Make the Volume Bigger January 28, 2008
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Desktop earbuds are probably the most appropriate (and obvious) third party Apple add-on, yet aren’t part of the ever-expanding iPod ecosystem. If the 500XL mock up from Fred & Friends wasn’t so clearly photoshopped, we might seriously consider adding Magnification as a sixth pattern for inventive thinking. Even though the concept works as a tongue in cheek instance of Attribute Dependency, we firmly believe “bigger IS really better, especially when it comes to sound,” and earbuds.
Plus, there’s already substantial evidence that it works for logos…
Simple As Possible, But Not Simplistic January 23, 2008
Posted by goodmind in Subtraction.add a comment
The Eazzzy USB Camera was invented with this blog in mind, as evidenced by Gizmodo’s post on the design;
“What do you get when you develop a digital camera that lacks one of the most important benefits that digital cameras provide? This EazzzY USB camera concept from designer Sungwoo Park that’s what. The device is stripped down to its bare functions—only one button, a pinhole sized viewfinder, and USB connectivity.”
Apparently this camera is intended for the consumer nostalgic for the mystery and suspense afforded by a traditional film camera, and the time consuming photo development process. Seeing as it comes standard with a built in USB port, the “thrill” of not knowing how your shots came out is subject to the same effects of Subtraction as the design and functionality.
Subtracting the LCD display from the digital camera restores some of the guesswork to traditional photography, and simultaneously refines the process of transferring digital data from one device to another. We also think the Happy Meal aesthetic of the Eazzzy USB camera makes it the perfect accessory for the OLPC Laptop (One Laptop Per Child).
An Apple TV Remote? January 22, 2008
Posted by goodmind in Attribute Dependency, Subtraction, Task Unification.add a comment
Universal remote controls were a nice idea in theory, but proved to be less than practical as an all-in-one device management system. It’s a shame really, as entertainment components and peripherals have continued to multiply at an alarming rate. The cynics among us might interpret the commercial failure of the Universal Remote as defining the limits of Inventive Thinking. We say, wanna make a bet?
Just because Task Unification didn’t take, doesn’t mean the conventional remote control is immune to creative design that will benefit the consumer. Combining poker’s persisting popularity with a hint of Wiimote functionality and an iPod inspired interface, produces a winning example of Subtraction through Attribute Dependency;
“The Game Card remote enables you to control volume and change channels all via card playing like gestures. Sliding your thumb up and down in the center raises/lowers volume. Sliding the top card over a tad changes channel. Sliding it all the way takes you on a wild channel surf.” (via Yanko Design)
The Universal Remote tried to get away with an age old accounting shortcut; “subtracting” the number of necessary peripherals by transferring the remaining balance of buttons to a single device. The Game Card subtracts buttons from the equation altogether, indirectly addressing the original problem of “where is the %*#@ remote?”
Thus, we consider the Game Card remote a welcome addition to an already extensive collection of “clickers,” because its unorthodox design will no doubt make it easy to find. Well, assuming you don’t get it mixed up with your iPod…
Addicted to Attribute Dependency January 21, 2008
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We really hope that the testimony and evidence that went into compiling the Mitchell Report is backed up on one of these “data injection” storage drives from dialog05. 
It’s an Attribute Dependency change for a different kind of dependency.
Investing in the other kind of Mitts January 10, 2008
Posted by goodmind in Task Unification.add a comment
Nothing screams kitsch quite like a novelty apron, but the Oven Mitt Apron might just be an exception to the rule. SwissMiss correctly points out that the problem of the M.I.A. mitt is solved through a bit of handy Task Unification.
However, we’ll go for the more obvious benefit of attaching oven mitts to an apron. This stylish garment eliminates any excuse for eschewing hand protection altogether for those among us who take the expression “If you can’t stand the heat” to heart. The Oven Mitt Apron creatively prevents the user from suffering third degree burns, and the ignominy of a “Kiss the Cook” apron.
We rank this one right up there with the mittens on a string concept.
Free Air January 9, 2008
Posted by goodmind in Subtraction.add a comment
If you’ve already ponied up the cash for a subscription to satellite radio, this advertisement for a local terrestrial radio station will make you reconsider your commercial free ways. Posing as the standard giveaway contest, 96.3 Rock Radio uses Subtraction to make passerby take pause and ponder the connection between broadcast airwaves and air guitar. Both are free, with no peripherals required.
(via ad goodness)
The Inventive Thinking Project 
