The Weekend Series: crowdfunded inventions you need in your life
Thanks to the power of the Internet (is there anything it cannot do?), countless entrepreneurs have had their genius projects funded via the now ubiquitous crowdfunding model. From GoFundMe to Kickstarter, we salute these community-funding platforms, for they have brought to life some of the niftiest inventions since sliced bread. Here’s a sample of our favourite life-changers.
SensorWake
What is it? A smell-based alarm clock. Hello, freshly-baked croissants!
What’s so special about it? What isn’t so special about it? This bad boy is designed to gently rouse you from your slumber by tickling your nostrils with an assortment of scents, including coffee, croissants, the ocean, or even money! From the creative mind of an 18-year-old French entrepreneur, the objective of SensorWake is to peacefully wake its owner, leaving them feeling happy and relaxed for the day ahead.
Invincible
What is it? An urban bicycle that will never get a flat, rust or be pinched by a thief.
What’s so special about it? The Invincible bicycle has been designed to thrive in the city. Featuring anti-theft lights, a rust-stopping frame and chain, and a weather-proof saddle, along with puncture-resistant tyres and custom security hardware (so no one can steal said tyres), the creators of this two-wheeled wonder are convinced you’ll never be the victim of bike theft again. If you are, they will replace it within 24 hours. Now that’s confidence.
Remee
What is it? An REM-enhancing lucid-dreaming mask.
What’s so special about it? Using low-profile electronics hidden in a comfy sleep mask, Remee emits customisable light patterns that your dreaming mind can recognise, allowing you to essentially take control of the dreamscape around you. While the concept of ‘lucid dreaming’ may seem a little fanciful, the makers of Remee are strong believers in its power, and help users get the hang of it all with a comprehensive guide to getting started on their website.
Cubii
What is it? A digitally-connected, under-desk elliptical trainer.
What’s so special about it? Inspired by the worrisome data relating to the health of sedentary office workers, three University of Chicago graduates decided to take charge by inventing Cubii – a quiet, non-intrusive elliptical trainer designed to fit snugly under your desk. Ergonomically created with optimal angles that allow the legs to move smoothly and comfortably, office workers can enjoy an under-the-desk workout with no bumped knees – all while working on their spreadsheets and memos.
Prepd Pack
What is it? A spiffy lunchbox, with a twist.
What’s so special about it? How many times a week do you have good intentions to pack a healthy lunch but end up buying something wrapped in pastry? Well, thanks to the Prepd Pack lunchbox, you’ll not only look cool and save money, but you’ll also be doing wonders for your waistline. Yes, it’s decked out with modular containers (like a bento box) and magnetic cutlery, but the real drawcard is the companion app that incorporates recipes from professional nutritionists that will appropriately fill the containers.
Notable mentions: The Internet is flush with new fandangle inventions, so narrowing down our favourites was hard work. Here are another four that tickled our fancy: Air Bonsai, or as the Japanese call them, floating little stars; The Coolest Cooler – a portable party disguised as a cooler; MIITO – the sustainable alternative to the electric kettle; and HueRay – light-emitting bicycle grips.