Objective
The objective of our project is to create a simple, yet effective, model of a solar dehydrator. Our model will have an efficient design and will be easily replicable for a child with the assistance of an adult. We hope that by designing this solar dehydrator we help children learn about solar energy and healthy food choices. We will be working closely with the group Locally Delicious, whos link can be seen below. Our final design will be documented and instructions on how to build this particular solar dehydrator will be integrated into Locally Delicious's upcoming cookbook.
- Client: Locally Delicious
- Class: Engineering 215
Design
Our design incorporates a simple but effective model which requires very little materials to construct, yet is very efficient for dehydrating a small to moderate amount of food. Our design is built on a 2x4 frame, with layers of plywood, corregated roofing, vinyl food screens, and finally clear greenhouse cover. This model is simple to build and the materials are easily found at your local hardware store or recycled material can be used to reduce costs.
Criteria | Weight | Constraints |
---|---|---|
Cost | 9 | Less than $100 |
Educational Value | 8 | Teach about measurements, solar radiation, solar dehydration, as well as healthy eating, at a 4th to 8th grade level |
Reproducibility | 9 | Minimal tool usage, easily obtainable materials |
Maintenance | 6 | Less than 30 minutes of maintenance required per usage |
Durability | 7 | Must last at least 12 uses |
Safety | 10 | Should not exceed 200 degrees Fahrenheit, also must be structurally sound |
Functional | 10 | Must be able to adequately dehydrate fruits and vegetables |
Portability | 5 | Must be movable by two or less people |
Quantity | Material | Source | Cost ($) | Total ($) |
---|---|---|---|---|
4 | Wood | Wood store | 5.00 |align="right"| 6.60 | |
1 | Glazing - 2' x 3', Sun-lite | Water Planet | 10.00 | 10.00 |
Total Cost | $16.60 |
Fuji's and Fugees
- David Ullrich
- Jake Lodeen
- Dylan Kahle
- Matt Bruder