Door Dynamo
Research at Columbia University GSAPPP in collaboration with Carmen Trudell
The Door Dynamo is comprised of a modified door closer coupled with a “hacked” flashlight dynamo by use of an integrating gear. This assembly can be added to any existing or new door to harness a small amount of energy when users enter or exit. In the exhibition display version, the energy harnessed is used for a light display that shows users the relationship between metabolic and mechanical energy. The Door Dynamo research was a precursor to the Revolution Door.
An observational case study of the Café at Columbia University’s Lerner Hall was conducted to consider the proportion of energy harnessed by the Door Dynamo in relation to the calories consumed and spent by the user.