Isn’t it ironic, don’t you think?
We get periodic calls about auto-turn off technologies that can help elders and others who forget that they’ve left an appliance running. Meet the Roly Poly Iron, which automatically tips itself into a vertical position as soon as it’s no longer being pressed down. The designer claims it’s easier on the hands, too. Another nifty concept (for now) from our buddies at Yanko Design.
Washy Talky (no joke; that’s the name)
On the list of major appliances we wish had voice output, a clothes washer is a minor item. But who can resist one that speaks in English, Hindi, and Tamil, and has such an amusing name? It seems to have several other features that blind and cognitively disabled users — not its initial targeted market — will benefit from, including step-by-step instructions and automatic cycle selection based on load size and overall filthiness (not the filthiness of your overalls…).
Stoov jobs
Some folks don’t have the ability to put a pot on the stove…but what if you could put a stove on the pot? Mathieu Baele has envisioned the Stoov, which is a magnetic device that can be charged and attached to your cookware. For big cooking projects, you can attach multiple Stoovs–the charger can handle up to six units at a time. Turn off the unit, and it auto-releases; forget to turn off the unit and there’s probably a significantly lower chance of fire than with traditional cookers.
‘Roid runner
The link below will take you to a nice roundup of applications that can turn Android-based phones into remote controllers and wireless keyboards/mice. Inexpensive, portable, and reduces the number of gadgets that have to be carried around–everything we look for in a better environmental control system for people who have some available dexterity.
Wired: 5 Nifty Apps That Turn Your Android Into A Universal Remote
Door key of B flat major
Another irresistible hack: here’s a deadbolt that opens if you knock the correct pre-programmed tune onto the door. Speed doesn’t matter, so if you set up, say, the Pachebel Canon, the bolt will respond to either the proper stately tempo or something a bit speeded up. Could be a great home entry strategy for people with fine motor dexterity disabilities.
Engadget: ‘Secret Knock’ Door Lock defends home from rhythmically-impaired perps (video)
Muscling in
An assortment of folks from Microsoft and academia are working on a muscle-computer gestural interface; the current examples show how you can play Guitar Hero with an air guitar, control your MP3 player while jogging, and open your car door when your hands are full. All units are wired at present, but wireless versions are in the works. Hoping this gets extended to more types of environmental control applications by people who have little or no hand movement.
Etre: Muscle-Computer Interfaces: Play Guitar Hero without a guitar
Tray that takes the cake
Musical cake trays are nothing new. But the Musical Cake Tray brings the concept into the 21st century by adding LED lights so you get an enhanced visual guide for slicing perfect wedges. Tray bien!