Soli: A Versatile Solar-Powered Safety Light

Providing Safety and Sustainability in One Design

Designed by Josh Tulkoff and Brook Kennedy, Soli draws inspiration from Nokero's humanitarian efforts to provide off-grid lighting to the 1.3 billion people living without electricity. It also takes into account the safety needs of students on university campuses after dark. With its versatile utility and sleek design, Soli aims to make a positive impact on both the environment and people's lives.

What sets Soli apart is its ability to serve multiple purposes. This solar-powered light can be charged using its photovoltaic solar panels or a USB cable, ensuring that it is always ready for use. It can function as an area lamp when stood upright or hung, a conventional flashlight, or even a directional bicycle light. Soli's versatility allows it to adapt to various situations and environments, making it an essential companion for outdoor enthusiasts and safety-conscious individuals.

The construction of Soli features extruded aluminum with machined caps, molded polycarbonate lenses, and leather straps with aluminum rivets. Inside, a circuit board connects the solar panels to a nimh battery, which can power the light emitting diodes or charge a mobile phone. With just seven hours of outdoor lighting charge, the battery can be fully replenished, or it can be conveniently charged using a USB connection.

Measuring at a compact size of 30mm x 120mm x 30mm, Soli is designed to be portable and easy to carry. Its sleek and minimalist design fits seamlessly with the aesthetic preferences of students and outdoor lifestyle enthusiasts.

Soli's functionality is simple and user-friendly. It can be charged by leaving it exposed to sunlight, with the solar panels facing towards the sun. The front end of the light can be twisted to toggle between lamp mode, flashlight mode, or flashing flashlight mode. The strap enables Soli to be hung from a carabiner in a tent or attached to a bag, backpack, or rucksack.

The development of Soli began in November 2016 in collaboration with Nokero, based in Denver, Colorado, USA. The design went through several iterations and testing to ensure it met the needs of users. In December 2017, Soli was presented at the Vatican-based Laudato 'Si accelerator, where it helped raise finances for Nokero. Currently, Soli is in the development phase, with United States and international design and utility patents pending.

With its focus on safety, sustainability, and versatility, Soli has garnered recognition in the design community. It was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in 2018 in the Energy Products, Projects, and Devices Design category. This prestigious award acknowledges Soli's well-designed, practical, and innovative features, which contribute to a better world.

By purchasing a Soli light, users not only benefit from its functionality and design but also contribute to Nokero's efforts in delivering solar lighting products to families living without electricity. Soli is a testament to the power of design to address social and environmental challenges, making a positive impact on people's lives.