July 15 – October 2, 2016
Hagen Family Gallery
Now in its eighth year, the InnovationErie Design Competition promotes creative product ideas that can be manufactured or created in the Erie region. Artists, inventors, and thinkers were encouraged to submit product designs in competition for the Wilbur Henry Adams Grand Prize and over $30,000 in cash and assistance awards. Click here for more information on prizes, including the Public Choice Award.
Awards will be honored at Gallery Night on September 23 at the Erie Art Museum at 7:30 p.m.
This year’s semifinalists are:

Patty Puline
Every year an average of 37 infants die from being neglected in hot cars. Patty Puline’s Spot the Tot: Car Seat LIFESAVER can prevent these tragedies. Puline’s proposed device includes a sensor that is attached to both the child’s and the driver’s seatbelts. When the driver seatbelt is unbuckled, the sensor transmits a signal that notifies the driver that a child is still buckled in the vehicle.
To extend the reach of this device, the signal could also be transmitted to a smartphone, only silencing once the child’s belt is unbuckled and the child is removed. Countless children will be save with this product.

Patty Puline
Safety plugs for electric outlets are a must for all new parents, but when the outlet is in use, a new problem arises: Where do you store the plugs? Some parents attempt to keep the plugs out of reach, but this is not always feasible. These plugs— meant to increase safety by preventing electrocution—can risk safety when misplaced, becoming potential choking hazards.
The H.O.P. Plug (Hinge Outlet Protective Plug) is the solution to this problem. When the electrical outlet is not in use, the two-pronged safety plug fits into the outlet. When in use, the plug attaches by hinge to the outlet, allowing for easy access and no more worry. Connecting the H.O.P. Plug is simple, requiring only minor alterations to the existing plate or the purchase of a cover plate made for this product. Its cost is low and installation easy. Parents need not fear for children’s safety during routine housework anymore.

Bison Hill Stonecrafts, LLC
Marble epitomizes high art and culture. From the Parthenon to your kitchen counter, its look is as stunning today as it was in ancient times. Only the best materials are used at Bison Hill Stone Crafts, and their products combine the classic beauty of marble with custom cut and etched designs.
Marble Plates of America products are cut to form maps of the American states and may be used as coasters, plates, serving platters or cutting boards. The plates and platters are sealed, keeping them pristine for years to come. Each product is easy to clean and can be stored away or left on the counter as a decorative element. Available in array of colors and veining to match any home décor, Marble Plates can serve as a reminder of home anywhere you go. With custom laser etching options, you can further personalize these products to commemorate important life events like weddings, graduations, and housewarmings—set in stone for all eternity.

Dustin Hallenbeck, Luke Shroyer, and Dan Janczewski
Inspired by the third brake light on cars, BrakeSafe increases reaction time, reducing fatal accidents involving motorcycles. Completely autonomous, the brake light does not need to sync with your phone or communicate with your motorcycle to function. Mounted similarly to a “GoPro,” the device transfers easily to helmets or jackets.
As soon as your speed decreases, BrakeSafe lights up, letting others know you are slowing down. Not just for motorcycles, BrakeSafe can make any outdoor activity safer for you and your family by easily attaching to any helmet or jacket for use with ATVs, bicycles, and other outdoor equipment. Easily rechargeable with any micro-usb, Brakesafe will keep you safe for ride after ride.

Meah Krahe
Never be burned again with Grabadoo, the better option to oven mitts. The heat resistant material protects your fingers from burns and makes grabbing a hot plate simple. The finger mitts can be worn on either hand or together to help make cooking quicker and easier than before.
Worn only on the forefingers and thumb, Grabadoo eliminates the bulkiness of traditional oven mitts. And with their no slip grip, they are the best solution when it comes to cooking any meal. Stain resistant and durable, the Grabadoo will make cooking easier for years to come.

Hank Graygo
Lace-n-Lock is the perfect solution for individuals who have trouble bending over and tying their shoes. The plastic device can attach to any shoelace and return independence to the user. With a simple twist of the long key, the device tightens the laces and eliminates the possibility of tripping. In order to loosen the shoes, you simply push down and twist it counterclockwise, allowing the shoe to be slipped off.
While the Lace-n-Lock was designed to help those with disabilities regain their independence, the device can easily be used for anyone who has undergone a surgery or is pregnant, making pain while bending a thing of the past.

Nathan Bergey
Lumibrush is the world’s first app-controlled light painting tool.
What’s light painting? Using moving light during a long exposure with the camera on a tripod, you can paint a glowing image on your photograph. Traditionally, artists have used glow sticks, flashlights or other small light sources to paint text, images or other objects into their photos.
The Lumibrush, by Radiant Spectra, is controlled by a smartphone and uses an array of LEDs powered by AA batteries or an optional wall adapter accessory. Lumibrush enables photographers to easily create advanced light paintings in any color and various patterns, and can even use images uploaded directly from the phone.
The Lumibrush is more than just a light painting tool; it is ideal for various app-controlled lighting solutions. Slated for official product release this coming fall, Lumibrush will be supported by app updates that further enhance its functionality.

Andrew Flatley
The Hexatile Modular Shelving System is the best solution for securely displaying your collectible toys and action figures, no matter the shape or size.
One thing that sets the Hexatile apart from other shelving systems is its interlocking, re-positional design. The tessellated panels allow widely varied shelf configurations—heights can be arranged in a way best suited for your particular collection.
Constructing the system is as easy as snapping together the various components like pieces of a puzzle. The shelves can be simply attached to a wall or made into a stand-alone unit by attaching a base unit.
Hexatile ensures that your items are not only beautifully displayed but also safely anchored. Each Hexatile shelf incorporates a recessed grid pattern that allows for the use of support inserts to secure your figures. Once they are put in place, they stay in place.
Public Choice Award: Meah Krahe and Grabadoo