Unfolding wheels are useful on all terrains.
Now, a Utah-based startup has employed the origami principle to develop a handy solar panel for those on the move.
Using their experiences with space agency NASA, the founders created a design with a surface area eight times its folded size.
Thus, a 19×19 cm packet becomes a hexagonal panel measuring 2500㎠and with an output of 25 watts.
With its accompanying tripod and 180 degrees rotating mechanism, it can be deployed almost anywhere.
Cellphones or mobile batteries will be connected for charging using a box. The product should be market-ready by next spring.
Portable wind turbines are an alternative, while this project aims to find space tyres a home on earth.
