Sustainability And The Auto Industry at APAC16
by: Environmental Leader, 2011-09-07 10:42:26 UTC
Dr.Pawan Goenka, Chairman – Asia Pacific Automotive Engineering Conference 16 and President – Automotive & Farm Equipment Sector, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd, at ttalks about the APAC16 conference at a press conference and why sustainability is important for the automobile industry.

Less Is More, Part V
by: Environmental Leader, 2011-09-07 15:41:51 UTC
Designing for small In my last article, I stated that one of the challenges is linking product performance to material shape and properties. And then making the next link to environmental impacts/resource requirements. An example of some helpful software that connects material properties to potential environmental impacts/burdens was given. By linking the potential burdens to [...]

Light Ceremony
by: Yanko Design, 2011-09-07 15:53:47 UTC

Absolutely love this project. Light Ceremony riffs off the proverbial tea ceremony by letting you add and remove light to a bowl via scoop. The two objects communicate wirelessly to seamlessly transfer light based on motion and gesture. A little novel yes, but certainly more interesting that an on/off switch.

Designers: Jianxing Cai, Chao Chen, Ye Tao, Chengyuan Wei, Guanyun Wang & Xuanxing Yang

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5 Weirdest renewable energy sources
by: Ecofriend, 2011-09-06 09:23:41 UTC
Shallu Sharma:

With the increase in worldwide population we need to look for alternative and renewable energy sources that could match up the energy consumption pace. Efforts are being made to generate energy distinctively from naturally replenished resources like wind, sunlight, rain, geothermal energy, rain tides and other organic substances. While most researchers believe that producing energy from conventional renewable energy sources such as wind and sun is enough, there is no dearth of individuals who try to generate energy in a unique way by using unconventional forms of energy.

Five such unique attempts to generate energy are described below:

1. MuckBuster

MuckBuster, an anaerobic digester capable of generating energy from organic waste has been designed by SEaB energy Ltd. It uses animal waste, grass trimmings and other septic tank stuff to create energy in its container like structure. Organic matter in the digester is broken down to produce methane gas using bacteria. This methane gas is then used to produce electricity. This device is capable of generating 2KWh of energy using 1000 gallons of organic waste.

2. Mushroom enzymes used to produce energy

Mushrooms and Lichens are being tested in Novozymes laboratories to create affordable alternative to expensive gasoline. Enzymes used in the market for decomposition of complex carbohydrates in the plant cells are very expensive and are unaffordable. This problem is solved by fungi like mushrooms and lichens. They make enzymes to eat decaying logs and leaves. These enzymes can easily decompose complex cells to a mixture of sugars. Yeast then ferments this mixture and produces ethanol, which is renewable clean-burning additive to gasoline. Novozymes has become one of the best biofuel enzymes producers in the world after producing enzymes from mushrooms and lichens.

3. Lightening to produce lighting

Scientists have successfully proved that water droplets in the air carry some type of charge because of air humidity and dust particles. These charged particles can be used to harvest electricity without letting lightening occur, which could be hazardous in some cases. This energy could benefit various families by providing access to electricity. The universal existence of atmospheric conditions leading to the formation of hygroelectricity makes this development technique realistic and feasible.

4. Oceanic vibrations produces eclectic current

Oceanic vibrations have been converted into renewable energy source by using latest technology. Metal rods are used to store currents generated at the bottom of the ocean and river beds. The vibrations produced in the metal rods due to whirls generate current. It does not require fast flowing water and energy can be generated by harvesting small vibrations. Water flowing with the pace of few miles per hour is sufficient to produce energy using this technique. It is cost efficient and the investment required is far less than that required for solar or wind energy harvesting. Moreover, unlike solar and wind energy generation, this new technique can be used to generate energy continuously without being as dependent on climate as the conventionally harvested forms of renewable energy.

5. Energy generated by burning salt water

The late John Kanzius while working on a radio wave machine for treating cancer found out a way to burn salt water. He was using external radio-wave wave generator to desalinate salt water and water ignited. Hydrogen was being released in this ignition process which could be used to a fuel. This process is still under study and alternative methods are being searched for burning salt water because the energy consumed by a radio generator is more in comparison to the energy produced by it. Another problem that needs to be dealt with is release of chlorine from salt water which is toxic in nature.

10 environmentally friendly electric motorcycle concepts
by: Ecofriend, 2011-09-06 10:15:51 UTC
Sahil Khurana:

People are opening up to electric rides and always look forward to new creations. The new-age electric bikes have been designed in a way that gives a tough competition to gas-guzzling beasts, but bike lovers are still skeptical about the kind of performance they deliver. Eco-friendly automotive technology has grown over the years and has managed to impress people. Below is a list of environmentally-friendly electric motorcycle concepts that will save the beautiful world from further deterioration.

1. Kobra all-electric motorcycle

Cristiano Giuggioli has designed Kobra, is an all-electric creation. The most unique trait is the motorcycle’s ability to adjust according to the rider’s weight and height. The good-looking creation has been fitted with an electric engine that has been coupled with highly developed robotic technology. The on-board batteries of Kobra, get recharged effortlessly when brakes are applied, thanks to the presence of regenerative braking system.

2. Orphiro Electric Motorcycle Concept

Electric bikes are always considered to have low power. But, Orphiro Electric Motorcycle Concept is here to change this thinking forever. It can touch a top speed 75 mph or 120 km/h and has an approximate range of 60 miles or 100 km. The emission-free creation, has been injected with fun elements and is perfect for a ride around the city. Orphiro has an aggressively carved wide-body that will manage to fetch unending attention.

3. E-bike Concept

Shavit Electric Sport Motorcycle has been designed by Eyal Melnik. The sexy bike can morph from an upright posture to a lean stance in no time, thanks to the unique riding pose. The seat height, handlebars and foot-pad of this fascinating E-bike, can be accustomed separately, and that morphs it from an everyday bike to a superbike.

4. BMW E 100R Electric Motorcycle Concept

The name BMW itself sets pulses racing, and here to accelerate the excitement all the more, is BMW E 100R Electric Motorcycle Concept by Miika Mahonen. The sumptuous creation is a perfect blend of good looks and power. It has been wedged with a power-packed electric engine that is well complemented by its lightweight frame, which makes the bike all the more energy efficient. BMW E 100R is eco-friendly in nature that can be driven in the city, race track and even in hills.

5. 4 Wheeled Electric Motorcycle

Now, this concept sure comes draped with wicked looks. The 4 Wheeled Electric Motorcycle provides an eco-friendly ride that ranks high on the style-o-meter. Designed by Wes Rhoad, it is a zero-emission bike that vows to keep the environment clean and green. It has an exceptional silhouette, managing to capture a lot of hearts.

6. SE Electric Motorcycle Concept

The SE Electric Motorcycle Concept, also called the big battery electric bike, has an electric motor each in the front and rear hub. Both the motors, smaller one at the front and bigger one at the back, will fetch power from a single battery pack. It has been designed by Paolo di Giusti and will definitely give a tough competition to gas powered creations.

7. ZEVS Electric Motorbike

This bike with brawny features can be any bike lover’s dream. Dubbed the ZEVS Electric Motorcycle Concept, it has been designed by Anders August Kittilsen, Bernhard Ranner and Rudolf Stefanich. It is set to zoom like an angry monster and force heads to tilt in total amazement that too in an environment-friendly way. So, if you are an eco-conscious rider and love the aggression that bikes come coated with, then ZEVS will leave you impressed.

8. Honda Oree Electric Motorcycle Concept

Andre Look and Nike Albertus, design students from a German college, have come up with an impressive electric bike concept that will leave you wheezing. These bike crazy students have blended their passion with their love for environment, and came up with the Honda Oree. It produces a 90 plus horsepower and torque measuring 125 lb-ft. The bike will send in thrill chills as it can touch a top speed of 120 mph. Depending on the number of batteries used, Oree bikes weigh between 290 to 375 lbs and have a range that varies between 80 to 190 miles.

9. E-Carver Electric Motorcycle Concept

Another brilliant addition to the world of electric motorcycles, is E-Carver Electric Motorcycle Concept. Luca Bar has designed E-Carver enveloped in an impressive outer skin. Its hub comes fitted with a motor. The most striking feature is the wheels, that are different sized. The front tyre is smaller than the rear wheel, which give the overall designing a new meaning. It has a horizontal riding position and provides a zero emission ride.

10. Nucleus Motorcycle Concept Would Be Interesting in a Wind Tunnel

Nucleus Motorcycle Concept by Non-Object, literally looks weird. It seems as if the bike has been fitted with blinders on either side. The seat is quite thin and comfortable. It only rises when the vehicle is in motion. Since, it is still in conceptual stage, there is no surety that it will actually hit the streets any sooner.

5 green products for sustainable offices
by: Ecofriend, 2011-09-06 10:17:27 UTC
Garima Goel:

With the development of new technologies, people almost forgot the ecology that keeps them alive. But now, with a steady increase in environmental awareness, people are trying to shift to the usage of sustainable and green products in their households or working place. Environmentally friendly or simply eco-friendly do not harm the environment while their production, usage or even disposal. Your can also show your care for Mother Nature in the office you work by making use of green office products that are now easily available in market. Listed below are five such eco products for your office that can be easily implemented and will make a considerable difference over time.

1. Woven Newspaper Lampshade

Danny Seo is a leading lifestyle expert in America who frequently designs green and sustainable products like sheets, towels, bathmats etc. and also inspires people to live an eco-friendly life. He creates green products not only for house holds but also for offices and hotels so that the eco consciousness can be adopted by every person who encounters these sustainable products. The newspaper woven lampshade is a perfect example of re-using old newspapers, which are generally given for recycling, after they are read. Danny has made use of these old newspapers to create a beautiful lampshade. The news papers are tightly woven together and then used as a gorgeous lighting source in the Intercontinental Hotel in NYC. This lampshade designed creatively out of newspapers can match up with any colour scheme due to the neutral tone it carries of the newsprint. This artifact can prove out to be a great source of green inspiration if used in other commercial purposes like offices, shopping malls etc.

2. Knu Furniture

Knu is a 100% carbon-neutral online-only company that has emerged from the Industrial Woodworking Corporation (IWC). The IWC is a furnishing company that creates environment furniture for hospitals, homes and offices. Knu was launched by IWC in 2007 that creates contemporary and eco-friendly home desks, tables, shelving and storage furniture pieces and call them as “inanimate motion in crisp, sustainable form.” Knu furniture is designed by Bradford Davis who makes use of sustainably harvested wood material which is assembled with 40% recycled post-consumer waste stainless steel hardware. The product is manufactured in an energy efficient facility which is 100% carbon neutral. The above picture represents the sustainable dining table set designed by Knu.

3. Recycled drivers seat cum office chair

Javier Sanchez Merina, who is an architect himself and also an architectural design teacher at Alicante University in Spain, has created this incredible chair to which he calls Juliana Chair. To create this four-headed office chair he has used his architectural skills and also kept in mind the environmental consciousness. He bought BMW electrical seat from a junkyard at a very low price and simply by adding an articulated joint and a couple of wheels he created this office chair which can be configured in different ways, from all four side-by-side to two each face-to-face to a round table of sorts. The electric controls on each of the four seats make the user to adjust the seat according to his comfort. This creation is green, versatile and remarkable in a very extraordinary manner.

4. USB Eco Button

The USB Eco Button is a cool device that keeps a tab on your total power usage and along with that it gives you an update on your energy bills. This USB device is made of green plastic and when connected to the computer via USB it illuminates. Whenever you press the eco-button your computer is put to the ecomode which is the most efficient energy saving mode. The ecobutton saves your energy without the need of turning of your computer. You just need to press on the eco button and you will resume to the work where you left. The ecobutton software also monitors your carbon units and how much power and money you saved while using the ecomode.

5. Bamboo Flash Drive

Bamboo is a sustainable and eco-friendly material that has a long life span. And because of all that it is a great green substitute for various objects used in everyday life. But did you ever think that the durable and hardened bamboo can be used In offices to conceive your data and securely store it for many years to come? This new astonishing flash drive packs a 4 GB memory for your technical work in a beautiful and eco friendly bamboo stick rather than customized USB flash drives. Though the inner working of the drive is not made of bamboo, only the outer casing is and that is more than enough for a green symbol in your sustainable office.

Compressed air system to save wind power for future use
by: Ecofriend, 2011-09-06 10:18:48 UTC
Nandini Moulik:

As the demand for clean energy from renewable resources soar, implementation of technologies to save and maximize energy usage always remains the top priority. Given the situation of fast depletion of fossil fuels and environmental concerns, SustainX, a West Lebanon-based start-up has decided to use compressed air technology of storing wind energy generated by wind mills and producing the energy at peak hours. Air compression technology is not a new conception, but SustainX has come up with bigger plans to make it commercially viable.

The wind generated by the windmills can be compressed and stored in underground caverns or depleted oil fields, which can be released later to produce power when the demand is high. This will reduce the dependency on fossil fuels.

Storing of wind energy is a problem, but the necessity of storing this energy is ever increasing with the government imposing stringent rules in maximum power harnessing from renewable resources. SustainX has been successful in demonstrating a 40-Kilowatt prototype and is presently engaged in finishing a 1Megawatt project.

The biggest advantage of compressed air technology is that it can generate power from the stored wind energy even when the wind is not blowing. The compressed air can be released to rotate the turbine blades and dispatch power according to the demand. This concept of Compressed Air Energy Storage (CAES) has been lurking in the minds of engineers for few decades, but then technical difficulties and the cost proved to be great barriers. Presently, higher energy prices have created a situation to implement compressed air technology to cater to the demand of clean energy market.

Lack of enough storage space to store the compressed air for large scale power production is a big hindrance. SustainX has overcome this problem through the use of above the ground storage systems. The conventional turbine system does not work in above the ground storage tanks and SustainX has introduced pistons. These are cost effective and with better compression ability it can store more energy. Thus, above the ground storage tanks can store more energy than the same capacity underground caverns. Moreover, the pistons can function at a wider range when the tank pressure is too low to drive the turbines.

Air compression generates a lot of heat and decompression requires heat. Much of the heat generated during compression gets wasted. The efficiency of CAES can be increased if the heat generated during compression can be stored. SustainX introduced a fine water spray in the cylinder to absorb heat generated during compression and the same hot water is used as a fuel during decompression. No wastage of energy and no extra heat requirement. The energy efficiency has shot up from 54% to 95%. SustainX uses electricity to drive the pistons in the storage cylinders. During energy release, the decompressed air drives the piston to run a generator.

SustainX is working hard on isothermal compressed air technology due to its better energy efficiency. However, underground storage caverns are being considered more economically viable than above the ground storage tanks due to limited capacity of power production by the latter.

Via: Technologyreview

10 Concept chargers harvesting alternative energy sources
by: Ecofriend, 2011-09-06 11:06:06 UTC
Shaheen Akhtar:

The availability of ecofriendly concept chargers has reduced our dependency on electric chargers to a great extent. These ecofriendly chargers use green energy to charge mobile phone and other gadgets. These chargers are designed and built to use the kinetic energy of these gadgets to charge them if required.

Here is the list of 10 concept chargers that harvest alternative energy sources.

1. I-Green Charger concept

Fandi Menf, an industrial designer, has manufactured a concept generator that can be used to charge cellphones using renewable energy. Menf has named his innovative creation the I-Green Bicycle Charging System. The device harvests kinetic energy generated by the movement of bike and then convert this kinetic energy into electricity.

2. Concept shoe charger

The highly innovative concept shoe charger is the brainchild of Argentine Industrial designer Soledad Martin. It is an ecofriendly device which generates renewable energy by harvesting motion. The device is attached to the shoe of the user and it generates energy due to the motion of the person. The charger has a socket to plug in the mobile phones if you wish to recharge it using this concept shoe charger.

3. iFan concept

The ecofriendly charger for the iPhone is designed and built by industrial designer Tjeerd Veenhoven. The charger called the iFan concept provides protection to the device by wrapping around it and it uses the wind energy to charge the iPhone. The iFan concept will attract those who are frequent travelers. According to Veenhoven, the concept charger will charge the iPhone in around six hours.

4. Concept solar powered charger

Designer Nikolay Bastrakov is credited with manufacturing a concept charger that is powered by solar energy. The device is compact, easy to carry, and stylish in look. This charger is made from silicone and the designer has used polymer to make it light and sturdy. ‘Thin film’ solar cells are used in this charger. This unique charger contains a converter, a small battery, and a microprocessor.

5. Magic Rubik’s Cube charger concept

Designer Zheng Weixi has conceived the idea of the Magic Charger concept that harvests alternative energy source to generate electricity. Zheng has used the principles of electromagnetic induction in this ecofriendly charger.

6. Concept cellphone charger by Clara Zamboni

This innovative Lotus charger is deigned by industrial designer Clara Zamboni. This hand-held charger can harvest the human energy to generate electricity which can be used for charging mobile phones and other devices. According to Zamboni, the energy generated by the rotation of nanogenerators using the thumb is converted by the Lotus. The Lotus has a USB output.

7. Roll Charger concept

Chinese product designer Jiang Qian is credited with developing a roll charger concept. Jiang’s device uses the mechanical energy generated in the balls to generate electricity. When balls are rolled in the palm, they generate energy and this energy is harnessed by the Roll Charger. The charger can charge two batteries at a time. Jiang has fitted a LED in this charger which allows the user to know whether the charger is working or not.

8. Dyson energy wrist charger design concept

This ecofriendly charger is different from all other green charger we have talked before because you can wear this one on your wrist and recharge your cellphone. It is interesting to note that this concept charger doesn’t harness the energy of motion. The charger generates electricity by making use of the changes in the temperature of the wrist of the user. Since the charger is based on the thermoelectric effect, it features a thermocouple.

9. Viber Burst kinetic energy charger

Swinburne University student Josh Pell has come up with the idea of a concept charger named Viber Burst. This green charger harnesses the power of motion and can charge cellphone in only two seconds. Pell has mounted the internal components of this charger on a flexible PCB. The device will be available for sale in recycled packaging.

10. Yoyo Mobile Phone charger

The Yoyo Mobile Phone charger concept harvests kinetic energy. An inbuilt dynamo harnesses the energy from motion to generate electricity. The user just need to keep spinning the device until the battery gets fully charged. The battery can be used to recharge several electronic devices.

Squeeron iron uses the heat produced by an induction plate
by: The Design blog, 2011-09-06 10:33:03 UTC
Jaspreet Kaur Walia:

Ironing clothes gives a crisp look that can instantly enhance a wearer’s personality. Using a traditional/everyday iron to remove wrinkles consumes a lot of energy. But, not anymore! Daan Ballieu has come up with the Squeeron that will save energy and prove to be a fresh concept in the world of ironing.

Squeeron has been designed in a way that makes sure the electric and water circuits are entirely separated by using the heating element of an induction cooking plate. The energy consumed by induction is almost half, as compared to resistance wires, which vouches for the sustainability of the product. Apart from this, all the electric components have been deleted, and a limited number of parts have been used to make Squeeron that helps save energy further. The sandwich connection is held together by only three screws hence can be easily snapped apart.

Cork, a lightweight substance that grows quickly, has been used to make the housing. It acts as a great isolator, keeping in mind the upward heat that the base plate will generate. The base plate comprises of three layers and each has an individual function. The stainless plate is for protecting, induction active for producing and aluminum for containing. Silicon rubber has been used to craft the reservoir, which is transparent and helps a user to easily keep a check on the water level. Filling the reservoir is easy, thanks to the presence of a filling cap that has been coupled with air valves.

Water is converted into steam when the handle is squeezed and that helps water go down till the base plate. Squeeron is accompanied by an ironing board that has been crafted from open cell PUR foam. The foam comes enveloped with an easy-to-remove cotton layer that has been stitched on the top. The foam is reusable and comes sans any fear of chemical pollution that is produced due to coatings. It is quite supple that can be easily rolled and kept away, which helps in saving precious space. The product comes with a temperature chart sticker that guides a user to adjust the temperature of the cooking plate according to the type of fabric to be ironed.

Squeeron is an energy saving product that will change the whole perception about ironing tools. The easy to use iron will make sure that your clothes stay in a crisp and clean condition always.

[Cheers Daan]

Solar powered bus stop designs for eco conscious commuters
by: The Design blog, 2011-09-07 13:51:00 UTC
Shallu Sharma:

Our careless ways of using resources have done a lot of damage to the environment. With the introduction of eco friendly cars, transportation is witnessing a huge change in its approach. Another simple way is to reduce personal carbon footprints and using services such as buses and trains for commuting. However, the real task lies in making the car owners leave their luxurious cars and use a bus or train for transportation. This could be done by making bus stop designs appealing and environmentally sustainable. Here is the list of few solar powered bus stops.

1. Solar-powered bus stop

Canadian research engineers at McMaster University have come up with a unique design of a bus stop that uses solar cell technology. The whole module is fitted at the curved roof of the bus stop and powers lighting systems at night. It also keeps the commuters well informed by displaying internet based transport updates.This system is powered using 90cm by 12cm flexible solar strips, containing 720 solar cells that produce 4.5W of power. It generates the same light as a 3W tungsten lamp and is highly efficient.

2. Solar Stop

Industrial designer Jae Pyung Lee has designed a green multifunctional solar powered bus stop named as the “Solar Stop.” It has various features like street lighting, LED indicators, air purifier, water vending machine etc. It is extremely high tech bus stop providing Wi-FI, charge station, touch screen, and bill modifier facility to the passengers.The interiors of the bus stop are simple and elegant. It offers comfortable seating area with small table, spacious passageway and totally green furniture and fittings.

3. EyeStop

Designed by the MIT School of Architecture and Planning, this bus stop is another modern technology based bus stop. Commuters at “EyeStop” gets the facility of accessing internet, getting weather updates, watch news and surf various social networking sites like Facebook to stay in touch with family and friends. The bus stop also has interactive maps that helps commuters plan a bus trip. The most remarkable feature of “EyeStop” is its electric panel that glows to keep passengers aware of the approaching bus status. All the high tech features of this bus stop use solar trapped energy to operate and therefore make it environmental friendly.

4. Solar-powered wireless bus stops

The concept designed by Gavin Harvey uses latest technology keeping in mind the ecological aspects. The energy generated by these bus stops could be effectively used to charge electric buses and cars. This wireless concept has four important parts including, power from national grid, the top up charger, the solar energy, remaining power from solar energy supplied to the grid.

5. Solar-powered bus stop makes the wait comfortable and green

A simple bus stop in shape of a shelter has been designed by industrial designer Johann Paquelier. Three different designs have been proposed for the shape of the shelter. In first two designs the roof of the shelter is made up of compound materials, making it lighter than a metal roof. Solar powered LED lights are affixed to the roof. The third design has specifically been made for the smaller streets. It has longer common roof and LED lighting that are powered by solar panels mounted on the roof.

6. Informative Solar Bus Stop (PSI)

Students from Istitutu Europeo di have designed an environment sustainable bus stop known as PSI in collaboration with the Capman S.L. Company. It is the first such environment friendly bus stop in Spain. The best feature of this bus stop is that it doesn’t release any harmful emission and consumes only 70Wh/d in compared to 1228Wh/d as used by the digital bus stops. It has E-Ink display attached to it for displaying information and it is powered by solar energy and therefore is 100% recyclable.

7. Solar-powered bus stops in San Francisco

These high tech bus stops, using solar energy to run LEDs and fully operational with Wi-Fi facilities, will soon form a part of San Francisco streets. The proposal to install 1100 solar-powered bus stops throughout the city is already in progress. The roofs of these bus stops have solar panels and these panels send back the unused energy to the grid.

8. Transit Shelter

Transit structure, a secure and unique bus stop has been created by Arato Designs, well known for smart and stylish products. This bus stop is also powered solar energy. It has got a lofty structure with high ceiling and wide place. The most striking feature is it adjustable seating arrangement depending on the number on passengers using it. Exterior can be used to display advertisements and it provides a safe and secure place to rest in while waiting for a bus.