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Smart Coasters Differentiate Iced Tea from Hot
Posted by Mark Wilson at 6:20 AM on October 2, 2008
We know that you probably don't need help figuring out if what you're drinking is hot or cold, but that only makes these Smart Coasters all the more endearing. Essentially a solar cell trapped in waterproof resin, cold drinks light up blue and hot drinks light up red. Full instructions to build your own can be found in The Hungry Scientist Handbook (which runs about $US12 at Amazon). But for the less labour-inclined, sticking your finger into visitors' drinks has always been considered a fine gesture of hospitality. [Evil Mad Scientist Lab via boingboing]
Remember that announcement last week that Sony was 
For many of us, the first day of summer starts just before midnight tonight. That means it is time to start thinking about how to beat the heat when the temperatures soar and the air conditioning unit in your home or office inevitably breaks down. In this scenario, survival means being prepared for anything. The following summertime gadgets will ensure that you have all of your bases covered.
The SolarStore is essentially a hot water heater that uses the sun as its energy source. Inflatable from a backpack, this guy will hold up to three full tanks of water and make it nice and toasty for your showering needs. It's a great, cheap alternative to hot water heaters, what with it costing a mere US$200, but it'll be pretty much useless to anyone who lives in a climate that gets really cold in the wintertime. But for those in developing nations with the proper conditions, it could be a great choice. [
You finally brought that man/woman of your dreams back to your space den, and you're trying to seal the deal. May I suggest using this US$15 Spaceship Fragrance Oil Warmer, the geekiest love aid we've ever seen. Imported from far off galaxies and recommended by captains by the name of Kirk, Gordon, Solo and Zapp Brannigan, I'm not sure how you could go wrong except if you tipped it over and caused a chemical fire in deep space and your airlocks all blew out before you finished your business time. [
This mug automagically tells you when its contents are hot or not with a colour change and the words "Hot" and "Cold." Cunning, eh? Might save you from a burnt lip or two, or alert you that the temperature is low enough if you're one of those strange types who waits for their tea to go cold. It's not exactly ground-breaking technology, but it's a darn elegant application of it. Available on pre-order for US$25. [
Does the ability to heat a cup of water in 3 seconds interest you? Then take a look at this Teal quick Cup, which produces hot (we're not sure if it's near boiling) water by spinning the cold water you pour in around the spiral heating element. Not only is it fast, it's supposedly more efficient than a standard kettle or hot water heater because it only needs to be "on" for those three-ish seconds. Useful for your instant cups of tea or filling up a bathtub the dumb way. [
A simpler version of the nudie pens that you turned upside down to reveal what was beneath the cupcake's black bikini (I always found them in my dad's suit pockets), the Undress Me mug comes in both guy and gal versions. You can find out how much it costs and check the girl's version after the jump.
