Wireframe: Empowering Villages with Affordable Wind Turbines

Ben Koros' Award-Winning Design Harnesses Wind Power for Rural Electrification

The Wireframe project is more than just a product; it's a system that empowers communities. By training locals to build, maintain, and spread these wind turbines, Koros' design not only provides a sustainable source of electricity but also fosters skills and knowledge within the community. This approach ensures the long-term sustainability of the project and allows villages to connect to the 'global information society'.

The Wireframe wind turbine is unique in its simplicity and affordability. Koros used the 'Design Thinking' methodology to create a wind turbine that could be made from easily accessible and recycled materials. Some parts are 3D printed from biodegradable PLA, while the cover and blades are cut from a styrene sheet. The result is a working prototype that can be assembled in just 15 minutes.

Despite its simplicity, the Wireframe wind turbine is designed to be efficient and effective. With a blade diameter of 1200mm and a covered frame length of 400mm, it can generate enough electricity to power simple devices such as LED lighting, radios, and electric tools. This makes it an ideal solution for rural households that lack access to the electricity grid.

One of the key challenges Koros faced in developing the Wireframe project was spreading the idea and product without the help of the internet. He also had to ensure that the design was simple enough to be easily understood and replicated by locals. Furthermore, keeping the cost under 15 Euros was a significant challenge. However, Koros managed to overcome these obstacles, creating a product that is not only cheaper than the cheapest component of the cheapest hobby turbines around but also capable of withstanding weather conditions and aerodynamic challenges.

Through the Wireframe project, Ben Koros has demonstrated the power of design in addressing social challenges. His innovative approach to rural electrification has not only earned him the prestigious Golden A' Social Design Award but also the potential to make a significant impact on communities around the world. As Koros himself puts it, "Wireframe aims to bring affordable electricity to village households in developing countries by training locals how to build, service and spread the extremely cost effective WF II. turbine, made mainly out of recycled components."