Transforming a popular product into a wooden version is a bizarre development, but the cell phone has just undergone such treatment. The Maple Phone has been developed by two Koreans, Hyun Jin Yoon and Eun Hak Lee as they prove that phones do not need to follow the same trend of plastic products. The wooden phone exhibits a touch sensitive keypad and also a camera. For the touchpad to work correctly, we believe that some different materials are used, as this would be impossible based on wood alone. The phone is great from an environmental perspective, since wood is a natural source and completely renewable. Perhaps this will pave the way for future wooden products, for example...

This invention is still in its prototype stage yet aims to utilise defunct products and apply a different purpose to them. The Corona-Matic Waffle Maker makes waffles in the shape of computer keyboards. The gadget transforms an old style of writing equipment into a kitchen appliance which can cook up a few tasty treats. The inventor of the Corono-Matic is Chris Dimino, which was a group project at the School of Visual Arts. The task set for the students was to modify an exiting useless product into something which could be used nowadays, revolutionising the product and its use. The invention is yet to enter the mainstream market, but we think it will only be a matter of time, and...

For travel, many of us opt for a motorbike, whist very few of us have the time to learn to ride the more comical unicycle. Well, an 18 year-old scientist by the name of Ben J. Poss Gulak, has decided to merge both modes of transport, and develop what he has termed, 'Uno'. The bike caught the attention of many attendees to the 2008 National Motorcycle Show in Toronto, either because they thought it was cool or to determine what it actually was. The common wheel set-up, of one at the back and one at the front has been revolutionised into two wheels sitting side by side. The Uno also utilises rear footpegs and a considerably smaller chassis. Amazingly, the Uno weighs only 120lbs and...

Here is a security gadget with a few twists, literally. The Defendius Door Chain at first glance looks like some kind of puzzle game, which attaches to your door and the door will only open once the maze has been completed. OK, this sounds good for those wanting to gain unauthorized access but what about trying to get out, and having to complete the puzzle each time? I'd rather not have to waste time figuring out a puzzle if my home was on fire and I was attempting to escape as quickly as possible. It's all well and good trying to improve a home's security, but as once was reported on a crime program, if the door becomes indestructible the burglar will try to break through the...

Conserving space is very much a must for those living in small apartments or flats, where space is few and far between. Therefore it is imperative to take advantage of the space you do have, and create an illusion of having more space than you actually do. Many use subtle colours on their walls, or mirror effects to achieve this illusion, but a practical solution has only entered the scene recently, in the form of the TurnOn Multi-Functional Spinning Wall. The Wall is essentially a room which makes use of the ceiling also - allowing for additional space and room. In order to feel the new dimension of space you climb into the hamster-like wheel and then roll it you’re your desired...

Power naps are fantastic, and also proven to rejuvenate a person during the day. We all long for these power naps, but unfortunately there is never a bed around at the time, especially in the work office, leaving you nodding off with your nose pressed hard down against the desk. Did you ever dream of a portable bed which you could quickly assemble and then catch up on some much needed sleep? Well, the solution to such problems has finally arrived. A German study which was undertaken in 2004 concluded that a daily power nap can be beneficial in the workplace by both improving efficiency and morale. Designed by four students to demonstrate these findings, the Nappak was invented....

Are your kitchen cupboard looking rather bare? Do you often traverse around the Supermarket only to leave without those precious items which you only realize you've forgotten to purchase only when you arrive home to unpack? Well, fear no more. Rest assured that every item you require is added to your basket and then stacked into your bulging kitchen cupboards and fridge. The SmartShopper Automated Grocery List Printer comes to your rescue, allowing you to print out a grocery list with minimum of fuss. The device is voice activated, which allows you to talk into the handset which then compiles a textual list ready for printing. It sticks via a magnet to your fridge. The list is...

There is no better alarm system than a vicious dog barking ferociously at the prowler's awaiting entry point, but the primary disadvantage with this protection method is the incessant cleaning up, albeit with the aid of a pooper scooper. Now you can have the best of both world; a barking protection system which leaves no mess (from the dog anyway, the intruder may mess himself). This invention is called an Alarm Security Bar which adds instant protection to any home without the need for expensive installation and monitoring. The alarm noise is sounded whenever the door knob is touched or door is pushed, so the alarm is designed to be set off under the slightest of pressures. The...

Snakes are often feared, but these Movin' and Groovin' Snakes are as tame as they come, considering they are made of plastic. These snakes plug directly into your music device and dance to the rhythm of the song being played. The snakes also come with a set of speakers which will omit the sounds of all your favourite tracks, in a surprisingly good quality. So they can play music and dance simultaneously, half pop artists can't even manage that. So if you're after some light entertainment albeit from a snake, then keep the cobras out of sight and opt for the Movin' and Groovin' snake, a much safer alternative. There is a switch on the snake which allows you to control...

USB's are commonly used in the modern world and variations continue to emerge, revealing new interesting concepts and means of portable data use. The latest USB accessory comes in the form of a tie, suited towards those who feel the heat around their neck whilst sporting a tie. Limited market we believe, nonetheless invention company Thanko have manufactured the idea in Japan, named the USB Powered Necktie Fan. Nice and catchy title they have there, and it does do exactly as the name suggests. The USB powers a small fan built into the knot of the tie to keep you cool, in at least one sense of the word. The tie's portability is restricted to the length of the USB cable, which may...

In an effort to improve the flexibility of cycling on a regular bike, Michael Killian has invented a bicycle with a distinct twist, quite literally. The sideways bike allows the cyclist to travel sideways rather than straightforward with a more flexible and dynamic approach. All that is required by the cyclist is to convert the traditional left to right balance, to a more complicated front to back balance. All well in theory, but this change is more difficult to adapt to than one would think. The bike also exhibits wheels which work independently allowing more control (after much practice) as to the direction you would like to manoeuvre in. With this in place, it becomes possible...

This device attaches to your computer via simple USB connection allowing you to transfer and store any audio clip of 30 seconds or less. The device then attaches itself as an extension to the existing doorbell wiring to replace the sound with the stored file. Surprise your guests by resonating any sound which you choose as they approach and press the doorbell. The device is wall mountable and can be attached by a hook to keep the doorbell well concealed. The doorbell is designed for low power wiring homes, where circuits are of a low voltage. The doorbell is sure to make a buzz when guests arrive for dinner. Ding dong!

Creepy crawlies may appear dull and boring, but this 'AntWorks' brings action and intrigue to an otherwise mundane viewing. Ants can lift up to 20 times their own body weight; have two stomachs and three eyes. They often work together, commonly in large groups, to achieve everyday tasks. The guys over at NASA have worked together in a similar fashion to create a healthy habitat for your ant collection. The habitat allows you to view the routes taken by individual ants as they alter the aqua blue gel into a spectrum of different colors. AntWorks is based on an advanced form of gel which ensures a safe and vibrant existence for both the ants and the onlooker. The effects are...

Ok, so you want to build up your muscles and allow yourself to lift weights impressively. All you need is a huge suit, air compressor and a regulator strapped across both your shoulders making you look like a Legion Of Doom wrestler. Oddly enough, the suit is designed to assist you in lifting heavy items, but why on earth would this sample image be lifting dumbells? We have no idea either, but for manual labour this may just prove beneficial. The product was developed in a Tokyo Science University, so don't go telling me students have too much time on their hands, or is that shoulders.

Introducing the new LED umbrella. This new device comes equipped with a built in LED light which illuminates in the dark. At the touch of a button the light shines into action offering a safe and secure passage to your destination. The light is embedded inside the handle to lighten the area under the umbrella hood. Come day or night, this gadget has got you covered despite looking like a Star Wars light saber. So for those of you who can't handle a long walk home in the dark, this LED umbrella is sure to make that walk a little bit brighter.

USB flash drives are the perfect portable tool for carrying data around with you wherever you go. The next stage to the conventional USB flash drive is then an obvious logical progression. Yes, bakery themed USB flash drives. Okay, so perhaps not what you would expect but these USB flash drives look extremely realistic to their bakery equivalents. Challah Raisin Bread, Sandwich, Hot Dog, Pizza, French Bread, and the Hamburger are all variants of the gadget from valolo, and their realism makes them look edible. We, personally, are hungry for more. Down to the specifics. 1.0, 1.1, 1.2, 2.0 USB compliance, 10 years of data retention with 1,000,000 times storage, Supports Mac,...

This new invention offers an aquatic experience without the monotony of tidying up regularly. Sound good? Then the Aquapict LED Jellyfish Aquarium is for you. This device showcases 3 Jellyfish, despite being LED projected images. A realistic and colourful gadget which offers 12 assorted colours and silicone built jellyfish for improved realism as they mimic the movement of real jellyfish. The jellyfish' movement can be controlled by a simple switch which decides the general movement of each jellyfish. The product is not cheap, and hits the market at $156, but if you are after a realistic yet easy to maintain aquarium then this may be just what you're looking for. Whether or...

This adaptation of the standard Mini Cooper S series, not only stretches 6 metres, but includes an integrated whirlpool in the rear of the car, designed and built by a Los Angeles Coach builder. Named the Mini XXL, this car is one of a kind, packing a small swimming pool into the back for those long journeys. Easy to operate and accomodating 2 people with a detachable roof for increased privacy, or to simply conceal the pool. In order to empty the pool, you simply pull the plug to drain away the water. In addition to the pool, there also includes a retractable flat-screen TV, DVD player, air conditioning, full black leather and a telephone to allow communication with the driver...

This alarm clock will be sure to wake even the heaviest of sleepers. The idea is simple; when the alarm is triggered part of the alarm will fly and land at some random location in your room. Only when the piece is placed back on the stationary alarm piece will the alarm cease. The flying piece takes to the air via rotating propeller blades which allow it to achieve flight. The only way to silence the alarm is to physically find the propeller and position it back on the alarm, thus forcing you out of your bed. A strange concept, but one which might just prove helpful to those who find it difficult on those Monday mornings.

Have you ever been after a tattoo but been rejected the privilege due to financial restraints or family refusal? Why not purchase these tattoo sleeves, which will not only scare your parents but give the effect of a tattoo on your arm. This painless and temporary solution is made from 100% stretchable and washable Nylon, one size fits all and it comes in a set of 2 so you can wear one or both, depending on how far you want to go. Can't take the pain but want an instant and realistic solution, then check these out and get the look you're after! Tattoo sleeves