Recently a UK design student won the James Dyson Award by creating a working prototype of a water bottle that can filter out 99.9% of  bacteria leaving the water sterilized in just a couple minutes. I wrote an article about a year ago on the LifeStraw which served the same purpose, however, the “Pure” water bottle design works much different.

Using a unique technology the water bottle uses a wind-up ultra violet bulb to steralize that water that is collected. The water then passes through a series of filters until it’s bacteria and virus free.

This water bottle could potentially save millions of lives in third world countries who can’t access fresh drinking water. It’ll be interesting to see how this is mass produced and where it’ll be most used.

I welcome you to start a discussion below on your thoughts and reactions to this new unique water bottle. Do you think this could ultimately save thousands of lives?

via [thedesignblog]

Designer : Dong Min Park

via [yankodesign]

The mAIRine is a wetsuit top that provides two key safety features. The first feature is an automatic inflation bladder which uses a manual spring loaded timer that can tell when someone is under water for an extended amount of time. This is important if a surfer were to become unconscious during a big spill. The second safety feature is a small air conister on the back which is connected to a mouthpiece located on the wrist. If the loss of oxygen occurs, air can be accessed  for a generous amount of time.

I love this idea! Throughout all sports, safety technology has been increasingly getting stronger. However, none of this technology has been tapped into by the surfing community. Surfing can be very dangerous, and this simple wetsuit vest could save thousands. I think this is a brilliant idea and I wouldn’t be surprised if you see this design take off. Imagine the waves people would be willing to surf if they knew they had the safety equipment necessary.

All I can say is that Tom Hanks’ character in Castaway would be losing sleep if he saw this concept. This Kayak concept designed by Marioi Weiss may open some eyes to those camping junkies out there.

This open top outrigger kayak converts into a tent which features some clever designs. It features a drive pedal designed by Hobie Kayaks and an ordinary paddle for miscellaneous maneuvering. Also, the seat is detachable which is great for relaxing in the roomy interior. The camp bed is is made of a screen cloth which lays between the bars of the outrigger. 

I think this is a great idea. I can see this being used for both overnight camping trips for day trips. It seems very easy to use, and looks like it can handle anything from a daytime sprinkle to an overnight camping trip.

This is a James Dyson Award Entry, You can vote for it here.

via [yankodesign]

Imagine a product that cost less than $3 to make, which could save millions of lives. The private company, Vestergaard-Frandsen, have been known for creating products that could be useful in third-world countries, such as unique mosquito nets. Only this time they’ve created an offorable way to generate clean water through a filtered straw. The ten inch plastic cylinder can destroy bacteria, parasites, and even some viruses. Thousands of the LifeStraw’s has already been bought during earthquakes in Asia. In theory, someone could drink the water out of a toilet, and be happier than ever. It’s always good to see an idea that helps the people who need it most.

via [core77]

Real estate in urban areas is not only pricey, but space is a rare commodity. The pictures below show a West London home which combined their modern garden with a practical parking space. Is this what we’ll see in the future, or is this idea nothing more than an expensive one-time idea? I wouldn’t be surprised if we see these in wealthier urban neighborhoods. Not only does it free up space, I can guarantee you that no one will break into your car.

via [freshome]