Thu, Mar 31 2011
One night. 7500 Wrapsters. 35 staffers (and friends). Open bar. Go.
For more pics, check out our Facebook page.
One night. 7500 Wrapsters. 35 staffers (and friends). Open bar. Go.
For more pics, check out our Facebook page.
A ginormous THANK YOU to everyone who stopped by our lil’ shindig last night. We stayed past 2am wrapping thousands upon thousands of Wrapsters, and as a result, we’ll be able to fulfill our March orders without the additional packaging expense. A fun video (and better photos) of the festivities is on the way, but we didn’t want to delay telling you that you seriously, seriously rock. Like, big-time.
Love, The Quirky Team
Hey guys and gals!
My name is Andy Garcia (not the actor). I’m the newest addition to Quirky, and I’m pumped as heck about it. I proudly hail from northern New Jersey — but I don’t sport a fake tan, have abnormally large muscles, or own an Ed Hardy t-shirt. I’m a pretty normal dude actually. I’m a lover of independent music of all genres, I play electric guitar, I’m a hobby photographer, and I’m a deep thinker. Last important tidbit: I’m a 2009 alum of The College of New Jersey and I miss it so much — Go Lions!
So, I’ve been brought on to the Quirky team as a Community Ambassador, and I’m excited to interact with the community and be a witness to the awesomeness that the community (along with the Quirky team) is creating. I’m honored to be a part of this movement and I’m looking forward to the challenges and rewards that the work will bring!
Eval recaps sum up the research and discussion that go into selecting winning submissions at Quirky. The info in recaps focuses on general landscape, opportunities and concerns, with a strong bias for Quirky’s business interests. We will not tell people what to do with their ideas if we do not choose it, but this info should give general guidance to submitters and other inventors who want to understand our decision-making process.
EVAL 116:
Inventor: Marc Rumaner
Selected: Dog Bowl
Community: 23
D: 4
M: 3
V: 8
Staff: 14
Total: 52
Design felt that this solution could potentially get in the dog’s way. However, exploring “doggy meal time” could be a worthwhile endeavor, as there are many difficulties associated with preparation and clean-up. Market didn’t think this was a very big problem, and our market would be essentially limited to old people and people with bad backs. The market for dog bowls is very competitive and it might be a bit off-brand for Quirky. Viability said that this product would be super simple to make. They noted that though patents exist for pet bowls with upright handles, none exist for telescoping handles, thus there would be a possible chance for patent protection. In the end, we decided to go with this product because there is definitely a lot of room for improving the entire process of feeding your dog, the market is potentially very large, and this sort of product is something we can make very well.
Inventor: Gary Rose
Selected: Stemware Saver
Community: 16
D: 4
M: 5
V: 7
Staff: 9
Total: 41
Design recognized the stated problem as something that indeed does need to be addressed. Solutions on the market are generally not very aesthetically pleasing. Market felt that this could be a good problem-solving product for impulse buyers. However, it already exists and there would be a concern about taking up too much space in the dishwasher. Viability felt that these would need to be sold in packs, perhaps 4 for $20. It would be simple to make and though some similar patents exist, nothing describes the cage idea so there could be protection possibility. All in all, we decided to push this product into development because this is a real problem and a market that needs some forward thinking design, something we do very well.
The Rest of the Field:
Inventor: Ryan Kent
Submission: Emergency Light
Community: 38
D: 6
M: 7
V: 6
Staff: 0
Total: 57
Design felt that this was a good solution to a real problem. There would be an interesting engineering challenge in exploring how the product distinguishes between lights turned off and a power cut. Potentially a must-have product in schools, family homes, etc. Market thought there definitely exists sufficient demand for a solution like this and distribution potential is quite large. We would have to make sure it is a universally usable product. There could be a problem with competing against respected, dependable brand names. Viability noted that we would have to find a supplier for the sensor part. There didn’t seem to be any patents out there for this specific design, so protection could be available.
Inventor: Marvin Blaine
Submission: Utensil Storage
Community: 26
D: 4
M: 4
V: 7
Staff: 0
Total: 41
Design agreed that storing large utensils is definitely a difficulty. However, we already have a rail system in development. Perhaps this could be a line extension. Market thought that perhaps a simpler solution would fare better with consumers, especially since the market is extremely crowded with both kitchen drawers and utensil holders. Viability had no manufacturing difficulties, but did not not think it was very likely to be patentable, as it is very much public domain.
Inventor: Michelle Brewster
Submission: Homework Station
Community: 18
D: 4
M: 5
V: 5
Staff: 0
Total: 32
Desing didn’t think that many students would want to trade their backpacks for this product, regardless of how useful or well made it was. We would look to incorporate mobile work stations for commuters and business travelers. Market thought this solution does solve a common problem. We have the distribution for this through Back to College. We would be competing in a fashion/trendy space. There was some questioning of whether the combination of these features make sense. Viability noted that softgoods are still not “our thing”. Though we could possibiy get this patented, it wouldn’t be very meaningful.
Inventor: Davide Ferrari
Submission: Spray Bottle
Community: 18
D: 3
M: 2
V: 6
Staff: 0
Total: 29
Design found several similar solutions already on the market and the proposed design would most likely be not much better than those. Though it solves a common problem, it’s not necessarily a problem that people will spend extra cash on. Market thought that though it solves the problem well, no one really wants to buy empty spray bottles. Seems more like a patent licensing opportunity, which isn’t a direction Quirky is taking at this point. Viability felt that this would need to have an extremely low price point (less than $2), thus margins would be way too low. It would be very easy to make. Patent landscape is crowded, but if there was an innovative design approach, there could be a protection possibility.
EVAL 117:
Inventor: Andrea Zabinski
Selected: Hand Juicer
Community: 28
D: 4
M: 5
V: 6
Staff: 12
Total: 55
Design thought that this was a well thought out, original idea. They noted that it would need to be cleaned between different fruits or have multiple devices included. Market didn’t think that the noted problem was really a very big problem and that even if it were, combining a muddler and a juicer seems like “too much”. Viability noted that the plastic parts would be simple to make, and that the only difficult part might be making it sealed so that juice only comes out where you want it. In addition, though many patents exist for juicers and muddlers, none exist for a combination of the two, thus making patent protection a viable possibility. This product was the best of the bunch, combining simple, original design with specialized problem solving.
The Rest of the Field:
Inventor: Tammy Turner
Submission: 3 in 1 Bottle Stopper
Community: 35
D: 4
M: 6
V: 8
Staff: 0
Total: 53
Design noted that although the concept of adding optional flavors was novel and fun, the general design was very similar to existing shot measure pourers. Market felt that there is definitely a sizable market for this type of item, especially when sold as a 3-in-1. However, explaining exactly what the product is on the packaging could prove to be very difficult. Viability thought that this would be easy to manufacture, with the only challenge being engineering it to seal tightly around the bottle. High patentability score. In the end, not enough of an innovation to warrant the money and effort necessary.
Inventor: Vincent Vitali
Submission: Swivel Shake
Community: 32
D: 4
M: 5
V: 6
Staff: 0
Total: 47
Design liked this idea – it makes shakers and strainers easier to use while preventing the lid from getting list. Potentially a strong update to a classic piece of equipment. Market, on the other hand, didn’t think this was solving any real problem. In addition, this product lacks a certain degree of wow factor and isn’t nexessarily any better than just having separate products. Viability noted that though easy to make, design-around would probably be needed to avoid patent infringement. Also, it would be an engineering challenge to make sure it closes tightly.
Inventor: Florian Hoeper
Submission: All in 1 Bar Set
Community: 31
D: 2
M: 3
V: 7
Staff: 0
Total: 45
Design thought this idea fell short of true innovation – it’s really just a bunch of tools in a shaker. Market didn’t see the problem being and noted that it’s “just a storage device”. Viability said it would be extremely easy to make, but there was little to no chance of patent protection. In the end, the probelm was too undefined and the solution was too simple for us to go through with it.
Inventor: Jared Joyce
Submission: Liquor Infuser
Community: 30
D: 5
M: 5
V: 5
Staff: 1
Total: 46
Design thought that his product would fit nicely into the “show” that surrounds bar tending, whilst allowing for flavor experimentation. An original idea in a niche market. Market found this idea to be a unique idea that could potentially stand alone on a retail shelf. The market size is not bad, but not great either. Not a must-have. Viability noted that if made of plastic, manufacturing would easy. If made of glass, not so easy. There exist many patents for liquid infusers so there would probably be very little chance at patent protection.
Inventor: Iowa Brad
Submission: Party Tumbler
Community: 16
D: 5
M: 6
V: 6
Staff: 8
Total: 41
Design thought this could be a fun, new take on mixed drinks. It could be great for parties, BBQs, etc. The main problem with the idea as presented is that it is very kitschy. However, that could be diffused during the design phases. Market thought this could do well in catalogs and on TV as it solves a small problem that occurs during parties. There was a question over whether customers would buy this over a regular shaker. Viability found no manufacturing problems and noted that there are no existing patents for this exact design so it could be patentable. There would be a problem with shipping such a large product.
If you’re anything like us, you spent all winter curled up on the couch with popcorn and Mad Men DVDs. But now summer’s around the corner, and it’s time to get up and get active. There’s no better time to embrace a healthy lifestyle, and we’ve got the perfect brief to set things in motion.
Let’s design products that promote health and fitness.
We’re looking for product ideas that will help people live healthier, happier, more active lifestyles. Working out, playing sports, practicing yoga, indoor cycling on retro machines upon grass mats – it’s all fair game.
Submissions are free, and deadline is April 4th. Get moving!
The winners for Quirky’s first ever Threeval — that is, the first meeting where we evaluated three rounds — are in. A big congrats to our winning ideas and ideators!
Product 113: Jin Chai’s iDucklings
Product 114: Gyro’s Smart Corners
Product 115: Jason Hennessy’s Sakura Vase
Just a heads up: Gaz is out of town and Ben’s, well, exhausted, so we’re going to push back this week’s Eval Recap video to next week.
Peace out, enjoy your weekends, and don’t forget to RSVP for our Wrapster wrapping party if you’re in the area!
Next Tuesday night, we’re having a RAGING KEGGER!!!
Just kidding… though there will be adult beverages present… and maybe Hello Kitty party hats.
Next Tuesday, the whole Quirky team will be throwing down to package, wrap, and ship off thousands of Wrapsters. If you’re in the New York area, we’d love your help!
Shoot us an RSVP at partay@quirky.com. We’ll let you know Monday if you’re in, and what time to stop by.
Love, The Quirky Team
Hey y’all!
My name’s Brandon, and I’ve been with the Quirky team for about a month now. I’m from Charleston, South Carolina (voted the No.1 most attractive population in the U.S.). Known most for its roots in history, beautiful architecture, and laid back lifestyle, Charleston is a pretty peachy place to grow up.
I just moved to New York, have almost hit my three month mark, and am already enamored. Just as a wand chooses its wizard (shout out to Harry Potter) Quirky chose its Brandon. I am here to keep the company’s schedule smooth(er) sailing. It’s been a pleasure working with such a creative team, and I am certainly looking forward to the evolution of Quirky and all those involved!
That said, here are a few fun facts about me:
- I am fluent in American Sign Language.
- I love roasted parsnips.
- I was born on the Spring Equinox, the first day of the astrological year!
Eval recaps sum up the research and discussion that go into selecting winning submissions at Quirky. The info in recaps focuses on general landscape, opportunities and concerns, with a strong bias for Quirky’s business interests. We will not tell people what to do with their ideas if we do not choose it, but this info should give general guidance to submitters and other inventors who want to understand our decision-making process.
EVAL 114:
Inventor: Rene Diaz
Selected: Smart Corners
Community: 25
D: 5
M: 5
V: 8
Staff: 20
Total: 63
Design felt that this is a very simple solution to the problem of damaging your iPad and furniture. It addresses the short-comings of Apple’s Smart Cover. However, it would hinder user’s ability to put iPad in a case or sleeve without taking corners off. Market wasn’t positive on whether this solution had enough appeal to get it off shelves. A good idea, but not too innovative. Viability noted that it would be easy to manufacture. Similar items exist but infringement is not a real risk since this idea most likely falls under the category of public domain. We chose to move this product into development because it is a clever solution, perhaps an iconic product, and it wouldn’t take much time to make an awesome design.
The Rest of the Field:
Inventor: Marvin Blaine
Submission: Kitchen iPad Mount
Community: 34
D: 2
M: 5
V: 7
Staff: 0
Total: 48
Design found this exact product made by several different companies, some are even sold in the Apple Store. Market noted that this would have to fit all iPads. And though it has mass appeal, it does exist. Viability found this to be an easy product to make and patents wouldn’t be a problem, as it would probably be public domain. That would also mean no protection, however.
Inventor: Mike Giepert
Submission: Solar Charging Case
Community: 31
D: 2
M: 3
V: 4
Staff: 0
Total: 40
Design thought this could be a good solution to low-battery life. However, it is essentially a case and this brief was targeted towards being non-case accessories. Potentially cost-prohibitive. No true innovation here – it already exists on the market for the iPad 1. Market thought that the problem being solved was solved by numerous other charging systems already. They also doubted the feasibility of keeping your iPad out in the sun. Market would not be very large. Viability felt that this would be a challenge on multiple fronts: sourcing, manufacturing, and engineering. The patent space is also notably crowded so any design would require active avoidance of current solutions.
Inventor: Michael Liu
Submission: Earbud Cord Management
Community: 31
D: 5
M: 8
V: 7
Staff: 0
Total: 51
Design like the simplicity and wow factor of this idea – it sets it apart from other products. Logical line extension to Wrapster. Concern was expressed regarding the fact that you would need to remove this to put your iPad in a case or sleeve. Market felt that this product would definitely work with our current distribution. It solves a good problem, is simple and eady to understand, and is pretty unique Viability noted that it would be very easy to manufacture. The patent landscape does have many solutions already, but none that clip to a corner, thus there could potentially be opportunity for patent protection.
Inventor: Jeff Tromp
Submission: 360 Degree Stand
Community: 28
D: 3
M: 4
V: 6
Staff: 0
Total: 41
Design simply pointed out that we would be way too late to the market if we were to make this product. Many solutions exist. Market said the same thing, adding that the problem is small and solutions are numerous. Viability had no qualms with manufacturing this and it would most likely fall into public domain patent territory. It would have to sell for at least $40 so we would have to make it look really nice..
Inventor: Adam Cser
Submission: Clip on Speakers
Community: 11
D: 5
M: 5
V: 5
Staff: 0
Total: 26
Design thought this would be a good product for while viewing iPad in bed. We would design to clip-on horizontally and vertically. We would need to look into making this double as a dock, as the market is competitive with such products. Market didn’t see how this could compete with normal speakers on the market, though it does seem to solve a problem. Viability thought we could sell this fore $80 or so. A problem comes up in sourcing, as we don’t have any experience with speakers nor do we have any relationships with suppliers who do. This idea would probably be public domain, so patenting opportunity unlikely.
EVAL 115:
Inventor: Jason Hennessy
Selected: Vase
Community: 16
D: 6
M: 6
V: 7
Staff: 15
Total: 50
Design felt that this product does indeed solve a problem with a simple solution that is unique to the market. We would explore further simplifying the solution by eliminating plugs and mechanisms. Market also liked the idea, noting that it is a unique spin on a classic product. There could even be opportunity for a wide range of different vases. Only concern is that it may be a little cheesy. Viability found that manufacturing would be simple, but shipping such a large product would be somewhat of a problem. It would be difficult to get a patent for this product. In the end, we decided that we would regret not going with this product – it is innovative, well-designed, and has definite market opportunities.
The Rest of the Field:
Inventor: Kate Vallon
Submission: Extension Cord
Community: 34
D: 5
M: 8
V: 7
Staff: 5
Total: 59
Design liked the way that this repurposes an outside product for discreet use indoors. There could be a problem with getting the stick foam backs not to fall under the force of inserting and removing plugs. This would be a natural line extension to Pivot Power. Market thought this could be a very marketable idea – it solves a great problem, is unique to the indoor market, and is a perfect fit for Quirky brand. Viability noted that we have sourcing for this type of product. It would most likely not be patentable and would need ETL approval.
Inventor: Susan Lovagio
Submission: Water Purifier
Community: 30
D: 5
M: 5
V: 6
Staff: 0
Total: 46
Design felt that though this could truly be a life-saving product, there are already products like this on the market that have better ways of getting their products to people in need. In addition, it could be difficult to make the pump mechanism produce enough energy. Market, though happy to add some good to the world, did doubt whether this product could sell in mass-market situations. Viability put the price tag of this one at above $150. We would need to find a supplier who specializes in reverse osmosis stuff. Patent protection could potentially be an option.
Inventor: Andrea Zabinski
Submission: Shrink-Wrapped Eco Friendly Blankets
Community: 27
D: 3
M: 6
V: 7
Staff: 0
Total: 43
Design felt that this would be a good way to transport multiple blankets at a time for larger groups. However, once released from the shrink-wrap, this is essentially just a blanket. We would have to explore how this could be used in mainstream situations (cars, babies, etc.) Market thought the solution was very unique but doubted whether it would be a good retail item, especially given our distribution. Viability thought that this could sell for $20 in general, but could be discounted for real emergency personnel. And though we don’t have any softgoods people, this really is just a blanket. Patentwise, this seems to fall under the category of public domain, thus unpatentable.
Inventor: Peter A. Wachtel
Submission: Magic BBQ
Community: 27
D: 5
M: 4
V: 5
Staff: 0
Total: 41
Design didn’t think this was a very notable problem – opening a lid is not very difficult. Also, fog would most likely still form on the lid while cooking. However, this could be a good opportunity to explore the workflow involved with BBQ lids. Market felt that the mini-BBQ marketplace is super-saturated and the included features might not create quite enough appeal. Viability felt that the actual engineering and manufacturing of this product could be a real challenge. This would also be difficult, if not impossible, to get this patented.
Inventor: D. Sells
Submission: Light-Up Whistle
Community: 25
D: 4
M: 4
V: 6
Staff: 0
Total: 39
Design found several similar products on the market. They also showed some hesitation in assuming that people will casrry this at all times in an easily accessible place. However, it could be designed and marketed as a “must have” safety precaution for hikers, bikers, skiers, etc. Market didn’t think this was a huge sales opportunity, though there would be a chance of success in the outdoors market. It also doesn’t really fit Quirky’s brand or retail channels. Viability didn’t think this product could be sold for more than $8 or so, making the profit margin minimal. It would be easy to make and we have the people to do it. Most likely not a patent opportunity.
By community request, the media team has turned the audio from our weekly product eval recap vid into an MP3 file you can download. Now you can listen to the sweet sounds of Ben and Gaz dissecting the top ideas in Quirky eval while on the go, at the gym, or in the car! Beats Bruno Mars any day.
Click here to listen. (and right click to download)
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