Project Summary

The proposed project would entail designing, developing, and testing of EcoCool in the UK. EcoCool is a solar-powered transportable refrigeration container, EcoCool was developed to provide a more sustainable means of transporting goods (perishable and non-perishable) in the logistics industry.

Project Achievements

Activities Prototype Design: The team worked collectively on the technical specifications required for EcoCool. We analysed the engineering design and components needed. Hence the conclusion is to use a Thermoelectric chiller over conventional compressors. Procurement: We worked closely with our manufacturing partners on negotiations and quality checks for all materials needed for prototype development. Prototype development and testing: This took place in Glasgow, Scotland, with our partner over 16 weeks.

Conclusions

We are pleased to say the project was successful because we have been able to develop from TRL1 to TRL4, which was the projected milestone for the project phase. We were able to advance from basic principles to developing and testing a working prototype. The positive impact of the project was identified in overall team development, gaining new skills and training and creating new technical partnerships for future projects.

Next Steps

• Conduct more testing for the prototype. • Rewrite the business plan and develop and business model for the product. • Conduct market research and test demonstrations. Commercial opportunities have been generated from prospective clients as we have built relationships with stakeholders in hospitals in Nigeria and Ghana. We received a positive response from them and plan to conduct live tests in the two countries in 2023. This would help us understand our prospective customers and how well we can solve their needs.