The flavor of invention - oscillating tension belts may answer questions poised by microturbines

Inspired by the vibrations wind forces produced upon the Tacoma Narrows Bridge, Shawn Frayne suspended a taut membrane with coils between two small magnets which, when exposed to a low wind can create enough electricity to power small devices such as lighting or clock radios. The current project was developed for rural areas without electrical infrastructure however it is hoped that the current design can be scaled up somewhat to produce more power without the inevitable noise problems.

There is a pretty snazzy video interview and some diagrams on this Popular Mechanics webpage.

While not every idea solves every problem perfectly, it is little ideas like this that I really appreciate as they show how solutions to our perceived problems could already be staring us right in the face.

All we have to do is learn how to look around.

The 'Euc' is back...

I was trying to remember the last time I was at the Euclid Tavern. I can almost pick it out of the smokey haze of what I assume are high school memories. Was it that long ago? Was it the first time I had seen a 'Church of the Subgenius' sticker outside of the house?

I suppose growing up in the abundance of Cleveland folk-lore and surrounded by the hopes and dreams of living in a vibrant rock and roll city gave the Euclid Tavern a reputation that may be hard to live up to.

Regardless. Among years of rumors and months of speculation the Tavern has thrown open its doors and is already booking musical acts to rekindle of legacy of a primier local venue.

I suppose now it is our job to support it.

Euclid-tavern.com

-special thanks to Marc at studioTechne for the heads up.

Millenium School Competition

Millenium School Competition

Registration Deadline - 2008 Feb.29 (leap year day!)

I know I have started throwing some competitions up here lately as the season is beginning (I don't know why so many always hit in the winter to spring time), usually at great inconvienence to myself and my schedule (dang it) however with all the recent discussion on how difficult it is to get your message/talent/vision out there I find these idea competitions a wonderful way to at least keep the mind nice and agile.

The Millenium School is a "design competition for school buildings in developing countries located in the tropics". Designs have to withstand many natural forces (typhoons, hurricanes, earthquakes) as well as be cost effective and have use and site flexibility. Sounds like a fun project for anyone.

You can read more about the mission and timeline on the web site that would probably be more succint and current than I could keep here.

Viktor Schreckengost passes away

Word came down the wire today that Viktor Schreckengost had passed away Saturday while visiting family in Tallahassee, Florida.

A spry 101 Viktor will be remembered fondly for his toys (I remember my pedal wagon fondly), his prolific love of functional design and the creation of Cleveland Institute's of Art Industrial Design Department.

A native Ohioan who had currently resided in Cleveland Heights he will be sorely missed. Cleveland lost an amazing talent this weekend.

resources:

Viktor Schreckengost dot org