International. Ashrae launched a design competition that focuses on leveraging today's technology to deliver simple, affordable solutions that benefit people around the world.
The 2013 Applied Engineering Challenge is for the design of a solar-powered portable cooling unit (or powered by another renewable source) with a retention volume of 1 cubic foot. This device could be used for the transport of small essential cargo (perishable food, pharmaceuticals, organs, sensitive equipment, etc.).
The temperature inside the box must be maintained at 25 F (or -4C) continuously without an external power supply, at an ambient temperature of 100°F (or 38C). As a requirement, the device should be easy to make anywhere in the world, especially in developing economies.
The new competition was developed under ashrae's 2012-13 theme, broadening Ashrae's horizons, from President Tom Watson, P.E., a member of this association, who said he hopes to attract students from all over the world from traditional engineering schools and also students from other institutions such as technical schools that may not have been involved with Ashrae.
The closing date to participate is June 2, 2013. Learn more at www.ashrae.org/engineeringchallenge
