technabob » appliance

lg reveals world’s first production hd 3d lcd hdtv monitor, mercifully refrains from mentioning price

lambert v. — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 12:54:40 +0000

LG recently announced the “commercial launch” (what does that really mean?) of a 23-in LCD monitor that can display 3D images in full HD resolution. Dammit. I don’t even own a plain 2D HDTV and it’s already becoming obsolete. Daaaaamn youuuu progress!

The monitor is meant to be used with a pair of shutter glasses for 3D viewing, but it can also be switched to display good ol’ 2D. LG boasts that the monitor “offers picture quality that is almost twice as crisp as HD 3D displays currently available in the market.” Considering the fact that barely anyone owns an HD 3D-capable display, I’d say that things are really moving too fast right now. Before this monitor hits the market at prices a normal human being can afford I’m sure LG will have already released a 60″ 4D Ultra HD display that’s powered by the viewer’s attention, with built-in popcorn popper and fridge.

[via Digitimes & LG Display]

bodum bistro flatbed toaster: the ipod nano of toasters

lambert v. — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 12:48:26 +0000

Bodum’s Bistro flatbed toaster is a versatile device. Thanks to its design, the 700 w toaster can heat, toast or defrost almost any size or shape of bread.

The design has its drawbacks of course, like being able to toast only one side at a time, so that may be a deal breaker for some folks. But if you’re looking to liven up your kitchen, then you’ll be glad to know that the Bistro comes in all sorts of crazy colors.

Or I guess I should say it will come in all sorts of crazy colors; I’m not sure, but I think right now only the default color scheme is available. You can get the Bistro flatbed toaster at Amazon for $80 (USD). Are you insane and would rather pay an extra $10? Then get it at Hammacher Schlemmer. And oh I just thought of another drawback: compared to the common slot-loading toaster, it’s easier to accidentally burn yourself on a flatbed toaster. At least it’ll only burn one side at a time, right? Right?

[via Uncrate]

jingle ping: 49 microwaves play jingle bells

lambert v. — Mon, 29 Dec 2008 12:25:08 +0000

I know it’s a bit late, but I’m sure everyone’s still up for a bit of Christmas fun, and I swear this one’s worth watching.

Creative marketing company AKQA set up 49 microwaves to play Jingle Bells, one note per microwave. They sound a bit silly at the start, but… just watch it. Then hug your microwave.

Click to View Embedded Video Clip

For some reason the video reminded me of The Brave Little Toaster. It’s like being next to a new loaf of bread.

[via Mark's Technology News]

wmf coffee pad: just one cup of joe, please

technabob — Fri, 26 Oct 2007 16:46:58 +0000

This cool coffee maker offers up a smart industrial design which cleanly integrates a ceramic mug in place of a carafe. It’s perfect for making a single cup at your desk, or if you’re living a bachelor’s life.

The WMF1 Coffee Pad takes a single portioned coffee filter and can brew up a fresh cup of Java in about 1 minute. The compact coffee maker features a clean white design, with a choice of four accent colors: kiwi (green), mango (yellow), berry (red) and stone (dark grey). And yes, it includes the perfectly-fitted ceramic mug. The brilliantly minimal design even won a 2007 red dot award for its creators.

At this point, the Coffee Pad is only available in a European 220-volt configuration, so you’ll need a power converter to use it here in the States. It’s available now from French online retailer Singulier for €139 (appx. $198 USD).

electrolux nfridge: the refrigerator deconstructed

technabob — Wed, 14 Feb 2007 05:24:38 +0000

A team of industrial designers have come up with a truly unique concept in home appliances for the Electrolux Design Lab competition, the modular refrigerator.

The NFridge reimagines the design of typical refrigerators by splitting the fridge into small, stackable compartments. Each section could be moved independently, and would provide self-contained, earth-friendly cooling using magnetic refrigeration technology. I don’t know if we’ll ever see something like get produced, but it does seem like a good idea for small spaces that might not have a dedicated kitchen space.

[via TrendsNow]