22-12-2012, 04:50 PM
Portable Solar Cooker for Survivals beyond Catastrophic Disasters
Portable Solar Cooker for Survivals beyond Catastrophic Disasters.docx (Size: 222.17 KB / Downloads: 27)
General Description:
Catastrophic disasters such as the earthquake and tsunami experienced recently in Japan often destroy utility supplies including potable water and electricity that are vital to the survivors. Hot food and boiled water are often preferred by the survivors especially after prolonged period staying in the rescue center before getting back to their normal lives. Solar collectors capable of tracking the position of the sun can provide convenience to prepare hot food and warm water in the absence of regular power supply. Because disasters could hit anytime and anywhere in the world, this project aims at making a portable solar cooker that automatically tracks the position of the sun continuously to achieve maximum temperature for optimal cooking and boiling water.
Scope of Work:
(1) Solar Collector and Cooker Design
In realizing the portability of the device, smaller pieces of reflective materials will be assembled to the designed shape of a solar collector to concentrate the thermal energy from the sun; and the cooker will be placed at the focus of the solar collector for optimal cooking.
(2) Sun-tracking Movement
Computer programs positioning many celestial bodies are being applied in astronomical telescopes with automatic tracking functions. These programs can be applied in this project to track the position of the sun with respect to the fixed position designated to use the solar cooker. Alternatively, sun-tracking sensor can be employed for similar function.
(3) Sun-tracking Mechanism of the Solar Cooker
Structure of the solar collector and cooker will be designed to enable the sun-tracking functions. Gears and motors will be used to move the structure in tracking the position of the sun at different time of the day and in different seasons of the year.
(4) Power Logistics
Power is needed to move the solar collector tracking the position of the sun, as well as operating the electronic devices governing the movement. Batteries charged by solar photovoltaic cells are the most convenient power sources for this device, especially after the disaster hits.