According to Appliance Design, winning designs were selected by a panel of design experts on the basis of creativity, ease-of-use, and visual appeal.

iRobot Roomba Discovery is the newest generation of the world's most affordable home robotic vacuums. This automatic floorvac incorporates cutting-edge robotic advancements in new intelligent features, allowing Roomba to clean more effectively than ever before, according to iRobot. Key new features include Dirt Detect™, which causes Roomba to stop and focus on especially dirty areas; the Home Base™ charging station, where Roomba automatically returns to when finished cleaning; and a new Advanced Power System, which cut charging times from 12 hours to 3.

HLB collaborated with iRobot to provide industrial design solutions that enhance functionality including a universal control layout and wrap-around bumper. The new design has a look that is non-intimidating and yet high tech, encouraging consumers to feel comfortable using a robot. The newest iron from Sunbeam stands apart in a sea of commodities, with aesthetic and functional features that address consumer desires in a beautiful package, according to HLB. A translucent blue tank was integrated into one shape to resemble a water tear drop. Use features include a retractable cord and exaggerated tip to reach difficult areas when ironing.

A nonstick sole-plate enables smooth gliding; and multiple mist and steam options ensure crisp and wrinkle-free garments. Safety is paramount in this iron, with a three-way auto shut off, a drip-free feature even at low temperatures, and self-cleaning to prevent touching the sole plate. The soft-touch, contoured, over-molded grip provides added comfort and firm hold, ideal for long ironing sessions.

This year's Excellence in Design competition represents the eighteenth year this event has been in existence. Winning products will be featured in the May issue of Appliance Design, and posted on the magazine's web site (www.appliancedesign.com).