You might be more inclined to think that the hot sun is something to avoid when you're attempting to keep your provisions cold on a camping trip in central Australia, but counter intuitively the Outback Cooler by Jo Szczepanska actually requires solar radiation in order to circulate chilled air.
There's no cutting edge technology involved in the way that this invention functions, and in fact, the archaic Egyptian zeer type has inspired this handy piece of equipment 4,500 years later. The principle is based on a 'pot-in-pot' arrangement whereby a two-layer terracotta vessel houses wet sand in its insulating gap. As the Outback Cooler by Jo Szczepanska is warmed, heat exchanges with the cool moisture in the course dirt to keep the food inside chilled.
Low-Tech Desert Chillers
The Outback Cooler by Jo Szczepanska Works with the Heat of the Sun
Trend Themes
1. Low-tech Cooling - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop more efficient and portable low-tech cooling solutions for outdoor activities.
2. Solar-powered Cooling - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Create solar-powered cooling devices for off-grid and remote locations.
3. Ancient-inspired Technology - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Explore ancient technologies for modern applications, such as cooling systems inspired by historical methods.
Industry Implications
1. Outdoor Recreation - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Integrate low-tech cooling solutions into camping and outdoor gear for enhanced convenience.
2. Renewable Energy - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Combine solar power with cooling technology to provide sustainable cooling solutions in remote areas.
3. Historical Preservation - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Use ancient knowledge and techniques to develop innovative cooling systems while preserving cultural heritage.