James Dyson Award 2012 finalists announced

The top 15 projects include SafetyNet, a device engineered to improve the sustainability of trawler fishing; Alto, an intuitive sewing machine designed to simplify threading and speed control for the user; and GiraDora, a pedal-powered washing machine and spin dryer aimed at alleviating issues related to water poverty. The SafetyNet, which won the UK leg of the James Dyson Award, is designed to solve the problem of young, unmarketable fish being caught and thrown dead into the sea, by providing them with an illuminated escape route. Engineered by students from the Royal College of Art, the innovation consists of a series of rings retrofitted to a fishing net. These hold the meshes open when the net is under tension during trawling, with a light ring signalling a way out for the undersized fish. Designed and built by student Sarah Dickens of Loughborough University, the Alto intuitive sewing machine uses a force sensor in a rubber foot underneath the base which allows beginners to control speed from any hand position, with a metal guide running from reel to needle for the user to follow. A flexible drive shaft replaces the traditional pulley system to increase room for the fabric and improve visibility of the sewing area. By increasing the appeal and accessibility of sewing, it is hoped that Alto will encourage users to recycle and repair clothes which would otherwise end up in the bin. The James Dyson Award is a £10,000 international design award running in 18 countries. It's run by the James Dyson Foundation, James Dyson's charitable trust, as part of its mission to encourage the next generation of design engineers to be creative, challenge and invent. Other entries for 2012 include the Hop! following suitcase from Spain; the O2 Pursuit motorbike from Australia; the self-inflating Revival Vest from New Zealand; and the Fil'o parenting aid from Singapore. The winner and two runners up will be announced on 8th November. Let us know your favourites in the comments below.