Portable lighting

grabcad

Tyler Harms' project focuses on utilizing solar-powered lights, designed using FDM 3D printing technology, to provide illumination to underdeveloped regions like Africa where access to electricity is limited. This innovative design helps break the poverty cycle by enabling people to continue their money-making activities and schoolwork even after sunset. The light harnesses solar energy during daylight hours, storing it for use in the evening. With 600 million Africans lacking electricity, according to Lighting Africa project, this cost-effective solution uses minimal plastic and complex designs for easy field construction. Non-3D printed components are affordable, and snap connections are used except for the solar panel, attached with outdoor adhesive for optimal light exposure. FDM 3D printing keeps costs down, allowing for inexpensive production and replacement parts made of strong, temperature-resistant PETG material, which doesn't require a heated bed like ABS.