Appliance Design June 2011

June 2011

REACHING OEM DESIGN ENGINEERS ACROSS CONSUMER AND COMMERCIAL MARKETS WORLDWIDE

24TH AN N UAL

INSIDE 14 Excellence In Design 27 Software 31 Smart Grid and IP

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See our ads on pages 9, 11 and 13

WHAT DO YOU CALL IT WHEN 10 INCREDIBLE INNOVATORS

ARE COMBINED INTO ONE? WE CALL IT

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CONTENTS JUNE 2011 volume 59, no. 6 REACHING OEM DESIGN ENGINEERS ACROSS CONSUMER AND COMMERCIAL MARKETS WORLDWIDE

DEPARTMENTS 4 Editorial: Form and Function Get Awarded 6 Shipments/Forecasts 8 News Watch 40 Association Report: AHRI

27

31

41 Advertiser’s Index

FEATURES 24TH ANNUAL EXCELLENCE IN DESIGN AWARDS 14 Meet the winners of our annual Excellence in Design competition and who have proved their abilities through innovation, aesthetics, eco-friendliness as well as technologically intelligent designs. The best this year range from major appliances and medical/lab equipment to electronics, HVAC and small appliances.

MEET THE JUDGES

14

24 Jim Kaufman, Marco Perry and Kevin Shinn make the tough call on products for Excellence in Design.

appliance DESIGN ONLINE WEB EXTRAS WEB EXTRAS

Liquid Fuel Technology Enables Clean and Green Power Currently, combustion of bio-fuels in gas turbines is by burning these liquids as a spray, which can generate much higher emissions of pollutants. Now there is a “lean, premixed, prevaporized combustion technology from LPP Combustion, LLC. Engineering Metal Stampings and Springs for Manufacturability Since plastic parts cannot be changed without significant mold costs and very long lead times, stamped metal parts and springs frequently need to adjust to other parts’ restrictions. This makes prototyping a very important part of the design development process.

BLOGS Paul’s European Perspective Kevin Henry’s The Essential Kitchen AD’s Remix Blog

SOFTWARE 27 Welcome to flexible tech. There is now a lowcost and efficient process for transforming heavy 3-D CAD and model-based definition data into lightweight 3-D PDF manufacturing documents.

SMART GRID 31 It’s coming. As the smart grid grows and evolves, it makes sense to adopt Internet Protocol all the way to the edge of the sensor network. 36 Should OEMs care? Appliances need to be designed so that load shifting and load shedding can be handled. And IP-layered architecture is a tool.

E-NEWSLETTERS Sign up for appliance DESIGN’s monthly e-newsletters at www.applianceDESIGN.com/enews

www.applianceDESIGN.com 2 applianceDESIGN June 2011

COVER From left: Humanscale’s personal zone air purifier. Above, Railtones speakers from Encompass Lighting Group. At right, Miele G 5000 Futura dishwashers. Photos courtesy of the makers www.applianceDESIGN.com

EDITORIAL ®

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Award Focus: Form, Function

T

here are so many design competitions throughout the year. What sets the Excellence in Design Awards apart from many is the focus on product design and aesthetics, as well as usability, functionality and improvement above any other product like it on the market. Our panel of judging experts looks at appliances in a range of categories—everything from vending machines to parking machines, electronics, medical and laboratory equipment and white goods. This year’s 24th annual Excellence in Design (EID) award recipients are applauded not only for innovative product design and functionality, but a commitment to sustainability, user communication and advanced features unmatched by other products on the market. There is no set number of winners, or a winner in each and every product category. Products are judged individually based on their form and function—period. If there is no product in the category that makes the cut for an award, then a winner is not named. Our elite group of Gold recipients this year comes from three product categories: electronics; major appliances & HVAC; and medical, laboratory & test equipment. Comments from the judges on the Gold recipients included: “A clever and simple solution that seems so obvious, I wonder why I haven’t seen these before.” “Simple, elegant and timeless design! One dial plus 12 touch pads make it easy to understand and interact with.” “This design is very sleek and comforting; it looks technical but soft. The smaller footprint and mobility should make it a hit for

publishing staff Darrell Dal Pozzo Group Publisher

professionals that need to move it often. The ergonomic considerations of the hand piece are thoughtful and seem to be successful for various size users.” To see all of this year’s 24th annual Excellence in Design award recipients, turn to page XX. Also visit page XX for a look at this year’s judging panel. If you visit us online at www.appliancedesign.com and click on this month’s issue, you can see a slideshow of the award winners, expanded entry descriptions and more commentary from the judges. Information on the 2012 Excellence in Design awards competition will be available in November of this year. Eligible entries will be those products in distribution between January 1, 2011 and December 31, 2011. If you want to share your thoughts on the awards or have further questions, join our appliance DESIGN LinkedIn Group or e-mail me at sheinm@ bnpmedia.com. Also in this issue, is a focus on smart grid in the appliance industry. Our two articles on the subject this month focus on IP as a technology for manufacturers looking to get into smart grid functionality. IP is one of several technologies being discussed in the world of smart grid products. For more, visit our online Smart Grid Channel (http://www.appliancedesign. com/Articles/SmartGrid) to stay up to date on all the latest news and technologies in this category. 

Maggie McFadden Shein Editor

(847) 405-4066 [email protected]

Daryl Delano Economics Editor

(508) 746-7986 [email protected]

Paul Roggema Kevin Henry New Media Contributors

[email protected]

Lindsay Nagy Production Manager

(248) 244-6438 [email protected]

MaTT Britcher Art Director

(480) 334-0286 [email protected]

circulation Rita Foumia Corporate Strategy Director Christina Roth Audience Development Coordinator

(248) 786-1687 [email protected] (248) 244-6435 [email protected]

Alison Illes Multimedia Specialist

(248) 244-1730 [email protected]

Catherine M. Ronan Corporate Audience Audit Manager

[email protected]

(248) 244-8259

Kevin Collopy List Manager

(800) 223-2194 x684 [email protected]

Michael Costantino

(800) 223-2194 x748 [email protected]

marketing Michele Raska Marketing Coordinator

(248) 786-1694 [email protected]

Deana Weber Trade Show Coordinator

(248) 244-6249 [email protected]

editorial advisory board Bob Brown Vice President, Marketing & Sales, North America, Emerson Industrial Automation John Davis

Business Development Manager, Traulsen

Kevin Henry Joseph McGuire

Maggie McFadden Shein, Editor E-mail: [email protected] Twitter: @aplncdsgn

(847) 405-4044 [email protected]

Richard Watson

President, Group42 President, Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM) Founding Partner, Essential

Stephen Yurek, JD President, Air-Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI)

| HVAC | Majors | Water Processing | Housewares | Commercial Appliances | Vending | Medical | Lab | | Test & Measurement | Lawn & Garden | Electronics | Computers | Communications | Business Equipment | APPLIANCE DESIGN (ISSN 1552-5938) is published 12 times annually, monthly, by BNP Media, 2401 W. Big Beaver Rd., Suite 700, Troy, MI 48084-3333. Telephone: (248) 362-3700, Fax: (248) 362-0317. No charge for subscriptions to qualified individuals. Annual rate for subscriptions to nonqualified individuals in the U.S.A.: $178.00 USD. Annual rate for subscriptions to nonqualified individuals in Canada: $216.00 USD (includes GST & postage); all other countries: $228.00 (int’l mail) payable in U.S. funds. Printed in the U.S.A. Copyright 2011, by BNP Media. All rights reserved. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the consent of the publisher. The publisher is not responsible for product claims and representations. Periodicals Postage Paid at Troy, MI and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: APPLIANCE DESIGN, P.O. Box 2148, Skokie, IL 60076. Canada Post: Publications Mail Agreement #40612608. GST account: 131263923. Send returns (Canada) to Pitney Bowes, P.O. Box 25542, London, ON, N6C 6B2. Change of address: Send old address label along with new address to APPLIANCE DESIGN, P.O. Box 2148, Skokie, IL 60076. For single copies or back issues: contact Ann Kalb at (248) 244-6499 or [email protected]

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June 2011

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SHIPMENTS Product

FORECASTS Mar-11

Mar-10

%Chg

3 Mo. 2011

3 Mo. 2010

%Chg

MAJOR APPLIANCES (Thousands of Units) TOTAL

7,900.40

7,124.40

10.90%

16,194.60

15,291.70

5.90%

Cooking-Total Electric Cooking-Total Electric Ranges Electric Ovens Surface Cooking Units Gas Cooking - Total Gas Ranges Gas Ovens Surface Cooking Units Microwave Ovens

1,786.70 499.7 392.7 69 38.1 305.2 265.7 5.3 34.3 981.8

1,610.10 450.8 359.5 57.7 33.6 278.9 244.2 3.9 30.8 880.5

11.00% 10.90% 9.20% 19.50% 13.40% 9.40% 8.80% 35.20% 11.20% 11.50%

4,072.80 1,104.70 859.9 151.4 93.4 659.1 569.1 11.6 78.4 2,309.00

3,955.20 1,078.20 847.6 147 83.6 656.2 570.1 11.2 75 2,220.70

3.00% 2.50% 1.50% 3.00% 11.70% 0.40% -0.20% 3.50% 4.50% 4.00%

Home Laundry - Total Automatic Washers Dryers-Total Electric Gas

1,737.40 976.2 761.2 612.4 148.8

1,617.60 893.1 724.5 599.9 124.5

7.40% 9.30% 5.10% 2.10% 19.50%

3,625.60 2,023.30 1,602.20 1,289.00 313.2

3,742.70 2,040.70 1,702.00 1,395.50 306.5

-3.10% -0.80% -5.90% -7.60% 2.20%

Kitchen Clean Up - Total Disposers Dishwashers-Total Built-In Portable Compactors

1,171.70 518.7 648.3 638.2 10 4.7

1,102.50 456.3 640.5 633.2 7.3 5.7

6.30% 13.70% 1.20% 0.80% 38.30% -18.60%

2,794.30 1,333.50 1,450.10 1,428.90 21.1 10.7

2,738.00 1,317.30 1,408.80 1,390.80 18.1 11.9

2.10% 1.20% 2.90% 2.70% 16.90% -10.10%

Food Preservation - Total Refrigerators Freezers - Total Chest Upright

1,142.90 934.7 208.3 127 81.3

1,113.60 910.7 202.9 124.8 78.1

2.60% 2.60% 2.60% 1.70% 4.10%

2,397.00 1,959.40 437.6 263.8 173.8

2,388.20 1,953.90 434.2 260.9 173.3

0.40% 0.30% 0.80% 1.10% 0.30%

Home Comfort - Total Room Air Conditioners Dehumidifiers

2,061.60 1,908.10 153.5

1,680.60 1,344.70 335.8

22.70% 41.90% -54.30%

3,305.00 2,956.70 348.2

2,467.70 1,916.50 551.2

33.90% 54.30% -36.80%

Note: Figures (in units) include shipments for the U.S. market whether imported or domestically produced. Export shipments are not included. Source: Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM).

HVAC - Shipment figures for unitary air conditioners, heat pumps, furnaces, and water heaters can be found at www.ahrinet.org.

36>*6:;=HYPHISL:WLLK*VU[YVSZ -VY-HUZ)SV^LYZ/\TPKPÄLYZ:[V]LZ/LH[LYZ >OVSL/V\ZL=LU[PSH[VYZ9HUNL/VVKZ3HTWZ DIAL-A-TEMP Plug-In 2.5 Amps-120VAC.

Qtr: 1 2 3 4

2010 15291.7 18309.3 14169.4 13729.6

2011 16194.6 18987.2 15175.4 14635.8

2012 17312.0 20354.2 15949.4 15279.7

For 2011, a 5.7% increase to 64.993 million units For 2012, a 6.0% increase to 68.895 million units Data Source: AHAM Forecast Source: Delano Data Insights

DIGITAL TELEVISIONS – Shipments (Thousands of Units) Qtr: 1 2 3 4

2010 5497.2 6708.9 7955.3 15652.9

2011 5920.5 7326.1 8305.3 16216.4

2012 6181.0 7487.3 8396.7 17124.5

For 2011, a 5.5% increase to 37.768 million units For 2012, a 3.8% increase to 39.189 million units Data Source: CEA Forecast Source: Delano Data Insights

MICROWAVE OVENS – Shipments (Thousands of Units) Qtr: 1 2 3 4

2010 2220.7 2355.9 2370.5 2387.3

2011 2309.0 2461.9 2448.7 2504.3

2012 2376.0 2560.4 2573.6 2642.0

For 2011, a 4.2% increase to 9.724 million units For 2012, a 4.4% increase to 10.152 million units Data Source: AHAM Forecast Source: Delano Data Insights

RESIDENTIAL ELECTRIC WATER HEATERS – Shipments (Thousands of Units) Qtr: 1 2 3 4

2010 1006.3 984.1 864.0 882.2

2011 955.0 994.9 887.4 919.2

2012 992.3 1039.7 930.8 958.7

For 2011, a 0.5% increase to 3.756 million units For 2012, a 4.4% increase to 3.922 million units Data Source: AHRI Forecast Source: Delano Data Insights

KBWC-Wall Box Mount 2.5, 5.0, 6.0, 8.0, 10.0, 12.0 & 15.0 Amp models, 120 & 240VAC, 50/60Hz.

KBMC-Panel Mount 2.5, 3.0 & 4.0 Amp models, 120 & 240VAC, 50/60Hz.

Designed for Shaded Pole, AC/DC and Permanent Split Capacitor (PSC) Motors. Send for complete literature. If it’s not in our catalog, let KB engineers design a custom control for your application.

2),SLJ[YVUPJZ0UJ

MAJOR HOME APPLIANCES – Shipments (Thousands of Units)

 5> [O:[YLL[‹*VYHS:WYPUNZ-3  ‹-H_! ‹6\[ZPKL-3 ^^^RILSLJ[YVUPJZJVT‹,THPS!PUMV'RILSLJ[YVUPJZJVT

DISHWASHERS – Shipments (Thousands of Units) Qtr: 1 2 3 4

2010 1408.8 1508.4 1355.7 1437.5

2011 1450.1 1547.6 1445.2 1519.4

2012 1506.7 1615.7 1547.8 1601.5

For 2011, a 4.4% increase to 5.962 million units For 2012, a 5.2% increase to 6.272 million units Data Source: AHAM Forecast Source: Delano Data Insights

ROOM AIR CONDITIONERS – Shipments (Thousands of Units) Qtr: 1 2 3 4

2010 1916.5 3621.5 612.8 267.6

2011 2956.7 3820.7 516.6 148.5

2012 2856.2 3988.8 556.4 164.9

For 2011, a 16.0% increase to 7.442 million units For 2012, a 1.7% increase to 7.566 million units Data Source: AHAM Forecast Source: Delano Data Insights Note: Forecasts begin in Q2/2011

6 applianceDESIGN June 2011

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NEWS WATCH

NEWS WATCH

EPA Kicks Off 2011 Energy Star National Building Competition he U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Energy Star program launched the 2011 National Building Competition: Battle of the Buildings. Teams from 245 buildings around the country are going head-to-head to improve energy efficiency and determine who can reduce their energy use the most. Nearly five million commercial buildings in the United States are responsible for approximately 20 percent of both the nation’s energy use and greenhouse gas emissions at a cost of more than $100 billion annually. Through energy efficiency improvements, competitors are working to save energy, reduce harmful greenhouse gas emissions and protect

T

Mobile hotspot devices displayed at the 2011 International Consumer Electronics Show are among applications energizing W-Fi, including the evolution of low power embedded approaches. Photo courtesy PRNewsFoto/Verizon Wireless

WILL LOW POWER EMBEDDED WI-FI ECLIPSE ZIGBEE?

“The opportunity for low power embedded Wi-Fi is substantial and eclipses that of ZigBee, given the existing infrastructure that Wi-Fi-based networks can leverage and the lack of generalized demand for complex

8 applianceDESIGN

June 2011

the health of Americans. “I am excited to see so many companies joining our Battle of the Buildings competition and finding new ways to improve their energy efficiency,” says EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson. “We’re harnessing our nation’s innovative capacity to save money on electric bills, create a cleaner environment and protect the health of American families.” The competition includes 26 different types of commercial buildings, such as retail stores, schools, hotels, and museums, some of which are more than 100 years old. Competitors will be able to exchange ideas and strategies through various social media applications, including a live Twitter feed and a Facebook forum. Information about all competitors, including photos and facts about each, are featured on the competition website in addition to tips and links to consumer-friendly information about saving energy where Americans work, live, play, and learn. More at www.energystar.gov/BattleOfTheBuildings 

mesh networking among the majority of wireless sensor network (WSN) applications,” says Kirsten West, principal analyst with WTRS, the Mountain View, Calif., research firm. “If proponents of this WSN technology can stimulate the Wi-Fi Alliance to place attention on the WSN sector, with sufficient marketing focus, it is quite likely that low power embedded Wi-Fi will gain a strong and significant portion of the overall WSN market.” Applications include smart metering, home area network, and building automation, among others. More information at www.wtrs.net/lpewifi.htm

ONE BILLION EMBEDDED WIRELESS NETWORKING DEVICES AND COUNTING

Shipments of electronic products with embedded wireless local area network-

ing technology (WLAN) will surpass one billion units for the first time ever in 2011 and then rise to more than two billion in 2015, as ubiquitous connectivity increasingly becomes a standard feature, IHS iSuppli research indicates. Shipments of consumer electronics, computer, communications, home and automotive products with builtin WLAN capability will amount to 1.2 billion units in 2011, up 35.8 percent from 880.4 billion units in 2010. In 2015, shipments will nearly double from the 2011 level to reach 2.2 billion. This year, 19.7 percent of suitable devices shipped worldwide will have some form of embedded WLAN, up from 15.6 percent in 2010. By 2015, that percentage will rise to 28.1 percent. The penetration of embedded WLAN has risen dramatically in recent years, expanding from just one percent of these devices in 2002. www.applianceDESIGN.com

NEWS WATCH

Photo – AD0611Newswatch3 Robot Today’s robot gladiators, tomorrow’s appliance design engineers? Says Ron Overton, CEO of Mooresville, Ind.-based Overton Industries and a member of the NTMA board of directors, “The U.S. remains the world’s largest manufacturing economy, and the manufacturing sector is experiencing tremendous growth as the economy recovers.”

ROBOT BATTLES WILL AID APPLIANCE DESIGN

Sparks flew and metal crunched at the 2011 National Robotics Leagues (NRL) Championships last month at the Vincennes University Aviation Technology Center in Indianapolis. The National Tooling and Machining Association

(NTMA) created the NRL, a robot combat competition, to introduce a new generation of Americans to manufacturing and to help change misperceptions about manufacturing and attract students to high-paying technical careers. The program partners teams of middle school, high school, and post-secondary school students with local NTMA manufacturers who work together to build machines designed to do battle and test ingenuity in a Plexiglas arena. Robots are hot. North American robotics companies enjoyed their best opening quarter since 2007, according to the Robotic Industries Association, the industry’s trade group. A total of 4,021 robots valued at $263.5 million were ordered by North American manufacturing companies through March, an increase of 31% in units and 27% in dollars. Robots with smart sensors, video, and communications capability now play a greater role in hospital and healthcare appliances.

GENERAL ELECTRIC ADJUSTS MANUFACTURING PROCESS TO REDUCE GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS

The company’s appliances and lighting division has adopted cyclopentane at GE’s Decatur, Ala., manufacturing plant. The foam-blowing agent produces 99 percent less greenhouse gas emissions than HFC 134a, the chemical it replaces, according to the firm, which equates to more than 400,000 metric tons of emissions avoided at the facility. The benefit of using cyclopentane is twofold, GE says. Cyclopentane, a foamblowing agent that propels insulation into the doors and cases of refrigerators, also boosts the energy efficiency of the foam. GE estimates that shifting to cyclopentane will generate 25 new jobs. The Decatur manufacturing facility is the focus of a $59 million investment by GE. The site will house its Center of Excellence for top-freezer refrigerators. By 2014, GE expects to offer the highest

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June 2011 9

NEWS WATCH

PEOPLE NEWS AHAM HONORS APPLIANCE INDUSTRY LEADERS The Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM) has honored three industry leaders for contributions and leadership to the home appliance industry and to the association during AHAM’s annual member meeting in early May in Washington, D.C. The Home Appliance Industry Leadership Award was presented to Vincent Anderson, project technical leader of government programs at Whirlpool Corporation. Anderson was recognized with the industry’s top award for his substantial volunteer efforts over the past decade, particularly for technical support on issues such as the multi-product consensus energy standards agreement, AHAM’s refrigerator/freezer test standards and the development of AHAM verification programs. AHAM awarded the Michael C. Thompson Public Policy Award to a recipient who demonstrates extraordinary effort and accomplishment in the area of public policy: Kevin Messner, AHAM’s vice president of government relations. He led the industry’s public policy efforts for the past three years, instrumental in AHAM’s successful advocacy of public policy positions for the home appliance industry. The AHAM Distinguished Service Award, which recognizes significant contributions by virtue of longevity and quality of service to AHAM and the home appliance industry, was presented to Steven Nackers, design engineer at Sub-Zero, Inc. who has been involved in AHAM’s Smart Grid Task Force. Nackers is the lead author of AHAM’s evaluation of communication protocols for smart grid technology, titled “Assessment of Communication Standards for Smart Appliances.” AHAM also awarded Kelley Kline of GE Appliances & Lighting and Brad Brush of Lasko Products with the Emerging Leader Award.

NEWLY ELECTED BOARD MEMBERS AT AHAM ANNUAL MEETING The Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM) has elected new members to its Board of Directors at its annual May member meeting in Washington, DC. David Becker, vice president, strategy, Viking Range Corporation and Drew Fiorenza, vice president, North America/Australia Sales and Marketing and New Business Development, Remington Products have been elected to the Board of Directors. Re-elected members of the board are John Arganbright, vice president, sales and marketing, Panasonic Home Appliances Company; Board Chair Mark Bissell, chairman and CEO, Bissell Inc.; and Tom Vining, vice president, engineering, Electrolux Home Products NA. Continuing members of the board include Franz Bosshard, CEO Emeritus, BSH Home Appliances Corporation; second vice chair Thomas Catania, vice president, government relations, Whirlpool Corporation; Donald Hoeschen, vice president, sales, National Presto Industries, Inc.; Earl Jones, senior counsel - regulatory compliance, GE Appliances & Lighting; Edward V. McAssey, III, chief operating officer, Lasko Products, Inc.; Alvise Ricoveri, managing director, DeLonghi America, Inc.; Jerry Ryder, chairman, InSinkErator Division, Emerson Appliance Solutions; first vice chair Robert Scaglione, chief marketing officer, Sharp Electronics Corporation; treasurer Paul Sikir, vice president of design engineering, Sub-Zero, Inc.; John Taylor, vice president, government relations and communications, LG Electronics USA; and Joseph McGuire, AHAM president.

10 applianceDESIGN

June 2011

percentage of U.S.-made refrigerators among full-line appliance manufacturers.

GE makes energy efficiency news following a history of innovations. It helped harness electricity for two main household essentials: light bulbs and toast. The first U.S. patent for an electric toaster was made in 1909 by General Electric for an appliance surrounded by a wire cage to hold the bread. This model, the D-12, is considered the first commercially successful toaster in U.S. history. Photo by Michael McKovesk for the Grain Foods Foundation

FRAM microcontrollers from TI reduce the industry’s best active power by up to 50 percent when executing code from FRAM, operating at 100uA/MHz in active mode and 3 uA in real-time clock mode. Photo courtesy of Texas Instruments.

IT’S MCU GOING EMBEDDED FRAM

Ushering in a new era of reliable data logging and RF communication capabilities, Texas Instruments last month announced ultra-lowpower ferroelectric random access memory (FRAM) 16-bit microcontrollers. The MSP430FR57xx FRAM series ensures data can be written more than 100 times faster and uses as little as 250 times less power than flash- and EEPROM-based microcontrollers. Additionally, the on-chip FRAM allows data retention in all power modes, supports more than 100 trillion write cycles, and delivers a new dimension of flexibility by allowing developers to partition data and programming memory with changes in software. The FR57xx series eliminates existing power consumption and write endurance barriers, enabling developers to make the world smarter with more cost-efficient data logging, remote sensing and wireless www.applianceDESIGN.com

NEWS WATCH update capabilities in new products that do more and last longer.

The result is our new built-in cooking suite, a line of cooking products that meets the needs, aspirations and lifestyles of today’s modern cooks.”

CIAO AS ITALY’S BERTAZZONI UNVEILS NEW BUILT-IN COOKING PRODUCTS TO U.S. MARKET

It’s a 129 year-old family-owned Italian manufacturer and it has launched a new built-in oven, cooktop and ventilation line. The move underlines the appeal of design with appliances. “For over five generations, Bertazzoni has been guided by the principles of imaginative styling and advanced technology to offer products that last a lifetime,” says Paolo Bertazzoni, CEO and principal of Bertazzoni s.p.a. “In keeping with this credo, we realized that the user experience of built-in cooking products had remained unchanged for several decades. With this in mind, our team of engineers and designers set out to develop a collection of built-in cooking products aimed at improving the user experience.

The citywide scanning of Cambridge, Mass., had to be done at night in wintertime in order to see the effects of heated air escaping from buildings. Photo courtesy of Long Phan.

A PICTURE IS WORTH A THOUSAND WATTS

Created in collaboration with Milan designer Stefano Giovannoni, the Bertazzoni designs combine metropolitan flair and technical virtuosity.

An MIT system boasts a comprehensive view of energy inefficiency of a home or a commercial building kind of like a Google Street View with a streamlined process allowing for scans of large groups of buildings — or even entire cities. The project uses a vehicle with automated cameras that take thermal infrared images of every building as it moves

Strength and Cost

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June 2011 11

NEWS WATCH along. Researcher Long Phan and research scientist Jonathan Jesneck, working with Professor Sanjay Sarma, developed the system, which they have used over the last few months to scan the entire city of Cambridge, Mass., and an army installation, Fort Drum in New York. The team: MIT’s Department of Mechanical Engineering Field Intelligence Laboratory. The concept is to quickly identify the buildings that are most inefficient, by detecting the heat escaping through walls, roofs, doors and windows in a way that allows detailed, quantitative comparisons of the rate of heat loss. That will make it possible to target remediation efforts at the worst buildings, thereby getting the most out of any efficiency-improvement spending.

COOL IDEA! SUPPORTS TOMORROW’S INNOVATORS

Proto Labs, a manufacturer of CNC machined and injection-molded parts,

has a Cool Idea! Award for designers to bring innovative products to life. It provides $100,000 worth of prototyping and short-run production services to award recipients. “We know there’s a Cool Idea at the foundation of every innovation,” says CEO Brad Cleveland, whose program helps designers take ideas to its first-run production with Firstcut CNC machining or Protomold injection-molding. Visit www.protolabs.com/coolidea.

GOOGLE’S ANDROID@HOME AIMS AT RESIDENTIAL MANAGEMENT

If you think Google is big enough, think again. Just week ago, Joe Britt, head of the Android@Home team, in a Los Angeles Times interview, said, “We’d like to think of your entire home as an accessory, or better yet as a network of accessories, and think of Android as the operating system for your home.” It is expected that Android software for this application

will include an entirely new communications protocol to compete against ZigBee (including RF4CE for A/V control) and Z-Wave. Uniquely it will have bandwidth to also transmit audio and video. One sweet spot, shared by appliance designers, homeowners and businesses is energy management and monitoring. On the home side, it is forecast that 13 percent of U.S. households will have energy management networking by 2015, according to research firm Parks Associates. There will be greater interest by businesses. One-third of consumers in broadband households find remote control of lights, appliances and thermostats via Web-enabled devices very appealing. Nearly 50 percent find email/text notification of smoke, fire, water, or gas leaks very appealing. Companies such as ADT, Best Buy, GE, Intel, and Verizon have entered the market from several different entry points; all have the marketing clout to educate. 

SMART GRID SPEEDS UP According to BCC Research, the U.S. market for smart grid technologies, worth $15.3 billion in 2008, is expected to increase to $37.4 billion in 2014, for a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16.6 percent. Distributed energy generation and storage technologies generated $10.1 billion in 2008 and an estimated $11.3 billion in 2009. This segment should reach $20.1 billion in 2014, for a CAGR of 12.2 percent. Sensing, measurement and control technologies were worth almost $4 billion in 2008 and reached an estimated $4.4 billion in 2009. This should increase at a CAGR of 26 percent to reach $14 billion in 2014. The century-old U.S. electrical grid consists of more than 9,200 electric generating units with more than 1,000,000 MW of generating capacity connected to more than 300,000 miles of transmission lines. Smart grid describes a set of related technologies, rather than specific technology with a generally agreed on specification. These technologies fall into diverse areas.

Two-way integrated communications: allow for real-time control, information and data exchange to optimize system reliability, asset utilization, and security. Sensing and measurement: evaluate congestion and grid stability, congestion and grid stability, monitor equipment health, detect energy theft, and support control strategies support.

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Utilities, for the most part, are driving smart grid advances. Florida Power & Light, for example, now has an online virtual energyefficiency tour for visitors to explore a typical Florida home roomby-room to learn facts and helpful tips about how to save energy around the house. Photo courtesy PRNewsFoto/Florida Power & Light Company

Advanced components: flexible alternating current transmission system devices, high voltage direct current, first and second generation superconducting wire, high temperature superconducting cable, distributed energy generation and storage devices, composite conductors, and “intelligent” appliances. Advanced control that enables rapid diagnosis of and precise solutions to specific grid disruptions or outages. Improved interfaces and decision support that reduce complexity so that operators and managers have tools to effectively and efficiently operate a grid with increasing numbers of variables.

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NEWS WATCH

MEETINGS June ELECTRONIC SECURITY EXPO ESX June 6-10, Charlotte, N.C. Website: www.esxweb.com/ MIDWEST DESIGN-2-PART SHOW June 14-15, Covington, Ky. Website: www.d2p.com PACKEX June 21-23, Toronto, Ontario, Canada Website: www.packextoronto.com ASHRAE ANNUAL MEETING June 25-29, Montreal, Quebec, Canada Website: ashraem.confex.com/ashraem/s11/cfp.cgi

July CHINA INTERNATIONAL CONSUMER ELECTRONICS SHOW (SINOCES) 2011 July 7-10, Qingdao, China Website: www.sinoces.com SPI’S FLEXIBLE VINYL PRODUCTS 22ND ANNUAL CONFERENCE July 10-13, Burlington, Vt. Website: www.plasticsindustry.org

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I Twenty-fourth Annual EID Winners

Sustainable

Innovation The recipients of the 2011 Excellence in Design Awards demonstrate a greater focus on sustainability and communication with the user than ever before.

F

or this year’s 24th annual Excellence in Design competition, our judges spent a lot of time focusing on the design and functionality of each entry. There was some stiff competition, but the winning recipients this year demonstrated designs across all categories that focused on simplicity and strong functionality for the end-user, while optimizing and increasing product capabilities. Add to that a focus on energy savings, recyclability and sustainability, and we have a group of products this year that represents the best of what is available in the marketplace. This year’s Gold recipients represent true innovation, and include: a speaker system that integrates into an existing light fixture without any wire installation; a dishwasher that capitalizes on capacity and minimizes noise; an oven that brings defrosting, steaming, baking, slow cooking and reheating to the residential kitchen; and a medical device that

maximizes energy savings while treating superficial vascular conditions with minimal lateral damage. All entries fit into one of eight categories with a chance to win a Gold, Silver or Bronze award. As always, winners are not evenly distributed across categories and there is no predetermined number of awards established. The focus of the competition is to recognize the most excellent product designs— regardless of how many entries a category receives. Find more information about our independent panel of judges on page XX. Next year’s competition will be announced in November of this year. Information on the 2012 EID competition will be available at www.appliancedesign.com/EID. For more information, contact Maggie M. Shein, editor, at [email protected].  Editor’s Note: For more information on this year’s competition, including judge’s comments and a slideshow of the recipients, visit www.applianceDESIGN.com and click on “Issue.”

Electronics GOLD Railtones (model RTSPKTO1) by Encompass Lighting Group, Skokie, Ill., and design firm Beyond Design Inc. Chicago. This speaker system is mounted to and powered by a low-voltage track lighting system. The speakers are mounted to the rail just as any low voltage lighting fixture. The transmitter can be connected to any audio device, and provides audio without any wire installation. Speakers are compatible with a portable MP3 player, smartphone, stereo or computer. The speakers have a three-zone capability where they can be controlled individually with the use of a remote control. The open architecture system allows for an infinite number of speakers within a certain range—depending on the number and material of walls in the space. 14 applianceDESIGN

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I Twenty-fourth Annual EID GOLD Awards GOLD G O LD D 2011

Major Appliances & HVAC GOLD G 5000 Futura Series Dishwashers by Miele Inc., Princeton, N.J. These dishwashers expand on the technology developed from the company’s previous G 2002 series. Highlights of this appliance include a cutlery tray, baskets, lighting system, quiet operation, ultralow water and energy consumption and intuitive functionality. The 3-D cutlery tray offers flexibility with the largest possible capacity, which is height-adjustable and contains sliding inserts to accommodate large items such as ladles and whisks. BrilliantLight technology uses LEDs on the interior to improve loading and unloading. A further convenience is the low noise level called “extra quiet,” where the dishwasher is hardly audible. AutoOpen drying opens the door to allow air to escape and circulate, producing efficient drying results.

Major Appliances & HVAC GOLD Thermador Steam & Convection Oven (model MES301HS) by Thermador Home Appliances, Huntington Beach, Calif. This oven defrosts, steams, proofs, bakes, slow cooks and reheats food in the residential kitchen. The three distinct cooking options—steam, convection or a combination of the two—reduces the risk of over-cooking, over-boiling or drying out of food. It includes 40 automatic food programs, nine advanced cooking modes and a series of advanced features geared toward cooking enthusiasts. The oven was designed to complement the company’s existing line of professional kitchen appliances, and can be installed as a standalone oven or integrated with other appliances such as wall ovens and warming drawers. Additionally, design elements such as an interchangeable oven handle and stainless steel trip kit make the product compatible with the company’s other appliances.

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I Twenty-fourth Annual EID GOLD Awards GOLD G O LD D 2011

Medical, Laboratory & Test Equipment GOLD Cutera Excel V by Cutera Inc., Brisbane, Calif., and design firm Zoe Design Associates, San Francisco. This vascular laser is used in cosmetic dermatology to treat unwanted veins, brown and red sun damage and vascular birthmarks. The product has a multi-kilowatt 532nm laser output and the adjustable laser treats superficial vascular conditions with minimal lateral damage—leading to less down time after treatments and better epidermal protection. The vascular laser has no disposables, a small footprint, and features such as variable contact cooling, real-time calibration, zoom spot size adjustability, and a warm-up time of less than one minute.

I Twenty-fourth Annual EID SILVER Awards SILVER 2011

Business Machines SILVER Black & Decker Hanging Crosscut 6-Sheet Paper Shredder by Homedics Inc., Commerce Township, Mich., and design firm TEAMS Design, Chicago. This wall-mounted paper shredder includes a messaging center with magnetic white board. The slim line product is designed to hang on a wall, or reside on a desk or floor using the included stand. The multi-function product can be adjusted to any comfortable height for the user when mounted on the wall. In addition to the unique wall-mount capability, the product includes the white board, mesh organization pocket to hold envelopes or notes, a bin full sensor and protective safety shield. The shredder can crosscut up to six sheets of paper and also shreds credit cards and staples—all with a noise level of 68 db.

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I Twenty-fourth Annual EID SILVER Awards SILVER 2011

Electronics SILVER VGo by VGo Communications Inc., Nashua, N.H., and design firm Helix Design Inc., Manchester, N.H. The company calls this video teleconferencing device an active-presence revolution. The user, who could be in the next building or on the other side of the globe, is independent of the people in the remote location. Controlling the unit from a PC or laptop, the user is able to interact in a valuable and effective way by broadcasting his actual presence into the remote site, without the cost of money and time in traveling there. The product operates through a standard Wi-Fi network and no additional or proprietary infrastructure is needed. The design was scaled appropriately for conversing with people who are seated, standing or walking, and because of the Wi-Fi connectivity, the product is very portable.

Lighting SILVER The Element 790 by Humanscale, New York. This task light uses 7 watts of power to produce light output equivalent to 90 watts of incandescent lighting. The light uses a single, powerful, multi-chip LED to cast a wide footprint of illumination. An intuitive dimmer control provides seven levels of adjustable light output for energy savings and user control.

Major Appliances/HVAC SILVER KitchenAid Commercial-Style Dual Fuel Range (model KDRU783VSS) by Whirlpool Corp., Benton Harbor, Mich. The 48-inch, dual-fuel, double oven range features a fully reconfigurable, touch screen LCD display that offers users advanced cooking features such as dual-fan convection with steamassist cooking. Other innovations include 20K BTU Ultra Power dual-stacked cook top burners, easy-to-clean Even-Heat chromed griddle and Satinglide full extension roller oven racks.

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I Twenty-fourth Annual EID SILVER Awards SILVER 2011

Major Appliances & HVAC SILVER KitchenAid Dishwasher (model KUDE60HXSS) by Whirlpool Corp., Benton Harbor, Mich. This dishwasher features a chrome latch handle on the front of the door, constructed of die cast metal. In addition, a capacitive touch user interface provides a responsive and easy-to-clean user experience. One other feature which distinguishes this product is the professional grade ball bearing glides on the upper rack, which provide a silky smooth motion. A Proscrub feature aims to eliminate tough-to-clean soil through a dedicated water manifold with 36 water jets that spray the water directly onto dishes. The door is balanced so that it will stay in any position that the user desires. Operational sound level is 43 dBA.

Major Appliances & HVAC SILVER NEXT Hybrid High Efficiency Gas Water Heater by A. O. Smith, Ashland City, Tenn. This water heater has a tankless engine and a small buffer tank, delivering the benefits of both technologies in one product. The product handles peak periods and provides homeowners the performance they expect from a tankless model, with more efficiency. The buffer tank serves as a secondary heat exchanger to extract additional heat and transfer it to the water. This unit is 90% thermal efficient, whereas a standard tankless model is 82% and conventional storage models are 78%. The water heater qualifies for state and local incentives as well as a Federal tax credit.

Major Appliances/HVAC SILVER SilKEN (model B80101) by Kenyon Custom, Clinton, Conn. This induction cooking system is applicable to a range of markets, including residential, marine, recreational vehicle, hospitality, institutional, military and academic housing, and offers 90% energy efficiency compared to gas stoves and radiant cook tops. The recessed lip and silicone mats provide pot stability for user safety, especially important in mobile installations. In addition, the mats contain accidental boil overs and spillovers for easy clean up and can be removed for cleaning in the sink or dishwasher. Acting as an insulator, the appliance surface remains cool to the touch as the silicone mat prevents transfer of heat back to the cooking zone. 18 applianceDESIGN

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I Twenty-fourth Annual EID SILVER Awards SILVER 2011

Medical, Laboratory & Test Equipment SILVER DentalVibe Comfort System Unit by BING Innovations, Boca Raton, Fla., and design firm Bresslergroup, Philadelphia. This cordless, handheld device is designed to reduce the pain and fear associated with dental injection for adults and children. This vibrating, lighted retractor helps the dentist retract tissue to physically and visually access an injection site, while reducing a patient’s pain and anxiety. Through a proprietary microprocessorcontrolled VibraPulse technology, the device provides counter-stimulation by delivering a pulsed, percussive vibration with enhanced amplitude to block the painful stimuli of injections. The LED light highlights the injection area to ensure precision, avoid accidental needle sticks and greatly enhance operator visibility.

Medical, Laboratory & Test Equipment SILVER Lifeline View AED by Defibtech, Guilford, Conn. This automated external defibrillator has three modes of instruction: audio, text and video, designed to make it easy for anyone from first responders to untrained bystanders to provide defibrillation quickly, easily and reliably in any setting. The full-color, full-motion interactive video display shows step-by-step, real-time instructions for preparing the patient, performing CPR and rescue breathing, and performing external defibrillation. Animated video images show the user how to perform each step. The interactive display also allows users to view the status of the unit, including battery pack life and expiration date of the pads, view perform maintenance, and access additional instructions.

Medical, Laboratory & Test Equipment SILVER PacBio RS by Pacific Biosciences of California Inc., Menlo Park, Calif., and design firm Zoe Design Associates, San Francisco. This 3rd-generation DNA sequencing instrument can analyze biochemical reactions in real time. The system captures and analyzes vast arrays of sequencing data, and incorporates large volumes of precision components including lasers, robotics, environmental controllers and computers. Design innovations include isolating vibrations that disrupt the nanometerscale performance of precision optics; mitigating heat and contaminant damage to samples; and ensuring transportability for diverse lab environments. The system allows scientists in medicine, agriculture and biofuels to study diseases, drug responses, and environmental factors faster and with more accuracy. www.applianceDESIGN.com

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I Twenty-fourth Annual EID SILVER Awards SILVER 2011

Small Appliances SILVER 12-Inch Dual-Bevel Glide Miter Saw by Robert Bosch Corp., Mount Prospect, Ill., and design firm TEAMS Design, Chicago. This dual-bevel glide miter saw eliminates rails in favor of mechanical arms that extend the reach of the blade by folding out and back. This results in saving up to 12 inches of workspace versus a traditional sliding compound miter saw, and also enables the saw to be operated with almost no clearance behind it. Without sliding rails, the saw sits flush against wall, and upfront controls eliminate the need to reach behind the saw to make adjustments.

Small Appliances SILVER Black & Decker iShred by Homedics Inc., Commerce Township, Mich., and design firm TEAMS Design, Chicago. This paper shredder has a vertically oriented paper feed, allowing for a slim, conical form and efficient bin capacity. This design also increases safety by limiting direct access to the shredder’s blades. The shreds instead fall into a naturally even conical pile, filling the bin more efficiently, than traditional shredders that often create triangular pile of shreds in rectangular shredder bins.

Small Appliances SILVER CM5 Series Countertop Coffee System by Miele Inc., Princeton, N.J. This coffee system is a fully functional whole bean espresso machine in a compact, countertop layout. An angled, two-line text display is part of an easy-to-use interface letting the user know when to replenish the water or beans, empty the waste container or other maintenance aspects, aiding in the longevity of the machine. The unit is tested for 50,000 cups of coffee or roughly 20 years of use. Optimal temperature, strength, consistency and flavor can all be chosen and even frothed drinks can be created with the frothing system and insulated, stainless steel milk flask. The appliance was designed with extensive use of sound insulation yield a quiet, pleasant operating tone. 20 applianceDESIGN

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I Twenty-fourth Annual EID BRONZE Awards BRONZE B R O NZE 2011

Business Machines BRONZE The blueSLR for Nikon Advanced DSLR by Xequals, Manotick, Ontario, Canada, and design firm Design 1st, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. This Bluetooth device is a camera accessory that can be controlled remotely by a compatible iOS device. Users connect the device to a Nikon camera and download the free companion blueSLR App from the App Store to an Apple device. An iPad, iPod Touch or iPhone can then remotely control the camera’s shutter and geocode from up to 300 feet away. Instead of offering various iterations of one product for different camera models, the design allows for changing of the adapter on the accessory to mate with the appropriate connection type on the camera.

Major Appliances & HVAC BRONZE Broan 744SFL and NuTone 744SFLNT Humidity Sensing Recessed Fan/Light by Broan-NuTone LLC, Hartford, Wisc. The Energy Star qualified humidity sensing recessed fan/lights feature SensAire technology to help ensure moisture is effectively exhausted at the source. The outside looks like a recessed light, and inside is a humidity sensing switch that triggers a concealed, quiet ventilation fan. The switch turns on when it senses a quick jump in humidity and turns off once the job is done. The product is U.L. listed for use over bathtubs and showers when connected to a GFCI protected branch circuit without the use of an additional glass lens to protect it. This model not only senses a preset relative humidity level, but additionally senses a change in humidity over a short period of time—making it an accurate and efficient way of determining when a shower has been turned on and ventilation is needed.

Major Appliances & HVAC BRONZE Cirrex Solar Thermal Water Heating System by A. O. Smith, Ashland City, Tenn. Available in 80- and 120-gallon models, this water heating system has solar energy factors of up to 10.1 and is eligible for a federal tax credit of 30% of the total installation cost without a cap. The product is designed to provide up to 70% of a home’s water heating needs directly from the sun, unlike photovoltaic systems with high upfront costs and lower efficiency. This water heating solution integrates all component parts needed for a comprehensive solar water heating solution—without additional component parts to purchase.

Major Appliances & HVAC BRONZE Hyperion Air Handler by Trane, Piscataway, N.J. This air handler is constructed more like a refrigerator than a typical air handler, with insulation between double-walls of its Air-Tite II cabinet. This insulation prevents condensation that may cause damage to the air handler itself or a consumer’s home. In addition to eliminating sweating, the cabinet also eliminates the loose fibers from fiberglass insulation that may enter the airstream with other air handlers. The product is fully modular and is smaller, smarter and more flexible than other air handlers on the market—making a one-person installation possible. www.applianceDESIGN.com

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I Twenty-fourth Annual EID BRONZE Awards BRONZE B R O NZE 2011

Major Appliances & HVAC BRONZE Rheem/Ruud SPIDERfire – GHE100 Series Commercial Water Heater by Rheem Manufacturing, Atlanta.

With up to 95% thermal efficiency, this high-efficiency, fully condensing commercial water heater can dramatically reduce fuel cost. The heat exchanger system consists of a series of connected, elongated tubes immersed in the tank through which heat transfers to the water. Combustion gases, generated by the burner at the unit’s top, are blown down the large main flue in the center of the unit and nearly traverse the full length of the unit two more times, extracting as much heat as possible. Hot spots are eliminated with a wet-based design, which suspends the flue’s first two legs in water, rather than connecting them to the tank bottom. This also keeps heat from escaping the bottom.

Major Appliances & HVAC BRONZE The Smart System by Lochinvar Corp., Lebanon, Tenn. The user interface on this heating boiler system provides greater level of control than ever before, offering installers and facility managers access to all of the information they need to set-up, troubleshoot and monitor all equipment functions. The system is equipped with several features, including a larger display screen, color coding functionality and soft keys for quick and easy use, as well as two selectable cascade options to allow the user to fine-tune the sequencing of multiple-unit installations. A cascading sequencer allows for up to eight boilers or water heaters to be installed, with two cascade options.

Medical, Laboratory & Test Equipment BRONZE Circulating Water Bath (model PP07R-20) by PolyScience, Niles, Ill., and design firm Cesaroni Design Associates Inc., Glenview, Ill. This circulating water bath is a refrigerating and heating temperature control unit used in laboratory applications. The unit stores liquid and samples in the reservoir, while its pump circulates water throughout—delivering consistent temperatures for long durations. The LCD touchscreen guides the operator through setup and operation. Temperatures can be monitored from anywhere in the laboratory with a pivoting control head. The unit employs ergonomic features such as convenient handles and a lid docking system. The compact design of the control head occupies a minimum of reservoir space to provide more room for liquid and samples.

Outdoor & Leisure Appliances BRONZE The xR3ci Seated Elliptical by Octane Fitness, Brooklyn Park, Minn., and design firm Cesaroni Design Associates Inc., Glenview, Ill. This seated elliptical machine was designed to deliver a home fitness system in a compact footprint. With multiple height and tilt positions, the unit accommodates users from 5 to 6 1/2 feet tall. An ergonomically designed mesh-back seat and oversized pedals offer flexible foot position and ensure correct posture. The console informs the user of intensity, duration and number of intervals according to fitness level and objectives. The elliptical motion offers the user the option of pedaling forward or backward. 22 applianceDESIGN

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I Twenty-fourth Annual EID BRONZE Awards BRONZE B R O NZE 2011

Small Appliances BRONZE Mr. Coffee Optimal Brew Thermal Coffeemaker by Jarden Consumer Solutions, Rye, N.Y., and design firm TEAMS Design, Chicago. This coffeemaker was designed to brew faster and hotter than the average coffeemaker on the market. Even hours after shutting the unit off, coffee stays hot, because of the heating and insulation design. Water quickly heats in a boiling chamber; a heating plate has been eliminated in order to save energy and prevent coffee from overheating, imparting an unappealing burnt flavor. Instead, a double-walled, vacuum-insulated, stainless steel thermal carafe insulates the coffee. A removable water reservoir allows the user to fill the unit without moving the entire coffeemaker or cooling down the carafe.

Small Appliances BRONZE Oster Designer Series Blender by Jarden Corp., Rye, N.Y., and design firm Essential, Boston. The blender family utilizes an all metal drive, unique to the price segment. This feature is based on the interfacing drive mechanism being metal (instead of plastic) and results in a durable, long-lasting blender. The motors used are either a six speed or eight speed reversible 475 or 600 watt motor, point star blending blade and pre-programmed controls. The products also incorporate a thermally shock tested universal, six-cup, square, glass jar. The handle on the jar can be placed in four orientations on the base—designed so that a left or right handed user can pick the jar up easily. The surfaces, as well as the core blender blade assembly and jar were designed for easy cleaning.

Small Appliances BRONZE TheO by Cloud Nine, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom, and design firm Absolute Product Design Limited, Cornwood, Devon, United Kingdom. This heated hair roller system differentiates itself with the speed of operation. Each roller can be heated to 130 degrees in under four seconds. The rollers are light weight and have a Velcro wrap enabling them to be held into the hair without the need for additional clips. Instead of using thermal conductivity to transfer heat from hot rods or plates to the rollers, this product uses induction heating to quickly and efficiently heat. Also, heating from the core out means the rollers are initially cool to the touch.

Small Appliances BRONZE Personal Zone Air Purifier by Humanscale, New York. This air purifier creates a clean air zone around users to ensure that they are breathing nothing but the cleanest possible air. By focusing on just the air being breathed instead of all the air in a room, the system delivers cleaner air with less energy and fewer ongoing costs. Patented technology uses a tightly coiled paper filter that offers large surface area for particle capture. Other operating features include breeze-free, ozone-free and virtually silent operation. The unit consumes 22 watts of energy while producing a CADR of 125—all with a recyclable paper filter.  www.applianceDESIGN.com

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MEETTHEJUDGES JIM KAUFMAN is principal of Kaufman & Co., a Colorado design consultancy and is professor emeritus of the Ohio State University. In 2008, he finished a semester as visiting professor at Massey University in Wellington, New Zealand and continues to be affiliated with the university’s research efforts and consults on curriculum and leadership matters. Kaufman recently concluded his term as a national officer, secretary/ treasurer of the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA) and service on its Board of Directors 2009-10. He was National Education Chair for IDSA and served on the Board of Directors 2001-02, was IDSA Special Awards Chairman 2007, an original trustee of IDSA Design Foundation, Mid-Ohio Chapter Chairman, Mid-East Regional Conference Chairman & Education Representative, and was the University of Cincinnati’s Merit Award Winner 1969. Kaufman is a National Schools of Art and Design evaluator and former accreditation commissioner. He has M.F.A and M.A. degrees from the University of Notre Dame, and a B.S.I.D. from the University of Cincinnati.

MARCO PERRY is a founder of Pensa, a Brooklyn, N.Y.-based consultancy firm that focuses on product strategy, design, development and invention. Perry has more than 15 years experience designing and engineering everything from diapers to lab equipment to vending machines. His work has earned several awards, including from IIDEX/Neocon Gold, BusinessWeek/IDEA, Spark Award, Chicago Anthenaeum Good Design, appliance DESIGN and a Medical Design Excellence Award. He has a B.S. in mechanical engineering from Lehigh University and a masters of industrial design from Pratt Institute. Perry is currently the Northeast District vice president of the Industrial Designers Society of America.

KEVIN SHINN is the global industrial design manager at Dow Corning Corp. He joined Dow Corning in 2007 to lead the transformation of the company toward design. Shinn has helped create a new design culture within Dow Corning, leveraging the company’s technical and scientific background to create proven experiences and solutions. Prior to his current position, he was the head of industrial design for Rubbermaid Home Products and has an extensive background in consumer, toy and automotive products. Shinn is currently the Industrial Designers Society of America Mid-East District vice president and sits on the Board of Directors for the organization. He is an alum of the College for Creative Studies, from where he holds a degree in industrial design.

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