Ion Energy Systems
University thesis project. Car-powered energy harness system focused on frugal innovation and local community empowerment.
Overview
TLDR: a system of speed bumps that transform potential energy from passing vehicles into electrical energy for the local community.
The goal of this project is to drive sustainable progress in small Ecuadorian communities through local empowerment, frugal innovation and education.
The challenge was to create an energy capturing system that improved the wellbeing of local communities.
Research
Understanding the context and the culture
Interviews and field observations were recorded all around Ecuador
Insights
The wisdom that guided the ideation process.
Ideation
Exploration of design possibilities through quick sketching
Prototyping
Models were built at scale and parts were fabricated by hand with high precision machining
1:6 scale prototype of the kinetic sculpture and energy transfer mechanism. Built with plywood and stainless steel
1:6 scale prototype built with plywood and steel
Mechanism demonstration on 1:6 scale prototype
Final Concept
Community micro-grids powered by local transit and delivered through kinetic sculptures.
1:12 scale maquette of Ecuadorian model village
Empowerment through data sharing
To make the data tangible, a digital platform was designed to track and share energy production.