1. PhotoGlow

Not only used in lobbies, art instillations, at trade shows and in retail stores, Ed Sinofsky’s invention, PhotoGlow, can now be used by anyone wanting to take their beloved photographs to the next level, creating back lit picture frames that bring “vibrancy, energy and resonance to traditional digital photographs.” PhotoGlow uses state-of-the-art technology to display images, using “edgelighting,” which “allows for even, uniformed illumination without the need for cumbersome casing,” according to Sinofsky. Frames are less than 1-inch thick and are available from 8x10 to 24x36, in five different finishes. Custom sizes are also available.

To order a PhotoGlow frame, simply choose the photograph you would like displayed (or print it yourself using PhotoGlow paper) and put it in the frame of your choice.

2. Open It!

For anyone who has ever been frustrated while opening a plastic casing, CD or DVD wrapping, cardboard wrapping, “blisters” packaging or a child’s toy, the Open It! is for you. With an interchangeable Phillips and slotted mini-screwdriver option, the Open It! allows users to reach hard-to-get-to battery compartments and the tool has a retractable utility knife with a safety lock to keep it from getting into the hands of your little ones. The tool features an ergo-comfort handle to make tough packaging that much easier.

3. Quartz Infrared Heating Systems

When you think of traditional space heaters, two ideas are common. First, the method used by most units causes uneven heating throughout the room and second, they’re generally not very attractive. Sun Twin, a brand leader of heating units for more than two decades, solves both problems with units that are not only attractive, but also function more like furnaces than heaters. This means the systems heat evenly – wall-to-wall and floor-to-ceiling – and are able to maintain a constant temperature as set by you on the unit itself, or via the handy remote control. Their portable 1500 elite model is only 48 pounds and moves about with ease on caster wheels. Units come fully assembled and can be plugged into any standard wall outlet. They also have zero clearance, allowing them to be pushed up against a wall or next to furniture without risk of overheating. They are safe to the touch so they can be used around children and pets. The units are extremely energy efficient using less electricity than a coffee maker. They are perfect for workshops, garages or in rooms you’d just like a bit warmer than the rest of the house. And with an option of a unit housed in a cabinet with a medium oak finish, this warm household addition may just become your favorite piece of “furniture.”

4. AutoCloser Automatic Garage Door Closer

I have about a billion things on my mind in the mornings when I leave for work, but the one thing not on my mind is whether or not I shut the garage door – that is until I am about 10 miles from home and realize I need to turn around to check. That’s why I love the AutoCloser Automatic Garage Door Closer.

The AutoCloser can be set to automatically close at 2, 5, 10, 15 or 20 minutes, depending on how you set it and will work with existing garage door openers. Installation is simple, and within an hour you should have something that covers your forgetfulness. A disable button is also included just in case you really meant to leave it open.

This gadget makes life a little easier. Now if only they could come up with something to help you remember the milk.