its design will blur the boundaries between the yacht and its surroundings, sort of like luxurious camouflage, if you will. It is set to be presented next week during Milan design week.

Designers: Zaha Hadid Architects and Rossinavi

The Oneiric is a 42-meter-long yacht (or a catamaran to be precise) with a twin-hull design that gives it a broader footprint. Its organic, fluid design falls well within the identity of the design language Zaha Hadid Architects is known for. The main deck features a saloon containing a bar and integrated sofas that open onto a second deck with an inbuilt hot tub and two sets of steps that lead down into the sea.

The catamaran runs on a hybrid power system, relying on a combination of solar as well as fuel power with the ability to switch to 100% solar energy too. Described by Rossinavi as its “green-technology flagship”, the yacht would be covered in solar panels on three levels that would fully power it on day trips. “On a day trip, Oneiric can cruise up to 100% of the time in full-electric mode with zero emissions,” mentions Zaha Hadid Architects. “On transatlantic crossings, the yacht can cruise in full-electric mode up to 70% of the time, saving approximately 40 tonnes of CO2 compared to a conventional vessel.” The solar panels continually charge the yacht’s battery pack even when not in use, and can then in turn be used to provide power to a villa on land when the yacht’s moored.

The Oneiric’s multihulls are also more energy-efficient than a conventional monohull yacht, due to their weight distribution and the hulls’ length-to-width ratio which provides greater hydrodynamic efficiency.

The yacht’s interiors mirror the same design language as the exterior, with the liberal use of curved lines to balance out the rigidity of straight lines and flat surfaces, giving the overall yacht a soft appeal. “The sinuous lines and reflective surfaces of the yacht’s exterior are continued throughout the interior, blurring the boundaries between vessel and sea,” the architects said. The use of wood proves to be a rather clever choice on the architects’ part, as the wood grain further lends a ripple-like fluidity to the exterior deck as well as the interior.

“The serenity on board is visual as well as auditory,” said the team at Zaha Hadid Architects. “Oneiric’s full-electric mode is capable of silent operations. In addition, the yacht benefits from the effects of Rossinavi Zero Noise technology that isolates all noise on board from the original source.”

Oneiric can accommodate up to 8 guests at a time (with an additional 6 crew members), with 4 cabins for the guests, 3 for the crew, and one dedicated owner’s suite that comes wrapped in a curved glass window to give 180-degree views of the sea, and a skylight that allows light to filter from above. Multiple interior and outdoor lounging and dining areas, as well as media room with entertainment technologies, are integrated into the design together with a large owner’s suite and four guest cabins. The yacht’s interior spaces interconnect, a feature that makes the design unique. The owner’s suite provides access to the forward outdoor lounge area, which can be shaded by retractable structures.

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This spacecraft-inspired trendy urban scooter is in part powered by solar energy

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A spacecraft design-inspired urban ride powered by the electric motor which is charged by the solar energy panels right where the fuel tank of a gasoline-powered counterpart would be.

Personal daily commuters have become a thing lately due to the eco-conscious behavior among the masses and an increasing number of vehicles on the roads worldwide. Compact electric scooters have garnered attention owing to this fact. But one has to consider their function and looks as well, to be considered an attractive proposition for riders.

Designer: Fajar Ismail

The Stellar electric scooter falls right in the sweet spot of a highly functional and stylish commuter with something more to keep riders hooked. It’s envisioned as a compact fun ride for short-mid-range distance commutes sans any emissions. To feed the battery with more juice, there’s a solar panel embedded in the front flat section. As far as my imagination goes, the scooter will benefit the maximum from the limitless sun’s energy in tropical regions. Take it out of the city for motocamping or other weekend outdoor activities, and you’ll be in for a fun time.

According to the designer, the two-wheeler is based on the Quest Atom Alpha EV chassis and on other end of the spectrum draws inspiration from spacecraft design too. The lightweight electric scooter gets added features to improve riding comfort and efficiency. Styling ques follow a layered geometric design emulated in the aluminum body panels. For better rideability on rough surfaces, the scooter gets a modern dual springer fork and a rigid frame for structural strength.

For once, a concept two-wheeler design doesn’t ignore the riding comfort of the seat (we’ve seen way many with very eye-sore aesthetics) which is a big relief. A digital display or even an analog tachometer would have been a wise addition, but other than that, this urban scooter manages to do everything right.

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