The Nepalese people are still staggering under the weight of the 2015 earthquake. A disaster the rest of the world largely forgot. The few hospitals that did survive still face unreliable power even in surgical wards and delivery rooms. The BBC told us a story that almost broke our hearts today. A story of life without mains electricity, and the solar suitcases that are one amazing woman’s dream.
Dr Laura Sachel’s Dream of Solar Suitcases
Obstetrician-gynecologist Laura Sachel was doing charitable work in Nigeria in 2008. After the electricity failed while she was performing a life-threatening caesarean procedure, she had to complete the operation in dim light.
Her solar engineer husband Hal devised the simplest portable solar lighting system possible when she got back to America. Then they fitted it into a bright yellow suitcase, because they wanted to avoid confusion at airport customs and security checks.
See Laura Sachel Live in This Video
A Highly Successful Innovation and A World First
Consequently, Laura and Hal’s dumbed down device requires only minimal operator training. It weighs just 35 pounds including the suitcase. Thus porters can carry it to isolated villages in emergencies, including after natural disasters.
Her company, We Care Solar delivered solar suitcases and birthing tents to Nepal immediately after the earthquake. These devices brought new hope to a devastated country. Because they were light and portable, and could arrive within a day.
First, the suitcases contain two 40 / 80 watt solar panels stowed inside the lid. Then the clinic model contains a 12 amp-hour lithium ferrous phosphate battery. Thirdly, this powers high-efficiency LED medical task lighting mounted in the base.
Accessories include a universal cell phone charger, a battery charger for AAA or AA batteries, and outlets for 12V DC devices. The equipment is scaleable and mounts on a wall. A second, maternal version includes a fetal doppler, in order to monitor baby’s heart inside the womb.
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Preview Image: Solar Suitcase Production
Video Share Link: https://youtu.be/brrntOcgSMc
