The computer graphic company NVIDIA has introduced 'Face Works' - a combination of hardware and software that renders extremely realistic computer generated animations. The renderings include the imperfections in shading, razor stubble, and many other details to give the illusion of reality.
Read more about it and look at samples via Forbes:
The 'How and Why to become a lifelong Learner' is a great article from the chaps at 'The Art of Manliness'... very much worth the read.
The 'How and Why to Become a Lifelong Learner' via The Art of Manliness:
The Swiss company 'S3' announced plans for a launch system of unmanned space shuttles next year. The plan is to take the small shuttle 'piggyback' on an airliner, then boost it into space. The plan also specifies using commonly manufactured parts, keeping the launch price inexpensive.
Read more about it via Wired:
Architect Margot Krasojevic likes to think big. Take for instance, the 'Hydroelectric Waterfall Prison'. Meant to be towed out into the middle of the ocean - the self contained island features semi-opaque walls, meant to underscore just how isolated the occupants are.
Read more about it via DesignBoom:
A professor at the University of Michigan has a technique for detecting hidden weapons from a football field away. Using a type of radar similar to collision detection in cars, it's possible to see the bounce-back signal of bombs or guns.
Read more about it via U of M's site:
When you're tromping in the thick underbrush, a good machete can be a lifesaver. The 'Garrett Wade Personal Machete' is a fine example. Made in El Salvador. Cost: 80 USD
The Personal Machete via Garrett Wade:
There are still plenty of places in the world that have poor cell phone reception. The 'Thuraya SatSleeve' attaches to your iPhone, turning it into a full satellite phone. Cost: about 500 USD
Read more about it via Thuraya:
'Envelope X-Ray Spray' is a product that temporarily turns paper translucent, allowing the user to look into an envelope. Thirty seconds later, the paper returns to normal, with no indication that it was ever sprayed. It should never be used. Ever. Cost: about 12 USD
Available from NewEgg:
Serious cigars require a serious lighter. Alec Bradley makes 'The Burner' - a uniquely styled cigar lighter for heavy duty use. Cost: about 50 USD.
Review from Cigar Lighter Reviews:
The Mercedes Benz G 63 AMG 6x6 concept car is a bit of an off road monster. A 544 hp AMG 5.5 liter V8 biturbo engine is encased in a six wheeled G 63 - it also features a segmented gas tank that can hold a total of 41 gallons of fuel. Cost: about 300,000 USD
Read more about it via Car and Driver:
Anyone seeking a bit of solitude would do well to check out 'The Arctic Hotel'. Located in Greenland, no one will ever think to find you there. The otherworldly metal igloos are the perfect spot to sit quietly and watch icebergs. Cost: about 350 USD per night.
Details and reservations via Hotel Arctic:
Lockpick toolset made of recycled bandsaw parts currently available via Etsy. Ships with a leather case. Cost: 62 USD.
Rustic lockpick set via Etsy:
Seldom seen at a paintball match: a bow hunter. The 'Airowgun' conversion kit turns a compound bow into a paintball gun.
Details and order via Airowgun:
Researchers are now able to detect 'who you are thinking about' by physical changes in a brain. Active MRI scans can show unique pattern changes while thinking of specific people.
Read more about it via Scientific American:
A winter project from Russia: control an old Opel Vectra via an iPad.
Watch the fun via Red Hot Russia:
Rather than running out to purchase a new wardrobe, you might do well to use what you have a little differently. Here's a great article from the guys at 'The Art of Manliness' on 'How to Layer Clothing for Men'.
Layering via The Art of Manliness:
AgustaWestland has quietly been working on a project - literally. The 'Project Zero' tilt rotor technology demonstrator is an electric powered vertical take off craft. Sort of half way between an airplane and a helicopter.
Read more about it via Agustawestland:
UPDATE: Boston Dynamics has been working on the 'Big Dog' robot for a while. They've added a new twist - an arm. Watch the following video of a Big Dog Robot throwing bricks around. Creepy, but intriguing.
Big Dog tossing bricks via YouTube:
The 'Spymaster Orcasub' is a made-to-order two man submarine you can order at Harrod's. The 22-foot long, 4 tonne sub can stay submerged for up to 80 hours, and descend easily to 1000 feet. Cost: 2 Million USD .. There's the super deluxe model available as well.
Read more about it via Pocket-Lint:
After being a bit quiet for a while, Spyker has made themselves known with the 'B6 Venator' concept car. Scheduled for 2014 production, the new coupe is an excellent update to the line. Cost: estimated 125,000 to 150,000 USD
More info and photos via Spyker:
The most recent design for quickly stopping a car is called a 'SQUID - safe quick undercarriage immobilization'. The only drawback is they're a bit bulky. Now, there are a couple versions that will fit into a suitcase sized container for quick deployment.
See the system in action via Wired's Autopia:
It's arguable if the 'stun sword' is practical, it is rather scary looking though.
Take a look at the garage project via YouTube:
Riots are confusing - how are you to act? how do you not get beaten? what should you wear? Now you can be properly trained for a riot. The offered training via 'Wish' allows you to experience half the time as riot control, and half the time as a riot participant - giving a well rounded view. Cost: 79 GBP
More info and signup via Wish.co.uk:
Normally, you'd need waves to go body boarding - the gas powered 'Kymera Body Board' propels itself. The 35 pound unit is being crowd funded via Kickstarter.
Details via KymeraJet:
The 'Secret Agent Projection Alarm Clock' will project the time when you pull the trigger. Slide it under your pillow, and it can buzz you awake with it's vibrating alarm. Cost: 31 USD.
Order via LatestBuy - Australia:
Audi outfitted a couple of the new RS4 Avant models with a special feature: a paintball machine gun, then gave them to stunt drivers. Shenanigans ensued.
Follow the link to watch the fun via Youtube:
The 'Titanium Escape Ring' might be just thing to get you out of a jam. Hidden inside the ring, is a shim that can be used to cut duct tape or jimmy a pair of handcuffs. Cost: 80 USD
Info and order via Unique Titanium:
Follow the link for another selection of clever 'hidden doorway' photos.
Hidden Doorways via Imgur:
You'd leave an impression with these sharpened steel throwing cards. Cost: 25 USD for a set of four.
Available via The Fancy:
