PORTABLE LIGHT PROJECT - Portable Workshop Prototype


PORTABLE WORKSHOP prototype Sheila Kennedy, Principal Investigator Saarinen Professor University of Michigan Frano Violich, Saarinen Professor, University of Michigan Keith VanDerSys, Lecturer, University of Michigan Patricia Gruits, University of Michigan Jason O'Mara, University of Michigan Stanford Richins, University of Michigan The PORTABLE WORKSHOP prototype integrates photovoltaic energy harvesting capabilities with solid state lighting in a foldable textile workspace weighing only 14 ounces. The Portable Workshop provides two and one half hours of digital light at 160 lumens with approximately fours hours of charge time. The design harvests energy from sunlight in two use configurations. The prototype can be worn as a sash with photocells positioned across the shoulder or it can be unfolded and opened as a canopy to expose the photocells for charging and provide a shaded work area. During the night, the textile form can be configured to provide the user with a choice of ambient or direct task light suitable for small scale craftwork, beading, sewing and repair activities. The Portable Workshop can be worn on the body, where it provides hands free lighting as a way finding benefit for Huichols, who often travel at night.
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PORTABLE WORKSHOP prototype

Sheila Kennedy, Principal Investigator
Saarinen Professor University of Michigan
Frano Violich, Saarinen Professor, University of Michigan
Keith VanDerSys, Lecturer, University of Michigan
Patricia Gruits, University of Michigan
Jason O'Mara, University of Michigan
Stanford Richins, University of Michigan

The PORTABLE WORKSHOP prototype integrates photovoltaic energy harvesting capabilities with solid state lighting in a foldable textile workspace weighing only 14 ounces. The Portable Workshop provides two and one half hours of digital light at 160 lumens with approximately fours hours of charge time. The design harvests energy from sunlight in two use configurations. The prototype can be worn as a sash with photocells positioned across the shoulder or it can be unfolded and opened as a canopy to expose the photocells for charging and provide a shaded work area. During the night, the textile form can be configured to provide the user with a choice of ambient or direct task light suitable for small scale craftwork, beading, sewing and repair activities. The Portable Workshop can be worn on the body, where it provides hands free lighting as a way finding benefit for Huichols, who often travel at night.