Futures

MyPowerbank: Empowering Homeless in London through Innovative Phone Charging Solution, (from page 20231017.)

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Summary

Luke Talbot, a Central Saint Martins graduate, has developed MyPowerbank, a portable charger that allows homeless individuals in London to charge their phones for free using Santander rental bikes. The device can be attached to the bike’s chain, utilizing the kinetic energy produced by pedaling to power a small generator. After about 25 minutes of pedaling, users can achieve a full phone charge. This initiative addresses the challenge faced by homeless individuals who often lack access to charging facilities, crucial for communication and accessing services. Talbot’s project aims to repurpose urban infrastructure designed against homeless people, with plans to produce the chargers affordably in collaboration with charities. MyPowerbank is showcased in the Design Transforms exhibition at Central Saint Martins during the London Design Festival.

Signals

name description change 10-year driving-force relevancy
Portable Charging Solutions for Vulnerable Populations Innovative designs like MyPowerbank provide charging access to homeless individuals. Shifting from limited access to charging stations to utilizing public infrastructure for charging. In 10 years, urban environments may be equipped with more inclusive tech for disadvantaged groups. Increasing awareness and advocacy for the rights and needs of homeless populations. 4
Urban Infrastructure Hacking Using existing urban elements to benefit marginalized communities. From exclusionary designs to inclusive, resourceful adaptations of urban infrastructure. Cities may adopt more adaptable designs that prioritize inclusivity and resourcefulness. A growing movement towards social equity and sustainable urban living. 5
Reclaimed Technology in Product Design The use of reclaimed materials in new products shows a shift towards sustainable design. From disposable electronics to sustainable solutions using reclaimed tech. Product design may increasingly rely on reclaimed or recycled materials to reduce waste. The urgent need for sustainable practices in response to climate change. 4
Community-Centric Design Designs that focus on the needs of specific communities, like the homeless. Shifting from generic designs to tailored solutions for marginalized groups. More products will be designed specifically for underserved communities’ unique challenges. The rise of social entrepreneurship and design thinking focused on social issues. 4
Integration of Kinetic Energy in Everyday Devices Devices that convert movement into energy are becoming more popular. From reliance on conventional charging methods to harnessing kinetic energy. Kinetic energy solutions may become commonplace in public transportation and personal devices. The push for renewable energy sources and sustainable living practices. 3

Concerns

name description relevancy
Access to Essential Services Limited access to phone charging facilities can hinder homeless individuals from utilizing essential digital services. 4
Urban Infrastructure Design Cities may be designed in ways that further disadvantage vulnerable populations, like the homeless, necessitating innovative workarounds. 5
Sustainability of Solutions The need for sustainable and economically feasible solutions for providing essential services to underserved communities. 4
Digital Divide Among Homeless Individuals The reliance on phones by homeless individuals highlights a significant digital divide that may prevent equal access to opportunities. 4
Incorporation of Old Technology in Solutions There’s a potential risk in relying on outdated technology or methods that may not scale or integrate well with modern systems. 3

Behaviors

name description relevancy
Urban Infrastructure Hacking Reimagining city resources to benefit marginalized communities, such as using rental bikes for power generation. 5
Community-Centric Design Designing solutions specifically for the needs of homeless individuals, prioritizing accessibility and utility. 5
Repurposing Old Technology Utilizing and adapting existing technologies in innovative ways for new applications, such as using a bike dynamo for charging. 4
Circular Repair Systems Creating systems that allow for the repair and reuse of products to minimize waste and support sustainability. 4
Portable Energy Solutions for Vulnerable Populations Developing mobile and accessible energy sources for individuals without stable housing to enhance their connectivity and access to services. 5

Technologies

name description relevancy
MyPowerbank A portable charger that utilizes kinetic energy from rental bikes to charge phones for homeless individuals. 4
Kinetic Energy Harvesting Converting movement, like pedaling a bike, into electric energy for charging devices. 5
3D-Printed Shelters Using 3D printing technology to create structures that serve as temporary housing solutions. 3
Bacterial Leather Sustainable material innovation using bacterial processes to create leather alternatives. 4
Circular Repair Systems A system that enables the return and repair of products to promote sustainability and reduce waste. 4

Issues

name description relevancy
Access to Charging for Homeless Individuals Innovative solutions to provide charging access for homeless people, highlighting a gap in urban infrastructure. 4
Urban Infrastructure for Social Equity Rethinking urban infrastructure design to support marginalized communities rather than hinder them. 5
Sustainable and Repurposed Technology Utilizing old technology in new ways to address social issues, promoting sustainability and resourcefulness. 3
Circular Economy in Social Projects Implementing circular repair systems in social projects to ensure longevity and sustainability of resources. 4