April 24, 2007
Cool Product Expo 2007
The Cool Product Expo which took place at Stanford University this month is designed to generate interest in and excitement around "cool" products and companies in the field of manufacturing and design. An attendee walking through the expo will likely encounter budding start-ups, university research lab projects, the latest R&D from global manufacturers, the best from local design studios, and from a variety of industries that practice innovation by way of design, function, and/or technology.
One example of a cool product is a pair of laser glasses devised by a few Palo Alto high school students. The laser glasses are geared toward disabled individuals, such as quadriplegics who have limited movement. Moving their heads triggers a sensor with a laser pointer attached to the glasses. The sensor, in turn, turns a light on and off. The students designed the system as part of a year-long project to help quadriplegics and other disabled people control household electronics.
A number of exhibitors demonstrated interesting technology, for example:
NeuroSky
http://www.neurosky.com
NeuroSky has created the world's first neural-interface for the consumer market. Translation: a whole new layer of control for applications as diverse and far reaching as interactive entertainment to professional and military needs.
Brainwaves are the electrical activity of the brain's neurons. These waveforms carry information on an individual's moods and states of being. NeuroSky translates the brain's language through a combination of hardware and software solutions. We work with established partners to integrate and innovate for the future.
Apollo Health
http://www.apollohealth.com
Founded in 1987, Apollo Health, Inc. has been the leading researcher and manufacturer of products for treating circadian rhythm disorders that result in insomnia, Seasonal Affective Disorder, Depression and other mood & sleep disorders. Apollo has participated with the National Institute of Health and most leading universities in researching and finding solutions to these problems.
And many others worth a look
Cool Product Expo