NUS designers tackle real-world problems; Kipling’s back-to-school Minion backpacks

NUS industrial designers tackle real-world problems in graduate show

Talented young designers from the National University of Singapore (NUS) have collaborated with industry partners to tackle real-world challenges for their final-year projects.

From a tool to improve a patient’s comfort during mammogram screenings to one that can help brew the perfect cup of coffee, the graduating cohort of 32 students from the Division of Industrial Design (DID) under NUS’ College of Design and Engineering presented their works earlier in June at the NUS DID Graduation Show 2024.

The show is the culmination of four years of design education and experiential learning at the college. All the designs are showcased online.

One project is Mr Luke Goh’s Mammosense, a high-tech tool that makes patients more comfortable during mammogram screenings.

It was developed by Mr Goh in collaboration with a team of medical professionals from the National University Health System.

Mammosense is powered by a light detection and ranging sensing system called Lidar, which uses laser pulses to map out an area.

Mr Goh says his background in science, technology, engineering and mathematics helped him develop products that are not only aesthetically pleasing, but also functional and user-centric.

“My mother had a painful experience during her first mammogram, which deterred her from returning for subsequent screenings,” he says.

“I envisioned Mammosense to alleviate the pain associated with mammograms. My hope is that this innovation will encourage more individuals, including my mother, to participate in this vital, life-saving screening procedure.”

Other design solutions include BrewTrack, a tool that helps coffee enthusiasts master the art of brewing coffee; FallGuard, a fall-detection system for seniors living alone; and Projek Ginjal, a test kit that detects early signs of kidney disease. - Chantal Sajan

Info: Go to the NUS Division of Industrial Design Graduation Show 2024 online showcase at str.sg/44d8Q

Kipling’s Minion-themed accessories for Despicable Me 4

Kipling has launched a Minions-themed capsule collection of accessories ahead of the release of Despicable Me 4. PHOTOS: KIPLING

Everyone’s favourite gibberish-speaking yellow creatures are back as the new film, Despicable Me 4, opens in theatres on July 4.

The animated film sees reformed supervillain Gru and his family being forced to go on the run. They are joined by Gru’s henchmen, the adorable and hilarious Minions.

To mark the release, Belgian bag brand Kipling has launched a Kipling x Minions capsule collection of accessories.

The five-item collection includes school backpacks in small and large sizes (from $249), which are made with a denim-like material blended with Kipling’s famous crinkled nylon.

The small backpack is styled after the one-eyed Minion known as Stuart, while the large one uses the visage of the Minion named Dave. They are two out of only three Minions who have appeared throughout the Despicable Me franchise, which debuted in 2010.

There is also a drawstring backpack from $129, which features a motif of the Minion known as Phil as its key design.

All three backpack models – the design pictured here is in Minion yellow with the signature blue denim Minion overalls – come with the signature Kipling monkey clip, which is also available as a standalone purchase (from $55).

Complete the look with a faux-fur banana pencil case (from $89). The banana is thought to be the favourite fruit of the Minions.

The limited-edition accessories are available on the Kipling website while stocks last. - Yamini Chinnuswamy

Info: Go to https://www.kipling.com.sg/campaign/BTS-Kipling-Minions-Collection

DesignSingapore Council celebrates everyday champions of design

The DesignSingapore Council (DSG) has launched its People of Design initiative to honour everyday champions of design in Singapore.

The initiative celebrates individuals from diverse backgrounds who have made an impact on society through innovative design.

Established in 2003, DSG is a subsidiary of the Economic Development Board and is the national agency dedicated to spearheading Singapore’s design sector.

Dr Wong Sweet Fun is a senior consultant of geriatric medicine at Yishun Health, who developed the Communities of Care framework. PHOTO: DESIGNSINGAPORE COUNCIL

Among the honourees is Dr Wong Sweet Fun, a senior consultant of geriatric medicine at Yishun Health, who developed the Communities of Care framework, focusing on preventative health and community-based care.

Mr Abdul Nasser, owner of Basheer Graphic Books at Bras Basah Complex, is also being honoured. He has nurtured the store as a space for creatives for more than 30 years.

Mr Abdul Nasser is the owner of Basheer Graphic Books, a bookstore and space for creatives in Singapore to come together. PHOTO: DESIGNSINGAPORE COUNCIL

Others selected by DSG include the senior-friendly Silver Pride Lion Troupe for blending tradition with active ageing; the Repair Kopitiam grassroots initiative, which encourages repair over disposal; and the Ai Tong School, which has been implementing programmes to cultivate innovation skills among students.

More People of Design nominations will open to the public in mid-July, with announcements of honourees made through DSG’s social media channels and website.

Ms Dawn Lim, DSG executive director, says design and creativity are for everyone.

“The stories portrayed in People of Design recognise the everyday visionaries among us who embody creative confidence to make things better through design.” - Teo Kai Xiang

Info: Go to designsingapore.org/stories