Invisible materials that will change the world.

August 21, 2008 at 7:36 pm (RMIT Melbourne) (, )

Invisibility may now be a real possibility according to report published in the Journal of Science and Nature (here). The BBC has a nice breakdown of the article (here) which uncovers a new material which allows light to be bent around objects.

A material that is able to reverse the effect of light refracting, thus rendering objects invisible has major implications for the world of creativity and technology. Whilst the first thought for most people will be impersonating Harry Potter and donning an invisibility cloak to become an instant spy, the practical and creative uses could create major changes aesthetically in the world around us.

Predator Suits coming to a retail store near you …one day!

We are all aware of the benefits of Glass and other transparent materials but the ability to hide or simply reduce the visual impact of objects on demand is an exciting prospect.

Ideas for use of Invisible materials in the real world:
- Chairs and Tables without legs. (I’ll buy those!)
- Buildings that appear to float by hiding structural elements
- Lighting (eg: streetlights) that defy gravity.
- Hiding of ugly infrastructure (eg: pylons).
- Amazing visual transitions for live theatre.
- General visual bulk reduction of any object.
- “Soft glass” – practical applications would be enormous.
- Curtains that trap heat, but still allow light in.
- Invisible ropes would have many uses.
- Art. Insane sculptures that appear to defy physics.
- Fashion – new materials will create amazing design possibilities.

Car Manufacturers will save a fortune making ads like these…

How long do we have to wait? A Korean white paper states 2015. Guess we’ll have to wait and see (or not as the  case may be).

Permalink Leave a Comment

Kelley Blue Book 2008 Brand Image Awards

August 8, 2008 at 11:38 pm (RMIT Melbourne) (, , )

Influential auto resource Kelley Blue Book (KBB) and its marketing research team have compiled a list of vehicles based its consumer perception data. Researchers look at carmaker’s achievements in creating and maintaining brand attributes that consumers look for when buying a new car, and is one of the best indicators of how certain brands are perceived by the public.

The winners were announced during a media event at this week’s New York Auto Show and include top picks for ‘Best Interior Design’ and ‘Best Exterior Design.’ Remember that the cars are not judged on any particular criteria but are picked depending on consumer perception, arguably the most important indicator.

The winners are as follows:
Best Overall Interior Design: Toyota
Best Overall Exterior Design: BMW
Best Overall Prestige Brand: Mercedes-Benz

Best Interior Design — Non-Luxury Sedan/Coupe/Hatchback: Toyota
Best Interior Design — Luxury Sedan/Coupe/Hatchback: Lexus
Best Interior Design — Sports Car/Convertible: Mercedes-Benz
Best Interior Design — Truck: Chevrolet
Best Interior Design — Non-Luxury SUV: Toyota
Best Interior Design — Luxury SUV: Lexus
Best Interior Design — Minivan: Honda

Best Exterior Design — Non-Luxury Sedan/Coupe/Hatchback: Chrysler
Best Exterior Design — Luxury Sedan/Coupe/Hatchback: BMW
Best Exterior Design — Sports Car/Convertible: Porsche
Best Exterior Design — Truck: Chevrolet
Best Exterior Design — Non-Luxury SUV: Ford
Best Exterior Design — Luxury SUV: Mercedes-Benz
Best Exterior Design — Minivan: Toyota

Permalink Leave a Comment