Searching the world for tomorrow's inventions, here are three cool things that made The Futurist.

ROBOTIC EXOSKELETON: It may look like a new Robocop movie, but the X1 robotic exoskeleton is the fruit of a collaboration between NASA and IHMC.  The X1 was designed to help paraplegics walk again. NASA also plans to use it to improve astronaut strength training during long missions in space.

The X1 is worn over the legs with a harness that reaches up the back and around the shoulders. Multiple points of adjustment customize it for each individual user.  Specially designed motors allow for horizontal or vertical movement -- so instead of hopping on the stair climber, now you are the stair climber.

BIODEGRADABLE PACKAGING: Apple wouldn't confirm this, but it seems a portion of the new iPod Touch and iPod Nano's packaging is biodegradable. Just add water and the EarPod holder dissolves. Apple has long been a leader in product package design and has often touted how eco-friendly its products are, but this is a first.

BICYMPLE: Every bike owner in history has had to deal with a messed up bike chain, but thanks to Bicymple, that’s a thing of the past. Bicymple has simplified the typical bike design by removing the number of moving parts including the chain.   

Its light frame and short wheelbase makes for a nimble ride. The optional rear-steer mode makes it feel like an old school "swing bike," allowing tighter turns and navigation.