Solar Sidewalk Invented!

       George Washington University's Virginia Science and Technology Campus is now home to the world's first walkable solar-paneled sidewalk with the completion of a 100-square foot solar walkway, dubbed the Solar Walk. As part of the University's "sustainable Solar Walk" project, 27 walkable solar photovoltaic panels were installed as an extension of a public sidewalk on the campus, along with a solar trellis.

       The semi-transparent solar panels have a peak capacity of 400 watts, and is designed to power some 450 LED lights to illuminate the solar pathway after dark. The panels, which were designed by Onyx Solar, are said to be slip-resistant and able to stand up to regular foot traffic.

       The solar trellis, designed by Studio39 Landscape Architecture, is installed at the end of the solar sidewalk, and sends its solar energy output to help power Innovation Hall on the campus. Both installations can be seen on the public sidewalk between the Exploration and Innovation Halls, at the intersection of GW Boulevard and University Drive.

Solar-Powered Vending Machines Rent out Bicycle Helmets

      

        A Brooklyn-based company, known as Express Biker, has created a self-serve vending machine which helps cyclists in nearby communities purchase bike parts anytime in the day. The aim for this machine is primarily to help cyclists, who may be riding late at night or far distances from bike shops, in conveniently purchasing any biking needs. Examples of such is as follows: tubes, lights, co2, patch kits, various tools and parts.

       Following such an example, a Bostonian company, Helmethub, has also created a vending machine but it contains only bicycle helmets. Their aim is to help keep cyclists safe and without an excuse for riding helmet-less. In July, however, they are launching another vending machine with a twist: powered by solar energy.

         Each solar-powered vending machine holds 36 helmets and features a touchscreen panel like those on Hubway rental kiosks. Rentals costs approximately $2 and riders also hold the option to purchase one. The machine can dispense three different helmet sizes to make sure if the helmet fits the user properly. 

            When a cyclist is finished with using the helmet, the helmet is picked up by the team and sent back to Helmethub headquarters to be inspected and sanitized before being placed back into the vending machine. The machines, in addition, provides real-time information to the team so that they know when each machine needs to be restocked or used helmets need to be picked up.