Category

Region

2024 - Nomadic Solar Shelter

Category
Daylight in buildings - Region 5: Africa

Students
Taysir Slimi
Oswa Chouaieb
Meriam Benfrad
Ines Merchaoui
Farah Saied
Wiem Habibi

Teacher
Sarah Khamassi Mimita

School
Federal University of Technology Minna

Country
Nigeria

Download
Download project board

Project Description: Nomadic Solar Shelter
Introduction
The Nomadic Solar Shelter project is a pioneering initiative aimed at providing portable, solar-powered shelters designed for mobility and adaptability in various environments. Inspired by the nomadic lifestyle, the project emphasizes periodic movement and adaptability, addressing multiple societal needs such as health, education, emergency response, and cultural activities.

Concept and Inspiration
The concept of the Nomadic Solar Shelter draws inspiration from the behavior of birds, characterized by aggregation and migration. Similarly, the shelter units are designed to be flexible and adaptable. The shelter comprises three modules that can be assembled in different configurations to create spaces of various sizes. Each triangular module can pivot and move, allowing the openings to be adjusted for maximum efficiency, responding dynamically to changing needs and environmental conditions.

Design and Construction

Modules and Assemblies: The shelter consists of three primary modules that can be assembled in multiple ways, providing flexibility and adaptability. These configurations enable the creation of different spatial arrangements, accommodating diverse needs and purposes.
Flexible Openings: The shelter features adjustable openings that maximize efficiency in terms of ventilation and natural lighting. These openings can be reconfigured to optimize the internal environment based on external conditions.
Shading and Interior Divisions: The flexible module arrangement and openings create projected shades, unique interior divisions, and illusionary spaces that enhance the shelter’s usability and aesthetic appeal.
Solar Panels: The adjustable solar panels can be oriented southwards to capture maximum solar energy, ensuring optimal energy efficiency.
Applications
The Nomadic Solar Shelter addresses several critical needs across various categories:

Health: As a mobile clinic, the shelter can provide essential health services to remote communities, addressing the global issue of inaccessible healthcare.
Education: Serving as a mobile classroom, it can facilitate remote learning and combat illiteracy by bringing educational opportunities to underserved areas.
Emergency Response: The shelter can act as a refuge for disaster victims, offering immediate and adaptable housing solutions for those displaced by climate disasters or conflicts. Given that 20 million people are displaced annually due to climate-related disasters, with displacement durations averaging four to eight years, this shelter provides a critical solution.
Culture: For cultural festivals and camping experiences, the shelter offers a versatile space that can be easily transported and set up, enhancing cultural and recreational activities.
Key Features and Benefits

Sustainability: By maximizing natural light and utilizing solar energy, the shelter reduces reliance on traditional electricity sources, promoting sustainability.
Adaptability: The shelter’s design allows it to be used for various activities, adapting to different needs with dynamic lighting and spatial configurations.
Environmental Interaction: The shelter fosters a connection with nature, promoting environmental awareness through its interactive and adaptable design.
Conclusion
The Nomadic Solar Shelter project exemplifies architectural synergy with natural light, offering a sustainable solution to urban challenges and emergencies. By harnessing solar energy, the shelter provides all necessary lighting and energy, reducing dependence on conventional electricity. Its adaptability and flexibility make it suitable for a wide range of applications, from health and education to emergency response and cultural events. This innovative design not only addresses immediate needs but also promotes a healthier and more sustainable living environment.