NEWS – Back in the summer, I wrote about the GeekAire rechargeable portable fan now, meet its toasty sibling – GeekHeat. GeekHeat is a personal ceramic heater that delivers on-the-spot heating where ever and whenever you’re feeling a little chilly.
This quiet, compact 500W heater-for-one is a perfect size ( 4.96″ x 4.15″ x 6.4” ) for a desktop or bedside. And it’s quick, warming up in about 3-seconds.
No more turning up the heat or piling on heavy blankets.
If things get to hot, GeekHeat can be used as a fan to cool things down.
LED indicator lights let you know which setting is being used. Red for heat and blue for the fan.
A convenient cool-touch carry handle makes it easy to move the unit from place to place.
The heater also has built-in safety features. If the heater gets to hot, or tips over an indicator light will flash, and the fan will automatically switch on.
The GeekHeat Personal Ceramic Heater sells for $26.95 and is available from The Grommet.
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REVIEW – The iPad market share has hovered around 20 to 30% for the past few years. Imagine how different our world and experience would be if each one of those cameras had 3D capture ability. The Structure Sensor is an attachment to the iPad that provides the ability to capture 3D information. Read on to see what I think!
What is it?
The Structure Sensor is an attachment to an iPad, but also works with non-iPad tablets, iPhones, and can be modified to work with standalone applications. It contains two infrared LEDs, an infrared structured light projector, and an infrared camera. The Structure projects a unique infrared pattern of dots out in front of it, and the infrared camera captures the projected pattern as it is reflected off of objects. Apparent variations in the position of the captured dots are interpreted by software to determine the relative position of a captured image. The graphic below, by Paul Kah of the Lappeenranta University of Technology, Department of Mechanical Engineering, illustrates the technique in a cartoon.
The Structure Sensor uses images from the iPad’s built-in camera, so aligning the Structure sensor up to the built-in camera is critical. The Structure Sensor provides a custom designed mount to ensure alignment. The sensor software also uses the iPad accelerometer, compass, and computing power to generate the 3D images.
What’s in the box?
My employer purchased this device so I didn’t see the box it came in. The following description is from the Structure website:
Structure Sensors purchased from Amazon.com will arrive already assembled, in a new “bento box” style, which doubles as a carrying case for your Structure Sensor, bracket, and cables:
Regardless of where it was purchased, your Structure Sensor should arrive with the following:
One Structure Sensor
One Lightning cable
One Power Adapter
One magnetic screwdriver
Eight (8) M1.6 screws
One user manual
Precision Bracket with Aluminum Latch
The Precision Bracket with Aluminum Latch will arrive in a separate box, like this one:
Precision Brackets with Aluminum Latch for iPad Air 2 and iPad Mini 4 will arrive in a “bento box” style, which doubles as a carrying case for your assembled Structure Sensor, bracket, and cables:
Structure Sensor Bracket For iPad Pro
Your Structure Sensor iPad Pro Bracket should arrive with the following (shown from top to bottom):
One Bracket Alignment Tool
One Structure Sensor Base Plate
One Bracket
This is what the bracket looks like when not attached to the camera:
The bracket surrounds the iPad camera so that a specially designed 120-degree lens may be installed for use with some applications. The camera lens may be unusable by other hardware add-ons if the bracket secured with an adhesive is applied to the rear of the iPad.
Design and features
The Structure Sensor is an anodized aluminum device with a glass front and a plastic back. The back is designed to fit into or screw onto a bracket that connects it to the iPad. The Structure Sensor has its own internal battery to preserve the battery life of the iPad, The bottom side of the camera has a port for the dedicated AC charger. An LED indicator on the Structure Sensor’s glass face will pulse when your Structure Sensor’s battery is charging. As soon as your battery is completely charged, the LED indicator will be illuminated continuously until the AC charger is disconnected.
There is also a port for the data cable to lightning adapter cable
If the Structure Sensor is used with a non-iPad device a separate cable may be purchased that terminates in a USB type-A connector. This cable may also be used with a USB power adapter to charge the Structure Sensor and will charge the battery more quickly than the standard Power Adapter.
When the sensor is latched to the rear of a device and connected with the dedicated data connection to the device it looks like a kludge to repair an inoperable camera. Technically its similar to taping a Microsoft Kinect to the back of the iPad. However, despite its appearances, the bracket and camera are sturdy when attached and function as if the Structure Sensor were an integral part of the tablet.
The biggest feature of the Structure Sensor is that it was designed as a piece of standalone hardware and not a custom attachment for a specific program. Occipital, the makers of the Structure Sensor published an SDK for the hardware very early on. This development philosophy helps establish this hardware as a well-supported attachment to the iPad. There are over 80 apps built for Structure Sensor as of December 2018.
Rapid 3D scanning of objects and people and 3D scanning of interior spaces were the features I used. The sensor can also be combined with a virtual reality headset to provide augmented reality experiences that incorporate real integration of the 3D environment.
I’ll talk about two of the apps I was able to use with the sensor.
Scanner – Structure Sensor Sample
The scanner app allows you to capture 3D models of objects and people by simply walking around them with your iPad and the Structure Sensor accessory. Captured objects can be sent via email (uses OBJ format). The camera collects color information as well to make a texture file. When scanning I got the best results moving the iPad up and down to cover the entire model and then making sure I captured distinct areas, such as the face, all at once so that the iPad would provide the best result when the data is stitched together. Having patience is important; moving too quickly will cause the model to not be assembled correctly. I make models of each of my children. You can see that the model I made of my son’s hair is corrupted on one of my earlier tries.
After some practice, I got the hang of it and was able to capture both of my children without any model errors. Here’s a model of my daughter.
You can view the full model here. The models import into the Windows 10, 3d builder in the wrong orientation and with an error, but the orientation can be rotated and the error is fixed by the program.
Canvas
Canvas is another app for the Structure Sensor. This app is designed to render a room in 3D and has an option to have the 3D scan converted into a CAD (computer-aided design) file so that architects and builders can use the captured measurements as a starting point for modification.
I decided to model a downstairs hallway in my house that has a number of doors and a coat rack area in order to test the capabilities of the device. I had some guidelines to go on but since the time I have made the renderings and now, a video on the scanning process has been published by Occipital. The video below gives an impression of what it is like to use the software.
Once some familiarity is gained with using the software, the whole process is quite fun. The software indicates the rendering of the space by apparently covering it in a white foam. The end result is that the entire scanned area looks like it is covered in shaving cream or marshmallow.
Here are some pictures and screenshots that I made of the capturing process.
This shows a screenshot of the other end of the hallway.
Instead of showing the camera image, it is possible to show the image depth view rendered in false color
The model files I made include the stairwell going upstairs.
Here is a view of the stairs from the opposite angle.
This is my best rendering. The remainder of the attempts below have some shortcomings. Some, like the capture with an incomplete floor, would be fine for conversion into a CAD model.
Like the Scanner app, the models import into the Windows 10, 3d builder in the wrong orientation and with an error, but the orientation can be rotated and the error is fixed by the program. CloudCompare is a good cross-platform alternative, has a portable build, and doesn’t have any importing issues.
What I like
Unique device
Powerful features
Open development
What needs to be improved
Learning curve
Cost
The adhesive bracket may limit camera use
The camera cannot be used with a case
Final thoughts
With the Structure Sensor, a whole new dimension can be experienced with your iPad.
Price: $379 to $499 Where to buy: Structure Source: The sample for this review was provided by my employer.
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NEWS – This week I have four crowdfunding campaigns that are currently running on Kickstarter that I thought would be of interest to anyone with gadgets that need to be charged, gadgets that need to be carried, and more.
Baksteen – The last sling crossbody bag you’ll ever need!
What is it?
Baksteen is an anti-theft, crossbody sling bag made of waterproof canvas.
Why is it cool?
The Baksteen is different from other sling bags that I’ve seen and reviewed over the years. Instead of the typical teardrop shape of most sling bags, this one is boxier and although it is a unisex bag, it gives off more of a masculine vibe.
They sent me a pre-production version of the Baksteen bag and it’s well made and can collapse down pretty flat for easy storage in a larger bag. That makes it perfect for vacation use when you don’t need a huge bag that will hold your laptop and other daily gear.
This 5L capacity bag is better suited for holding just the essentials like your phone, wallet, notebook, small camera, snacks, etc.
Where can I find more info?
The Baksteen campaign ends on 1/21/19 they have already passed their funding goal of $2,643. You can pre-order a Baksteen bag starting at $84. After the Baksteen campaign ends, rewards are estimated to start shipping in February 2019. Visit their Kickstarter page for all the details.
The first battery always charged – Useful & Stylish
What is it?
Useful & Stylish is a 1000mAh backup battery with a form factor that is small enough to fit on your keychain.
Why is it cool?
The Useful & Stylish backup battery is cool because it’s so small and it charges via a wirless charging pad. The cable to connect the useful backup battery to your phone is a stylish looking bracelet. I was a little unsure about the small capacity of only 1000mAh, but this isn’t a battery that you expect to completely recharge your device. It’s an emergency battery backup for those critical times when your phone is about to die.
Where can I find more info?
The Useful & Stylish campaign ends on 1/12/19 they are still working towards their funding goal of $34,085. You can pre-order a Useful & Stylish charger and bracelet starting at $52. After the Useful & Stylish campaign ends, rewards are estimated to start shipping in March 2019. Visit their Kickstarter page for all the details.
Arriva Leo 5 Bluetooth v5 wireless headphones
What is it?
The Arriva Leo 5 is a Bluetooth v5 wireless headphone.
Why is it cool?
The Arriva Leo 5 is a Bluetooth v5 wireless headphone is cool because it’s built for extremes. Its unique customizable headband can be formed perfectly to the back of your head and it’s been designed not to get in the way of helmets, hats, glasses. The built-in battery will keep you entertained with your favorite tunes for up to 20hrs.
Where can I find more info?
The Arriva campaign ends on 1/10/19 they are still working towards their funding goal of $150,000. You can pre-order a Arriva Leo 5 Bluetooth headphone starting at $52. After the Arriva campaign ends, rewards are estimated to start shipping in March 2019. Visit their Kickstarter page for all the details.
Magnet Driver Space Rocket
What is it?
The Magnet Driver from Micaton is a precision screwdriver toolkit for tiny projects.
Why is it cool?
I like the Magnet Driver because it has a strong magnet holder tip so you won’t lose those tiny screws that are used to hold together our favorite gadgets, glasses, and other products. I also like that it is designed for one-handed use and it can be extended to 4 lengths for hard to reach areas.
Where can I find more info?
The Magnet Driver campaign ends on 1/14/19 they have already met and passed their funding goal of $24,996. You can pre-order a Magnet Driver starting at $29. After the Magnet Driver campaign ends, rewards are estimated to start shipping in July 2019. Visit their Kickstarter page for all the details.
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REVIEW – Almost every state in the USA now has laws prohibiting the handheld use of cell phones while driving. As a result, the marketplace has been flooded with auto mounts of various designs that hold your cell phone within reach and many offer wired or wireless charging as a feature. The Adonit Auto-Clamping Wireless Car Charger is a part of this very crowded field. Let’s see if it stands out as better than the rest.
What is it?
The Adonit Auto-Clamping Wireless Car Charger is a dashboard/windshield/vent mount for your cell phone that offers easy access to your phone and charges your phone while it is in the mount.
What is in the box
1 x Adonit Auto-Clamping Wireless Car Charger
1 x Micro USB cable
1 x DC Car Adapter Power Plug
1 x Air Vent Adapter
1 x Dashboard/Windshield Mounting Arm
1 x Instruction Manual
1 x Warranty Card
Design and features
Specifications: Input: DC 5V/2A or 9V/1.67A Output: 5W, 7.5W, 10W fast charging supported Charging Distance: ≤ 8mm Conversion Efficiency: > 75% Working Frequency: 110 – 205KHz Product Weight: 245g Product Dimension: 131x77x13mm Materials: ABS + Silicon Rubber
On the back of the charging unit, there is a ball mount that allows you to mount either the Air Vent Clip or the Windshield/Dashboard mounting arm.
The dashboard/windshield mount includes the ball mount on an extension arm that allows you to move the charging base and therefore the phone closer or further away from you. At the base of the mount, there is the suction mount pad and the mechanism to depress or lift to secure or remove the suction mount to or from the surface in the car. There is also a knob at the side that allows you to raise or lower the extension arm.
At the bottom of the charging unit, there it the micro USB port that you plug the micro USB cable into to provide power to the unit and to the left of that port is a LED that shines green when the unit is receiving power and a phone is in the mount.
On the face of the charging unit/cell phone holder, there is the Qi wireless charging interface in the middle and an infrared sensor at the bottom that allows the unit to detect when a phone is near so that it opens and closes the securing arms.
On the lower left side of the charging unit, there is a silver touchpad that when touched triggers the arms to open so that you can remove the phone.
The DC power adapter plug has 2 ports, a quick charge 3.0 port, and a 3.1A port and a blue LED light around its surface.
Performance
The Adonit Auto-Clamping Wireless Car Charger performs as expected. As you can see in the pictures below, I use the mount on my dashboard. While I did quickly test the air vent mount and can confirm that it does clamp onto the vent louver as it is designed to do, I absolutely despise air vent mounts and chose to use the dashboard mount since I have other devices mounted to my windshield. The mount with the phone it is very stable even when driving on rough surfaces. So far, the phone has never dislodged from the base unit. The one issue that I have with it is that the infrared sensor in the base unit is very sensitive and even when I am sitting back in my seat, it will at times detect me or some movement and the arms will repeatedly open and close even though I am not attempting to mount a phone. The arms also make a very annoying squeaking sound when moving. In terms of charging my phone, I usually have varying amounts of charge remaining on my battery phone when I place it in the mount, and I have never tested the charging when my phone battery is completely drained. However, I am very impressed at how quickly this mount charges my iPhone 10 XS Max.
What I like
The build quality
The grip of the securing arms
The wireless charging feature’
The sturdy dashboard/windshield mount
The overall appearance
What can be improved
The sensitivity of the sensor that controls the gripping arms so that it does not activate so easily and from so far away
Possible the addition of a baseplate for the bottom of the phone to rest on
Final thoughts
This dash mount/windshield mount wireless charger works well and I have been using it continuously since the day I opened the box. I was concerned that with just 2 side arms/clamps and no baseplate to hold the phone, that it would fall when driving on bumpy roads or in the case of a sudden stop. So far, it has proven me wrong and has held strong. Only time will tell if continuous use reduces the clamping power and grip on the phone. Other than the overly sensitive sensor for the automatic arms that grip the phone, this charger is well made and a good buy.
Price: $48.74 Where to buy: Amazon Source: The sample for this review was provided by Adonit.
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ARTICLE – If you have older parents, grandparents, and friends on your holiday list this year, here are some gift ideas to help you out with your shopping tasks.
NurtureWatch
Everybody wants their independence, but some people have physical, emotional, mental, or other problems that mean they may need a little extra help maintaining that independence. If you have a loved one who needs a little extra help from you, get them the NutureWatch. This watch is a lifeline between you and them. And because they wear it, your loved one will have that lifeline with them wherever they are, even when they aren’t at home.
The watch allows you to monitor their heart rate from anywhere in the world using the associated app. You can see their GPS location, and you can even set up geofencing around Safe Zones for them and get an alarm if they leave that area. You can pre-define three contacts on the watch, which can be dialed quickly just with a tap on the screen whenever the wearer needs to talk to a caregiver. The NutureWatch can sense falls and send out alarms to all three caregivers within seconds of the fall. And there’s a red button the wearer can push and make a phone call in an emergency.
“With heart rate monitoring technology, SOS Distress Alert options, abrupt movement detection (which may indicate a fall), watch location history and navigation, and Safe Zones, the NurtureWatch offers a sense of security and connection and will aid in improving quality of life for seniors.”
Price: $199, but can be free with certain monthly monitoring plans. A monitoring plan is required. Where to buy: NutureWatch
Nixplay WiFi Cloud Frame
Need a way to send photos to grandparents without having to have your digital photos printed out and mailed? Get your folks the Nixplay WiFi Cloud Frame, and you can send them updated photos without ever licking a stamp. Julie reviewed this digital frame, and she said she liked it better than any of the other digital frames she’s reviewed. She said it had great images, and it was controllable by remote control, motion detection, or scheduling. It’s even easier now to send photos to the Nixplay frame than when she first reviewed it. Google opened their API partner program for Google Photos. Nixplay is one of the first companies to join this partnership program, and they have integrated it into their Nixplay mobile application. What does this mean for the Nixplay frames? It means that when you connect your Google Photos account to your frame, albums that you create in Google Photos will automatically sync with the frame every hour. Gramma and Gramps are going to love all the photos they’ll be getting daily!
After some years of living, your hands and wrists start to show the wear-and-tear of daily living, working, and playing. Reading may not be as enjoyable anymore because books, or even tablets, can be uncomfortable to hold. Or maybe your hands are fine, but you have more time to enjoy hobbies now and need a stand to hold a cookbook while you whip up dinner or to hold sheet music or knitting patterns while you enjoy your leisure time. The Bamboo Reading Rest book stand can hold anything you need it to hold.
It can be adjusted to six viewing angles, so you can find the one most comfortable for you. It’s sturdy and stable, and the holding arms can accommodate even thick books. And it folds up flat for storage when you aren’t using it.
I’ve found now that I’m of a certain age, I just don’t want to vacuum and mop floors. Unfortunately, neither does anyone else in my house, so I need a friendly little robot to do those chores for me. The Roborock S5 will not only vacuum, it will also mop your floors! It also has the GPS functionality to map out your house and all its rooms, finding and avoiding obstacles. And it handles carpets, rugs, hardwoods, and other hard floors without a problem. The app allows you to send the robot out to vacuum your whole house at once, or it will allow you to draw a zone on the house map to show the robot which room or area to clean now. It does a great job, and it’s quiet enough to even use at night so you wake up to a clean floor. It’s not cheap, but it’s much cheaper than maid service!
For avid readers who may find they can’t hold books because of arthritic hands or who have downsized and don’t have storage for physical books, an eBook reader is ideal. Amazon’s Kindle Oasis is great for seniors. The shape of the back makes it easier to hold. The eInk screen is easy to read because of the high-contrast, non-reflective display. If you need a little extra light for easier reading, the Oasis has a built-in book light that uniformly illuminates the screen. It has enough storage for a library of books and magazines, and you can easily send new reading material from Amazon to their Oasis even if they don’t have WiFi at home. And Oasis is Amazon’s first waterproof Kindle, which means it’s safe from accidental spills. And the battery lasts for days, not hours, for longer reading times between battery charges.
Cuisinart CPK-17 PerfecTemp 1.7-liter electric kettle
Having a quick, easy source of hot water for tea, coffee, and instant soups, oatmeal, or noodles without having to heat up the stove every time makes meals and snacks easier. The Cuisinart CPK-17 PerfecTemp electric kettle is a great tool for anyone’s kitchen. The pot quickly heats up water to your pre-selected temperature and can hold it there for 30 minutes so you can decide to have a second serving without having to start the kettle again. You don’t have to worry about the dangers of a kettle boiling dry with the Cuisinart, because it will automatically turn off. The pot lifts off the base, so you can easily pour without worrying about getting the electrical cord tangled up and causing a spill.
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Space Rocket
