Jean M. Hoffman

Fiat set visual appeal as a top priority for designers working on both interior and exterior components of its new 500 model — launched last year to commemorate the car’s 50th anniversary.

Wisconsin entrepreneur Ben Hobbins worked with University of Wisconsin- Madison engineering and business school faculty and students to devise a fiber-reinforced fishing lure that may prevent millions of pounds of plastics from polluting waters nationwide.

A spray coating technique from Metall-FX in the U.K. can replace traditional gold leaf or provide the quality feel and durability of solid metals without the expense, weight or inconvenience of machined or forged metal products.