Zephyr Technology has developed a device that could help diabetics prevent amputations and improve the quality of life for diabetics. They have created a high tech inner sensor insole that detects early stages of ulcers. The New Zealand government has so far invested $348,000 through the Foundation for Research, Science and Technology.

“Using sensor technology combined with novel algorithms, Zephyr makes smart fabrics that gather information on such things as heart beat, skin temperature, posture, activity and breathing rates. They are used for measuring performance and condition with applications in the health, defense and medical markets.”

Founded in 2003, Zephyr is a global leader in the rapidly growing Smart Fabrics industry. The company has three fulfillment channels: complete solutions, OEM and licensing. Zephyr is currently headquartered in Auckland, New Zealand.

Full Press Release & Report
Company Website [Zephyr Technology]

Being a Clear Registered Traveler may have some perks while traveling in the USA i.e. you can zip through airport security checkpoints in under three minutes.

Costing $99.95 a year, a Clear membership tells the airport security screener that you have passed a governmental background check and not on the most wanted list.

Clear is currently operating in 5 US airports i.e. Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky (CVG), Indianapolis (IND),New York JFK Terminal 7 (JFK), Orlando (MCO) and San José (SJC).

You can get ahead of the line by going to the assigned Clear lane, a Clear attendant will check your boarding pass, clear card and an approved photo ID. You’ll then be directed to a Clear verification kiosk where it’ll read your card, prompt for a biometric iris scan and scan your shoes for explosives without removing your footwear. Once you are verified, you’ll receive a stamp or receipt to proof your are a Clear member but will still be subjected to metal detectors or x-ray machines operated and regulated by the TSA.

This could be an advantage if you travel out of those airports. Continental OnePass Frequent Flyer members could do the same sort of thing for free (with enough airline miles). However, at the moment, I really don’t see the point if you still need to go through the standard security checks and if it still doesn’t assure you that you won’t be randomly searched or inspected. Clear has said that they will eventually offer full body scanners (in addition to what is currently available now) but unless that would have me bypass further security checks, I still believe it is a program that has little benefit and value.

Nevertheless, Clear currently claims to have over 35,000 customers. Kiosks are currently being in New York JFK T1, New York JFK T4, Newark Terminal B, Toronto Airport (YYZ) with over 20 more airports considering them.

Kwikset, manufacturer of residential doors and door hardware, has introduced a biometric keyless entry system for the home called the SmartScan.

Smartscan basically uses your thumbprint to gain access, with Grade-1 security and thus eliminating the need for any keys. A stand alone system without any hardwiring, it features 3 levels of controlled access and backup key usage. The battery that operates the deadbolt has a life of about one year (based on 20 accesses per day).

Operating the system is as simple as swiping a valid fingerprint across its sensor and SmartScan then reads the fingerprint patterns. It is programmable up to 50 fingerprints and has a special time lock out feature that allow three levels of access options. What this means is that 24/7 continual access can be granted to different family members, temporary access for house sitters/ contractors and restricted timed access for babysitters or housekeepers. Those parents keeping a tab on their kids would love this one as those teens won’t be able to sneak back into the house anymore (if they’ve passed their curfew) without someone letting them in. You can also stop the potential worry of losing your keys and a stranger having access to your house.

Pricing and release dates are not available yet but this represents what we’ll likely see within next generation homes.

Product page [Kwikset]

The blackbox, a known device in airplanes designed to provide the final record in the event of a crash. Enter the Roadbox, the automobile’s equivalent.

Designed by PLK Technologies under Hyundai Motors, this device records your car’s diagnostics like speed and acceleration while visually monitoring your driving through a wide screen [120 degree] video camera.

“The RoadBox captures crucial accident data at the moment of crash by recording accident images and vehicle acceleration data 14 seconds before a collision and for six seconds after impact,” says Abu Sharkh, PLK General Manager.

Now while PLK state that the Roadbox can withstand temperature of up to 85 degrees Celsius, they don’t mention the device’s strength - which when talking about anything like a blackbox, is the most important spec.

We do, however, acknowledge the function of such a device after any car accident. Imagine having proof, on video, you weren’t in the wrong?

The Roadbox fetches around US$175.

Via [CoolestGadgets] Product [PLK]

The iPod/Nike Sports Kit that enables your Nano to gauge statistics about your workout via a Nike shoe sensor is under attack by wireless sporting company, PhatRat. PhatRat, based in Niwot, Colorado, is known for extreme/ hi impact sports performance devices like the airRat, a device for measuring sports performance while snowboarding, skiing or riding a BMX bicycle.

PhatRat claims in a lawsuit that both companies are infringing on technology developed by them in transmitting data from footwear to wireless devices, in their case a watch. The patent at issue is entitled “shoes employing monitoring devices, and associated methods.”

PhatRat is seeking a cash compensation and a court order prohibiting Nike/Apple’s production.

“Nike is aware of the complaint and is reviewing the allegations alongside our own intellectual property rights,” a spokesman for Beaverton, Oregon-based Nike told Bloomberg.

Read [Bloomberg]