The number of coffee chains spread around the world is undeniable proof of how much people desire or even thrive on the beverage. Unfortunately, that number is also an indirect testament to the waste that the industry produces, especially when it comes to to-go cups. The majority of these cups are made of plastic, though some brands and consumers are becoming wiser and opting for more sustainable drinkware. The problem, however, is when you need to carry more than one of these cups, usually in precarious trays or bags. A paper cup design concept tries to hit two birds with one stone, offering not only a more sustainable cup but a better way to hold and carry them.

Designer: Shenzhen Samore Design & Research

Although iced coffee to go is still usually served in plastic containers, unless you bring your own reusable cup, the more common hot beverage is thankfully put in paper cups with cardboard sleeves. Their designs are simple and handy for holding in one hand, but some people have the unfortunate task of buying for a group. Some stores offer cardboard trays or boxes for carrying two or four drinks at once, though some have to resort to bags that could let the coffee spill as you swing it while walking.

Neither are ideal solutions, especially for long-term use or reusable cups, so someone thankfully thought of a better and admittedly more aesthetic solution to this common problem. It doesn’t have a formal name yet, but the Accordion Paper Cup design offers a simple yet ingenious way not just to carry coffee paper cups but also to hold one in your hand. In a nutshell, the paper cup has a sleeve that expands upward, turning it into a bag of sorts.

The trick to this sleeve design is the accordion-like structure can easily expand and contract without changing its total mass. This same structure happens to also be a good insulator against heat, allowing you to wrap your hand around a hot cup. It might not be an intentional part of the design, but the alternating pattern of holes and divisions also makes it easier to grip an otherwise smooth and slippery cup.

The paper cup and its innovative sleeve are allegedly made of recyclable, renewable, and biodegradable materials, further driving home the idea of an all-in-one sustainable solution for to-go cups. But while the cup itself seems to have that brown hue typically associated with recycled paper products, the sleeve has a gradient that softly shifts from blue to brown, though other colors are also possible. Unfortunately, there is no word on whether this concept has any chance of becoming an actual product, but it’s definitely an interesting avenue to consider for large coffee chains.

The post Accordion paper cup concept makes carrying coffee easier and more sustainable first appeared on Yanko Design.

As powerful and as useful as our smartphones might be, they can also be stumbling blocks not only for productivity but also for mental health. Incessant notifications and the fear of missing out (FOMO) add to the stress and anxiety of the modern world. Of course, ditching your smartphone is no longer an option these days, which is why several designs try to meet the problem halfway, many utilizing minimalist interfaces or drab gray screens to limit our smartphone interaction. Those, however, only solve one part of the problem, leaving many people still unused to taking breaks or relaxing. This concept design for a smartphone accessory tries to do exactly that, keeping your phone safely away from your reach while also helping you get into the habit of taking good breaks from time to time.

Designer: Jeongmin Ham

The most basic strategy people use to avoid distractions from their phones is to put it away, either at a distance or inside a drawer, creating some friction or obstacle to getting the phone instantly. While it can be an effective strategy for some, it’s also a missed opportunity for the smartphone to do something, well, smart. Short of using it as a timer, which can also lead to temptations, it can perhaps be utilized for some other function while keeping its normal distracting features at bay.

FIKA is a concept design for an accessory that does exactly that, keeping your smartphone from distracting you but also putting it to good use in training you to take breaks and use those breaks wisely. It is pretty much a cage or enclosure where you put the phone in, blocking complete use of the device except for a small circular window to a part of the screen. This is the only place where you’ll be able to see the phone’s guidance on how to take a break properly, somewhat like guided meditation apps that have become quite popular these days.

The idea for FIKA is to not just simply put your phone away to avoid distractions but also to develop good habits of taking breaks. And while different people take breaks differently, not everyone has an idea of how to do so properly, so FIKA can suggest certain actions like breathing exercises. Over time, the reminders and the case might not even be needed anymore, as you would have developed the habit and willpower to do it on your own.

The concept design sadly leaves a lot of questions unanswered, like how one will be prevented from just fishing out the phone without some locking mechanism. It also doesn’t mention how the circular window actually works, whether it is just a hole that leaves a part of the phone’s screen exposed or if it’s a touch-sensitive surface that “passes” touches through to the phone inside. Still, the core idea is interesting enough to warrant further thought, especially in an age where people’s mental and physical health has been in decline due to smartphones and overworking.

The post Smartphone enclosure concept helps develop good relaxation habits first appeared on Yanko Design.

When visiting a museum that’s located next to a body of water, probably the next thing you think of after you’ve completed your tour is: “Hmmm, it would be nice to have a relaxing time at a sauna”. Well, that’s if you’re tired after going around the museum. If you visit the Munch Museum in Oslo, Norway, you will get the chance to do just that.

Designer: Estudio Herreros

Trosten is a floating sauna that you can find in the fjord next to the museum as both are designed by Estudio Herreros. The idea is to bring saunas closer to the people and make it sustainable and accessible as well. They were inspired by architectural follies but aside from it being aesthetic, the structure is still also highly functional but with a “distinct volume and silhouette with a strong, colorful component”.

The sauna’s main structure is actually constructed offsite and then placed on the prefabricated floating concrete platform. It’s made with aluminum cladding with a green tone to give off a calm and relaxing vibe, combining it with the usual wooden decking you see on saunas with large terrazzo tiled surfaces plus steel balustrades and netting. Outside there’s stepped seating so users can also sunbathe before or after using the sauna. Inside there are lockers and seating spaces and inside the sauna itself you get stepped wooden seating.

At the back, there’s also a sheltered seating space and you can access the fjord from here if you want to cool off. Since this is a sustainable structure, you get an energy system and a steam recirculation system and use of natural and recycled materials. It would be nice to heat up and cool off at something like this after a long day of exploring the museum and nearby places.

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At the prestigious Salone Del Milano 2023 in Milan, Italy, the design lab HONOKA showcased their innovative TATAMI ReFAB PROJECT furniture series. This project, conceived by a team of forward-thinking product designers, leverages advanced manufacturing techniques like 3D printing to breathe new life into traditional Japanese tatami mats. The result is a fusion of heritage and cutting-edge technology that reintroduces the essence of tatami into contemporary living spaces.

Designer: HONOKA LAB

Tatami mats have been a staple of Japanese interiors for centuries, renowned for their aromatic qualities, humidity regulation, and odor reduction capabilities. HONOKA’s project aims to integrate these traditional benefits into modern furniture design. By blending recycled tatami with biodegradable plastic, they have created a sustainable material that is both adaptable and durable. This innovative composite can be 3D printed into a variety of functional and decorative home products, embodying the future of artisanal design while retaining a distinct connection to Japanese culture.

One of the key highlights of this project is its commitment to sustainability. Traditional tatami production often results in significant material waste, with nearly half of the plant-based material discarded. Honoka addresses this issue by recycling tatami waste and combining it with biodegradable plastic, significantly reducing the environmental impact. This material is not only eco-friendly but also versatile, allowing designers to explore new aesthetic possibilities and create unique forms that enhance modern living spaces.

The collection features several distinctive pieces that exemplify the versatility and beauty of the tatami-resin composite:

SORI and MUKURI:

These knitted tatami-resin furniture pieces reinterpret traditional Japanese shapes and textures through 3D printing. The unique structure of these items offers moderate transparency and varying visual expressions depending on the viewing angle. They are sturdy enough to support glass and other heavy materials, making them ideal for dining tables.

CHIGUSA:

Inspired by the traditional Japanese “Sen-suji” pattern, this stool combines multiple 3D-printed parts. The vertical pattern of the elastic and durable tatami-mixed resin provides a resilient and comfortable seating experience.

TABA:

A lighting fixture designed to resemble bundled grass, TABA uses a dripping technique in its 3D printing process. The tatami-mixed resin diffuses light beautifully, with light spilling through the gaps in its branches, creating a soft, natural ambiance.

TACHIWAKI:

This self-standing basin, inspired by the Japanese “Tachiwaki” pattern, features multiple stripes created by varying the purging speed of the 3D printer. Its water-resistant nature makes it suitable for innovative bathroom designs.

YOCELL:

A stool that draws from the traditional Japanese “Asanoha” pattern, it uses the layer marks of the 3D printer to create unique visual effects by aligning them in different directions. The modular shape makes it sustainable even for transportation and packaging.

AMI:

Combining the aesthetics of traditional Japanese 2D weaving with modern 3D printing, the AMI stool and lampshade feature intricate designs created by dripping resin from the air. The resulting pieces change their expression based on the viewing angle.

KOHSHI:

This lattice-like vase is reminiscent of Japanese architecture and allows for flexible plant arrangements, inspired by the art of Ikebana. This design has such a lightweight aesthetic, making any room feel airy. It’s perfect for minimalistic homes.

The post The TATAMI ReFAB PROJECT Is A Product Of Fusing Japanese Traditions With 3D-Printed Sustainability first appeared on Yanko Design.

One of the most popular reality game shows on Netflix is “Is It Cake?” where the contestants have to recreate common objects and then trick the judges into guessing if it’s cake or not. It’s fun seeing all of these ordinary, every day things recreated as cakes and it’s also a good reminder that not everything is as it seems. This art experiment by Jacques Monneraud is of the same idea as the game show but this time it uses something even more ordinary and turns it into an extraordinary collection.

Designer: Jacques Monneraud

The Cardboard collection recreates some common household items like pitchers and vaes into ceramic art. What makes this different from others though is that the they were made from clay but made to look like cardboard. It is basically a statement of “mockery of overproduction and overconsumption” but it is also something that people can actually use if they need something unique on their dining tables and living rooms.

The designer wanted to maintain the texture and visual characteristics of cardboard while at the same time retaining the ceramic properties of the items. The basic idea of the design is to make it look simple enough, like three pieces of cardboard + two pieces of tape makes a pitcher. He had to blend three distinct stonewares for the main body while the tape-like item was crafted from glaze.

If I just saw a photo of these items without knowing the context, I really would have been fooled that they were made from cardboard. Monneraud wants viewers to actually think about how perception and reality can be inextricably linked and is more complex than just the surface. While cardboard is normally a disposable object, the designer believes his work can actually last for more than 3,000 years.

The post ‘Is it cardboard?”: Ceramic art blurs line between perception and reality first appeared on Yanko Design.

Aroma and essential oil diffusers have become quite the fad in the past few years, offering a slice of peace and calm by stimulating one of the most underrated senses that we have: the sense of smell. There is a wide variety of designs for these products, ranging from extremely minimalist clay pots to hi-tech boxes, from garish tech products to aesthetic pieces of art. Most of these use evaporation or water vapor to spread their scents around, but a few simply rely on natural air to do the heavy lifting, so to speak. This diffuser is part of the latter group, but it does more than just stand still and hope a gentle breeze will carry the aroma around. Instead, this upside-down lollipop uses a simple yet effective trick inspired by the last thing you expect: a child’s toy.

Designer: Diptyque

Although they might be effective in diffusing the scent of aromatic oils across a space, most diffusers also have some downsides, like being fire risks or raising the temperature and humidity in a room. For smaller enclosed areas, a passive or cold diffuser might be a better and simpler option, letting nature run its course by using the air around or a breeze to carry the aroma. Of course, it doesn’t hurt to give it a little push, which is what the Culbuto does by moving back and forth like a metronome.

The name might sound foreign, but all of us will be familiar with toys that have spherical bottoms swaying back and forth to the delight of many kids and even some adults. This oscillating diffuser uses that same motion to help fan the scent emanating from its ceramic stick, sending the scent of Baies or Berries, specifically blackcurrant berries, mixed with flowery smells to all sides of a room. It requires no flame or electricity, simply a literal nudge in the right direction, creating an experience that is fun and engaging.

The Culbuto oscillating diffuser, however, is also a work of art that deserves a prominent place on your desk or shelf. The spherical body is wholly made from beechwood, crafted using traditional wood-turning techniques that bring a touch of elegance to a utilitarian product. The aroma comes from a ceramic stick that, pardon the pun, sticks out from the ball of wood, complementing and contrasting the base in a beautiful manner. The stick is “endlessly refillable,” making the cold diffuser not only simpler and more beautiful but also more sustainable in the long run.

The post Toy-like cold aroma diffuser offers a fun way to make a room smell great first appeared on Yanko Design.

If you’re living by yourself in a studio apartment, studying or working by the day only to return home to spend time in solitude, – at max with your smartphone – Village projector is designed to give you company. The vibrant home entertainment system, is unlike any usual projector you come by for three reasons: it’s essentially made for single-person households; it’s immensely portable for user requirements; and it can be used in multiple orientations to project on the floor, wall, or ceiling, as and when required.

A catalyst for harmonious experience, productivity, and creativity; the Village gives a fresh perspective to your solitude at home. Built-in with sensors, cameras and a high-end projection lens, it can be your friend in everything you intend to do from creating murals to doing a craft project. It has the ability to become your artistic and information companion, fostering an environment where creativity knows no bounds.

Designer: Seunghyun Ko, Seohyun Park, Minji Kang and YE JIN LEE

If you’re brimming with creativity and want a contemporary way to bring it to life; employ the Village at home for a fresh perspective. Installed in the curtain rail the projector follows the curtain when you draw it open in the morning to sense the weather outside and project details for you on the floor or in the ceiling – depending on how you have positioned it – so you wake up with complete information of how to plan the day.

During the day, you can remove the portable Village projector from the curtain rail and use it where you like in your tiny apartment. Project inspiring text, news, captivating art, or use it to display guides to your DIY endeavors. After working or studying, when you feel tired and want to relax, the projector can let you play your favorite video game on a sizable display.

Sitting on the desk can help you create your private sanctuary, free from distractions while working, projecting your calendar for the day on the desk. By the evening, you can project the screen on the wall and share unforgettable moments with loved ones. Of course, you can do that on the phone, however, screen on the smartphone is too small. Using it for long durations can hurt your eyes. The portable projector can connect to the smartphone and project what you want to see or learn on a bigger screen, so it’s convenient and less straining.

Made in vibrant color options, in what seems – from images – a plasticky body, the Village features a projection lens in the center with an external recognition sensor and a LiDAR camera on either side. A pair of cameras sit to the right of the sensor and a microphone to the left of the LiDAR cam. On the top – when positioned upright – you get the sliding touch control for volume.  There’s no word on the availability of the conceptual Village projector, but we can say it has versatile use cases. You can transform your workout routine by using it to project fitness or exercise instructions in front of you or on the wall and create an engaging exercise session, or carry the projector into the kitchen to project the intricacies of a dish you’re preparing so it’s cooked well enough to tantalize your taste buds.

The post Give your creativity and convenience an unconventional approach with the fresh perspective of Village projector first appeared on Yanko Design.

A true gentleman is always selective about the products he carries and uses since they are an extension of his own personal style. The first gentlemen we all encounter are our dads, and this Father’s Day why not gift your dad thoughtful and functional lifestyle products that will add to his natural aura, and charisma while adding value to his everyday life? Striking a unique balance between functionality and style is extremely important – especially when it comes to men’s lifestyle designs. And we do believe we may have found a collection of product designs that harmoniously capture this balance! From a portable shaver with ceramic blades to give you the perfect clean shave to an innovative key ring that will hold all keys – these products are essential must-haves for all the gentlemen out there.

1. Painless Key Ring

Called the Painless Key Ring, this innovative product is equipped with a revolutionary wave spring key ring. The design draws inspiration from the mechanism used in the aerospace and automotive industries, ensuring you handle your keys in a smooth and hassle-free manner. If your dad tends to lose his keys easily or hates dealing with typical key rings, then he can finally bid farewell to them, and thank the Painless Key Ring!

Click Here to Buy Now: $25

Why is it noteworthy?

This key ring organizes your keys using a high-tech and durable design letting you store your keys in an easy-to-access manner. It has. a compact and lightweight form which makes it easy to carry around and store.

What we like

• It utilizes a wave spring tech to remove and add keys

What we dislike

• More expensive compared to conventional keyrings
• There is no system to differentiate between the keys they hold

2. The Erazor

Called the Erazor, this unique portable shaver is designed to erase the stubble off your face, using ceramic blades. It is supposed to be the first shaver featuring ceramic blades. It is a compact and lightweight product that is quite easy to carry around, and also super comfortable to use. It makes for a thoughtful and functional Father’s Day present for your dad!

Why is it noteworthy?

The ceramic blades are designed to neatly and swiftly trim down your stubble, providing a totally clean shave, without causing any painful razor burns. The ceramic blades are a great alternative to meat blades which are coated with DLC for sharpness. But with time the coating can wear off, making the blades prone to nicking you.

What we like

• The blades are made from Zirconium Oxide – an extremely durable material

What we dislike

• The ceramic blades may take a while to adjust to if you’re used to metal blades

3. AirTag Carabiners

Called the AirTag Carabiners, these minimalist and good-looking designs are a refreshing new version of the typical old metal carabiners. They are precision-made and have a pretty compact form, making them easy to carry and even easier to use. The functional and portable design makes for a handy Father’s Day present.

Click Here to Buy Now: $119

Why is it noteworthy?

They are handcrafted to make them durable and sturdy. These aren’t just simple melted metal casings, in fact, each piece is unlike any other, as manufacturing conditions alter the final design.

What we like

• Handcrafted using premium-quality metal
• Lightweight and easy-to-carry design

What we dislike

• The process of attaching or detaching the AirTag isn’t very user-friendly and can be tedious

4. Mezmoglobe Luna Desk Toy

The Luna is a mind-bending optical illusion that is sure to mesmerise anyone and start an epic conversation. This seemingly levitating sphere is an entirely mechanical contraption and there is no magnetic or electric component to this fidget spinner. Amplify your focus, relieve stress and make this the perfect addition to any dad’s desk – especially those who take meticulous care of their work life and deserve a toy that is more than just a toy!

Why is it noteworthy?

Depending on the speed and the angle of viewing, the design appears differently to every viewer. The Luna is CNC machined out of the highest quality metals and is made of 8 parts precisely assembled to give it this hypnotic motion.

What we like

• A kinetic sculpture that leaves everyone wondering how this design was made and helps the user kickback and fidget with the design while they feel anxious, are on a conference call, or just need to stop overthinking and prioritise on the tasks at hand.
• The Luna body is machined from aerospace grade aluminum whereas the sphere is made from stainless steel.

What we dislike

• We wish there was a way to engrave or personalise this gift for a better father’s day gifting experience.

5. Unfiltered Titanium Whisky Glass

Dubbed the Unfiltered Titanium Whisky Glass, this classy glass draws inspiration from metallic hues and forms a fascinating light and color play. It builds a beautiful visual experience for you owing to its 1/f fluctuating pattern, which looks like a murmuring stream. Made from pure titanium, it elevates the drinking experience with its purity. It makes for an elegant and functional gift for your dad on Father’s Day, letting him enjoy his drink with class.

Click Here to Buy Now: $65.00

Why is it noteworthy?

The whisky glass uses cutting-edge technology which creates a fascinating color play. It is biocompatible and safe, even more so than gold or platinum. The glass is pretty resistant to stains and odors and has long-term hygiene.

What we like

• It uses advanced space development technology

What we dislike

• Since it is a solid glass, you cannot see the quantity being poured or the amount in the glass from afar

6. MagSafe Origami Grip Stand

Called the MagSafe Origami Grip Stand – this sleek little stand is inspired by the Japanese art of paper folding. It can be folded flat and vice versa, cutting down the trouble of assembly and disassembly. This stand will offer excellent support to your dad’s iPhone, without causing any damage to it. We can watch his shows in peace, or scroll through his phone without having to hold it up.

Click Here to Buy Now: $45

Why is it noteworthy?

The MagSafe Origami Grip Stand is lightweight, with a card-sized thin design. It can be easily attached to your phone, or slipping into your pocket, and it won’t look awkward or odd! The stand will be firmly attached to your phone, and it won’t fall apart even if you move about a lot.

What we like

• Draws inspiration from the Japanese art of Origami
• It will stay securely attached to your phone

What we dislike

• It only works with iPhone 12 and later models, excluding the iPhone SE, making it a limited product

7. AirCard

Meet AirCard – the first card-sized tracker in the world with an integrated Digital ID, which works exclusively with the Apple Find My network. There are multitudes of Apple products being used around the world, and the AirCard emits a strong Bluetooth signal which can be detected by devices surrounding it in the network. This allows you to track your wallet no matter where it is, ensuring you never truly lose. If your dad is someone who frequently loses his wallet, then the AirCard is an ingenious present for him.

Why is it noteworthy?

Even if your wallet is hidden somewhere close by, you can make it emit a noise using the AirCard app, allowing you to easily trace and locate it. You could also ask Siri where your wallet is, and to make it sound. Also if you leave your wallet behind somewhere, you will get a notification immediately due to the Find My app.

What we like

• It also has an advanced lost mode to provide your contact details in case someone finds your wallet

What we dislike

• The battery is not replaceable

8. Couch Console

You know, there is a sense of comfort in routine – especially after a challenging day at work. If any of you have watched the show, the Goldberg’s, one of my favourite funny routine is that of the father arriving home, dropping his pants and settling on his recliner to not be disturbed as he binge watches on his favourite shows. Well, if there is one thing any binge-watching father will love is to have this couch console handy! Be it the Super Bowl or his favourite movie, the Couch Console will ensure their snack and drinks remain intact, irrespective of the movement during the scene.

Why is it noteworthy?

The cupholder houses a mechanical gyroscope with a counterweight to ensure the drink stays even on all surfaces. The Couch Console also boasts a nifty little compartment to hold other knick knacks along with a snack holder, a phone stand, a charging dock, a dedicated remote tray – everything you need to stay on the couch like a true couch potato!

What we like

• Keeps any surface spill-free due to the gyroscope-enabled cup holder which also has a lock to keep your glass in place
• The Console is modular – allowing you to customise your layout like adding more cup holders or snack modules if needed
• The Console comes with a USB C hub to hold the battery and charge your phone as needed

What we dislike

• Overall the design is a little bulky – we wish there were smaller configurations to hold just 1-2 products if needed

9. Everyday Messenger

Say hello to the Everyday Messenger – a visually stunning, smartly-designed, and adaptable messenger bag which is designed to be many things – ranging from a camera bag to a day-to-day essential carry workhorse. If your dad works in the creative field and has a ton of work gear he needs to carry around, but no stylish and convenient way to carry it, then you need to gift him the Everyday Messenger this Father’s Day!

Why is it noteworthy?

The Everyday Messenger is designed for photographers, creatives, travelers, and daily commuters. It is available in Charcoal and Heritage Tan colors and adds an element of sleek style and quick efficiency to your everyday carry experience. The bag maintains its shapely figure even if your load is light or heavy.

What we like

• Features dividers that allow the bag to expand or contract depending on your gear
• You can wear the strap in a multitude of styles

What we dislike

• Users said it slides around too much when worn

10. BULLET

Say hello to the world’s smallest LED flashlight – the BULL3T light. Designed to be functional, minima, and refined, the BULL3T EDC is more than just your regular flashlight. It is a tiny flashlight designed to be the next step in mini everyday carry. If your dad loves carrying compact little tools with him on the go, then the BULL3T light is a thoughtful and exceptional Father’s Day present for him.

Why is it noteworthy?

Shaped and sized like a bullet, the BULL3T flashlight features a sleek and minimal design that isn’t too bad on the eyes. It is a strong LED mini flashlight in a lightweight and minimal form, and it eliminates the use of bulky flashlights from your everyday carry.

What we like

• Features a built-in keychain that lets you carry the flashlight with you wherever you go

What we dislike

• The size is pretty small, so it can be easily misplaced if not handled carefully

The post 10 Best Essential Lifestyle Products To Gift Modern Dads This Father’s Day first appeared on Yanko Design.

From a human’s perspective, the scratching behavior of cats is often regarded as destructive. Cats are naturally inclined to scratch almost anything they can see, from fabric sofas and leather seats to stereos, leading to frustration among pet owners. However, what if we could view this behavior from a different perspective? Catvas invites us to re-examine this norm, encouraging reflection on the evolving relationship between humans and their companion animals.

Designer: Livelyhood Ltd.

For cats, scratching is more than just a habit; it is essential for maintaining their well-being. Scratching helps cats remove the outer layer of their nails, vent their emotions, and leave pheromones. These pheromones create a sense of territory and emotional connection with their environment. As these pheromones accumulate, cats develop a stronger emotional bond with the objects they scratch.

Many cat owners cherish various cat-related objects, from cat hair to toys. However, scratching boards are often overlooked as they are typically viewed as consumables. Catvas challenges this perception by transforming the idea of “consumables” into “artwork,” fulfilling people’s desire to collect and preserve meaningful artifacts from their pets.

This scratching board revolutionizes the concept of scratching by transforming it from a ‘destructive’ act into a ‘creative’ process. This innovative product offers both cats and their owners the opportunity to co-create their living spaces. The specially designed double-layered fabric of Catvas gradually reveals a unique, painting-like effect as cats scratch. These replaced fabric scratching panels are no longer discarded as waste; instead, they become artistic memorials, preserving the traces of the cat’s life in a visually captivating manner.

The L-shaped structure of Catvas is designed to fit the natural stretching habits of cats, while the removable double-layered fabric panel allows for easy replacement. As the cat scratches, the underlying fabric is exposed, creating a unique visual effect reminiscent of a painting. These customized panels can be framed and used as home decorations, adding a personalized artistic touch to the living space. With pride, you can tell your guests “My cat made that”.

It is constructed from mostly recyclable materials, including wood, aluminum, and fabric made from old cloth and mycorrhiza. Its manufacturing-friendly design features easy-to-assemble components, significantly reducing packaging costs and waste during transport. The specially designed multi-layered fabric has a thinner top layer, making it easier for cats to scratch and reveal the underlying art.

The post ‘Catvas’ Scratching Pad Transforms Your Cat’s Scratching into Abstract Wall Art first appeared on Yanko Design.

The Third Thumb is an extraordinary prosthetic innovation developed by Dani Clode and her team at University College London. Unlike traditional prosthetics that replace a lost limb, this device adds an extra thumb to the hand, significantly enhancing the human body’s capabilities. This 3D-printed, wearable thumb attaches opposite the biological thumb and is controlled by a unique system involving pressure sensors under the toes. These sensors communicate wirelessly with the thumb through a device worn around the ankles, allowing users to manipulate the thumb by applying pressure with their toes.

Designer: Dani ClodeDani Clode

The potential uses for the Third Thumb span a range of everyday and specialized tasks. For instance, consider a busy parent juggling grocery bags, a phone, and keys. An extra thumb can make it easier to carry more items at once, reducing the number of trips back and forth to the car. It can hold a phone steady for video calls or scrolling through social media, freeing up the other hand for additional tasks. Cooking also becomes more manageable, as the extra thumb can hold food in place while cutting, providing better stability and precision.

In professional settings, the Third Thumb shows even more promise. Musicians, for example, can use the thumb to unlock new playing techniques and enhance their performance. Guitarists can reach additional notes and chords previously out of reach, while pianists might find new ways to tackle complex pieces. Drummers could use the thumb to hold additional drumsticks or percussion instruments, allowing for more dynamic and intricate rhythms.

Manual laborers and artisans can benefit from the Third Thumb’s ability to hold tools and materials. Imagine an electrician who needs to keep a wire in place while using both hands to operate tools. The extra thumb can securely grip the wire, making the task more efficient and safer. Carpenters and woodworkers can hold pieces of wood or nails in place, freeing up their hands to use saws, hammers, or drills with greater control and precision.

Surgeons and medical professionals are another group that could see significant advantages from using the Third Thumb. In surgeries requiring high dexterity and precision, an extra thumb can hold instruments or tissues, allowing the surgeon to perform delicate procedures with greater ease and stability. This could potentially reduce the time needed for certain operations and improve patient outcomes.

The device’s versatility extends beyond these specialized fields. Bartenders, for instance, can use the extra thumb to hold bottles and glasses, making it easier to prepare complex cocktails during busy shifts. Chefs benefit from the additional grip when handling multiple ingredients or plating dishes with intricate presentations. Even office workers find value in the Third Thumb, using it to hold a phone or notepad while typing or taking notes during meetings.

Students and teachers can leverage the Third Thumb to manage multiple tasks simultaneously in educational settings. Students can hold textbooks or tablets while taking notes, enhancing their ability to study and learn. Teachers can use the extra thumb to hold teaching materials, allowing them to interact with students more effectively and manage classroom activities with greater ease.

Despite its many potential benefits, the necessity of the Third Thumb for the general public remains a point of discussion. For most people, the traditional two-thumb setup has proven sufficient for daily tasks and activities. However, the device’s ability to enhance efficiency and multitasking could appeal to a broad audience, especially those who frequently manage multiple items or tasks simultaneously.

The ease of use and adaptability of the Third Thumb are key factors in its potential adoption. During trials, including demonstrations at the Royal Society Summer Science Exhibition, participants quickly adapted to the device with minimal training. Remarkably, 98 percent of participants could use the thumb immediately, demonstrating its intuitive design. The control mechanism involves pressure sensors under the toes, which communicate wirelessly with the thumb through a device worn around the ankles. Pressure from the right toe moves the thumb across the hand, while pressure from the left toe moves it toward the fingers. This intuitive setup allowed users to quickly understand and manipulate the extra thumb, making it suitable for seamless integration into daily routines.

As with any new technology, bringing the Third Thumb to a larger audience will be challenging. Manufacturing, marketing, and distribution will be crucial in determining its success. Additionally, the device’s affordability and accessibility will be important considerations for widespread adoption.

The post Unlocking New Possibilities: The Third Thumb’s Role in Modern Professional and Personal Tasks first appeared on Yanko Design.