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Project by Jialin and Narayan
Problem Statement
Problem Statement
Traditional handicrafts require properly dried pine needles that are flexible and strong. Currently, artisans use traditional shade-drying methods, however the process requires up to 40 days and large areas to dry. As climate change disrupts temperature patterns, humidity, and rainfall, the traditional drying process is slower and more inconsistent. The result is unpredictable material quality, higher production costs, and reduced livelihoods for the low-resource communities that depend on this craft.
Therefore, there is a need for a drying method that is independent of weather conditions, regulates drying temperature, achieves consistent material quality, and can be operated without grid electricity.
Design
Design
To the right is the initial sketch and CAD model of direct solar dryer chamber. This design was chosen for its simplicity, accessible materials, space efficiency, and capability to work with and without power.
Below are other design concepts that were not chosen.
Shown to the right is a circuit diagram of the electronic parts used in the pine needle dryer. The goal is to make an open source product, and so this simple circuit diagram is vital in allowing users to visually construct the solar dryer.
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