Design News

March 5, 2015 Marks First National Industrial Design Day

March 5, 2015 is being entered into the U.S. Congressional Record as the first National Industrial Design Day. U.S. Rep. Gerald E. Connolly declared industrial design professionals “improve our lives in every way and are worthy of our recognition.”

In the United States, product design and related services generate billions of dollars in sales and the number of U.S. awarded design patents has reached an all-time high. “The economic impact of this industry helps fuel our nation’s economy,” said Connolly.

Engines Exposed!

Through March 15 at The Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn, MI, auto enthusiasts will have a rare chance to take a peek at what sparked some of the most iconic vehicles ever to hit the road.

For the first time in five years, more than 40 vehicles in the "Driving America" exhibit have had their hoods popped. Visitors are checking out engines in vehicles including the 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air, 1948 Tucker 48 Sedan, 1936 Lincoln Zephyr and 1916 Woods Dual Hybrid Coupe.

Making Designs a Reality

Are you a professional who makes designs a reality? Or do you put together machines or prototypes in your spare time? 

New York City-based Left/Right TV is searching for companies or groups of friends who fabricate and design functional, physical products—for work or for fun—to answer a nationwide casting call for a possible reality television show pilot. The production company is looking for inventors and makers who tackle new projects weekly, and troubleshoot challenges along the way.

MD Steps Up for Design

The Indsutrial Designers Society of America (IDSA) has joined the movement to create the Maryland Design Excellence Commission. IDSA Executive Director Daniel Martinage has submitted a letter to the chair and vice chair of the Maryland General Assembly's Senate Finance Committee, asking lawmakers to pass SB581/HB1084 as "an important investment by the State of Maryland in the current and future quality of life for all Maryland citizens that will bring a return on this investment in multiple ways."

"IDSA, headquartered in the National Capital region, proudly is marking its 50th year," writes Martinage. "The Society represents thousands of members around the world and across the country including designers in Maryland via the IDSA Mid-Atlantic Chapter. Indeed, awareness and support of the design field is growing; March 5 was entered into the U.S. Congressional Record this year as the first National Industrial Design Day."

IDSA believes establishment of the Maryland Design Excellence Commission "will develop design-driven innovation programs and outcomes fostering sustainable economic development, competitive job growth, effective government services and livable communities for all Maryland citizens."

 

Strengthening Global Ties

For the first time, a Cuban ambassador to Germany has visited one of that country’s leading design schools, helping to mark its 100th anniversary. On Feb. 10, Cuban Ambassador to Germany Rene Mujica Cantelar toured the Burg Giebichenstein University of Art and Design in Halle, Germany to assess its longtime collaboration with two Cuban schools.

Pioneer of Modern Japanese ID Passes

Kenji Ekuan, I/IDSA, considered one of the pioneers of modern Japanese industrial design, has died at the age of 85. His office reports Ekuan died Feb. 8 at a Tokyo hospital from "sick sinus syndrome," a collection of heart rhythm disorders.

Ekuan perhaps was best known for designing the iconic Kikkoman soy sauce bottle in 1961. The teardrop-shaped bottle with a red plastic, anti-drip top is still made today. One is on display at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City.

Showcasing Innovation in Seattle

Minnesota-based Proto Labs says it's looking forward to showcasing the winners of its latest $250,000 Cool Idea! Award at IDSA’s International Conference in Seattle this summer. "We hope the innovative products will spur discussion and inspire attendees to come up with their own designs to help create a better future," says Sarah Ekenberg Braun, marketing program manager at Proto Labs.

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