Function
Infrared towel warmer
On a boat, the bathroom is small and damp, and towels never seem to dry. A cantilevered bar that pivots left, right or upright uses infrared heat to dry them, without exposed hot heating elements.
- 01A tiny bathroom where nothing dries
- 02Radiant heat without exposed hot surfaces
- 03One bar, multiple configurations
- Type
- Competition
- Sector
- Heating, marine
- Status
- Concept
01
A tiny bathroom where nothing dries
The competition brief called for a towel warmer for boats. After many years of sailing, we knew the problem first-hand: even on a large boat, the bathroom is small, and towels dry slowly in an enclosed, humid space. Conventional domestic solutions, whether water-based or electrically heated, were either impractical or raised safety concerns in this setting. We explored far-infrared (FIR) technology as a way to dry towels through radiant heat without exposed high-temperature metal elements.
02
Radiant heat without exposed hot surfaces
The concept uses long-wave infrared heating, a technology also found in domestic heating panels. Its aim is to deliver radiant heat while limiting temperatures on accessible surfaces. An infrared emitter housed in the bar would provide the heat needed to dry the towel, with an appropriate IP rating for the intended installation. A simple control would adjust the heat output and set the automatic switch-off.
03
One bar, multiple configurations
The form also responds to the limited space on board. The cantilevered bar has a single mounting point and pivots to either side, allowing the same product to suit different layouts without mirrored versions. In its upright position, it accommodates a large towel or bathrobe. A small display on the front allows users to programme operating times and set the heat output.
Where it can lead
Infrared heating offers an alternative to conventional methods where heat-sensitive materials require careful temperature control.