| |
 |
|
A
series of supports provide a raised
backbone from which the carriages
are suspended. |
|
An important part of the
EcoSystems work, when not building bridges,
is R&D. With co-operation between the
established EcoSystems team and visiting engineers,
innovative solutions to the energy and transport
challenges in Nepal are being developed. Current
projects include a ‘WireRoad’
and a Human Powered Generator, both of which
have working prototypes and plans for pilot
projects in 2005.
The
WireRoad: (in Nepali: ‘TarBato’):
Background: Many
decades ago the banana industry determined
that overhead wire transport was very reliable
and cost effective. Nearly all of the plantations
of the world have converted to cable systems.
The roads were ploughed up and used for
crops, and permanent wire systems were put
in place. This technology, refined by generations
of engineers, was the starting point for
the WireRoad.
Purpose: The WireRoad
is designed to be an inexpensive and environmentally
gentle technology, suitable for all-weather
public transport of people and goods in
both urban and rural settings.
Click
here to see tarbato in action.
Benefits:
- No contact with
the ground; can go above crops, small
animals, etc.
- Can be powered either
by humans or electricity (where policy
favors).
- Not weather dependant
(important in the rainy season!)
- Uses similar technology
to the Wire Bridge.
Pilot project: In
partnership with a local sponsor, who will
then manage the system, EcoSystems intends
to install the first ever WireRoad.
The Pedal Generator:
 |
|
Prototype
design for
Pedal Generator |
|
Background: Many
of Nepal’s schools, health posts, markets,
government offices, homes and other centers
have no electric power, not even a ‘lifeline’
of 10 watts for simple lighting. Many who
still live or work ‘in the dark’
are unlikely ever to be served economically
by the grid or by traditional renewable technologies.
They must use kerosene, light from open fires,
or if affordable – fossil fuel generators,
all of which are costly and some carry severe
health and safety risks.
Purpose: EcoSystems
is designing a reliable Human Powered Generator
(with storage device) to deliver 50-70 watts
anytime, anywhere, inexpensively. Many low-wattage
devices offer big value such as:
LEDs and fluorescent lights, battery chargers,
and communication devices.
Benefits:
- Human-powered
- Lifeline power regardless
of time, weather or mountain shadows
- No fossil fuel cost, noise,
or emissions
- Low maintenance
Pilot project: Ecosystems
intends to deploy a number of fully operational
generators and evaluate their use in ‘real
life’ working environments such as
schools and health posts.
For more details, email
us: ecosystems@wlink.com.np
|
