PowerPot combines gadget charging and cooking

Posted on 10 Apr 2012 at 10:48, by Gareth Halfacree

A pair of engineers have launched a fundraising drive in an attempt to build the PowerPot, a combination cooking vessel and power generator for small gadgets.

Designed for use during camping, the PowerPot can be used as a standard saucepan - but it has a hidden secret in the form of thermoelectric power generation hardware. Connect the included wire to a USB-compatible gadget, such as a smartphone or tablet, and heat from the cooking process is turned into electricity to charge the device.

It's a clever system, and one which holds potential promise for developing nations. "There are over 200 million people in Africa that use cell phones but lack access to electricity. Some must walk over a mile and spend over 15 per cent of their monthly income just to charge their phone," claimed Caleb Light, chief financial officer of PowerPot creator Power Practical. "It is difficult to keep in touch with loved ones or do business off-grid. Since most people faced with this problem cook on an open fire, the PowerPot fits perfectly into their routine."

According to Power Practical's measurements, the PowerPot can provide up to 5W of energy in its smallest size while the larger PowerPot X model, designed for use with tablets, can provide 10W. The cable used is rated to high temperatures and is flame retardant, meaning the pots can be used on an open fire.

To build the first run, designed David Toledo has turned to crowdfunding site Kickstarter, where he hopes to raise $50,000 by the 4th of May. Should the company succeed, the first production run of PowerPots will begin.