Coolest New Inventions from Japan(2)

6).

Tap-Controlled Touch Screen Camera (Image courtesy of BusinessWeek)

Tap-Controlled Touch-Screen Camera
Manufacturer: Olympus
Price: $461
http://www.olympusamerica.com/cpg_section/product.asp?product=1448

Camera maker Olympus markets its tap-controlled Stylus Tough-8000 camera as a tool for extreme conditions. Shockproof, waterproof and freezeproof, it is "virtually indestructible," the maker claims. In Japan, though, where it is sold as the mju-Tough 8000, its tap-control system (the camera's functions are controlled by tapping or tipping the camera body) is winning plaudits for enabling people with long nails to use the camera easily.
7).

Rain Poncho for Bicycles (Image courtesy of BusinessWeek)

Rain Poncho for Bicycles
Manufacturer: Asahi
Price: $20
http://www.rakuten.co.jp/cyclemall/

A recent change in the law means that Japanese police are taking sterner action against cyclists who use umbrellas while cycling. Asahi's Rain Poncho, which is designed to cover the bike's front basket as well as the rider, may be the answer.


8).

Curved Chopsticks (Image courtesy of BusinessWeek)

Curved Chopsticks

Manufacturer: H Partners
Price: $9
http://www.h-partners.jp

At a properly set Japanese table, a chopstick rest is used to keep your chopsticks clean. Ukihashi chopsticks, with their distinctive curvature, stay clean while resting directly on the table.


9).

(Image courtesy of BusinessWeek)

Talking Piggy Bank
Manufacturer: ToyBox
Price: $36
http://www.toybox-jp.com/commodity/img/img08a9b0452_1.jpg

Toymaker ToyBox's speaking piggy bank tells you what coin you have put in and how much you've saved. The box is 15 centimeters wide and 20 centimeters high. It comes in three colors: white, black and red.


10).

Water-Proof Cloths (Image courtesy of BusinessWeek)

Water-Proof Cloths
Manufacturer: Takashimaya
Price: $30

Furoshiki, square pieces of cloth used for wrapping everyday items, aren't exactly cutting-edge. They date from the 17th century, when Japanese bathers would use them to carry their change of clothes. Still, after renewed interest from younger people in recent years, department store operator Takashimaya has developed a modern, water-repellent version.