In-Habit represents the next phase of disaster relief shelters. Inspired by structural forms of the past, it utilizes new materials and technologies that are ideal for disaster relief.
At the center of In-Habit’s ingenuity is its building material. Unlike conventional walls, SmartWrap is composed of thin polyethylene teraphathalate (PET). SmartWrap has several properties that will revolutionize disaster relief shelters. These properties include:
climate control
• Embedded within the PET layers are microcapsules of Phase Change Material (PCMs)
• PCM microcapsules can embody and regulate latent heat in structures that are completely enclosed, allowing In-Habit to be used worldwide
electricity production
• Organic Light Emitting Diodes (OLEDs) laminated onto SmartWraps PET substrate are powered by Photovoltaics (OPVs)
• Once In-Habit is erected, solar energy is absorbed and stored by OPVs
• This energy is then transferred to OLEDs where it can be used as electricity for lighting
eco-friendly design
• In-Habit is manufactured from recycled plastic bottles
• Inkjet printing and roll-coating onto PET can be done under normal room conditions, eliminating the cost of manufacturing in clean-rooms at high temperatures and reduces the number of pollutants
• The production process does not use warehouses that are dependant on many natural resources and can be developed virtually anywhere
ease of use
• Extremely thin walls and flexibility allow In-Habit to dismantle and fold flat into 20” x 20” x 3.5”
• In-Habit can pack tightly into boxes and is easily transported
Completing the design of In-Habit is a built-in water filtration system. This system is designed to collect rainwater and condensation and has the ability to filter debris. The purified water is then collected and stored in an expandable 2-gallon container for sanitary needs.
In-Habit can be ready for production and distribution for disaster relief within the next 2-3 years.