"Maptor" projects the desired map

Maptor is this wonderful combination of a map and projector that (predictably) projects the desired map onto any surface. Palm of the hand, floor, and walls included. What I really fancy about it, is its size. Small enough to pass off as a lipstick (or a chapstick for you guys), the device is discreet enough for you to quickly hop into a quiet corner, check for directions and make your way forth. All this without anyone knowing that you are lost or need help!

Another good thing about the Maptor is that it has GPS included; as a result there is this big red arrow on the map that points to your current location. Therefore getting your bearings and charting your course is easy.

Although the images of the projected map look visible enough even in daylight, I wonder if it’s really going to be that clear in its practical avatar.

Anyways, I think this project has the potential to make it to the market and be a hit, I would love to get one for my husband, who hates to ask for directions!

Designers: Jin-Sun Park and Seon-keun Park

Plan Your Cycle Route In Advance

Just the other day Takashi and I were talking about getting back into shape and it even inspired him to go out and get himself a bicycle. Like a kid with his new muse, these days Tak can often be seen riding downtown Tokyo, so if you’re in the vicinity be sure to stop him and say hi! Anyways my point about his bike is that it lacks a qualified navigation system, so I asked a designer friend to help me out here. Ross came up with this VeloCity Cycle Route Guide, which I quite fancy.

The neat gadget clamps up to the handle bar and includes audio as well as visual guide. You simply need to hook up the device to your comp and download the desired route from an online map. Turn by turn, the VeloCity rattles of the directions and simultaneously displays the map on the screen. Of course GPS and Bluetooth come into play as well.

Just so you know how well you exercised, the device gives you a feedback on your performance as a power biker!

Way to go Tak! Keep biking and I’m sure you’ll shed those extra inches soon!

Designer: Ross Kemp