Eco Factor: Saddle equipped with a solar-powered refrigerator for transporting medicines.
Kenya-based Nomadic Communities Trust (NCT) has partnered with Designmatters at Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California, and Princeton University’s Institute of Science and Technology of Materials (PRISM), a multidisciplinary research center in the general field of materials, to develop a system that can be used to transport medicine to remote African communities.
The system needed to blend affordable technology with advanced engineering and design that makes it possible to send medicines on camel conveys, which is the most practical and cost-effective means of transportation to these urban areas. The team came up with a multifunctional system made from bamboo that is lightweight, durable and ergonomic. The system is actually a saddle, which holds a compartmented refrigerating unit that runs on a solar power generator.
The refrigerator prevents medicines and vaccines from the harsh climatic conditions. The project is expected to be fully implemented in 2010 if the necessary funding is secured. The team believes that the project is developed for hard-to-reach African villages, but is viable for any underserved, remote area where camels are found.
Via: ChangeObserver
