Motivation 8: Others Who Have KISS'd

The old saying is famous in the engineering world: KEEP IT SIMPLE STUPID. And for good reason, simple inventions are easy to design, produce, and sell. I've already discussed the Sham-Wow, Snuggie, and Perfect Pushup, so today's post presents 5 of my favorite lesser-known KISS inventions created by people just like us. If you are looking for inspiration to follow these inventors, I recommend my two favorite books on innovation, Medici Effect, and JUICE.

1) Next Gen Pizza Box. Who needs plates? This eco-friendly design that turns a standard pizza box into 4 plates and a storage container should be standard at every pizza joint in the country soon.












2) Evolve Showerheads. How about a showerhead that automatically shuts down to a trickle once the desired temperature is reached? All that wasted water while you search for the perfect tie is a thing of the past.




















3) Under-Stair Shoe Drawers. Everyone is looking for better ways to utilize the empty space in their home. It doesn't get much more efficient than this. No more shoe closets, let the stairs do the work!











4) Instant Beverage Cooler. How many times have you been frustrated by this. You purchase a case of your favorite beverage, let's say Cherry Coke to keep things politically correct, and you want one instantly but it's still too warm to drink. Problem solved, simply drop this cool little invention in and the drink is ready immediately.













5) Pot in a Pot; Using Sand and Pots To Cool Food. Now if this story doesn't inspire you, then I don't know what will. A simple story about a Nigerian inventor who changed the world for many of his native Africans and other societies lacking electricity. Take two pots, one slightly larger than the other. In between the two, place some sand. The invention works because the water in the sand migrates towards the outer pot, which causes a temperature drop in the inner pot, thereby keeping the food inside fresher for longer. Simple, and yet an amazing life changing invention.











So what is your contribution to society going to be? Start looking around your home, think of small things that irritate you and FIX them.

Good Luck!