ATLANTA — A new student design competition from ASHRAE is focused on taking advantage of today’s technology to provide simple, affordable solutions that benefit people around the world.
The 2013 Applied Engineering Challenge is for the design of a solar-powered (or powered by another renewable source) portable refrigeration unit with a holding volume of 1 cubic foot. This device could be used to transport small essential cargo (perishable foods, pharmaceuticals, organs, sensitive equipment, etc.). The temperature inside the box must be maintained at 25°F (or -4°C) continuously without an external power supply, in an ambient environment of 100°F (or 38°C). This device must be easily made anywhere in the world, especially in developing economies.