Solar cell phone chargers are a novelty technology right now — new and exciting at one point, it seems like you can find one just about anywhere nowadays.
The problem with the technology, though, is that the sun is not always available. And when there’s no solar energy for the technology to harvest, there’s no power for it to give out.
Minnesota-based Skajaquoda sought to remedy this issue with its Trinity Portable Wind Turbine Power Station—a 12-inch foldable charger that uses clean energy provided by the wind.
The Trinity is able to charge any USB-based device and easily folds into a small 12-inch-long cylinder for easy packing and transportation. When the charger is ready to be used, simply pull out its three legs and its three blades automatically pop out. The legs are adjustable, giving the Trinity the option of drawing wind power from different heights. Small holes in the legs allow the user the ability to tack the device down into the ground to prevent it from toppling over.
The blades work with a 15-W generator to charge a 15,000-mAh lithium-polymer battery, which should be able to charge a phone approximately five times or so. If, on the other hand, you’d prefer to forego the battery, you can leave it behind and instead plug your device directly into one of Trinity’s two USB ports to power it up. Also, if you’re preparing for a trip, and want the Trinity battery to have a charge from the get-go, you can power its battery up at home via a wall charger, too.
Naturally, with it packing this much technology and capability, the Trinity is a bit hefty. It weighs 4 pounds, which might make it a bit cumbersome to carry around on a hike, but will keep it weighed down to the ground when exposed to light breezes.
Also worth noting: The Trinity is waterproof, which is great because it can be used in the rain (unlike its solar-based competition).
Right now, the Skajaquoda folk have their Trinity Wind Turbine on Kickstarter in an effort to raise the funds necessary to bring it into production. Those who invest a $279 pledge can secure their own Trinity prior to it being released to the public.
At the time of publication, the campaign is approximately $2500 shy of its $50,000 goal with 25 days to go. You can invest via this link.
If you want to learn more, check out the campaign video below:
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