Core77's weekly design roundup from September 22-26, 2025, highlighted a diverse array of innovative products and industrial design achievements spanning from household appliances to cutting-edge technology. The comprehensive overview, compiled by Rain Noe, featured breakthrough inventions and design solutions addressing real-world challenges across multiple industries.
Among the standout products featured was the Roborock H60 Hub Series, a revolutionary stick vacuum that incorporates automatic self-emptying technology. The roundup also spotlighted a Brazilian invention designed to straighten scrap rebar for reuse, demonstrating how industrial design can contribute to sustainability efforts. In recognition of unconventional design thinking, an industrial designer earned the 2025 Ig Nobel Prize for their work on "Smelly Shoes: An Opportunity for Shoe Rack Re-Design."
Technology innovations took center stage with Meta's unveiling of new display glasses featuring wrist-based gesture control technology. However, controversy emerged as Starmork achieved Kickstarter success by allegedly copying Wyrmwood's gaming table designs. Meanwhile, architect and designer Gustaf Westman created a specialized plate designed specifically for Ikea meatballs, showcasing the intersection of architecture and everyday consumer products.
The automotive and mobility sector was well-represented with several notable developments. Racing simulation enthusiasts can now purchase replica McLaren F1 seats for their setups, reflecting a trend where racing simulators have flourished while Peloton's popularity declined. More significantly for accessibility, the X12, an innovative all-terrain stair-climbing wheelchair from China, represents a major advancement in mobility assistance technology.
Collaborative design efforts were highlighted through Auburn University's partnership between Industrial Design and Mechanical Engineering students, who worked together to develop a surgical device. In a more whimsical project, Brian Brocken is constructing a full-size flying DeLorean, bringing science fiction concepts into reality.
Architectural and storage solutions were featured through the VA's impressive East Storehouse, a massive facility that makes archival storage publicly accessible with its striking design. For specialized applications, the Trend Corner Chisel was showcased as a tool that efficiently squares hinge mortises, demonstrating how good design improves traditional craftsmanship.
Innovative toy design was represented by the ZipString Aracna, a Spider-Man-inspired wrist-mounted "web shooter" that combines entertainment with engineering. GoPro enhanced its product line with the new Max 2 camera, featuring 8K 360-degree video capabilities alongside improved physical user experience elements.
Safety innovations included a radical new RLS bike helmet design that significantly reduces rotational forces during impacts. The elegant Kinetic Driver, created by designer Giacomo Di Muro, incorporates a kinetic flywheel system that provides automated driving assistance. Experimental lighting design was showcased through Relvãokellermann's Tangent lamp, which illuminates when users attach a magnetic ball to its steel structure, creating an interactive lighting experience.
The roundup concluded with an industrial design case study featuring Hatch Duo's development of a performance-boosting device specifically designed for athletes and firefighters. This comprehensive overview demonstrates the breadth and diversity of contemporary industrial design, from practical solutions to experimental concepts that push the boundaries of traditional product development.
