James Dyson, the man who brought us better vacuum cleaners and more powerful toilet hand dryers has turned his attention to the humble desk fan.

Gone are the blades of conventional electric fans - instead his 'Dyson Air Multiplier' design uses technology to amplify air 15 times.

Now for the science bit. It works by accelerating air through an annular aperture set within the loop amplifier. This in turn creates a jet of air which passes over an airfoil-shaped ramp that channels its direction… apparently.

Makers claim this means the £200 fans can expel 405 litres of cool air every second.

Then again for that price it should… alternatively you could just pay for someone to fan you with a giant palm leaf.