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Product Magazines: Product Trends |
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When tension is rising, motivation levels are plummeting and equilibrium has gone haywire, people generally opt for psychotherapy or meditation. The Mental Trainer from Countkey Ltd is a compact, battery-operated alternative designed to optimise a person's mental capabilities by sending simultaneous sound and light movements to the brain.
Working in partnership with German-based company Global Mind, which holds exclusive distributive rights in Germany, Countkey commenced production in the latter part of 1995. The concept is the brainchild of Dr Axel Bruck of Germany, whose extensive studies, based on 25 years of research, have drawn conclusive links between external stimulation and the development of the brain.
The kit comprises a portable unit with display screen, a combined pair of earphones and eye goggles, a hand sensor to monitor Psycho Galvanic Reaction (PGR) and feedback breath sensing.
The Mental Trainer works in two ways. First, the user chooses one of five pre-programmed settings -- Relaxation, Deep Relaxation, Efficiency, Activation or Equilibrium. The user's blood flow and breathing rate are monitored by placing the palm on a hand sensor and the mouth over a breath-sensing feedback. This technique, termed 'Biofeedback', sends signals to the Mental Trainer that adjust LED movements in the eye goggles to suit the individual's specific needs, be they greater relaxation, efficiency or equilibrium.
Alternatively, the user can select the programme without the aid of sensors but must first ascertain, with the aid of the unit, whether he is of an active or passive constitution.
With the headset firmly in place, the user witnesses a series of flashing lights reminiscent of a red flickering fireplace and hears a monotone repetitive drumming sound.
The alternating LED movement distinguishes the product from its competitors, says Jenny Mo, marketing executive of Countkey Ltd. "Our research has shown that moving LED light patterns are essential to the development of mental capabilities," Mo says.
The user-friendly instruction manual and display screen on the front of the main unit include modes to alter volume and level of brightness.
Consistent use results in clear improvement, says Mo. "By using the Mental Trainer two or three times a week over a three-week period, the users witness significant improvements in their mental well-being," he says.
A discreet slot in the unit's central core is designed for an IC card containing further programme choice. The stress test card is available now.
The price of the Mental Trainer is US$75 FOB Hong Kong. Minimum orders are 500 units and delivery takes 70 days.
Written by Zoe Lynch
Apart from single people who drive around in half-empty oversized cars, few people have space in their trunks for what should be a priority driving accessory -- a traffic warning sign for use in emergencies. Artto Co has addressed this oversight with the launch of its Springy Cone.
The collapsible Springy Cone is a practical, lightweight alternative to the conventional, more cumbersome traffic warning signs on the market today. Measuring 68 centimetres tall when fully erect, this Jack-In-The-Box style cone folds neatly into a circular recess in the sturdy 28 centimetres square base. It is firmly secured by capping its peak with a plastic lid and clicking it into place.
Setting up the Springy Cone takes only a matter of seconds and is straightforward and safe enough for even a child to operate. Simply remove the lid and the cone slowly stretches upwards. There is no risk of a sudden forceful blow as it unfolds from its base.
The model is also available with a blinking light operated by four 1.5V batteries. Each set comes with a warning ribbon that can be personalised to customer requirements.
The Springy Cone's attraction lies in its compact size, versatility and hassle-free design, as inventor Wang-On Kwok points out. "The mobile traffic warning sign is stable when in use, simple in structure and easy to operate, minimising the danger period of a traffic break down," Kwok explains. "A conical design provides a far greater degree of stability when placed on the ground than a triangular shell, which is less stable on a windy day."
The waterproof synthetic exterior is wrapped around a large twisted piece of metal. It is available in four bold designs.
A first of its kind worldwide, the Springy Cone has sparked considerable interest from many markets. Pui-yee Lo, managing director of Artto Co, says response has been positive and far reaching. "We are currently negotiating with customers in Australia, Japan, Korea, Switzerland and the UK who are interested in becoming exclusive agents," Lo says. "We are a small company and would like to work on an exclusive basis." Artto is hoping to break into the US, Korean and Japanese markets.
Production starts in July 1996 and the minimum order size is 2,000 pieces. The price for the Springy Cone is US$4.55 FOB Hong Kong for the basic model, and US$5.20 for one with a light. Delivery takes 60-75 days after receipt of confirmed order.
Written by Zoe Lynch
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