RKS Design's "monthly-ish" Newsletter

RKS Design's "monthly-ish" Newsletter

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RKS Design

RKS Design is a global design, development, and innovation consultancy. We elevate the human experience.

Published Sep 7, 2023
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The designer exists to help the curious go beyond the headlines and understand how design is changing the world. This includes analysis of emerging trends, interviews with designers, and breakdowns of great design-making waves in the world today. Click on the images to be taken to the original articles!

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Innovative Ideas

Smoke Spotting AI Watches Live Video to Find Early Signs of Wildfires

AI is enhancing California's wildfire detection using live video feeds from 1,038 cameras, enabling faster firefighter response. Developed by UC San Diego and DigitalPath, it has alerted fires before 911 calls. Its potential as a global model is recognized.

The One-Shot Drug that Keeps on Dosing

Patients with chronic illnesses often struggle with treatment adherence due to various factors. Kevin McHugh's lab at Rice University is developing drug-delivering microparticles for consistent dosing over extended periods. The team created microcapsules that release medication at specific intervals, simplifying and enhancing treatment efficacy.

Held vs. Montana Is a Historic Victory for Climate Action

Last month, we covered the beginning of Held vs. Montana; this month, we are covering how Held vs. Montana is a historic victory for climate action and human rights. The ripple effects of this landmark decision could be significant in establishing new legal precedents that would create successful climate lawsuits in other states.

Why Our Brain Uses up More Energy Than That of Any Other Animal

The brain consumes 20% of the body's energy. Previously, it was thought that most of this powered neuron communication. However, a study revealed that two-thirds support neuron signaling while one-third maintain health. Researchers tracked ATP production, linking it to brain activity levels and emphasizing the importance of "housekeeping" energy for cellular processes and health.


Cool New Products

The Cave Tent

‘The Cave’, which combines a geodesic dome structure with quick-pitching inflatable struts is designed to withstand tough conditions, features a rare reproduction of DPM: Golden Tigerstripe on the inner tent and Maharishi branding.

Leatherman Wave Plus

Leatherman's Wave Plus multi-tool includes 18 features like pliers, wire cutters, knives, and drivers. Many tools are accessible when folded. It's one-hand operable, available in black, and comes with a nylon Molle carrying sheath. Every feature can be opened with one hand, and quite a few of the tools are accessible outside, so you can use them when the multi-tool is folded and closed.

What We're Watching

The Impact of Teddy Ruxpin on Synthesizing Technology and Making Technology Human

Our Founder and CEO, Ravi Sawhney, designed the pioneering animatronic toy Teddy Ruxpin. In a three-video series, he discusses synthesizing technology in product design and emphasizes the importance of human-centered interactions, prioritizing experience over pure technology.

What We're Reading

The Responsible Project: A History of Design Ideology for the Future

Design calls for sustainability have intensified recently, but the ideology isn't new. "The Responsible Object" traces 150 years of socially committed design, from William Morris to FabLab, illustrating its historical depth with interstitial slogans.

What We're Listening To

Do Better Research - S4 E4.3

In this concluding episode, Dr. Kaja Franck and the host delve into the usefulness of conferences, highlighting their role in research development. They also explore the researcher's involvement in research and the significance of vulnerability within the process.


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