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Manufacturing and piloting of a novel urine-diverting toilet in Bangladesh
Currently, more than 2.6 billion people lack access to safe and affordable sanitation (SDG6). Flush toilets connect to sewer systems consume scarce water resources, are expensive, and are difficult to install in densely populated areas. There are alternatives that do not rely on water, but these technologies are also not suited for populations that use water, instead of paper, for anal cleansing. Akyas, a social enterprise, has developed a novel prototype that allows for the separation of excreta and ablution water; this prototype is in the early stages of development and requires both pilot and community testing. The goal of this project is to refine the current prototype, test it with artificial excreta, engage with manufacturers for production, and test the first product with actual users (most likely in Bangladesh).
Currently, more than 2.6 billion people lack access to safe and affordable sanitation (SDG6). Flush toilets connect to sewer systems consume scarce water resources, are expensive, and are difficult to install in densely populated areas. There are alternatives that do not rely on water, but these technologies are also not suited for populations that use water, instead of paper, for anal cleansing. Akyas, a social enterprise, has developed a novel prototype that allows for the separation of excreta and ablution water; this prototype is in the early stages of development and requires both pilot and community testing.
Currently, more than 2.6 billion people lack access to safe and affordable sanitation (SDG6). Flush toilets connect to sewer systems consume scarce water resources, are expensive, and are difficult to install in densely populated areas. There are alternatives that do not rely on water, but these technologies are also not suited for populations that use water, instead of paper, for anal cleansing. Akyas, a social enterprise, has developed a novel prototype that allows for the separation of excreta and ablution water; this prototype is in the early stages of development and requires both pilot and community testing.
The goal of this project is to refine the current prototype, test it with artificial excreta, engage with manufacturers for production, and test the first product with actual users (most likely in Bangladesh).
In the course of the project, the student will be responsible to:
- Work with the Akyas designers to understand current design limitations and production challenges; co-develop a functional prototype that could be produced at scale
- Conduct laboratory testing to validate the current and revised design
- Engage with local producers to identify the best materials and methods for produce a limited run of the revised prototype
- Install and test the revised prototype with households; develop and monitor key metrics of use, acceptability, willingness to pay, etc.
This research looks for a master level mechanical engineering/environmental engineering student with skills in additive manufacturing, design thinking, CAD, and above all an interest in sanitation and a willingness to work with an interdisciplinary team in a complex, often challenging environment. The student selected will be expected to spend 3-4 months with Akyas (a month of preparation before and after in Switzerland). The costs associated with travel and a small living stipend will be provided.
The goal of this project is to refine the current prototype, test it with artificial excreta, engage with manufacturers for production, and test the first product with actual users (most likely in Bangladesh).
In the course of the project, the student will be responsible to:
- Work with the Akyas designers to understand current design limitations and production challenges; co-develop a functional prototype that could be produced at scale
- Conduct laboratory testing to validate the current and revised design
- Engage with local producers to identify the best materials and methods for produce a limited run of the revised prototype
- Install and test the revised prototype with households; develop and monitor key metrics of use, acceptability, willingness to pay, etc.
This research looks for a master level mechanical engineering/environmental engineering student with skills in additive manufacturing, design thinking, CAD, and above all an interest in sanitation and a willingness to work with an interdisciplinary team in a complex, often challenging environment. The student selected will be expected to spend 3-4 months with Akyas (a month of preparation before and after in Switzerland). The costs associated with travel and a small living stipend will be provided.
Advisor: Prof. Dr. Elizabeth Tilley
Email: tilleye@ethz.ch