Research & Development
Engineering Innovation From Concept to Reality
At Retractive Consulting, innovation is at the heart of everything we do. Beyond delivering high-quality civil engineering services, we invest in the research, design, and development of original products that aim to solve real-world problems in smarter, more efficient ways.
Our R&D journey reflects a deep commitment to creative thinking, problem-solving, and pushing the boundaries of what's possible in infrastructure and design. We understand that not all innovations reach commercial success, but each attempt sharpens our expertise and reinforces our persistence.
Fanaway – From Concept to Global Market
One of our proudest achievements is Fanaway—the world’s first retractable blade ceiling fan that combines form and function with architectural style. Invented by Joe Villella and featured on ABC’s The New Inventors, Fanaway evolved from a bold idea to a globally successful product through collaboration with Beacon Lighting.
Its patented design enables blades to extend when in use and retract when off, transforming the fan into a stylish light fixture. Today, Fanaway is sold internationally and remains a testament to the power of practical invention and entrepreneurial drive.
Bladeless Ceiling Fan – A Lesson in the Realities of Innovation
From 2016 to 2022, we embarked on an ambitious R&D journey to develop a bladeless ceiling fan, inspired by the Coanda effect—a principle in fluid dynamics that allows air to follow curved surfaces and create controlled airflow without visible blades.
The project reached advanced stages, including:
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Design and aerodynamic testing
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Functional prototyping
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Pre-manufacturing design reviews
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Engagement with suppliers and manufacturing partners
However, the onset of COVID-19 caused severe delays in development, stalling progress just as manufacturing was about to commence. Unfortunately, during this period, the concept became vulnerable. Despite our best efforts to protect the design, a similar bladeless fan emerged in the Chinese market, effectively undermining the originality of the idea and its commercial potential.
The project was ultimately discontinued—but it taught us something every innovator must learn:
“Not every good idea makes it to market
—but persistence and a positive mindset are non-negotiable.”
What We’re Working On Now
We continue to innovate. Our latest product under development is Hydro Spheres—a modular underground stormwater detention system designed to replace conventional backfill and drainage cells with stackable interlocking spheres. This system promises to change the way we manage water on development sites.
Our R&D Process Includes:
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Ideation and sketch development
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Patent and IP protection
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3D modelling and performance testing
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Prototyping and pre-manufacture
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Investor and licensing engagement
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Market feasibility and product strategy
Have an Idea or Want to Collaborate?
Whether you're an investor, manufacturer, or innovator—we’d love to hear from you. Let’s work together to bring engineering-led innovations to life.