Innovative Design for a Sustainable Future
Explore creative solutions to real-world challenges in design.
About Anthony Reale
Philosophy
I’m Anthony Reale — a designer, educator, and inventor focused on the future of practical innovation. I believe great design starts with curiosity and ends in impact. This site is a space to explore the ideas, systems, and inventions that emerge when creative mechanics meet real-world challenges. Whether in the studio or the classroom, my goal is to teach and build design that lasts — thoughtfully engineered, elegantly simple, and always human-centered.
“The Future Needs Designers”
"Hi, I’m Anthony Reale. I’ve designed hundreds of products, and teach design thinking to future change-makers. I believe good design is like good science—curious, precise, and built to serve the future."
Patents & inventor credits
Linear Luminaire Connector Assembly
US12031703B2
Corelite WSLA Linear
This invention is a smart, modular connector system that lets you link linear light fixtures (luminaires) together in almost any custom shape or layout — ideal for modern architecture, commercial spaces, or smart building designs.
How it works:
- Acts like a hub or joint where multiple light fixtures can connect in different directions (T-shapes, corners, grids, etc.).
- Allows for tool-free, flexible arrangements of light fixtures to match design needs.
Bonus feature:
- The connector can hold electronics inside it, such as:
- Smart sensors
- IoT modules
- Cameras
- Emergency battery backups
- Wireless communication devices
- Smart sensors
Why it’s useful:
- Gives designers and architects total freedom to shape lighting layouts without bulky hardware.
- Makes lighting systems intelligent and multifunctional — lighting + sensing + safety, all in one sleek assembly.
This invention is a smart, modular connector system that lets you link linear light fixtures (luminaires) together in almost any custom shape or layout — ideal for modern architecture, commercial spaces, or smart building designs.
How it works:
- Acts like a hub or joint where multiple light fixtures can connect in different directions (T-shapes, corners, grids, etc.).
- Allows for tool-free, flexible arrangements of light fixtures to match design needs.
Bonus feature:
- The connector can hold electronics inside it, such as:
- Smart sensors
- IoT modules
- Cameras
- Emergency battery backups
- Wireless communication devices
- Smart sensors
Why it’s useful:
- Gives designers and architects total freedom to shape lighting layouts without bulky hardware.
- Makes lighting systems intelligent and multifunctional — lighting + sensing + safety, all in one sleek assembly.
This invention is a smart, modular connector system that lets you link linear light fixtures (luminaires) together in almost any custom shape or layout — ideal for modern architecture, commercial spaces, or smart building designs.
How it works:
- Acts like a hub or joint where multiple light fixtures can connect in different directions (T-shapes, corners, grids, etc.).
- Allows for tool-free, flexible arrangements of light fixtures to match design needs.
Bonus feature:
- The connector can hold electronics inside it, such as:
- Smart sensors
- IoT modules
- Cameras
- Emergency battery backups
- Wireless communication devices
- Smart sensors
Why it’s useful:
- Gives designers and architects total freedom to shape lighting layouts without bulky hardware.
- telligent and multifunctional — lighting + sensing + safety, all in one sleek assembly.
Circular exit sign
US-D872801-S & US-10360824-B1
This invention is a modern, circular-shaped exit sign that can be customized for different settings and design preferences.
Key Features:
- A round frame holds a faceplate that has the word “EXIT” cut out of it.
- A trim ring wraps around the edge to give it a clean, finished look.
- The faceplate can be customized in different colors, allowing it to match the decor of a space (like retail, hospitality, or architectural environments).
Why it’s useful:
- Breaks away from the typical rectangular exit signs by offering a sleek, circular alternative.
- Adds aesthetic flexibility while still meeting safety and visibility needs.
Light fixture cover
Sure-Lites SELA Emergency Light
This design patent protects the visual appearance of a light fixture cover, not its function. It defines the shape, contours, and overall look of the cover as seen from all sides.
What’s included in the design:
- FIG. 1–8 show the fixture cover from every angle:
- Front, back, top, bottom, and all sides.
- The design appears to feature a smooth, modern form with clean lines and balanced proportions.
- Front, back, top, bottom, and all sides.
- The broken lines in the drawings show parts of the fixture that are not protected by this patent — they’re included for reference but are not claimed.
Why it matters:
- This patent protects the distinctive look of the cover — important for branding, architectural integration, and preventing copycat designs.
- It’s especially useful in commercial or hospitality spaces where design continuity and appearance are important, even for functional items like lighting.
Cylinder liner remover
This invention is a specialized tool designed to safely and efficiently remove cylinder liners from engine blocks, particularly in heavy-duty engines.
How it works:
- The tool uses a wedge and collet system. The collets are inserted into the cylinder liner, and as the wedge is driven in, the collets expand outward, gripping the liner securely.
- Once the liner is firmly gripped, a threaded rod mechanism is used to apply force, pulling the liner out of the cylinder.
- The design includes features like thrust bearings to reduce friction during operation and an eyehook for attaching lifting equipment, ensuring the liner can be removed smoothly and safely.Google Patents
Advantages:
- Unlike traditional rubber-based removers that can degrade or fail, this tool provides a durable and reliable solution.
- It's adaptable to various liner sizes, reducing the need for multiple tools.
- The design minimizes the risk of damaging the engine block during liner removal.Google Patents
In essence, this tool streamlines the process of cylinder liner removal, making it more efficient and less prone to causing damage, which is especially valuable in maintenance and repair of large engines.
Quick release mechanism and bicycle using the same
US20180290706A1
This invention is a tool-free, quick-release system that allows you to easily attach or detach bicycle handlebars — making bikes easier to store or transport.
How it works:
- The system uses a cam-style locking assembly.
- In the first position, it locks the handlebars securely in place for riding.
- In the second position, it releases the handlebars so they can be quickly removed or folded down without tools.
Why it matters:
- Perfect for folding bikes, compact storage, or quick setup.
- Simplifies the assembly and disassembly process — especially useful for people living in small spaces, commuters, or travelers.
- Makes bikes more user-friendly for people who may not be mechanically inclined.
Headlight lens cleaning apparatus and method
Publication of US20060265827A1
This invention is a simple tool that lets you clean the inside of a car’s headlight lens without taking anything apart.
Here’s how it works:
- A small cleaning pad is inserted through the same hole where the headlight bulb normally goes.
- That pad has a soft outer layer to clean the lens, and a metal core inside that responds to magnets.
- On the outside of the headlight, you hold a magnetic guide — kind of like a joystick.
- As you move the magnet around, the pad inside follows along, scrubbing the inside of the lens from the inside out.
This saves time, avoids disassembly, and helps keep sealed headlights clear — especially in older or specialty vehicles where fogging or dirt buildup inside the lens can be a problem.
Protective chassis cover system and method
US-2007235370-A1
This invention is a two-part case system designed to protect electronic devices, like phones or tablets.
Here’s how it works:
- The first part is a strong inner frame that snaps directly onto the device — like a skeleton that holds it firmly in place.
- The second part is a softer, shock-absorbing outer layer that wraps around the inner frame.
Together, these layers give your device both structure and cushioning — keeping it safe from drops, bumps, and everyday wear and tear. It’s like giving your device both armor and padding in one smart design.
Microwave component heating apparatus
US-7012231-B2
This invention is a specialized tool designed to heat specific components of a vehicle, such as suspension or steering parts, using microwave energy.
How it works:
- The apparatus directs microwave energy precisely to the targeted component, causing it to heat up.
- Heating the component can expand it slightly, making it easier to remove or adjust, especially if it's corroded or tightly fitted.
- This method allows for non-invasive heating, reducing the risk of damage to surrounding parts compared to traditional heating methods like torches.
Advantages:
- Provides a controlled and precise heating method.
- Reduces the need for mechanical force, which can damage components.
- Enhances safety by eliminating open flames in the workspace.
In essence, this tool offers a safer and more efficient way to heat and manipulate vehicle components during maintenance or repair.
Pneu/hydraulic tube flaring tool apparatus and method
Pneu/hydraulic tube flaring tool apparatus and method
US20060243019A1
This invention is a power-assisted tool that makes it much easier and faster to flare the ends of metal tubes — a common need in plumbing, automotive, and aerospace work.
What it does:
- Creates a flared end on a metal tube so it can fit securely with other parts or fittings.
How it works (in simple terms):
- A metal tube is clamped tightly between two specially shaped die pieces.
- The tool uses compressed air to drive a pneumatic piston, which then activates a hydraulic system.
- That hydraulic force pushes a ram (a strong metal plunger) into the end of the tube.
- The end of the tube is squeezed between the ram and the dies — shaping it into a flared, widened opening.
Why it matters:
- Traditional flaring tools require a lot of manual force — this one uses air and hydraulic pressure to do the job quickly and evenly.
- It creates precise, strong flares with minimal human effort — improving quality and reducing worker fatigue.