The future is here! Just like out childhood cartoons promised us, we now have hovercraft technology. About time, right? The Hendo Hoverboard uses a magnetic field that allows it, and a full-sized human on top, to defy gravity and hover above the ground. Despite Earnshaw’s theorem, which says that equilibrium can never be reached between two magnets, the Hendo uses a principle called magnetic field architecture to create stabilized movement. The board can be also propelled forward using this principle, and the Hendo was designed to react smoothly and naturally to the user’s motions. To be technical, this technology already exists with high-speed rail, which uses electromagnetic currents to float the cars above the tracks, eliminating friction and allowing for a smooth, fast ride. The hoverboard, though, opens up the possibility of using hover technology for personal use, away from set tracks. Due to its operation, the Hendo requires a non-ferromagnetic surface to work–that means roughly, no transitional metals. Because of this, the creators of Hendo have also designed a special “hoverpark” as a place to demonstrate the board’s abilities. The board doesn’t soar very high off the ground; think of it more like a skateboard without wheels, only the Hendo would be able to go up slopes with less energy, as it reacts to the surface. Hendo Top and side views of the prototype board without a rider. It floats a few inches above the surface. Hendo The hoverboard with a rider. Hendo The designs for the top and bottom of the board. The positioning of the foot pads seems subject to change. Hendo The design for the hoverpark, where the hoverboard can be ridden, much like a skateboard in a skatepark. Greg and Jill Henderson, the founders of Hendo, know that a hoverboard might not be the next big thing in transportation technology. However, they regard the hoverboard, and its hover engine, as the first step in a possible new direction for vehicles and travel. It’s a technology that can be built upon to create more practical applications. Right now, the hoverboard is still a prototype, and Hendo is actively seeking funding via Kickstarter, and hopes to expand the technology so that it’s more widely available in the near future. Read more: http://viralnova.com/hovering-toward-the-future/
There are few tasks more infuriating than trying to remove rust from just about anything. That’s exactly why this laser is pretty much the best tool I’ve ever seen. This amazing device is called the P-Laser QF-1000. Like its much larger counterparts, the 1,000-watt handheld tool is meant for industrial applications, like preparing metal for robotic welding or removing residue from manufacturing molds. However, it also does an excellent job when it comes to making rust disappear right before your very eyes. googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display(‘VN_PG_DCBP_ATF’); }); Just watch this mesmerizing video of the laser in action. I could stare at this all day, honestly. But if you’re thinking about getting one of these for yourself, know that it’ll cost you a cool $50,000. I’ll pass. Read more: http://www.viralnova.com/laser-cleaning/
Millions of people from around the world flock to the finest art museums every year to experience the most incredible pieces that have ever been created. It’s hard to stand unmoved in front of the works of Michelangelo, Dürer, Da Vinci, and Cassatt. It’s hard to deny how seeing a piece like the Mona Lisa in person makes you feel. But people with visual impairments rarely get to partake in these experiences. They never get to analyze Monet’s signature brush strokes, stare into the vast beauty of the Sistine Chapel’s renowned ceiling, or count the swirling stars in Van Gogh’s most famous nighttime scene. It’s a reality that’s as heartbreaking as it is ignored. But one team of artists and digital designers aims to solve that problem with a project called Unseen Art. YouTube / Unseen Art What they’re doing is about to change everything for blind people who want to see the art that’s become part of our cultural consciousness. By using 3-D printing technology, they’re bringing these pieces to life for visually-impaired people to experience in their own unique way. As one spokesperson explains, “Unseen Art is taking two-dimensional master works of visual art into the realm of touch.” YouTube / Unseen Art The team behind this incredible project wants to remedy the fact that so many blind people have never witnessed the art that we often take for granted. Imagine stepping into the Louvre and not being able to experience the Mona Lisa‘s famous smile, even when it’s right in front of you. That’s what they want to change. Designers aim to print some of these works into 3-D figures that can be touched, turning any concept we once had of art viewership on its head. YouTube / Unseen Art One lucky participant got to touch the project’s first prototype of Da Vinci’s most famous lady. “Her nose is quite long,” she laughs, “but the expression is what’s most mysterious. She definitely wasn’t a classic beauty. My fingers are excited!” With the help of volunteers from all over the world, these works can actually be viewed and touched for free. Once the designs are drafted, they can be shared and printed across the globe. YouTube / Unseen Art “We want to bring together the talents of 3-D makers, artists, and visually-impaired people worldwide,” the spokesperson says. “But most importantly of all, we want to share something amazing.” YouTube / Unseen Art For more information, check out their promotional video below: In order to bring Unseen Art to people around the world, these visionaries need our help. To learn more about what you can do to support their mission, head over to their website, and be sure to donate a few dollars if you can on their Indiegogo page. What they’re doing could change the way blind people experience art forever. Read more: http://www.viralnova.com/art-for-the-blind/
It’s probably safe to say that we all have a pretty good grasp on what makes our four-legged friends happy. And that’s because they make no secret of their enthusiasm when it’s time to eat or go for a long walk on a sunny day! The language barrier poses a problem, though. I mean, how much do we really know about what thrills our pets? That’s where the folks at Nikon come in. By strapping a Coolpix L31 camera to a precious pup by the name of Grizzler, they created a little window into the canine soul. This technology responds to elevations in heart rate and snaps photos whenever Grizzler starts getting excited, allowing us to get a taste of the little wonders that make his day. Called “Heartography,” this process captures photos from a dog’s-eye view whenever Grizzler gets pumped. Here’s a little sampling of what he loves! Beautiful scenery? I feel you, man. YouTube / Nikon Asia Who doesn’t love finding treasure? YouTube / Nikon Asia Making friends is always a blast! YouTube / Nikon Asia And it’s so much better when those newfound friendships are totally unexpected. YouTube / Nikon Asia Mushrooms? I mean, whatever floats your boat, Grizz. YouTube / Nikon Asia If you want to follow this adorable guy around for the day, check out more of his adventures below! That’s so cool. What would your dog’s photos look like if you turned them into a photographer for the day? I’m pretty sure my pup’s collection would be very food-centric. Read more: http://www.viralnova.com/heartography-dog/
