Rand McNally Waterproof 'fabMAP' Doubles as Handkerchief and Screen Cleaner
Marissa Brassfield — January 22, 2009 — Art & Design
References: store.randmcnally & core77
The advent of GPS has brought the printed map to near extinction, but Rand McNally hopes to revive traditional hand-held navigation with the fabMAP. This map is printed on microfiber, so while it can be used like a regular paper map, it can also be used to wipe an LCD screen, clear smudges off of camera lenses or clean a cell phone.
Yes, apparently it's come to that. Naturally, there's a commemorative Inaugural Day version fit for framing with President Obama's smiling grill on the reverse side of the map.
Yes, apparently it's come to that. Naturally, there's a commemorative Inaugural Day version fit for framing with President Obama's smiling grill on the reverse side of the map.
Trend Themes
1. Microfiber Maps - Microfiber maps are disrupting traditional hand-held navigation by offering dual functionality as screen cleaners.
2. Reviving Printed Maps - The fabMAP is bringing printed maps back into relevance by incorporating microfiber material for additional practical uses.
3. Multi-purpose Fabrics - The use of microfiber as a fabric is expanding beyond traditional applications to include navigation aids and screen cleaning.
Industry Implications
1. Navigation - The navigation industry can explore the incorporation of microfiber material in their products to add practical functionality, such as screen cleaning.
2. Printing - The printing industry can adapt to the shift towards multi-functional printed materials, like microfiber maps, to stay relevant in the digital age.
3. Digital Devices - Manufacturers and sellers of digital devices can consider partnering with microfiber map producers to offer added value to their customers through dual-functionality products.
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