|
|
Light SPIN
The launch of a series of battery-assisted bicycles
Fieldmate
Violetta solargear
KINETIC
UV care mate |
|
|
|
In keeping
with the bicycle's environmentally friendly image, the
LightSPIN provides a new and revolutionary, sustainable
light source that makes traditional battery operated lights
irrelevant. Whereas standard dynamo lights have a lot
of drag, give weak lighting at low speeds and provide
non when standing still, the LightSPIN has minimal drag
(6.2W@20km/h), high output and a built-in storage battery
that provides lighting even when the bicycle is stationary.
The dynamo has a power management system that regulates
and converts the output of the small generator, as a function
of speed, the goal being to generate a constant illumination
voltage of about 6 volts. The power pack achieves full
output at speeds of just 7.5 km/h compared with 15 km/h
with traditional dynamos. The system also monitors the
charge status of the storage battery and supplies current
at speeds as low as 5 km/h. When standing still, it can
supply power for up to 45 minutes although to save power,
the storage battery current flow will stop after 4 minutes.
By just rolling the bicycle a short distance, this interval
can be repeated as often as desired. The Light SPIN retails
for about \12,000 ($94) for the generator and \1,800 ($14)
for the bracket and can be ordered from
<wstettler@dynosys-ag.ch>
|
|
|
|
The launch
of a series of battery-assisted bicycles suggests that
environmentally and functionally, this type of transport
option fulfills a market need that is likely to expand.
Though early prototypes were heavy, functionally limited
and fashionably challenged, the E-Bike may be the first
of a new generation that not only realistically meets
the functional demands of a bicycle but with a sleek,
cool image actually looks like something you would want
to associate yourself with. A few months ago we featured
the Microcab, a lightweight, zero emissions utility vehicle
with a hybrid pedal / electric drive train designed for
transporting people over short distances at a reasonable
speed. Though it does not pretend to fulfill all the demands
of a modern motor vehicle, it does offer a practical hybrid
solution to inner city congestion and pollution. The E-Bike
similarly responds to the modern consumers heightened
environmental awareness, but actually seems able to match
most of the requirements of a bicycle, including some
off-road capability. How does it work? The E-Bikes Pedal
Assist drivetrain incorporates special magnetic sensors
that activate the electric hub motor as soon as you start
pedaling. For extra power, the bike's Power on Demand
(POD) drivetrain allows you to simply push on the thumb
throttle to engage the electric hub motor (pedaling is
optional). The E-Bike comes in three basic categories.
The 24V model weighs about 66 lbs and carries a lead acid
battery. It takes approximately 3 hours to fully charge
the battery and has a range of 30km. For extra kick, the
36V model (88lbs) offers added power and acceleration
and for extra mobility, the mini E-Bike is a lighter (62lbs),
folding model that can be loaded into a car, minivan,
RV, plane, boat or public transport.
<Plus
Link>
|
|
|
|
When fishing
line gets cut and washes away, or is discarded, it can
have a variety of environmental impacts, including endangering
waterfowl. In response, Toray Inc. has developed the biodegradable
fishing line 'Fieldmate' - a high performance line that
naturally breaks down, reducing environmental impact.
Fieldmate is an environmentally friendly fishing line
that breaks down through the decomposing action of microorganisms.
Its performance does not deteriorate when kept clean and
dry, but when exposed to the biological action of bacteria
in water or in the earth, Fieldmate gradually decomposes
to form carbon dioxide and water. |
|
- Trebiomer
Fieldmate was the world's first biodegradable plastic
line when it entered the market in 1996 and Toray has
continued to demonstrate this environmentally friendly,
state of the art product at its yearly fishing competition.
To complement this product, Toray has also been involved
in researching the next generation of fishing lure, looking
to develop a biodegradable worm. After 2 years of testing
with fishing pros and working in cooperation with the
Lake Kawaguchiko Fishery Cooperative, Toray have created
the 'Trebiomer' - a new state of the art worm that is
completely biodegradable. Trebiomer is a biodegradable
resin that is reduced to water and carbon dioxide, firstly
by hydrolytic break down, and then through bacterial action.
<Plus
Link> |
|
|
|
-Let
the Sunshine in your Pocket with Violetta Solargear-
How we make and use energy is the burning issue of the
21st Century. Solar energy is the potential energy for
the 21st century because it can be generated anywhere
in the world with no pollution, that is bound to come
to the forefront. Violetta Solargear is a portable solar
energy battery recharger. A global, economical and environmentally
friendly power source for anyone on the planet. An ideal
companion to mobile appliances with its size, weight,
compatibility, expandability and charging whilst carrying
design. A reliable and durable outdoor tool with its simple
and robust structure. Perfect for the outdoor enthusiast.
|
|
Main
features
Equipped with the most efficient single crystalline silicon
solar cells for the maximum power generation for its size.
Made of UV resistant polycarbonate and special polymer
materials withstanding the maximum abuse under the sun.
Equipped with a reverse current prevention circuit, a
solar power indicator and a battery status indicator for
carefree operations, and 2 DC in/out jacks for the maximum
expandability.
For various mobile appliances
Designed for charging the batteries of various mobile
appliances, such as cellular phones, PDAs, and audio/visual
devices with Violetta Solargear and with widely available
USB charger cables.
Hope you enjoy making energy with Violetta Solargear.
<Plus
Link> |
 |
|
|
Seiko's
KINETIC Auto Relay Watch
Seiko Corporation is pushing the boundaries of watch technology
by developing an energy-saving timepiece that does not
require battery changes. Seiko has developed the World's
first KINETIC 'auto generating system' that converts the
natural movement of the body into electrical energy. Needless
to say,this revolutionary system comes with the accuracy
of a Seiko quarts watch as standard. The KINETIC Auto
Relay was developed in May 1999 and is able to display
the correct time,even if unused,for up to four years.
If the watch is taken off,it will continue to display
the correct time for up to 72-hours,at which point it
will shift into sleep mode and stop moving - the purpose
being to save energy.If the watch is picked up again,it
reverts to wake mode and the hands will automatically
shift to display the correct time. On a full charge the
watch is able to remain in sleep mode for four years.
Seiko's KINETIC series is an environmentally-friendly,'self-powered'
watch that sets the precedent for the future of all watches.
<Plus
Link> |
|
|
|
A portable
solution to those concerned about the dangers of ultra-violet
raysUV Care-mate _ a portable ultra-violet measuring device.
With the destruction of the ozone layer people are becoming
increasingly concerned about the dangers of UV rays to
our eyes and skin. Where we once thought it healthy to
go out into the sunshine, we now need to adapt our choices
depending on the level of ultra-violet. We can now prevent
being exposed to unwanted amounts of UV rays with this
portable device that measures the amount and strength
of ultra-violet and gives off a warming if levels are
too high.
<Plus
Link> |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
