The IncuLight: Solar-powered infant incubator

Two major objectives were (1) to design and build a compact, light-weight incubator; (2) to incorporate solar panel(s) to power the incubator. The design culminated in a portable, readily powered, low-cost incubator of which can be implemented in a third-world environment. An incubator, used to help an infant maintain a stable temperature, is a precious tool in the presence of high premature birth rates and is essential for combating infant mortality. These issues plague developing areas of Africa, where the final design has been implemented. The structural design of the incubator focused on portability and durability of the invention. Conversion of an on-the-market product (luggage) was used for the base of the incubator. A pop-up ”tent” design comprised the vestibule of the incubator. Collapsible, lightweight supports held up a tent-like cover made of clear, washable plastic, and also supported two heaters. The two DC heaters were powered by main-line power when available and also powered by a battery, which was charged by a solar panel. The heaters are capable of maintaining a steady 34-37°C temperature range within the incubator. This design has the power to decrease infant mortality rates in third-world countries by being an easily accessible, life-saving invention powered by an abundant, natural resource.