Archive for December, 2007

Get a Grip

December 14, 2007 Post a Comment (19 Comments)

Ever since the introduction of our new ThinkStation line of workstations I’ve seen lots of commentary about handles on computer towers. Just to set the record straight we have had handles on towers from day one. The first tower ever designed by IBM (PS/2 Model 80) had a folding handle to make moving it around easier. The PS/1 tower designed by Richard Sapper in the early 90’s had a clever handle that was integral to the front bezel. The new handle on the ThinkStation products is very similar in appearance and utility to the PS/1 version. For rack mounting the ThinkStation handles are easily removed.

PS/1 Sapper design model circa 1992

The comments about us copying the handle created by the “fruit” company are just plain wrong. But enough about that. What I’m interested in is the true value that a handle provides. I think it is very useful, I would love to get your thoughts on this topic.

David Hill

Posted in Design Innovation | 19 Comments »

Design Classics: Magnetic Finger

December 4, 2007 Post a Comment (4 Comments)

Okay so maybe this one doesn’t qualify as a classic based on time in market but I can’t help but include it in my list of favorite things. Being a motorcycle buff who likes to spin wrenches, my first exposure to this product brought a instant smile to my face. Why didn’t I think of this! For years the mechanics trick has been to apply a dab of contact cement or even spit to the tip of your finger to hold small nuts in place for tightening. Unfortunately even these tricks don’t always work. The use of a magnet embedded in the tip of a finger glove is pure brilliance. There are lots of creative ways to use magnets to solve design problems. This is the kind of design that intrigues me; design that solves problems in new ways.

Great holiday gift for the mechanically inclined. Buy yours here.

http://www.magneticfinger.com/

David Hill

Posted in Classics | 4 Comments »