Duke Airborne is working on a surprise RWS (robotic weapon system) for seemingly unarmed helicopters. The system can install itself while in flight - keeping the element of surprise, and aerodynamics intact. Currently, a 25mm machine gun is envisioned with a variety of ordinance.
Read more and watch the video via Duke Airborne:
The service 'First Luggage' will pick up and deliver luggage so you don't have to take it with you through the airport. Your gear will be waiting for you at your destination, saving time and hassle. Cost: variable depending on size
Details and order via First Luggage:
The largest defense contractor in Israel is working on a new magnetic levitation transport system for a university. The magnetic pods will carry two passengers at speeds of up to 44 mph suspended from a track. The system will be ready in a year.
Read more about it via Wired:
The new service 'Blade' will book you a seat on a helicopter from NYC to the Hamptons. The quick trip is 35 minutes, above the snarly traffic. Application is downloaded from the Apple App store. Cost: 575 USD. A similar future service is planned for the LA to Las Vegas run.
Read more about it via 'Fly Blade':
Coming soon, the 'SoundHawk' will help you zero in on a conversation in crowded locations. The slickly designed package uses advanced signal processing to zero in what you're listening to in adverse conditions - like a very intelligent hearing aide. Cost: 300 USD
Read more via SoundHawk:
Coming soon, the 'Earin Wireless Headphones' - the world's smallest in-your-ear headphones. Virtually invisible while using them. Proposed Cost: 99 GBP
Read more via Earin:
In the old days, you'd have to go through an airport security line to get back scatter x-rayed. Now, the same company is making a portable version with wireless output to display devices. One can easily scan for all kinds of contraband in realtime, without setup.
Read more about it via Engadget:
'Vertigo' (and the Moon Bar), are located on the 61st floor of the Banyan Tree Hotel, Bangkok. During good weather, you can enjoy the expansive view of the city while sipping cocktails and keeping a respectful distance from the ledge.
Info and reservations via The Banyan Tree:
The 'ZR Hoverboard' combines surfing with water jets with dramatic results. The a high pressure water jet can support the weight of the rider and propel them up to 23 mph. Cost: 5,800 USD
Read more about it via Geeky Gadgets:
In the lab at the 'Institute for Advanced Architecture of Catalonia', they're experimenting with teams of small autonomous robots, that can work together to 3D print buildings.
Read more about it via Fast Company:
One of the biggest problems with space travel is getting a decent cup of coffee. Finally, this will be solved as the first espresso machine designed for use in orbit will be available. The Italian company Lavazza will be sending the first 'Zero G' machine to the International Space Station.
Read more about it via Lavazza:
The gents at TrackingPoint have done it again - this time integrating google smart glasses with their smart rifle sights. The result: the operator can shoot around corners while sighting with glasses.
Read more about it via The DailyMail:
Coming soon: a small laboratory in a box will be able to run diagnostics at home, for things like hormone levels, health checks, vitamin needs and more. The proposed base unit will sell for 199 USD, with single use analysis cartridges sold separately.
Read more from 'The Verge':
'Kuba Kickz' are defensive weapon for your shoes. The high impact plastic spikes fit between the laces of ordinary shoes, turning them into an effective 'force multiplier'. Cost: 12 USD
Read more, watch the video, and order via Kubajitsu:
JR East announced a new luxury sleeper train called the 'cruise train' will begin service in 2017. The very un-train-like interior will certainly be a big hit.
Read more about it via Spoon Tamago:
When British Character combines with Italian Craftsmanship, the Mini Superleggera is the result. A one off concept, but certainly some of the styling queues will be incorporated into future models.
Read more and watch the video via Mini:
For around thirty years, the 'BTT-3 Banshee' has been blown to smithereens by the UK Royal Navy - on purpose. The unmanned aerial target drone can skim along at 120KPH before it's trip is abruptly ended.
Read more about them vi Meggitt:
The 'Ding Dong Breaching Tool' is a new combination sledgehammer, battering ram, and pry bar - for those not-so-subtle situations.
Info and order via Gerber Gear:
Black belt Victor Marx demonstrates his 'quick as a wink' disarm technique ...really, don't try this at home.
Disarm via YouTube:
As we stand at the brink of a new age in Space Tourism, an important question needs to be asked - 'how will we drink cocktails in zero gravity?' The Cosmic LifeStyle group has the answer - The zero gravity cocktail project.
Read more about it via Cosmic LifeStyle:
In the animal kingdom, geckos are champion climbers. DARPA has funded a project to mimic their climbing skills using an artificial material - 'Geckskin'.
Read more about it via DARPA:
'RID-3 Tactical Balls' are an alternative to 'flash bang' type grenades for distracting and disorienting bad guys. While not as intense, the strobes are a good choice when a flammable device is not an option. Cost: 45 USD for a set of 3
Info and order via Brite-Strike:
NewViewWear is working on life recording that's a little less obtrusive. Their idea is a clothing line that integrates a small streaming camera discreetly into the lining as to not spoil the moment. Photo or HD footage can be streamed for safe keeping.
Read more about it via Indiegogo:
The design company that is working on the 31 mile bridge connecting Hong Kong, Macau and Zhuhai has another interesting idea - 10 kilometer square floating cities that are self contained. The semi-submerged floating cities would include docking systems for submarines, and be self contained.
Read more about it via Dezeen:
Later this year, Skype will be providing real time translation for multiple languages. Each video conference participant will speak in their native language - and the receiving end will have it displayed subtitled in their language.
Read more about and watch a demo video via Microsoft:
A couple of designers in California have dreamed up the 'GF7 Jet Powered Flying Car'. Using a combination of electrical and jet power, they anticipate a top end flying speed of 550 MPH. A Prototype is planned for four years from now. Cost: Estimated 3 Million USD
Read more about it via Discovery News:
The 'EasyBreath Snorkeling Mask' is a full face dive mask with an integrated snorkel. A duel air path and anti-fog technology will have you paddling comfortably for hours. Cost: 39 GPB
Info, video and order via Tribord:
