Engadget http://www.engadget.com Engadget http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Luminch One: an Arduino lamp you control with the wave of a hand (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/03/luminch-one-an-arduino-lamp-you-control-with-the-wave-of-a-hand/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/03/luminch-one-an-arduino-lamp-you-control-with-the-wave-of-a-hand/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/03/luminch-one-an-arduino-lamp-you-control-with-the-wave-of-a-hand/#comments Luminch One A DIY lamp may not sound like the most thrilling project on Earth, but the Luminch One is special. Not only does this hand-made light from Francisco Castro provide illumination -- the most important function of any lamp -- but it does so while looking beautiful and providing a level of interactivity missing from most household lighting solutions. Underneath the pixelated-looking paper shade is an LED bulb controlled by an Arduino hooked up to an IR sensor. Simply wave your hand over the top to turn it on and off. You can also control the brightness by holding your hand above the stylized beacon momentarily to engage the dimmer, then moving your hand up and down to set your preferred lumen level. Check out the video after the break and head on over to the source for complete build instructions.

Continue reading Luminch One: an Arduino lamp you control with the wave of a hand (video)

Luminch One: an Arduino lamp you control with the wave of a hand (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 03 Jan 2012 14:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arduinoDIYdo it yourselfDoItYourselfFrancisco CastroFranciscoCastrolamplightingluminch oneLuminchOnemakevideoTue, 03 Jan 2012 14:44:00 EST<![CDATA[The Electree: finally, a bonsai tree that uses solar power to charge your gadgets]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/19/the-electree-finally-a-bonsai-tree-that-uses-solar-power-to-ch/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/19/the-electree-finally-a-bonsai-tree-that-uses-solar-power-to-ch/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/19/the-electree-finally-a-bonsai-tree-that-uses-solar-power-to-ch/#comments
So you're tres green chic with your solar-charging jacket, and that Ralph Lauren backpack keeps your gadgets energized even off the coast of Martha's Vineyard. But what about stylish photovoltaics for your home, dear earth-friendly aesthete? We humbly submit the Electree, by French designer Vivian Muller. Shaped like a bonsai tree, each of its 27 leaves is a solar panel that helps charge a 13,500mAh battery. A concealed USB connector and A/C outlet will feed your gadgets while minimizing unsightly wires, and rotatable branches let you customize the look. Muller's looking for 400 presales to make the Electree a reality: for early birds, the price is €269 (about $370). If this sounds like the sort of thing you'd put on your windowsill, hit the source link to commence with the purchasing.

Continue reading The Electree: finally, a bonsai tree that uses solar power to charge your gadgets

The Electree: finally, a bonsai tree that uses solar power to charge your gadgets originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 19 Sep 2011 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artawesomedesigneco-friendlyElectreehouseholdlamplightlightingpre orderpre salePreOrderPreSalesolarsolar powersolar poweredSolarPowerSolarPoweredtreeVivian MullerVivianMullerMon, 19 Sep 2011 09:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Arduino hack imitates Pixar's living lamp, disses IKEA in the process (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/07/arduino-hack-imitates-pixars-living-lamp-disses-ikea-in-the-pr/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/07/arduino-hack-imitates-pixars-living-lamp-disses-ikea-in-the-pr/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/07/arduino-hack-imitates-pixars-living-lamp-disses-ikea-in-the-pr/#comments Oh, look -- it's Pixar's iconic lamp brought to real-world Frankenlife. Okay, not really, but the automated, voice-enabled mod is as close to the movie studio's icon as a hacking kit and five euros in a Swedish furniture store can get you. The prototype, lovingly named "The annoying IKEA lamp" or SM-1, is ArduinoArts' finalist entry for SeeedStudio's Grove Toy Kit contest. Headed by industrial engineer Javier Lander, the project weds two servos (one in the base and one in the lamp), sensors for motion and sound, a three axis accelerometer, LED light and audio board to an Arduino shield, springing the modjob to programmed states of alarm and irritation. We commend Javier for eschewing the cutesy road well-traveled, and giving the mundane desktop light a grumpy, old man makeover. Click on past the break to see this curmudgeonly home office accessory in action.

[Thanks, Javier]

Continue reading Arduino hack imitates Pixar's living lamp, disses IKEA in the process (video)

Arduino hack imitates Pixar's living lamp, disses IKEA in the process (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 07 Sep 2011 21:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ArduinoArduino ArtsArduinoArtsGrove Toy Kit contestGroveToyKitContesthackhacksIKEAlampmodmodsPixarSeeed StudioSeeedStudioSM-1The annoying IKEA lampTheAnnoyingIkeaLampvideoWed, 07 Sep 2011 21:13:00 EST<![CDATA[Inhabitat's Week in Green: space pod hotel, Lego LED lamps and the world's largest solar-powered boat]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/21/inhabitats-week-in-green-space-pod-hotel-lego-led-lamps-and-t/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/21/inhabitats-week-in-green-space-pod-hotel-lego-led-lamps-and-t/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/21/inhabitats-week-in-green-space-pod-hotel-lego-led-lamps-and-t/#commentsEach week our friends at Inhabitat recap the week's most interesting green developments and clean tech news for us -- it's the Week in Green.

Incredible green architecture projects lifted off to the stars and charted the seas this week as Inhabitat showcased a solar-powered space pod hotel that could launch in 2016 and PayPal founder Peter Thiel invested $1.25 million to create a chain of floating micro-countries. Meanwhile, Apple unveiled new images of its spaceship-shaped headquarters and its Grand Central Terminal store, and OPEN Architecture floated plans to transform a Zeppelin hangar into a green-roofed extreme sports center. Living green building projects also got a boost as Mexico unveiled plans to develop the world's largest urban park and an incredible crop of grass-covered cubicles sprung up in downtown Denver.

It was also an epic week for electric vehicles as Germany's "Schluckspecht" car set a world record for driving over 1,000 miles on a single charge, Lightning Motorcycles broke the 200 MPH electric bike speed record, and Stanford unveiled what could very well be the fastest solar car ever built. We also watched the world's largest solar-powered boat arrive in Hong Kong as it continues its trip around the world, while Google Street View began mapping the Amazon using cameras set on canoes and trikes. Solar Roadways also received a $750,000 grant to develop a large-scale installation and Zero2Infinity proposed a cheaper way to travel to space via an immense helium-filled balloon.

In other news, the past week was charged with renewable energy developments as a 13-year-old kid harnessed the Fibonacci sequence to make a solar power breakthrough and researchers developed an energy-harvesting LCD screen that could one day power our gadgets. We also learned that deep-sea mussels can convert hydrogen into energy, we were shocked to see another shiny slick of oil turn up near a BP well in the Gulf of Mexico, and we saw Australia outfit its soldiers with photovoltaic systems. Finally, on the home front we brought you a set of fun LEGO LED lamps perfect for illuminating any room, and we shared five tips for greening your finances.

Inhabitat's Week in Green: space pod hotel, Lego LED lamps and the world's largest solar-powered boat originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 21 Aug 2011 20:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boatcarInhabitatInhabitats week in greenInhabitatsWeekInGreenlampledlegendsolarsolar powersolar poweredsolar-poweredSolarPowerSolarPoweredweek in greenWeekInGreenSun, 21 Aug 2011 20:37:00 EST<![CDATA[Inhabitat's Week in Green: transparent airplanes, photovoltaic subdivisions and a wind-powered yacht]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/19/inhabitats-week-in-green-transparent-airplanes-photovoltaic-s/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/19/inhabitats-week-in-green-transparent-airplanes-photovoltaic-s/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/19/inhabitats-week-in-green-transparent-airplanes-photovoltaic-s/#comments Green transportation soared through the skies this week as Inhabitat reported on Airbus' plans for a transparent airplane, and we showcased a crazy working hover bike capable of flying up to 10,000 feet. We were also excited to see China begin to roll out high-speed rail across Asia and we spotted several out-of-this world Frankenstein vehicles -- a Mercedes-Benz bus train in Bolivia and a wind-powered yacht that doubles as an airplane.

It was a momentous week for energy news as well, as Italians voted to end the use of nuclear power, and we took a look inside Germany's Wunderland Kalkar Amusement Park, which is built inside of a decommissioned nuclear plant. Solar power also had its moment in the sun as Enfinity unveiled two gorgeous photovoltaic-laden landscapes in Les Mées, France and Bangladesh announced that one million of the country's homes are powered by photovoltaic panels. We even spotted a new type of flexible generator that could be built into shoes to produce power as you walk.

This week we were also excited to unveil the winners of our Bright Ideas Lighting Design Competition -- the elegant geometric Tetra Pak Lamp, the gorgeous glowing Nourishment Lamp, and the cute cork Pinha Pendant Light. We also launched our new Ask a Tech Geek Series where gadget guru extraordinaire Peter Rojas answers your questions about green technology, and we reported on one Japanese researcher's dubious plan to create an artificial meat substitute from poop. Finally, we shared an awesome steampunk rotary smartphone and a set of fun foldable Paper Punk robots that are perfect for terrorizing your coworkers' cubicles.

Inhabitat's Week in Green: transparent airplanes, photovoltaic subdivisions and a wind-powered yacht originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 19 Jun 2011 21:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>airbusairplaneboateco-friendlygreeninhabitatinhabitat week in greenInhabitatWeekInGreenlamplightlightingsolarsolar powersolar poweredSolarPowerSolarPoweredweek in greenWeekInGreenyachtSun, 19 Jun 2011 21:47:00 EST<![CDATA[Emoti-bots turn household objects into mopey machines (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/20/emoti-bots-turn-household-objects-into-mopey-machines-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/20/emoti-bots-turn-household-objects-into-mopey-machines-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/20/emoti-bots-turn-household-objects-into-mopey-machines-video/#comments Some emotional robots dip deep into the dark recesses of the uncanny valley, where our threshold for human mimicry resides. Emoti-bots on the other hand, manage to skip the creepy human-like pitfalls of other emo-machines, instead employing household objects to ape the most pathetic of human emotions -- specifically dejection and insecurity. Sure it sounds sad, but the mechanized furniture designed by a pair of MFA students is actually quite clever. Using a hacked Roomba and an Arduino, the duo created a chair that reacts to your touch, and wanders aimlessly once your rump has disembarked. They've also employed Nitinol wires, a DC motor, and a proximity sensor to make a lamp that seems to tire with use. We prefer our lamps to look on the sunny side of life, but for those of you who like your fixtures forlorn, the Emoti-bots are now on display at Parsons in New York and can be found moping about in the video after the break.

Continue reading Emoti-bots turn household objects into mopey machines (video)

Emoti-bots turn household objects into mopey machines (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 20 May 2011 06:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arduinoburcum turkmenBurcumTurkmenchairconceptdesignemoitionalEmoti-botemotionemotional furnitureemotional robotEmotionalFurnitureEmotionalRobotfurniturehouseholdkatie koepfingerKatieKoepfingerlampMFAnitinolParsonsprorobotrobot furnitureRobotFurniturerobotsroombastudentuncanny valleyUncannyValleyvideoFri, 20 May 2011 06:07:00 EST<![CDATA[UDC shows off serpentine OLED lamp concept at SID 2011 (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/18/udc-shows-off-serpentine-oled-lamp-concept-at-sid-2011-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/18/udc-shows-off-serpentine-oled-lamp-concept-at-sid-2011-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/18/udc-shows-off-serpentine-oled-lamp-concept-at-sid-2011-video/#comments We've seen flexible OLEDs and OLED lighting solutions before, but none of them conjured our sweaty club-hopping fantasies quite like this concept from Universal Display Corporation (UDC). The flexible OLED makers weren't particularly forthcoming on the specs for this color-changing apparatus, but we can tell you that it uncoils and recoils with the help of a motion sensor, and requires very little energy to power -- note that tiny wire supplying 100 percent of the required juice. UDC used this flashy lamp specifically to show off its own brand of low-energy flexible white OLED lighting, which means you won't see it popping up in B.E.D. anytime soon (if ever), but it certainly has us thinking of new ways to light up our nights. Gratuitous amounts of bouncing and beaming can be found after the break.

Gallery: UDC OLED lighting concept eyes-on at SID 2011

Continue reading UDC shows off serpentine OLED lamp concept at SID 2011 (video)

UDC shows off serpentine OLED lamp concept at SID 2011 (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 18 May 2011 20:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>concepteyes oneyes-onEyesOnflexiblehands onhands-onHandsOnlampledlightlightinglighting solutionLightingSolutionlightsoledoled lampoled lightoled lightingoled lighting solutionOledLampOledLightOledLightingOledLightingSolutionorganic ledOrganicLedproof of conceptProofOfConceptSIDSID 2011Sid2011ucduniversal display corporationUniversalDisplayCorporationvideowhite oledwhite oled lightingWhiteOledWhiteOledLightingWed, 18 May 2011 20:09:00 EST<![CDATA[Peg lamp lets us spend less time screwing in light bulbs, more time talking about them (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/09/peg-lamp-lets-us-spend-less-time-screwing-in-light-bulbs-more-t/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/09/peg-lamp-lets-us-spend-less-time-screwing-in-light-bulbs-more-t/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/09/peg-lamp-lets-us-spend-less-time-screwing-in-light-bulbs-more-t/#comments
We know what you're thinking, but the Jolly Green Giant didn't drop something on the way to hang out his laundry. Designed by Steffi Min for her industrial design senior thesis, the Peg lamp looks and functions like an oversized clothespin, directly clipping onto a standard light bulb. As you can see in the video after the break, changing a bulb takes only a second or two, and there's almost no risk of broken glass. We don't expect a clothes pin connector to appear as a retail product anytime soon, but if we can build our own humanoid robots, we can probably find a way to slide an oversized rubber band around two wedges of wood.

Continue reading Peg lamp lets us spend less time screwing in light bulbs, more time talking about them (video)

Peg lamp lets us spend less time screwing in light bulbs, more time talking about them (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 09 May 2011 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artconceptdesignlamplightlight bulblight fixtureLightBulbLightFixturepeg lampPegLampvideoMon, 09 May 2011 16:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Yantouch Black Diamond 3D ambience iPhone dock hands-on]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/11/yantouch-black-diamond-3d-ambience-iphone-dock-hands-on/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/11/yantouch-black-diamond-3d-ambience-iphone-dock-hands-on/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/11/yantouch-black-diamond-3d-ambience-iphone-dock-hands-on/#comments While we weren't busy kicking up dust on the CES floors, we sat down with Taiwan-based Yantouch to have a fiddle with its latest product, the Black Diamond. When not in use, it really is just a gorgeous spherical black diamond, or at least its faceted front half is; but slip in an iPhone 4 with the Black Diamond app enabled, and you get a funky sound sensitive mood lamp. On top of that, the dock also charges up your iPhone while it shows off its colors, and somewhere at the bottom there's some black magic that channels out amplified audio from the phone, although actual speakers would be even nicer.

Ultimately, Yantouch sees the Black Diamond as a developing platform for potential applications like an outdoor temperature indicator, or some sort of caller ID color tagging tool for seeing from afar who's calling. If all goes well, Yantouch will even consider making an Android version, but we're not sure if the $79 price tag will immediately catch on. Anyhow, check out our hands-on video after the break.

Gallery: Yantouch Black Diamond 3D ambience iPhone dock hands-on

Continue reading Yantouch Black Diamond 3D ambience iPhone dock hands-on

Yantouch Black Diamond 3D ambience iPhone dock hands-on originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 11 Jan 2011 20:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ambienceappleblack diamondBlackDiamondcesces 2011ces2011dockdocking stationDockingStationfeaturedfeatureshands-oniphoneiphone 4iphone dockIphone4IphoneDocklamplightmood lampmood lightMoodLampMoodLighttaiwanvideoyantouchTue, 11 Jan 2011 20:08:00 EST<![CDATA[Eigenharp controls WiFi lamp with a little Arduino assistance (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/21/eigenharp-controls-wifi-lamp-with-a-little-arduino-assistance-v/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/21/eigenharp-controls-wifi-lamp-with-a-little-arduino-assistance-v/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/21/eigenharp-controls-wifi-lamp-with-a-little-arduino-assistance-v/#comments
We've already seen what the Eigenharp (and smaller Eigenharp Pico) can do on its own but, as the folks from Studio Imaginaire have now shown, that's only just the beginning of what's possible. With a little help from the oh-so-versatile Arduino, they've paired the instrument with a WiFi-enabled RGB lamp that -- you guessed it -- changes colors when you play the Eigenharp. Ready for an audio-visual feast? Turn down the lights and head on past the break.

Continue reading Eigenharp controls WiFi lamp with a little Arduino assistance (video)

Eigenharp controls WiFi lamp with a little Arduino assistance (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 21 Oct 2010 05:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arduinoeigenharpeigenharp picoEigenharpPicolampStudio ImaginaireStudioImaginairevideowifiwifi lampWifiLampThu, 21 Oct 2010 05:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Joby tempts the argonauts with Switchback headlamp / lantern]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/21/joby-tempts-the-argonauts-with-switchback-headlamp-lantern/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/21/joby-tempts-the-argonauts-with-switchback-headlamp-lantern/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/21/joby-tempts-the-argonauts-with-switchback-headlamp-lantern/#comments Call us crazy, but we're guessing that the Joby you knew last year will look nothing like the Joby that we see this time next year. Once famous for crafting flexible tripods for simple point and shoot cameras, the outfit has branched out quite significantly since. Case in point: the Switchback. Joby's still relying on its flexible mount expertise by including a tripod with this here lighting instrument, but it's the device itself that steals the show. The water resistant Switchback is a two-piece product; there's a headlamp that can be worn around your dome, and it can be shoved into a lantern container for those sit-around-the-campfire moments. The light itself has a central white beam with two power levels, and it's surrounded by a foursome of Cree LEDs that shine blue or red (and can be toggled with a button press). Joby throws a pair of AA batteries in for good measure, and in our testing, we found it sufficient enough for backyard gatherings and the like. The lantern apparatus has a clip on the bottom in order to affix the aforesaid tripod, but in practice we found it fairly simple to tip over when not wrapped around a tree limb. At any rate, it's on sale today for $59.95 for those looking to hit the forests in the near future.

Gallery: Joby Switchback headlamp / lantern

Joby tempts the argonauts with Switchback headlamp / lantern originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 21 Oct 2010 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventurecreehands-onheadlampjobylamplanternlightoutdooroutdoorsswitchbackThu, 21 Oct 2010 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Inhabitat's Week in Green: the world's largest laser fired, icy roof tiles admired, faucet lamps inspired]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/17/inhabitats-week-in-green-the-worlds-largest-laser-fired-icy/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/17/inhabitats-week-in-green-the-worlds-largest-laser-fired-icy/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/17/inhabitats-week-in-green-the-worlds-largest-laser-fired-icy/#commentsEach week our friends at Inhabitat recap the week's most interesting green developments and clean tech news for us -- it's the Week in Green.

This week scientists took a step towards unlocking the holy grail of alternative energy as they unleashed a one megajoule test blast from the world's largest laser. We were also excited to see the DOI give the green light for the first solar-thermal power tower in the United States, and we saw big things brewing beneath West Virginia as a project funded by Google discovered massive geothermal vents that could double the state's energy generation capacity. Not to be outdone, Oregon announced plans for a 845 megawatt wind farm that stands to be the largest in the world.

We also watched the world of architecture heat up - literally - as Soltech unveiled a set of glimmering glass roof tiles that can capture solar energy to heat your home. We also checked in on the development of Masdar, the world's first carbon neutral zero-waste city, and we were shocked and appalled by the recently completed largest and most expensive house in the world.

In other news, this week we showcased a dazzling array of energy-efficient lights - from an amazing animated LED pillar to a set of liquid lights made from recycled faucets to a chandelier decked out with luminous dandelions. We also kicked up our heels for a vending machine that dispenses biodegradable shoes and we saw a set of ghetto-fabulous boom boxes made from old suitcases hit the streets. Finally, we rounded up a gaggle of our favorite smartphone games that are perfect for keeping kids entertained!

Inhabitat's Week in Green: the world's largest laser fired, icy roof tiles admired, faucet lamps inspired originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 17 Oct 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>architectureartbiodegradablecarbon neutralCarbonNeutralenergygeothermalgeothermal energyGeothermalEnergyinhabitatinhabitats week in greenInhabitatsWeekInGreenlamplampslaserLEDMasdarOregonsolar powerSolarPowerweek in greenWeekInGreenWest VirginiaWestVirginiawind farmwind powerWindFarmWindPowerSun, 17 Oct 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Another augmented reality, pico-projecting lamp threatens desktops, brings tablet reinforcements (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/18/another-augmented-reality-pico-projecting-lamp-threatens-deskto/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/18/another-augmented-reality-pico-projecting-lamp-threatens-deskto/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/18/another-augmented-reality-pico-projecting-lamp-threatens-deskto/#commentsAnother augmented reality, pico-projecting lamp threatens our desktop, brings tablet reinforcementsHow long have dumblamps been ruling our desktops for? Their reign of evenly scattered light might finally be coming to a close. A few months back it was MIT student Natan Linder putting a pico projector in a lamp to create LuminAR. Now, researcher Li-Wei Chan from National Taiwan University has crafted something similar, again with a pico projector replacing a bulb, this time relying on an IR camera to detect position. The lamp projects an image into a surface that users can interact with, while tablets (also augmented with use IR cameras) can be used to display a 3D view of the 2D projected content, allowing a user to look around and zoom in dynamically. The voice-over in the video below talks of potential military applications, generals analyzing battlefields, but for once we'd like to think that this sort of thing would be used for peace. You know, planning nature walks, watching virtual horsies romp around in a pretend field, that sort of thing.

Continue reading Another augmented reality, pico-projecting lamp threatens desktops, brings tablet reinforcements (video)

Another augmented reality, pico-projecting lamp threatens desktops, brings tablet reinforcements (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 18 Aug 2010 12:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>augmented realityAugmentedRealitylampLi-Wei ChanLi-weiChanNational Taiwan UniversityNationalTaiwanUniversitypicopico-projectorprojectorresearchtablettaiwanvideoWed, 18 Aug 2010 12:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Shocker! Apple approves apps for using LED on iPhone 4 as flashlight]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/08/shocker-apple-approves-apps-for-using-led-on-iphone-4-as-flashl/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/08/shocker-apple-approves-apps-for-using-led-on-iphone-4-as-flashl/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/08/shocker-apple-approves-apps-for-using-led-on-iphone-4-as-flashl/#comments Nah, your sarcasm detector isn't busted -- we genuinely are surprised that Apple has lifted the iron fist and allowed a piece of hardware on its handset to be used for something other than Jobs himself intended. It may seem trivial to those who haven't witnessed Apple block the most sensible of programs in the past, but allowing applications that enable end-user control of the LED camera flash is a pretty big deal. It's one of those "sad, but true" moments, you know? As of now, the affordable (£0.59) Flashlight - For iPhone 4 and even more affordable (zilch) LED Light for iPhone 4 can be downloaded directly from the App Store and used to activate the LED whenever you darn well please, and for reasons that we needn't mention, we'd suggest you go ahead and grab one... pronto.

Update: Another free option -- Power Light -- just splashed down into the App Store.

Update 2: Lookie there, another free option with LED-Flashlight! Woo!

Update 3: Apple even let an iPhone 4 LED Strobe application through (video after the break). Be still our hearts!

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Continue reading Shocker! Apple approves apps for using LED on iPhone 4 as flashlight

Shocker! Apple approves apps for using LED on iPhone 4 as flashlight originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 08 Jul 2010 15:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appapp storeappleapprovalapprovedAppStoreflashlightiphone 4Iphone4lampLEDled lightLedLightlightshockervideoThu, 08 Jul 2010 15:33:00 EST<![CDATA[How nutritious is your light bulb? (in lumens, of course)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/23/how-nutritious-is-your-light-bulb-in-lumens-of-course/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/23/how-nutritious-is-your-light-bulb-in-lumens-of-course/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/23/how-nutritious-is-your-light-bulb-in-lumens-of-course/#comments No joke -- starting mid-2011, US light bulbs will have nutrition facts of their own. Backed by Congress, the FTC has mandated that light bulbs carry the label at top, allowing buyers to clearly compare brightness, life expectancy and energy cost. Of course, many manufacturers call out these facts already, but hopefully this will keep the rest from confusing potency with power -- by advertising that a mid-range LED unit that slowly sips energy, for instance, is "equivalent to 40 watts."

How nutritious is your light bulb? (in lumens, of course) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 23 Jun 2010 22:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bulbbulbscongressFederal Trade CommissionFederalTradeCommissionftclamplampslightlight bulblight bulbsLightBulbLightBulbslightinglighting factsLightingFactslightsWed, 23 Jun 2010 22:14:00 EST<![CDATA[LuminAR robot finally shows us what pico projectors were meant for (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/10/liminar-robot-finally-shows-us-what-pico-projectors-were-meant-f/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/10/liminar-robot-finally-shows-us-what-pico-projectors-were-meant-f/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/10/liminar-robot-finally-shows-us-what-pico-projectors-were-meant-f/#commentsLuminAR robot finally shows us what pico projectors were meant for (video) Still looking for an excuse to buy a pico projector? We might just have the perfect thing. LuminAR, a project of MIT student Natan Linder, is something like a sentient desk lamp of the sort that will make any dedicated Pixar fan's heart skip a beat. It can follow a user's actions, using a camera to detect gestures and beam information down to augment whichever reality they're currently experiencing. Interestingly, the whole thing is built into a bulb socket, meaning it could be thrown into any lamp you like -- if you can do without the whole automatic motion aspect. It's based on what looks to be a Microsoft Lifecam Show webcam and what is certainly a Microvision Show WX projector, which is both focus and care free. There's a demo video after the break but, sadly, little hope that this thing will be replacing your current desktop lamp any time soon.

Continue reading LuminAR robot finally shows us what pico projectors were meant for (video)

LuminAR robot finally shows us what pico projectors were meant for (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 10 Jun 2010 08:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>desk lampDeskLamplampluminarmicrovision show wxMicrovisionShowWxmitNatan LinderNatanLinderpicopico projectorPicoProjectorprojectorrobotshow wxshow-wxShowWxvideoThu, 10 Jun 2010 08:49:00 EST<![CDATA[T'Light lamp for major nerds with good taste (should such a thing exist)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/01/tlight-lamp-for-major-nerds-with-good-taste-should-such-a-thin/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/01/tlight-lamp-for-major-nerds-with-good-taste-should-such-a-thin/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/01/tlight-lamp-for-major-nerds-with-good-taste-should-such-a-thin/#comments
The T'Light lamp isn't the first one we've seen which boasts things like chargers, docks and USB. It is, however, the nicest looking one we've ever seen. The modern stainless steel lamp has an iPod dock in its base, plus a USB port and a jack for charging laptops -- though there's no adapter for MacBooks as of yet, apparently. The T'Light is available now for $90 -- hit up the source for more details.

T'Light lamp for major nerds with good taste (should such a thing exist) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 01 Jun 2010 19:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applechargerchargingdesk lampDeskLampdesksdockfurnishingsfurniturehome officeHomeOfficeipod dockIpodDocklamplampsofficereading lampReadingLampt lighttlightTue, 01 Jun 2010 19:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Solar Pebble lamp doubles as a gadget charger, world changer]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/04/05/solar-pebble-lamp-doubles-as-a-gadget-charger-world-changer/http://www.engadget.com/2010/04/05/solar-pebble-lamp-doubles-as-a-gadget-charger-world-changer/http://www.engadget.com/2010/04/05/solar-pebble-lamp-doubles-as-a-gadget-charger-world-changer/#comments It might not change the world, but it won't be for lack of trying. Plus Minus Solar has designed what it's calling the LED Solar Pebble, a multifaceted device that requires just a pinch of sunlight (or maybe gobs of it, actually) in order to generate artificial light. And charge your arsenal of gizmos. It's engineered to be built at a low cost and used in developing nations, but unfortunately there's no confirmation on what exactly it'd charge. 'Course, it's just a concept as of now, so we're guessing a micro-USB and mini-USB socket could be tossed on by whatever manufacturer would be kind enough to get this to a production line. Right, prospective manufacturers?

Gallery: LED Solar Pebble

Solar Pebble lamp doubles as a gadget charger, world changer originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 05 Apr 2010 05:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artchargechargerchargingconceptdesigneco-friendlygreenlamplightlightingpebblePlus Minus SolarPlusMinusSolarsolarsolar pebblesolar powersolar poweredSolarPebbleSolarPowerSolarPoweredyankoyanko designYankoDesignMon, 05 Apr 2010 05:34:00 EST<![CDATA[A lava lamp and a Nexus One tested under 3 Gs of force (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/03/08/a-lava-lamp-and-a-nexus-one-tested-under-3gs-of-force-video/http://www.engadget.com/2010/03/08/a-lava-lamp-and-a-nexus-one-tested-under-3gs-of-force-video/http://www.engadget.com/2010/03/08/a-lava-lamp-and-a-nexus-one-tested-under-3gs-of-force-video/#comments Neil Fraser, a true pioneer of science, wasn't satisfied with just wondering whether a lava lamp will work on Jupiter. He opted instead to build a freaking centrifuge in the middle of his living room, strap an innocent lava lamp and a Nexus One to one end with counterbalancing weights on the other, and spin that monster up to find out for himself. His instrument was able to generate 3 Gs of lateral force (despite the Nexus One's G-Force reporting 2.0 Gs due to a bug, now reported to Google), which is comfortably above the 2.5 G gravitational pull that one might experience on the solar system's biggest planet. So, did the goo keep its mojo under pressure? Did the Nexus One survive the ordeal intact? Click past the break to find out.

Continue reading A lava lamp and a Nexus One tested under 3 Gs of force (video)

A lava lamp and a Nexus One tested under 3 Gs of force (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 08 Mar 2010 09:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidcentrifugeexperimentg-forcegooglegravityhigh pressureHighPressurejupiterlamplava lampLavaLampmeccanonexusnexus oneNexusOneplanetvideoMon, 08 Mar 2010 09:44:00 EST<![CDATA[ModisTech to commercialize cheap, flexible OLED lighting this year]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/02/20/modistech-to-commercialize-cheap-flexible-oled-lighting-this-ye/http://www.engadget.com/2010/02/20/modistech-to-commercialize-cheap-flexible-oled-lighting-this-ye/http://www.engadget.com/2010/02/20/modistech-to-commercialize-cheap-flexible-oled-lighting-this-ye/#comments
It's far from the only one working on flexible OLED lighting, but it looks like ModisTech could be among the first to actually bring something to market, as its now announced that it will begin commercialization of its 150 x 150mm flexible OLED panels this year (seemingly ahead of its original 2011 schedule). Those will apparently be used for various indirect lighting applications including desk lamps and car lighting, and promise to provide a more natural light than LEDs while maintaining some of the same power savings. Still no word on any actual products using the OLED panels, unfortunately, but they will supposedly be inexpensive for companies to adopt (and very cheap to manufacture).

ModisTech to commercialize cheap, flexible OLED lighting this year originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 20 Feb 2010 06:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>car lightingCarLightingflexible oledFlexibleOledlamplightingmodistecholedoled lightingOledLightingSat, 20 Feb 2010 06:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Artopz Minitopz Ion-based nettop lamp rains down confusion, wonder]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/12/19/artopz-minitopz-ion-based-nettop-lamp-rains-down-confusion-wond/http://www.engadget.com/2009/12/19/artopz-minitopz-ion-based-nettop-lamp-rains-down-confusion-wond/http://www.engadget.com/2009/12/19/artopz-minitopz-ion-based-nettop-lamp-rains-down-confusion-wond/#comments We don't get it. At all. That said, we're totally enamored with this Artopz Minitopz, which manages to both be an impressively-specced Atom and Ion-based nettop, and simultaneously a completely confounding piece of "art." Apparently it's supposed to be perceived as a lamp, but we'd say that stretches the limits of imagination. But it stretches them in a good way, that's all we're saying. Oh, and the Minitopz costs $2,250, just in case you thought you'd penetrated this fog of luxurious gadget oddity to the point of pulling out a wallet. Maybe the video after the break will help clear some things up? Nope, not really.

Continue reading Artopz Minitopz Ion-based nettop lamp rains down confusion, wonder

Artopz Minitopz Ion-based nettop lamp rains down confusion, wonder originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 19 Dec 2009 23:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artartopzartopz minitopzArtopzMinitopzatomhome theater pcHomeTheaterPcionlampminitopznettopSat, 19 Dec 2009 23:58:00 EST<![CDATA[DIY Robolamps are part lamp, part robot, all awesome]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/11/18/diy-robolamps-are-part-lamp-part-robot-all-awesome/http://www.engadget.com/2009/11/18/diy-robolamps-are-part-lamp-part-robot-all-awesome/http://www.engadget.com/2009/11/18/diy-robolamps-are-part-lamp-part-robot-all-awesome/#comments While we're mostly concerned with covering the latest in gadgets and technology, there's occasionally some humble creations that spend months building up enough stream to finally break into the public's consciousness, and we'd be remiss if we didn't take notice. One such piece of magic is the Robolamp series of, well, robot lamps that Robert Matysiak has been working on for the past two years, and looks to have recently gone all out with in the last few months. As you can see for yourself in the gallery below, those consist of everything from some fairly recognizable lamp-shaped devices to more elaborate "robots" that can apparently be repositioned and accessorized. Unfortunately, it doesn't look like Matysiak is quite ready to part with them just yet, but he is looking for a place to exhibit the designs if there happens to be any adventuresome gallery owners out there.

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DIY Robolamps are part lamp, part robot, all awesome originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>awesomediyhomebrewlamplampslightingrobert matysiakRobertMatysiakrobolamprobolampsWed, 18 Nov 2009 00:42:00 EST<![CDATA[How-to: geek up your pumpkin]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/31/how-to-geek-up-your-pumpkin/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/31/how-to-geek-up-your-pumpkin/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/31/how-to-geek-up-your-pumpkin/#comments BOO! It's Halloween and it's also a Saturday, so let's not hear any pathetic excuses for not carving pumpkins. While we're no experts, we've got a few tips for making your jack-o'-lanterns better looking and more unique:
  • Always mark where you're carving first instead of freestyling, especially for the lid. Once the knife's in there's nothing you can do about it.
  • Want an accurate carving? Draw or print your pattern on paper first and then stick it on the pumpkin, so that you can use a pin to punch an outline.
  • Use a scalpel. Seriously, it's so much better than kitchen knives.
  • Be creative: consider using a variety of carving depths instead of just cutting out holes. It's best to start off with the darkest areas so that you know where the threshold is. If it's too shallow you can always scrape the trench.
  • Don't use candles -- they don't last and aren't safe for the kids and animals; many LED candles have a convincing flickering glow, so try those. Alternatively, why not convert a cheap solar garden light into a lid for your jack-o'-lantern? Or go Ben-Heck and try the Cylon mod?
  • Keep the seeds for roasting -- they make a good snack.
Feel free to refer to our gallery for the whole process. Enjoy and have a happy Halloween!

Gallery: How-to: geek up your pumpkin

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How-to: geek up your pumpkin originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 31 Oct 2009 11:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carvecarvingfeaturesglowhalloweenjack-o-lanternlamplanternlightpumpkinSat, 31 Oct 2009 11:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Bluetooth-enabled Modula therapy lamp changes color via cellphone]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/11/bluetooth-enabled-modula-therapy-lamp-changes-color-via-cellphon/http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/11/bluetooth-enabled-modula-therapy-lamp-changes-color-via-cellphon/http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/11/bluetooth-enabled-modula-therapy-lamp-changes-color-via-cellphon/#comments Details are exceedingly light (almost dangerously light, in fact), but the Modula color therapy lamp is simply too soothing to overlook. The three-ringed lamp is built with a slew of multi-color lights (LEDs, we're guessing), all wired up to be controlled via Bluetooth. The video demonstration shows a Sony Ericsson W880i doing the dirty work, but there's no indication of how exactly end users are supposed to accomplish the color changing once it arrives. Those in the camp of "buy now, ask questions later" can get their pre-order in through the read link, but considering that only an EU-friendly 230V version is currently available, those on this side of the pond will need to invest in some serious converters to make it all compatible. The pain? Just €199 ($281) for hours upon hours of endless entertainment.

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Bluetooth-enabled Modula therapy lamp changes color via cellphone originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 11 Aug 2009 05:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bluetoothcellphonecolorlamplightlightingmobileModulaperipheralspre-ordersesony ericssonSonyEricssonw880iTue, 11 Aug 2009 05:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Bluetooth-enabled Modula therapy lamp changes color via cellphone]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/11/bluetooth-enabled-modula-therapy-lamp-changes-color-via-cellphon/http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/11/bluetooth-enabled-modula-therapy-lamp-changes-color-via-cellphon/http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/11/bluetooth-enabled-modula-therapy-lamp-changes-color-via-cellphon/#comments Details are exceedingly light (almost dangerously light, in fact), but the Modula color therapy lamp is simply too soothing to overlook. The three-ringed lamp is built with a slew of multi-color lights (LEDs, we're guessing), all wired up to be controlled via Bluetooth. The video demonstration shows a Sony Ericsson W880i doing the dirty work, but there's no indication of how exactly end users are supposed to accomplish the color changing once it arrives. Those in the camp of "buy now, ask questions later" can get their pre-order in through the read link, but considering that only an EU-friendly 230V version is currently available, those on this side of the pond will need to invest in some serious converters to make it all compatible. The pain? Just €199 ($281) for hours upon hours of endless entertainment.

Filed under: ,

Bluetooth-enabled Modula therapy lamp changes color via cellphone originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 11 Aug 2009 05:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bluetoothcellphonecolorlamplightlightingModulapre-ordersesony ericssonSonyEricssonw880iTue, 11 Aug 2009 05:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Brando credit card light bulb fills the void in your wallet... not your heart]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/06/brando-credit-card-light-bulb-fills-the-void-in-your-wallet-n/http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/06/brando-credit-card-light-bulb-fills-the-void-in-your-wallet-n/http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/06/brando-credit-card-light-bulb-fills-the-void-in-your-wallet-n/#comments
Tailored to fit inside a vacant credit card slot -- let's face it, we've all got a bit more room in our wallets these days -- Brando's latest offering is an unfolding LED light tastefully shaped like a bulb. You might point out the irony of replacing cold hard cash with a cute yet limited trinket, but do you really expect such subtlety to stop the company that brought you the sliced bread wrist rest? We'll let you to come up with viable justifications for its existence, but do yourself the favor of going past the break for a snap of the little wonder flicked on, while we decide whether to file it under pointless sophistication or sophisticated pointlessness.

Continue reading Brando credit card light bulb fills the void in your wallet... not your heart

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Brando credit card light bulb fills the void in your wallet... not your heart originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 06 Aug 2009 07:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Brandobulbcredit card lightCreditCardLightfolding lightfolding light bulbFoldingLightFoldingLightBulbgimmicklampLEDLED lightLedLightlightlight bulbLightBulbpocket lampPocketLampwallet lightwallet light bulbWalletLightWalletLightBulbThu, 06 Aug 2009 07:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Empty ink cartridges repurposed as glorious lamps]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/03/empty-ink-cartridges-repurposed-as-glorious-lamps/http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/03/empty-ink-cartridges-repurposed-as-glorious-lamps/http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/03/empty-ink-cartridges-repurposed-as-glorious-lamps/#comments We all know that those ink cartridge refills never really function perfectly as advertised, so rather than paying too much to have a lackluster printing experience, boxlightbox has decided to repurpose his empty Epson boxes into prepossessing lighting instruments. The simple (albeit masterly) lamps maintain the iconic presence of an ink cartridge while still fitting into the overall feel of an art deco home. At $350, the sensational Ink-Cartridge Chandelier shown above certainly isn't the cheapest of fixtures, but for those who spend entirely too much time at Kinko's, it's totally worth the investment. Hit the read link for more ways to spend money that you don't have -- or, you know, to just get a few ideas for scratching that DIY itch.

[Thanks, David]

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Empty ink cartridges repurposed as glorious lamps originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 03 Aug 2009 05:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artdesigndiyepsonhacksinkink cartridgeInkCartridgelamplightlightingmodmodson saleOnSaleprinterprintingMon, 03 Aug 2009 05:37:00 EST<![CDATA[LEDSAUR Tyrannosaurus Rex desk lamp makes chewing through paperwork less monotonous]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/31/ledsaur-tyrannosaurus-rex-desk-lamp-makes-chewing-through-paperw/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/31/ledsaur-tyrannosaurus-rex-desk-lamp-makes-chewing-through-paperw/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/31/ledsaur-tyrannosaurus-rex-desk-lamp-makes-chewing-through-paperw/#comments
We'll be straight with you: it was pretty much love at first sight for us and dinosaur bones, and while we've always harbored a secret desire to someday acquire a real T-Rex fossil for our private collection, the LEDSAUR is probably our best shot at anything even close to that. Besides taking on that famous shape we love, this carnivorous piece of lighting is pretty stylish, with each of its vertebrae represented with an LED. The lamp is made of stainless steel, it's bendable, and it comes with a remote control. It's sadly only available in Japan for the time being, and runs between $115 and $270.

[Via CrunchGear]

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LEDSAUR Tyrannosaurus Rex desk lamp makes chewing through paperwork less monotonous originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 31 Jul 2009 18:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>desk lampDeskLampdinosaurlamplightlightingt-textyrannosaurus rexTyrannosaurusRexFri, 31 Jul 2009 18:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Philips HF3490 Wake-up Light is also a bedside lamp, iPod dock]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/philips-hf3490-wake-up-light-is-also-a-bedside-lamp-ipod-dock/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/philips-hf3490-wake-up-light-is-also-a-bedside-lamp-ipod-dock/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/30/philips-hf3490-wake-up-light-is-also-a-bedside-lamp-ipod-dock/#comments
Did you know that waking up by natural light is a lot less stressful than doing it with sound? Yes, apparently your toast tastes better too. Philips has long been a proponent of light alarms and, in an effort to stay hip with the kids, it's added a detachable iPod / iPhone dock to its latest offering. The HF3490 might never serve as your music station, but it tries hard, bringing an FM radio and some soothing sounds along. With 30 different levels of brightness and a "dusk simulator," this device has enough tweaking options to ensure you wake up just the way nature intended -- with birds chirping and soft sunlight on your pillow, all simulated by futuristically ugly electronics. If you can get over the $199 price, you can pre-order one for delivery on August 22.

[Via Coolest Gadgets]

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Philips HF3490 Wake-up Light is also a bedside lamp, iPod dock originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 30 Jul 2009 18:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alarmalarm clockAlarmClockbedside lampBedsideLampclockFM radioFmRadioHF3490iPod dockIpodDocklamplightlight alarmLightAlarmPhilipsPhilips HF3490PhilipsHf3490wake-up lightWake-upLightThu, 30 Jul 2009 18:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Sanyo's Eneloop lamp heals your ecological soul]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/30/sanyos-eneloop-lamp-heals-your-ecological-soul/http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/30/sanyos-eneloop-lamp-heals-your-ecological-soul/http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/30/sanyos-eneloop-lamp-heals-your-ecological-soul/#comments We've been fans of Sanyo's rechargeable Eneloop batteries since they first entered the market in the lazy NiMH and NiCd days of 2005. We remember this because we, like Eneloops, don't suffer from the memory effect of our predecessors. Ok, ok, that date's in the press release but that doesn't change the fact that Eneloops will maintain their charge over time even when stored, ununsed in a drawer now does it? Anywho, Sanyo just announced its rechargeable Eneloop Lamp that serves to light your home when upright or your path when held like a flashlight -- automatically, just as soon as it passes the 90-degree mark. It also features a healing function that waxes a cool blue light into the tragic abyss of your misery and despair. The internal AAs recharge in about 12-hours when set atop the included induction charger. Fully charged, you can expect between 3- and 45-hours of white light, 12- to 16-hours of the blue stuff, and about 6 hours in flashlight mode. No price was given but it'll be on sale in Japan starting September 11th.

[Via Akihabara News]

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Sanyo's Eneloop lamp heals your ecological soul originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 30 Jun 2009 04:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batteryeneloopsflashlighthealinglamplightsanyoTue, 30 Jun 2009 04:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Sharp's remote controlled LED light-bulbs generate seven-shades of smart]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/11/sharps-remote-controlled-led-light-bulbs-generate-7-shades-of-s/http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/11/sharps-remote-controlled-led-light-bulbs-generate-7-shades-of-s/http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/11/sharps-remote-controlled-led-light-bulbs-generate-7-shades-of-s/#comments While you're replacing your household incandescent light-bulbs with LEDs in a bid to save energy and possibly cash (over the 40,000-hour lifespan) you might want to consider these remote-controlled lamps from Sharp. The DL-L60AV gives you on/off and dimming functions as well as the ability to adjust the light in seven shades of white to warm up or cool down the glow. Best of all, they screw into a standard E26 socket for a one-to-one exchange with your existing ocean warmers. The features of the remote control are still unclear (lighting zone support, range of operation, etc.) but it appears to work with multiple-lamps in parallel which is a nice touch. However, we'd like to see Sharp integrate a Z-Wave or ZigBee chipset so we could link these directly (without special wall-switches) into a tricked-out home automation and power managment system. The DL-series start at ¥3880 (about $40) for simple LED lights before hitting ¥7980 (about $82) for the fully-equipped DL-L60AV and begin shipping July 15th in Japan.

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Sharp's remote controlled LED light-bulbs generate seven-shades of smart originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 11 Jun 2009 03:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bulbdl-l60avhahome automationhome-automationHomeAutomationjapanlampledlight bulbLightBulblightingsharpThu, 11 Jun 2009 03:18:00 EST<![CDATA[First Philips Lumiblade OLED lights arrive]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/05/20/first-philips-lumiblade-oled-lights-arrive/http://www.engadget.com/2009/05/20/first-philips-lumiblade-oled-lights-arrive/http://www.engadget.com/2009/05/20/first-philips-lumiblade-oled-lights-arrive/#comments
Philips has always pushed OLED lighting concepts, and it looks like the company's Lumiblade products will be the first to start shipping. The folks at OLED-Info got to play with some pre-production samples, and while they're definitely cool and impossibly slim, there are some notable drawbacks: the rectangular panel has some unfortunate "speckles," and overall they're just not very bright on their own, so you'll need quite a few for an actual lamp. Still, we've no doubt OLED lighting will soon be everywhere, so hit read link for a quick glimpse of the future.

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First Philips Lumiblade OLED lights arrive originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 20 May 2009 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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We already caught sight of some of Philips' new OLED lighting concepts, but when it comes to something like a massive OLED wall there's really no substitute for a proper video, and Philips itself has now kindly provided one for all to enjoy. As you can see for yourself after the break, the wall reacts directly to folks passing by, which turns out to be a surefire to get folks dancing and more generally make fools of themselves -- all in the name of progress, of course. If that's not enough OLED for one day, you can also check out a slightly less entertaining video of Philips' OLED chandelier concept, which is a tad less interactive but considerably more likely to turn into an actual product.

Continue reading Philips' OLED wall makes its video debut

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Philips' OLED wall makes its video debut originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 24 Apr 2009 18:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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As promised, Philips has now taken the wraps off its first few Lumiblade OLED lighting concepts which, judging from Philips' boasting, could well change your life and ours. Now on display at the Euroluce International Lighting Fair in Milan, the concepts are divided into consumer and professional groups, the former of which includes ceiling-mounted products like the one pictured above, as well as some slightly more straightforward desk lamps like the one pictured after the break. What's more, each lighting device also boasts at least some degree of interactivity, including the ability to recognize hand gestures or, in the case of the professional lighting fixtures, react to passers-by. Interestingly, however, none of the products are actually full-on OLED lamps, with each also supplemented by some LUXEON Power LEDs to provide some more usable lighting.

Continue reading Philips shows off Lumiblade OLED lighting concepts

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Philips shows off Lumiblade OLED lighting concepts originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 23 Apr 2009 15:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Just what Toshiba needed, right? As if the economy wasn't hammering the company's bottom line badly enough, United States Magistrate Judge Steven M. Gold of the Eastern District of New York has just entered a decision that'll force it to pay up over $1 million in order to settle a class action lawsuit it just lost. Originally filed in 2007, the suit alleged "that the lamps of certain Toshiba DLP televisions were susceptible to premature failure causing purchasers to repeatedly expend hundreds of dollars for replacement bulbs, which allegedly suffered from the same defect." After a thorough investigation, it was found that Tosh would be responsible for reimbursing those who purchased a bulb replacement that failed prematurely, and the warranty on replacement bulbs has been pushed from six months to a full year. Naturally, the law firm representing the 265,000 or so affected individuals was quite stoked with the outcome, as should you be if you're in that mix.

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Toshiba forced to pay up in class action DLP lawsuit originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 01 Mar 2009 23:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Could everyone just dole out a round of golf claps for Yoon-Hui Kim and Eun-Kyung Kim? Swell, thanks. These two designers have conjured up something that any second-rate hotelier (we kid... kind of) would love, as the Solar Vertical Lamp provides an eco-friendly (and eye-catching) alternative to those drab lamps from the 1980s. With the blinds open, you'll hardly notice anything unusual, but all the while tiny solar pads are being charged up; when time comes to shut these very blinds, a lighting instrument appears to brighten the otherwise darkened room. Brilliant, right?

[Via Inhabitat]

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Solar Vertical Lamp: one more reason to close the blinds originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 21 Nov 2008 09:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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It's a shame that the amazing always becomes ordinary given enough time and popular exposure. Case in point: the x-ray. Childhood longings to possess such visual power are ultimately replaced by painful memories of leaden-concealed trips to the emergency room. Until this, the X-Ray Light from designer Wonsuk Cho. A whimsical look through the lampshade for eyes eager to see. Unfortunately, these lampshade / lights aren't yet available to purchase -- another dream dashed by cruel reality.

[Via Technabob]

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X-ray Light exposes our failure to be super originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 21 Oct 2008 08:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artdesignlamplampshadewonsuk choWonsukChox-rayx-ray lightX-rayLightTue, 21 Oct 2008 08:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Rohm brings super-bright OLED out of the shadows, literally]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/10/08/rohm-brings-super-bright-oled-out-of-the-shadows-literally/http://www.engadget.com/2008/10/08/rohm-brings-super-bright-oled-out-of-the-shadows-literally/http://www.engadget.com/2008/10/08/rohm-brings-super-bright-oled-out-of-the-shadows-literally/#commentsKyoto-based company Rohm impressed us at last year's CEATEC with a mega-tiny OLED display but it didn't rest on its laurels. A larger prototype exhibited this year emitted ambient light at 3,000 to 4,000cd/m&sup2; and a brief flash at 100,000cd/m&sup2; -- that's respectively 10 and 250 times the brightness of a typical LCD display. But the impressive bit was this: nothing illuminated cast a shadow. Obviously a light like that is a poor match for a haunted house or romantic restaurant, but surgeons use shadowless lamps at the operating table, so there are applications. The short shelf life of OLED materials is still a nagging disadvantage, but as Dr. Eldon Tyrell would say: "the light that burns twice as bright burns half as long, and you have burned so very, very brightly." Then again, he was talking about cybernetic killing machines, so, maybe not such a great endorsement.

[Thanks, Erik]

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Rohm brings super-bright OLED out of the shadows, literally originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 08 Oct 2008 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ceatecjapanlampledlightno shadowoledprototyperohmshadowWed, 08 Oct 2008 13:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Philips Wake-up Light simulates sunrise, still can't call in sick for you]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/09/03/philips-wake-up-light-simulates-sunrise-still-cant-call-in-sic/http://www.engadget.com/2008/09/03/philips-wake-up-light-simulates-sunrise-still-cant-call-in-sic/http://www.engadget.com/2008/09/03/philips-wake-up-light-simulates-sunrise-still-cant-call-in-sic/#commentsSome pretty extreme methods for waking up are out there, but for those of you who'd prefer something a bit more natural, have a passing glance at Philips' Wake-up Light. This admittedly brilliant device simulates the rising of the sun by gradually getting brighter as your desired required wake-up time draws near. If that's not enough, your windowless apartment can become the middle of Central Park with the inclusion of bird sounds, babbling brooks and millions of citizens yapping on mobiles. Okay, so maybe that last bit will come with a future firmware update, but if the current iteration is good enough for you, it can be acquired now for around $120.

[Via UberReview]

Update: Seems this has been around for at least a bit in some parts of Europe. Share the love!

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Philips Wake-up Light simulates sunrise, still can't call in sick for you originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 03 Sep 2008 11:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Remember those battery-operated vibrating ladybugs that people used to pass around (multiple times) as office gifts? Yeah, that critter ain't got nothing on this stable of patently awful gizmos. We've seen a remarkable amount of garbage pass under our noses in the past few weeks, and we've rounded up the worst of the worst for your consideration. So, is a USB shell speaker really more embarrassing than a V-Sports console for folks tired of searching for a Wii? Is the i-Knock personal IM notifier more unnecessary than the Encore Rockin' Music Lamp? Or does the OMG-inducing Limbo String walk away with the gold here? We know, each and every item is a festering turd in one way or another, but which of the ones below just exemplify the word "crap?" Choose carefully.

Read - USB shell speaker
Read - USB back massager
Read - V-Sports console
Read - i-Knock IM doohickey
Read - Encore Rockin' Music Lamp
Read - Limbo String

View Poll


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Crapgadget: USB back massager, limbo string and more obviously terrible ideas originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 09 Aug 2008 18:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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