In the case of the Athena sofa, I could easily make it into an office. I mean, it has an LCD in each armrest that are integrated by a multimedia PC.

As you can see, these screens pop out of the armrests itself and flatten themselves out when not in use. (I wouldn’t rest my coffee cup there, though. At least not without a coaster.)

I see that one of them has a keyboard, but if they were touchscreens, then I’d have a fun time running all my operations with Windows 7.

The Athena sofa also comes with an iPhone and iPod dock, and a set of hidden speakers that include an 8-inch subwoofer.

Like I said before, I could easily live here. I would imagine that after a few days, I would de-evolve into a giant single-cell organism and be the first actual couch potato.

Of course, there is a price to pay for such comfort. In this case, the price is about $15,436. I’m assuming that is the price without the moving cost.

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If only I had a way to check if someone has entered my home. I suppose that I could get a camera that is connected wirelessly to the Internet and point it at my front door, or I could use Kwikset’s locking mechanism.

These electronic locksets by Kwikset work with Control4 and the Schlage LiNK system to send you an email when someone enters the door (with the correct combination, of course).

So I suppose that this system would be a good way to police the people who come and go to your door with the proper combination. In other words, it’s probably made for parents with latchkey kids, and not a burglar alarm. Unless the burglar is smart enough to steal the code from you somehow. I wonder if it could be programed to send a message when someone inputs the wrong code.

Both the Control4 and Schlage systems can be programmed for other functions, such as operating the lights, television, or even window shades. The Schlage locks cost about $200, and about $13 per month for the email notification.

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New Sole curved solar tiles promise to improve solar power generating efficiency ...

Last year, we reported on the development of solar roofing tiles which can take the place of asphalt based roofs and do double duty. But in California, many of the roofs use clay tiles which are layered onto another and give a Spanish style hacienda look. So, while solar tiles have been an intriguing (but sadly, not very efficient) solution to generating solar power, a great many in the Southwest couldn’t embrace the technology. Then came along the Solé.

Made by SRS Energy and available through US Tile, these clay tile looking solar panels are the first curved roof tiles designed for southwestern homes which offer the solar power options. Power wise, a 30 tile section, which has a 3 inch overlap and 14 inch exposure area, can generate 860 kilowatts her hour during a 6 hour solar exposure.

And it seems that SRS has improved the efficiency issue a bit as these tiles are claimed to provide between eight and twenty percent more solar energy than the crystalline silicon panels reported on last year.

And the tiles are independent so that if one tile goes down, the whole system stays generating. Installation comes with SRS monitoring your tiles to make sure they stay healthy and generating power at their maximum output.

The tiles are currently undergoing testing in Philadelphia, but are available through both the SRS and US Tile websites.

Hat Tip – GizMag

What makes the cabinets think that they are so smart is that they can “automatically fold and disappear”. Apparently, these cabinet doors don’t need hinges, but rise and fall vertically, like cabinets in a science fiction movie. All it takes from the user is a wave of the hand or a tap on the sensor, and the cabinet doors slide open and closed, hopefully with a cool-sounding whoosh sound.

Another feature is that some cabinets feature biometric scanners, so you can keep other people from stealing your secret ingredients. For example, if you don’t want your kids to raid your liquor cabinet, make it so only you can access it.

So what does that mean? It will make cooking easier by insuring that you don’t take the trouble of opening your cabinet doors. That’s right, if you want to cook something, then you can use a pre-set program so all the right doors open for flour, sugar, etc..

I got to admit that this is a good application for “smart house” technology. However, I don’t have any word of the cost of such a system. It can’t be too cheap.

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Yes, for some reason, the United Federation of Planets outlawed the doorknob sometime before the 23rd century, and all doors must open with an odd swish sound effect, provided the user is in close proximity.

This is very similar to the Blueguard, which is able to open your garage door when you get 33 feet of it. It uses Bluetooth wireless technology on your cellular phone to detect when you are close. It has the capacity to obtain a signal from 10 cellular phones.

So you don’t have to hit a button or use RFID or access cards when you approach the garage. You can even set it to work as you walk up to the door, or make certain the user is in a vehicle before the garage opens up.

For some reason, I cannot find a price for this item, even on the Product Page. Too bad there isn’t a way to put a Blueguard on every door in my house, but none of them slide open like my garage.

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Product Page via Uncrate

The AV|Shadow allows for switching channels, selecting chapters for a DVD, and even allows for adjusting the volume on the user’s audio receiver. It uses Bluetooth Technology, so the user doesn’t have to point at the screen or any other video device.

The user can customize their own settings, and the interface is set up in a circular pattern, perfect for the BlackBerry Trackball. The AV|Shadow is set up for TV, Satellite, Cable, Apple TV, TiVo, DVD, DVR/PVR, VCR, Blu-Ray, iPod, Mircosoft Media Center, even gaming consoles like the PS3.

The AV|Shadow is enough inspiration for any company, but Unify4Life also has another useful application called the Garage|Shadow. This device turns a BlackBerry into a garage door opener. It is easy to install and use, and now the user doesn’t have to worry about losing their RF remotes any more.

Both of these products are available on the Unify4Life website. They are expected to ship in the next few days for a price of $99.99 each.

Here’s another option for those of you on the lookout for cheap home security while you’re away on vacation.  It’s of course never going to be as good as a security system that’s installed into your home, however, it’ll at least help.  This little box when flipped on simulates the flickering glow of a television.  Which in most situations would be enough that burglars would move onto the next home.  Since the path of least resistance is ideal, they’re not going to want to go into a home where someone is already home.

Yes, you could set a timer up to make your own TV flip on and off.  However, this little lighted box uses 2% of the power used by your average television.  There is also the option of getting a timer for your lights and it’d cost  you about the same.  It just all depends on your personal preference and luckily the seller distributes both.  So you can compare and choose the best choice for your home.  You can pick this up for $39.95 on Hammacher and Schlemmer.

Source: HomeImprovementIdeas

If you have a tendency to forget to turn on the lights and sit in the dark, you might need a gadget to help you remember to turn on those pesky high maintenance lights.  I say that jokingly, but I actually know people that just flat out don’t want to get up to turn on the light.  This gadget will make your light kick on at the exact moment the sun starts to set.  Which means you’ll never have to deal with the dark again.  Granted you could just get up and turn on the light, but where’s the fun in that?

Not only does it kick on for you, if you want the lights to be either on or off when they’re not, there is a manual override switch.  Which means if it’s a little gloomy out that day, you can kick the lights on a little early.  It doesn’t work by a sensor that lets it know it’s dark outside, instead you just punch in your location.  It has a built-in clock that will figure out when the sun sets in your area.  However, it doesn’t actually adjust for daylight savings time.  You can pick it up for $39.99 on SmartHome.

Source: OhGizmo

Lutron has updated their services by offering a lighting system that is controlled by an iPhone or even an iPod Touch. It works by simply screwing wireless modules into the lamps themselves, and then you can take control.

By control, I mean that you can dim or brighten your lights from across the room by a mobile device. You can even use the application to split up the rooms of your house so you don’t lose track of what lights are shining.

This device is somewhat similar to the zControl from Actiontec, except you can only control the lights, not the other electrical appliances. However, that particular device will cost a little more than the free application for the iPhone.

Yes, that’s right, the app is free, but it is not available now. You should be able to get it in January. I highly suggest that Lutron have this application on display at CES 2009. Trust me Lutron, guaranteed sales.

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This is one of the uses for the Schlage LiNK, a system of locks and deadbolts that can be unlocked using a cellular phone or Internet connection. All a user needs to do is enter in a 4-digit access code on their device, and wireless Z-Wave technology unlocks and opens the pre-programmed doors.

These access codes can be changed for specific days or times of the day, and it will automatically send the user emails or text messages whenever the codes are used. That way, if someone managed to bypass your access code, you will be informed of it.

Of course, the chances of anyone getting by your personal PIN number are pretty slim as the Schlage locks have the Secure Socket Layer, a security system used by most banks.

If you are the type that wants this type of security connected to your wireless device, you should be able to purchase the Schlage LiNK Starter Kit for about $299. You should know that the cost doesn’t stop there, as there is a $12.99 monthly fee.

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The Gnome-Be-Gone’s aren’t just interested in getting rid of gnomes in your garden. They’ll also weed out any flamingos that might be hanging around too. Includes 2 Gnome-Be-Gones and 1 resin pink flamingo. Handmade using recycled components by uber artist Fred Conlon. Fred’s amazingly fun, funky, and always very unique art, has appeared in art galleries, festivals and shows across the country. Measures approximately 24″ long x 16″ wide. Metal will acquire a rust patina finish with outdoor use.

Pretty pricey outdoor decorations to have IMHO. You will need to fork out $124.99 for this.

The Third Hand Adjustable Parts Holder might not be quite as incredible as having an actual third hand, but it’s still very useful and always ready to assist. Two adjustable arms with alligator clip jaws hold parts in place and the magnifying lens is perfect for getting a detailed view of your work area. Great for holding circuitboards when performing soldering or doing precision repairs or assembly.

The Third Hard will retail for $6.99 a pop.

As much as I can’t stand that Extreme Makeover: Home Edition show, I wouldn’t mind if Ty and his buddies came to my house and whipped it into shape with a few sledgehammers and new furniture.

There is one thing that I never see the Extreme Makeover team do: connect all electronic devices in the household together, seamlessly. In other words, all the electronic devices (TV, PC, etc.) are all wired or shared together seamlessly in a true Digital Home Makeover.

It appears that Microsoft wants to fill that homeowner’s need with the launching of their Digital Home Makeover Contest. To enter, you have to make a video of yourself creatively explaining why you need a Digital Home Makeover.

If you win, your dream will come true, and Microsoft will come to your door. They will then apply their Windows Media Center and Extenders for Windows Media Center to make your home completely connected. By connected, I mean that every room will have full access to your digital material.

If you are drooling over this, you had better hurry and make your video, submit it here, and enter by April 18. You won’t have to wait too long to see if you won, because the winner will be announced on April 30.

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LG Electronics has just rolled out a new home appliance, notably the SteamWasher with Allergiene cycle, touting it to be the first washing machine that has been given certification for being asthma & allergy friendly by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA). Apparently, LG hopes that this new home appliance will be able to do its part when it comes to helping out consumers and patients with asthma and allergic diseases. Sounds pretty nifty to me, but is it really that effective as claimed? Only real-world use of it will tell with time,but for the moment let us check out additional details concerning this LG offering after the jump.

The combination of a washer and dryer into one compact unit is ideal for consumers who want to do laundry at home and benefit from the allergen-reduction cycle, but do not have the space for both a washer and dryer or an external venting source necessary for conventional dryers. This unit runs on standard voltage electricity and is great for placement in closets; it’s also the perfect solution for space constrained apartments, businesses and vacation homes. At 4.2 cubic feet, this model is the largest capacity front-load combination unit available, enabling users to do larger loads of laundry, thereby saving time and energy.

The LG SteamWasher and Dryer Combo with Allergiene cycle utilizes LG’s TrueSteam Generator for real steam in the wash tub. The steam technology allows the wash to reach the appropriate temperature necessary to breakdown and wash out allergens – without harming fabrics. The Allergiene cycle has been expertly designed to effectively remove more than 95 percent of allergens and gently clean clothes. The use of steam technology offers exceptional cleaning power for outstanding performance and includes other features such as:

• SteamWash – feeds hot steam into the top of the wash drum through a spray nozzle to penetrate the fabrics; removes dirt and stubborn stains; and better dissolves cleaning agents without causing excessive wear and tear on garments.
• SteamFresh – the SteamWasher’s 20-minute steam-only cycle uses steam to freshen and reduce wrinkles on clothes- resulting in less ironing and fewer trips to the dry cleaner.

The LG SteamWasher and Dryer Combo with Allergiene cycle will come in a white finish, retailing for $1,999.

Press Release

Step-by-step bright lights let you know when to stop safely, preventing accidents and making this reliable garage parking system a must-buy for owners of larger vehicles such as a mini van, MPV or large estate car. Order your Garage Parking Sensor today and park safely and confidently every time.

Installation is a snap, but do take note that should you choose to power it via batteries, do perform checks from time to time to make sure that there is enough power left. The Garage Parking Signal at £14.95 surely is a bargain.

This motorized light bulb changing system helps to replace hard to reach light bulbs both indoors and outdoors. It features a telescoping handle and articulating head, as well as a powered vacuum that holds bulbs securely. It is 7 ft. long fully extended and comes with a detachable remote control.

$79.95 or some endless nagging to get the job done? You decide.

Today, I found out that someone took something from my dreams and made it into reality. You see, I always hoped to have a bathtub that is completely automated. I suppose it is kind of a pathetic dream that I have, but Bath-O-Matic has made it a reality.

If I want the temperature of the water to be a certain amount of degrees, I can have it without having to fiddle around with Hot and Cold knobs. Also, I can start the water and leave the room without ever worrying about overflow.

These are just a few of the features of the Bath-O-Matic. Unique Automation, the company that makes this product/service, has exceeded my expectations and added even more cool features. Apparently, the Bath-O-Matic has a remote control, so you can start your bath from your living room. There is even the option of mixing a combination of oils, bubbles, and fragrances so you can have a scent-ual bathing experience. Talk about aroma therapy.

I have to admit, it sounds the Bath-O-Matic could seriously revolution bathing as we know it. I’m not certain whether this is available now, or if it is still under development. The website is pretty minimal at best, but other articles about this product have already given me a price of about $8,000. That might be a high price to pay to let Calgon take you away.

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Just because pet lovers travel a lot, doesn’t mean they have to inconvience neighbors or put their pets in a kennel so they don’t die of starvation. With iSeePet360, travelers who have pets can now feed and water their canine or feline loved ones with the power of the internet through remote desktop or some other remote internet application.

The USB powered Remote Pet feeder comes with a built in webcam so you can keep an eye on Fido while the feeder can be programmed to dispense food up to eight times a day, seven days a week. Setup is fairly straight forward as it plugs directly into a computer’s USB port. The Pet Feeder can be accessed via the Internet through the USB connection. The feed hopper is fairly large as well, being ideal for dogs over 15 pounds. And the feeder doesn’t just dump the food either, it parcels it out, slowly, over the course of several minutes with a slow-moving auger.

And the software will also email users periodical photos from the feeder at scheduled times so that users can check up on their pets eating habits.

Cost is a hefty $298 ($300 in disguise) and is available through Smart Home.

Hat tip: Oh Gizmo!

I had a chance to meet with the nice people from Actiontec, who showed me their latest device, the zControl.

The zControl is a “home management system” that allows you to control devices in your home such as the lights, powered shades, garage doors, even your thermostat!

Actiontec showed me the menu, and it is a control panel that allows you click your devices on and off. Not only that, there were settings that can do an all-off, all-on, or whatever you wish. For example, if you want the lights dimmed for a more romantic or relaxed setting, just set it up and click it into being.

Not only can you control your home devices from your computer, but you can control them from any computer. All you need is an Internet connection, and you can even monitor your home via (non-included) IP cameras. In fact, I am told that you can even use your cell phone as a controller. That will come in handy when you get home, and turn your lights on with your cell.

I believe a product like this can really make a splash, because I think we all know that full control of your home from the computer is where every household is headed. You can get a piece of this when the Actiontec zControl Starter Kit becomes available next month for a price of $399.

By the way, the Actiontec’s zControl was named a CES Innovations 2008 Awards Honoree as one of the most innovative products in the home networking category.

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