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Power Scheme for OLPC Project Falling Into Place

Posted by ryuzaki0 on from the pulling-for-pleasure-says-george-carlin dept.

robotrachel writes "According to Technology Review, the $100 laptop intended for children in the developing world will be powered in much the same way that you might start an outboard motor on a boat. The new power system will 'make the laptop much easier to power than it would be with a hand crank, in part, because the users will be able to operate the generator in a variety of ways, including holding the device (the size of two hockey pucks) in one hand and pulling the string with the other, or clamping the generator to a desk, attaching the string to one foot, and using leg power.'" There are plenty of sewing machine treadles in the world, too -- I hope someone can figure out a way to combine them with the new design.

3 of 126 comments (clear)

  1. I want one! by QuantumFTL · · Score: 4, Interesting

    These machines are actually starting to sound like something some people in the US might even like. I can imagine sitting outside in some remote area, working as much as I like without even worrying about running out of batteries (and getting exercise at the same time).

    What'd I'd really like to see is an inexpensive laptop which has a screen that's highly visible, even outdoors. I could get a lot of work done that way, and work on my tan at the same time. Does anyone know of any? I'd assume it'd work best with grayscale.

  2. Solar Cells? by digitaldc · · Score: 4, Interesting

    I am not sure if something like this is powerful enough or even cost-effective, but what about solar cell technology to power these laptops?
    Was this even considered?

    --
    He who knows best knows how little he knows. - Thomas Jefferson
  3. Open Popular Mechanics by Doc+Ruby · · Score: 3, Interesting

    The best mechanical coupling design would have a open interface. A rotating bolt that can take the pullcord attachment, or a sewing machine pedal cam, or a bicycle tire clip, or a homemade windmill/waterwheel/goatwheel, or any mechanical rotation.

    Then include in its desktop a link to a blog for new powerup inventions worldwide. Necessity is the mother of invention, and local materials the father. Give these kids a way to improve and share, and we'll all get the benefits of their unique insights. What better way to harness the power of global kids?

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    make install -not war