Past Projects

Nonelectric Infant Incubator: DtM student teams developed a prototype of a low-cost incubator that would run independent of electricity. The incubator heating element proposed used the chemical properties of phase change material to provide a passive thermoregulation system. The student design won the MIT Lemelson International Technology Award for 2002. See the team's Development by Design paper (PDF file) for more details.

Smart Canes for the Visually Impaired: A DtM student team developed of a "smart" cane, using optical sensors and the "blue dot cricket"--a microprocessor and controller developed at the MIT Media Lab--to provide visually impared users with additional range information from the cane tip.

Shelling Machines: tabletop or community-scale shelling machines would allow rural villages around the world to add value to locally-produced agricultural products. Available power sources to drive these machines include 5 hp gasoline engines and 15 hp diesel engines. DtM has developed prototypes for the following agricultural products: peanuts, sunflower seeds, sesame seeds, palm nuts and shea nuts.

Manioc (Cassava) Peeling Machine: in the same vein as the shelling machine, DtM has worked on the development of tabletop or community-scale machines for peeling manioc (cassava) roots, a dietary staple in many regions of the developing world.

Condom Vending Machine: AIDS is a huge and growing problem, especially in developing countries. In conservative Muslim societies like Mali, young men are often put off from buying condoms due to the social stigma attached to premarital sex. DtM developed initial prototypes for a coin-operated, purely mechanical machine designed to provide an easy, anonymous alternative to buying condoms at the pharmacy or local boutique.

Photovoltaic Charge Controller Circuit: Photovoltaic (solar) cells represent a promising source of electricity for the thousands of rural communities not connected the the power grid. Imported components for PV circuits can be prohibitively expensive. DtM conducted an intial design study of a compact, simple, eight-amp charge controller made of locally available parts.

UV Water Purification: DtM student teams explored the development of an improved ultraviolet water purification system. The goal was to reduce cost, improve reliability and facilitate local maintenance.