Sports inventors are driven to develop sports technologies because of four primary motivations: to improve performance, prevent injuries, improve officiating, and make sports more inclusive and fun. Eric von Hippel’s concept of user innovation, in which lead users become frustrated with available tools and invent something better, is highlighted in the examples of Joe Breeze, Lisa Lindahl, Doug DeAngelis and Paul Hawkins. Ultimately, the article encourages people to channel their frustrations and become user innovators, introducing the idea that anyone can invent something new. Read full article here
Technology
The First Solar-Powered Car Comes at a Hot Price
The Lightyear O is a revolutionary electric car powered by the sun. Developed by a Dutch startup, the four-door sedan has over 50 square feet of solar panels on its roof and hood, generating up to 43 miles of energy a day. With production now underway in Finland, the car does come with a hefty price tag at $262,000, but the company hopes to introduce a more affordable version, the Lightyear 2, by 2025. Read full article here