A Blanket That Cools
Student Project 2012
A true need
Roughly ONE THIRD of the world’s food is lost or wasted. In developing countries, this occurs before it even gets to the market. Farmers in Northern Sudan are in need of a portable cooling device that will keep produce fresh on the journey to the market, maximizing produce lifespan and minimizing food waste.
Hi-Low Tech
Currently many farmers in Africa use a Zeer pot, two clay bins that contain sand and water in the middle. When the water evaporates, the vegetables in the inside cool, much like how perspiration works. This technology, however, is very heavy and not transportable.
Problem Statement:
How can farmers and sellers keep vegetables cool and fresh during transportation without refrigerated vehicles?
Ideation
After much ideation and sketching, our team landed on the idea to simplify the zeer pot technology into a portable blanket that could be wrapped around anything.
Creating the Model
The Design
How It Works
As the water in the charcoal evaporates, it takes heat energy away from whatever the blanket is wrapped around. In dry and hot conditions, the blanket should cool various foods down to 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
How It Fills
Drip piping running through the blanket connects to a water bottle, which if squeezed will fill the blanket with water. The water bottle fits securely in a pouch located next to the connection.
