Thanko's USBHCU01 USB-powered seat cooler

Here at Engadget HQ, things can get kind of stuffy when locked down to a computer chair all day, and apparently Thanko has figured out what folks like us really need to beat the heat (and the subsequent odor). Although we're just kidding on that last part, what's not to love about a reportedly slim and comfortable seat cushion that not only gives you a bit more padding underneath, but funnels cool air right where it's needed the most? Joining a bajillion other excuses to fill up every not-yet-utilized USB port on your machine, the USBHCU01 receives its juice from any 'ole powered USB port, and with a convenient off / on switch, you can easily quiet the wind tunnel surrounding you whenever your boss or office sweetheart happens to drop by. As expected, the device works by sucking air through an overhanging fan and channeling the breeze through "countless holes" on which you sit. While we can't verify how powerful the airflow from this bad boy is, we'll toss out fair warning to ladies (and gents) with long, flowing locks that may find the potentially hair-raising experience a bit too much to handle. So if you can't convince management to cut costs on things other than air conditioning expenses, or you just want one more USB toy to fool around with, you can get your relief now for ¥4,800 ($41).

[Via Far East Gizmos]

[LS @ Aug 19th 2006 1:31PM]

avoid if flatulently retarded

[Dull @ Aug 19th 2006 1:39PM]

I’m so moving out east, now.

[Tull @ Aug 19th 2006 1:47PM]

Hopefully it doesn't use Dell batteries.

[Naegling @ Aug 19th 2006 2:30PM]

I already have the USB powered airflow underwear...

[OINK @ Aug 19th 2006 2:36PM]

does it vibrate too? (the girls enjoying it a little much)

[Simon @ Aug 19th 2006 2:56PM]

I can see people wheeling away from their desk and their tower flying off the desk :P. Or people tripping over the USB lead.

[rutsy5 @ Aug 19th 2006 3:13PM]

damn lucky japanese... I want something like that!

[cody @ Aug 19th 2006 3:33PM]

i don't know about you but sitting on little redarrows or blue arrows would be very coftorable to me

[KakaduDreamer @ Aug 19th 2006 4:03PM]

Do the girl and colored arrows come with the kit?

[Oddmanout @ Aug 19th 2006 10:38PM]

"HAIR raising" ? Look at that girls arms. Lovely though she may be, she'd beter not turn that thing all the way up or she's going right through the skylight.

:P

As for the actual device...not really a bad idea. Though I think I'd want one for the backrest a bit more. I don't have so much of a broblem with @$$ sweat as I do with my back sweat. It would be nice not to stand up with a 2 tone shirt in the summertime.

Of course, one of those chairs with the hard weave for the seat and the back would probably have roughly the same effect, and not require power, but they cost $400. Unless someone has finally knocked them off (preferably with 5 legs/castors instead of the illegal 4 legged suicide chairs...)

GO THANKO!

[lol @ Aug 20th 2006 2:47AM]

very dumbass technology....

[Brian @ Aug 20th 2006 3:27AM]

Great for eating your own farts :(

[tekdroid @ Aug 20th 2006 1:34PM]

catchphrase: plug 'n' blow.

[Cade @ Aug 20th 2006 6:43PM]

Ahh yes, because if there's one thing the world needs, it's more stuff to plug into the USB port.

[Bryan @ Aug 21st 2006 12:21AM]

What a great way to eliminate that embarassing butt sweat mark on your pants.

I hope they make money with it, because it took balls to put that on the market.

[shadowdub @ Aug 21st 2006 11:37AM]

I need this in my car!