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Personal energy harnesser designed for rural Africa

By Rain Noe - February 24, 2009

in Object Culture

Yesterday we showed you one design firm's efforts to wring energy out of all sorts of doors, revolving, sliding and standard. Now take a look at the invention of Dr. Cedrick Ngalande, who wants to capture energy in a region that doesn't have as many doors--rural Africa.

Dr. Ngalande's Green Erg generator is designed to harness energy from the simple act of walking:

"This is basically a dynamo which is being driven as a result of friction between the ground and the blocks. The small yellowish blocks (these are covered by rubber in the real commercial product) rotate as you pull it. They are designed to rotate even on bumpy run even roads. We have tested it on moist lawns and have worked. It is very smooth so much that you basically don't feel any disturbance as you move along.

At normal walking speeds we have gotten more than 2 watts which is more than enough for running cell phones or radios. I envision that people will attach this to themselves and walk with it - or even attach it to an ox-cart, a skating board, bike, etc."

via afrigadget

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Anatol

15 years ago

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Great idea! Run for charge :)
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Carly

15 years ago

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This is an awesome design opportunity. Could those generators be incorporated into a pair of shoes? Maybe something similar to 'heeleys?' I would think there is some stigma in pulling that thing along by the back of your pants...
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Berkana

15 years ago

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Sheesh. What a drag.
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Thirdnorth

15 years ago

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When will these people understand that no one wants to look like a dork? I read somewhere here on Core that one of the most important factors in designing for the poor or underprivileged was to let them maintain their dignity. This product is a failure in that regard.

Maybe one solution would be to modify the wheels of a cart or a bike or a skateboard to do the same thing this does so you don't have to look like an idiot. They already have wheels that roll along the ground, but without looking stupid.
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funnydesigner

15 years ago

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This is great! It should be sent to the US, or Europe, where people get fat and lazy so easily, and use soooo much energy. Walking is now also good and your energy consumption, not only for your body. :D
intelligent concept, btw.
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