Hi Everyone,

Some comments from someone who actually worked on the project back in 2004-2005.

As some of you pointed out, this is a proof-of-concept prototype, and definitely not the final design for an aftermarket solution or the next generation 3-series convertible. We weren't able to make any permanent or structural modifications to the car, so installing a polycarbonate windshield and drilling the hole was the quickest and cheapest way to demonstrate the concept.

For a market ready product/feature, the idea would be to use the existing ventilation system so that: (a) no line of sight obstruction (b) no hole in the windshield. Current HVAC system in cars don't have the kind of power to accomplish the same effect, so no, just turning the know won't work (it was the first thing we tried).

We did install a filter in the duct to catch any bugs, but for some reason, after testing the system for nearly 1000 miles, we didn't catch a single one. Something about the flow of air over a convertible that prevents bugs from entering the duct.

As for the video, yes, it's a shame that it was shot at night. We actually made the video the night before the final presentation for the class. Casting, filming, editing all happened between the hours of midnight to 9am. Not bad for a last minute "hey wouldn't it be cool if..." but we definitely could've done better with more time.

More pictures and explanations are up on my portfolio at: http://www.sushi-suzuki.com/designer/index.htm

Cheers,

Sushi

Spend less time standing in street corners trying to find out where to go on my tiny google map client and T9 text entry. Minimize the chances of getting mugged... oh wait...

I've started a Japanese-English translating service in SL if you ever wanna avoid these awkward situations. Get the nuances across!

Ipod at 2 is over rated.

AND WHERE IS NINTENDO?

I think this should be PC USA's top 50 Gadget. Not PC World. They are seriously missing some key things here.