Is having a processor and electronics and software and sensors, which, despite the cost of components of $10, requires electricity. Is that really that much better than just building a better thermos?
( These things are amazing; if you haven't experienced one yet I recommend picking one up from REI: https://www.yeti.com/drinkware/rambler-20-oz-tumbler/YRAM20.... )
Re:Halfbakery
by maxerickson on Friday November 10, 2017 @11:11AM
(#15670832)
A battery powered mug with an app isn't really any simpler of a solution than fancy ice cubes.
Vacuum mugs already advertise hours of heat retention. Most hot drinks aren't going to taste better after sitting for hours and hours anyway.
I don't know, personally I would absolutely hate having to remember to keep my mug charged - although it's a damn cool product, just not for me.
I'm not sure I can agree about a phase-change solution being overengineered, however; while the materials would be more complex, the design itself should be far simpler than an electronic mug, and exactly the same as a vacuum sealed one.
I'd also be really worried about toxicity and materials that changed phase at that temp... Or well any temp. Can it leech through the walls? I wouldn't be Keen on dropping molten steel in my coffee either.
Re:Halfbakery
by maxerickson on Friday November 10, 2017 @11:14AM
(#15670854)
It's isolated components of vegetable oil:
http://discovermagazine.com/2013/september/21-running-hot-an...
Not really terrifying.
[1] https://ember.com/products/ceramic-mug