Smart Satchels

Some kids, and adults for that matter, are simply born with their minds stuck into forgetful mode, and no amount of brain-training will shift the jam. Respectably bedraggled they arrive at school, hoping in vain that they haven't left their pencil case and homework on their desk.

But they have. Again. They sit and stare out of the window wondering how they could have forgotten to remember the promise to themselves to shed their old skin and become the epitome of organization, swimming in pedagogical praise as their peers look on in open-mouthed silence. Dream on…

Actually there is a much more realistic solution on the horizon. Three German whiz kids have come down from the clouds for long enough to invent a smart school bag, which does all the hard-core remembering for them.

"You practically don't have to think any more," one of the young inventors said.

No more excuses

Based on transponder technology, the items which traditionally belong in the old school bag, are kitted out with smart labels. The size of credit cards, these chips respond to an antenna inside the bag, which registers "missing" on its display pad if a math book, lunch box or sport kit has been inadvertently forgotten.

And it doesn't only hold the promise of a virtual memory revolution for kids.

"Transponders are gaining popularity," said one of the 16-year-old smarty pants. "Our system could be expanded for use in doctors' bags or briefcases."

The new model of school bag is running in a young inventors' competition. But whether it wins or not will have something to do with its popularity among potential users.

"Actually, I think it’s a bit stupid," one potential customer said. "I wouldn't have any excuse for not doing my homework anymore."