EHang 184
Forget your toy drone. The EHang 184 is the new kid on the block and it’s got one unique selling point: it can carry you around. Designed for one person, the drone will allow you to set your destination through a smartphone app, bringing you there without the need for a commercial pilot’s licence (they say).
It’s named after its attributes: one person, eight propellers, four arms. Don’t get too excited just yet though; with drone legislation being tightened in Ireland and elsewhere, you’re unlikely to see this in Irish skies in the near future.
Smartwheel
We all know texting and driving is a dangerous thing to do, yet people still persist in sending that one last message from behind the wheel. If this new smart steering wheel comes to pass, however, it may spell the end for distracted driving in general.
The Smartwheel is a steering-wheel cover that gives you an alert if you move your hand off the wheel. It gives feedback on your driving habits, how often you drive one handed, and even if you’ve been trying to tamper with the device by taking it off. This is probably one mainly for the US market, given most drivers of manual cars need to take one hand off the wheel frequently to change gear.
Discov3ry
Who wants to print in plastic all the time? Or, more specifically, would you like to use your 3D printer to create things made out of Nutella? Discov3ry allows you to take your regular filament 3D printer and start printing in different materials just by adding its paste extruder. It’s a syringe-based open cartridge system, so you can switch between silicone and sugar paste without worrying you’ll poison yourself.
Smart Ski Airbag
Most people who have been skiing can identify with the utter horror when you realise you’re about to crash. So the news of a wearable airbag vest aimed at skiers should be welcome. The Smart Ski Airbag detects motion and pinpoints when you are losing your balance, inflating itself to stop you from falling unprotected on to your back. Currently reserved for professional skiers, but it should be more generally available by July.
