Leaf Blower, Connector, 2 Wheel EV, Mobility Show, AM radio #223 / November 10, 2023 (Fri) / Confidential |
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Visitors to the Kia America Design Center often express curiosity about the semi-circular building located on the pricey grounds of Irvine. Referred to as the "Hanger," this structure, though appearing to be constructed from a distance in cement, is actually made of wood.
Built in 1942 by the Tustin Marine Corps, the building served as an Air balloon and helicopter hangar until its discontinuation in 1999. Since then, it has been designated as a national historic site, making appearances in films like Pearl Harbor, Austin Powers, and the TV series X-Files. In 2011, the facility also played host to the photo shoot of the KV7 concept by the U.S. Design Center. |
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Regrettably, in the early hours of three days ago, a devastating fire engulfed the iconic Hangar building, laying bare its grim skeleton. The structure, already aged and primarily constructed of wood, posed a significant risk of collapse, making it challenging for firefighters to approach. As I gazed at the exposed interior of the building, the realization struck that no matter how diligently we protect and preserve, nothing lasts forever. |
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Life often seems to mirror such moments. Much like the vibrant and bustling days of the building, where it diligently fulfilled its purpose, our own youthful and beautiful days are reflected upon. We stand guard, cherishing the present, only for it to vanish in an instant.
As we approach the conclusion of 2023, a year that will soon come to an end, and various reflections arise, it's a fitting time to revisit our personal "Hangars" and share those moments together. |
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🤗 Contents of this week
01. Consumer Trend
- Whisper Aero has developed an electric leaf blower powered by aerospace technology with ultra-low noise
02. Design Trend
- Researching connectors for the development of a three-dimensional furniture manufacturing system with a focus on modular units.
- A two-wheeled EV resembling a hoverboard with no turning radius and no need for a steering system.
03. Automotive Weekly
- Insights into Japan's Mobility Show and Toyota's leap into electric vehicles.
- The mandatory adoption of AM radio and the associated $3.8 billion cost. |
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01. Consumer Trend - Whisper Aero has developed an electric leaf blower powered by aerospace technology with ultra-low noise
Whisper Aero, an aerospace startup, is comprised of experts with experience at major companies such as NASA, Lockheed Martin, and Boeing. The company primarily focuses on developing environmentally friendly, quiet, and efficient propulsion systems for drones and electric jets. Recently, they unveiled the world's quietest leaf blower at the Equipmentexpo, capable of inhaling 40% more air and lasting 40% longer than other products in the market. The standout feature is its extreme quietness, reducing noise by 40 times compared to electric leaf blowers, thereby minimizing environmental impact.
Whisper Aero does not plan to directly manufacture the leaf blowers but intends to offer its innovative Whisper Drive technology to industry-related companies. Currently in negotiations with partners possessing specialized knowledge in various industries, they aim to introduce even quieter and more powerful leaf blowers to the market by 2025.
In 2019, Elon Musk tweeted about Tesla's plans to develop a quiet electric leaf blower, but Whisper Aero, located in Tennessee, seems to be ahead of the game.
While conventional electric leaf blowers are quiet, they are often less powerful than gasoline-powered ones, and the transition speed is slower unless mandated by regulations. However, Whisper Aero's electric leaf blower with Whisper Drive technology appears promising in overcoming these challenges.
Recent increases in ambient noise from sources such as cars, sirens, construction, and leaf blowers have raised concerns about noise pollution contributing to various health issues like hypertension, depression, and sleep disorders. What efforts can our company make to address these problems and create a more tranquil environment?
P.S. It's crucial to understand that running a commercial gasoline leaf blower for one hour emits pollutants into the atmosphere equivalent to driving a new lightweight car for approximately 1,100 miles. Such emissions not only harm the environment but also pose a threat to the health of workers. Raising awareness of these environmental issues and striving to find better alternatives should be our collective endeavor.
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02 Design Trend - Researching connectors for the development of a three-dimensional furniture manufacturing system with a focus on modular units.
The Plexus concept, proposed by industrial designer Subinay Malhotra, introduces an innovative manufacturing method that integrates various production technologies to create modular units. This concept combines generative design, 3D printing, and metal processing technologies to establish an innovative manufacturing system applicable to the furniture and construction industries.
Inspired by nature, the system transforms metal forms into generative meshes, allowing the design and finishing of products based on this foundation. The Plexus concept aims to achieve sustainable manufacturing by minimizing material waste, reducing manufacturing time, and enhancing the product's sustainability throughout the production process. By efficiently improving the production process in this manner, the Plexus concept seeks to pursue an environmentally friendly and sustainable manufacturing method.
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Certainly, realistic and user-friendly designs seem to capture the attention of many consumers. While using extremely complex patterns, as seen in the Plexus concept, can be intriguing and innovative from an artistic standpoint, for products used in everyday environments, functionality and practicality become key considerations. Observing a shift towards designs that are not only realistic but also seamlessly integrated into our daily lives, prioritizing functionality, is something I find particularly appealing. |
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02 Design Trend - A two-wheeled EV resembling a hoverboard with no turning radius and no need for a steering system
Last week, renowned inventor Shane Chen, known for developing the Hovertrax hoverboard and Solowheel, introduced a new electric vehicle bearing his name. This vehicle, reminiscent of the Hovertrax, features only two wheels but has been designed for enhanced convenience in driving and parking by adjusting the speed difference between the two wheels. The cabin, positioned between the wheels, automatically maintains horizontal alignment and can transport up to five passengers. The wheels respond to the vehicle's body, employing technology to keep the vehicle stable, allowing for safe driving as if it had four wheels. Additionally, the design incorporates regenerative shock absorbers within the wheels to minimize drive resistance and store vibration energy for battery charging.
The simplicity of this design is intriguing, particularly in the concept of having a zero turning radius. While the widespread adoption of such vehicles is expected to significantly alter parking lot and road designs, a drawback lies in the limited side visibility for passengers. However, with technological innovations like hubless wheels, overcoming this limitation could make the vehicle even safer and more user-friendly.
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03. Automotive Weekly - Insights into Japan's Mobility Show and Toyota's leap into electric vehicles
At the recent Japan Mobility Show, Toyota unveiled four astonishing mobility concepts, and I am eager to experience them firsthand.
1) Land Cruiser SE:
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Showcasing the design direction of the electric version of the Land Cruiser, this model boasts innovative design elements and off-road capabilities. Presented in the form of a
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3-row SUV, it features a revolutionary and captivating spacious body style.
(Length: 202.8", Width: 78.3", Height: 67.1")
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The current Toyota models in production bear no resemblance to this impressive design, to the extent that removing the Toyota lettering might render it unrecognizable.
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2) EPU (Pure Electric Midsize Pickup Truck):
- Characterized by a overlapping, floating display screen on the dashboard, the innovative design seamlessly integrates the cabin and body.
- The truck's design pursues novelty, offering a wider space by eliminating the cut line between the body and cabin.
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3) Land Hopper (Electric Foldable Three-Wheeled Vehicle):
- A foldable three-wheeled electric vehicle/scooter/moped/bicycle designed for short-distance travel, providing an intuitive and exciting riding experience.
- Notably, it serves as a unique transportation option for seniors who have relinquished their driver's licenses
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4) Neo Steer (Innovative Steering Wheel Concept):
- An innovative steering wheel concept that relocates the throttle and brake controls to the right, similar to a motorcycle, enhancing forward visibility.
- This design not only offers improved accessibility but also allows individuals with disabilities to drive without the need for vehicle modifications.
- The innovative concept is expected to be available for test drives soon.
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03. Automotive Weekly - Mandatory Adoption of AM Radio and the Burden of a $3.8 Billion Cost
In the United States, there is an ongoing debate about whether to maintain AM radio in electric vehicles (EVs). Some car manufacturers argue that AM signals are distorted by electromagnetic interference in EVs and, therefore, do not provide AM radio in their electric vehicles. However, some members of Congress assert that AM radio should be retained in vehicles for reliable communication in emergency situations. As a result, legislation has been introduced in Congress to mandate AM radio in all new vehicles.
Car manufacturers oppose this legislation, and research suggests that ensuring AM signals are not disrupted in EVs could cost up to $3.8 billion. Consequently, automakers are considering alternatives such as digital or satellite services instead of AM. While the reliability of AM radio as a communication tool in emergency situations is important, advancements in technology may make alternative solutions like digital radio or satellite services more viable. These alternatives can potentially offer better sound quality, a broader range of channel options, and address electromagnetic interference issues.
However, it is crucial to adopt a flexible approach to anticipate future technological developments. Ultimately, decisions must prioritize consumer convenience and safety, weighing the benefits of different radio technologies against potential challenges.
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Meeting some of you in person at the recent town hall was a delight, especially for those who have been keeping up with us through email newsletters. Thank you for your keen interest and attentive engagement during the presentations. The memories of the invigorating air in Namyang, particularly in the mornings, are still vivid. Hoping for more opportunities to meet and connect in the future, and wishing everyone ongoing health and happiness! 😘 Warm regards, Jenna |
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By Jenna Chwee @ Kia Design Center America
jchwee@hatci.com
101 Peters Canyon Rd. Irvine, CA 92606
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