The Solar Radio project began by looking at the components of a standard solar radio to see whether they were being used in the best way. The unique properties of the new dye-sensitised solar technology provided the impetus to develop an innovative concept.

The new solar cell technology allows graphics to be printed within the actual cell: using printed text on the actual solar cell and combining it with touch sensitive technology, the solar panel becomes the interface by which the radio can be controlled.

The solar cells can become more than simply a generator of power; they combine input, output and power in the same surface. Using NXT SurfaceSound® (a speaker that emits sound through the vibration of solid surfaces, rather than air) and Force Sensitive Resistors (which make the solar cell touch sensitive, allowing it to control the radio), the solar panel now has the additional features of controlling the radio, powering it and being the source of the radio's sound as well. The sound also guides the user through the interface, telling them useful information, like which station the radio is tuned to. The features of the radio makes it completely closed and perfect for outside use.

This project was produced as part of Sunny Memories.

Emil Rosen
emil.rosen@network.rca.ac.uk