Inventions

The Atlantic has compiled a list of “Best Ideas”, which contains some great gift ideas for the innovator or technophile who has everything on your Christmas shopping list. Here are some examples.

Open Source Textiles

San Franciscobased Soft Cities employs open-source software to access a global collection of maps, which is then used to create custom blankets and napkins. Buyers can order custom textiles printed with a street map of any neighborhood, from a hometown to a favorite vacation spot. Read the rest of this entry »

In tribute to the tremendous influence of Steve Jobs, the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is featuring The Patents and Trademarks of Steve Jobs: Art and Technology that Changed the World. The free exhibit at the USPTO’s museum in Alexandria, Virginia will be open through January 15, 2012This exhibit commemorates the far-reaching impact of Steve Jobs’ entrepreneurship and innovation on our daily lives,” said Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property and Director of the USPTO David Kappos. “His patents and trademarks provide a striking example of the importance intellectual property plays in the global marketplace.” Read the rest of this entry »

Smart glass in translucent state

GE Sponsored txchnologist.com has recently spotlighted some interesting advancements energy-saving technologies.

Electric Windows

While the technology has been available for a couple of decades, a new commitment to high-volume manufacturing will soon make accessible the color-changing glass used to produce smart windows. Smart windows let in the sun to help heat rooms when it’s cold outside and also block the visible and near-infrared light that can overheat houses in the summer. They can also reduce the need for electric lighting during daytime and partially eliminate the need for shades and blinds. Read the rest of this entry »