The BugPlug by Kamil Jerzykowski, “is a simple energy saving gadget which prevents unnecessary (and often accidental) energy consumption. The device has a built-in motion sensor, turning off all connected devices (through powerstrips) when it detects no motion. (Time periods can be easily adjusted from 0 to 6 minutes)”. According to the designer “the advantage of BugPlug is that it doesn't require almost any action nor changing your habits” [1].

Comments on BugPlug (posted on Core 77) [1]:

- Recommendation for sound alert before cutting the power off - just to remind the user about what might happen.

- A manual switch would be useful - for example, many people may prefer to switch everything on/off when entering/leaving the room. The designers response to this was that a: “manual switch is not so necessary because you can use some piece of cloth to cover the detectors and make BugPlug fall asleep (it would work just like covers for bird cages) and the interaction would more personal”.

- It could be good to have a button (or clever integrated action) to temporarily extend the timer. That way it can stay at 5min most of the time (and return to that automatically), but if I might be very still watching a movie I can extend it to 30min for that one session.

The BugPlug was a Semi-Finalist of the Greener Gadgets Design Competition 2009.

For more information on the Greener Gadgets Design Competition or to view some of the other product design ideas submitted this year visit: http://www.core77.com/greenergadgets/index.php