In the pipeline

Water-saving pressure washer

While a standard hose might suit a leisurely half hour of watering in the garden, Kärsher's K270 handles those jobs that require a little more industrial strength.

The pressure washer integrates a trigger-controlled nozzle with a 20-foot high-pressure hose. It generates pressure up to 26 times the power of a regular hose - and uses one-sixth the amount of water.

Think sidewalks, cars, boats, or even buildings.

To learn more, go to www.karcher.com.

Suggested price: $300

Imagine a backyard where the sun never sets. Gizmomaker Hammacher Schlemmer's latest invention could make the heliocentric family a reality. Its artificial sun floats as high as 50 feet in the air and can illuminate a 15,000 to 20,000 square-foot area, inside or outdoors. The 7-foot diameter sphere of nylon, which is inflated with helium, holds four 650-watt halogen bulbs and is tethered to a cable.

An electronic switch box is wired to the cable and has a power cord that plugs into a regular outlet. Now available for purchase, the device has been rented to the public since the mid-1990s.

To learn more, go to www.hammacher.com.

Suggested price: $4,500

Trendmaster's Johnny LittleBot evolves from infancy to adulthood. Responding to motion and sound, the robot ultimately grows into one of three "personalities" - an athlete, rock star, or superhero - depending on its environment.

The robot responds to human interaction with sound and movement.

To learn more, go to www.trendmasters.com.

Suggested price: $20