The Top 10 Products of 2013

Dec. 1, 2013
In 2013, AS&U showcased some of the hottest products in the industry. Following are the 10 most requested, as determined by readers.

1. Clearing the air

Spirotherm, Inc. Winter can be challenging in Maine, so heating campus buildings properly is a top priority for the University of Southern Maine’s Gorham campus. A 2010 upgrade to Upton Hastings Hall had left the facility with a chronic air problem. So, the unversity installed two Spirovent air/dirt combination separators to solve this problem.

Select the December 2013 issue RSN number 150 on AS&U's Product Information site for more information.

2. Premium hand towels

Tork. A new collection of hand towels includes Premium Extra Soft, Premium and Advanced Soft. The new portfolio of hand towels is available in roll and folded options, and improves restroom aesthetics. The towels, which have a leaf embossed design, are compatible with a variety of TorkSelect dispensers.

Select the December 2013 issue RSN number 151 on AS&U's Product Information site for more information.

3. Electronic key-management cabinet

Videx, Inc. A new version of the CyberKey Vault 20, the CyberKey Vault 20 FX, has been introduced. The redesign features a sleek new look with weatherized input modules and an embedded Flex System Hub for improved performance, all offered at a lower price. The Vault 20 FX is an intelligent key cabinet designed to manage, program and dispense CyberKey smart keys. The keys are stored unprogrammed and locked securely in the cabinet until an RFID card or PIN code is presented to the cabinet. After reading the card or accepting the PIN, the CyberKey Vault programs a CyberKey with the individual’s permissions. Keys are programmed with access privileges for each user.

Select the December 2013 issue RSN number 152 on AS&U's Product Information site for more information.

4. Lighting control

Lumewave. The University of California, Davis, unveiled a vast lighting retrofit that uses the Adaptive Control System to achieve greater energy savings and control. The company partnered with the university’s California Lighting Technology Center (CLTC) to retrofit the campus’ exterior lighting with a unique solution with motion detectors.

Select the December 2013 issue RSN number 153 on AS&U's Product Information site for more information.

5. Daylight-modeling simulation

Kalwall. Daylightmodeling.com is an informative new website that demonstrates a helpful daylight engineering service. Sample 3D renderings, videos and example daylighting reports are available, along with information about services and technologies that enable architects and building designers to demonstrate the impact of their daylight designs while having the option of easily demonstrating “what-if” alternatives. Architects and designers also can check their designs for compliance with net zero, LEED, ASHRAE 90.1, Standard 189.1 and IGCC.

Select the December 2013 issue RSN number 154 on AS&U's Product Information site for more information.

6. Website polling

nora. A new polling feature has been added to noraXchange, the interactive online community hosted by the company. The noraXchange provides customers with information that addresses the challenges and questions they regularly encounter. The “Quick-Poll” feature invites members of the community to choose one of multiple responses to the monthly poll question. The results will appear in real time as members participate. In addition, subscribers to the noraXchange can communicate further by clicking “Share your opinion” and commenting on what matters to them.

Select the December 2013 issue RSN number 155 on AS&U's Product Information site for more information.

7. Nesting table

MITY-LITE. Reveal Flip is a new mobile flip-top table design that flips and nests for easy storage. Ideal for training, boardroom, classroom, conference and other flexible learning environments, the tables offer many commercial-grade, scratch-resistant laminate finishes. It has sleek, single-column steel legs and locking casters. The linen-less table’s durable, yet lightweight construction supports 1,000 pounds and is backed by a 15-year limited warranty.  

Select the December 2013 issue RSN number 156 on AS&U's Product Information site for more information.

8. Roof propeller fan options

Greenheck. Several models of the company’s hooded roof propeller fans now can be specified to withstand seismic and high-wind disturbances.  High-wind ratings are available in sizes up to a 42-inch prop on unfiltered models and up to a 36-inch prop on filtered models. All units have been tested and certified in accordance with Miami-Dade NOA-09-0511.03, Florida Product Approval FL 12917.1 and California OSHPD certification–OSP-0113-10 for worst-case-scenario seismic conditions for use throughout the United States. 

Select the December 2013 issue RSN number 157 on AS&U's Product Information site for more information.

9. Design challenge

Dryvit. Belmont University, Nashville, Tenn., wanted to replicate important traditional southern architecture when cladding the Gordon E. Inman Center for Health Services. The university turned to Dryvit Outsulation as its choice for one of the highest-profile buildings on the sprawling urban campus with a distinctly traditional southern architectural character.

Select the December 2013 issue RSN number 158 on AS&U's Product Information site for more information.

10. Protective guards

Chase Security Systems. The company has a custom line of protective guards that cover embedded windows on doors commonly used in K-12 schools. The solid-steel mesh guards prevent windows from being broken through and allowing an individual to enter the room. The hinged design ensures easy window cleaning. The guards are available in a variety of custom sizes and finishes to complement any style of decor. 

Select the December 2013 issue RSN number 159 on AS&U's Product Information site for more information.

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