Current projects

Investigating Bike Lift Technology for Ithaca
This new project examines the feasibility of installing bike lift technology on Ithaca's hills to make it easier for cyclists to get from downtown to higher elevations, and thereby to promote cycling. The project is based on a system already in use in Trondheim, Norway. 

• Learn more about the 2008-2009 Bike Lift project here
• Project Supervisor :  Dr. Francis Vanek and Dr. David Kay   
• Partner Organization :  City of Ithaca, Dept. Public Works

Helping to Rebuild New Orleans
This continuing project involves working with a community in the New Orleans 7th Ward to design a community center which can house volunteers who help with the rebuilding effort and also residents of the community

• Learn more about the 2008-2009 New Orleans project here
• Project Supervisors :  Dr. Francis Vanek and Dr. Park Doing
• Partner Organizations :  St.John's #5 Faith Church, New Orleans 7th Ward

Design and Testing of Solar Ovens
This continuing project is investigating the effects of varying several design parameters to improve the performance of solar powered ovens for cooking food. They are also working with a rural community in Nicaragua to implement the ovens.  For information about past work on this project, see Past projects.

• Learn more about the 2008-2009 Solar Oven project here
• Project supervisor:  Mr. Tim Bond          
• Partner Organizations: STEVEN Foundation, Grupo Fenix, Sabana Grande, Nicaragua, and Las Mujeres Solares de Totogalpa, Nicaragua

Exploring Biofuels for the Ithaca Region
This continuing project is surveying technology for using local wood resources for heat, hot water, and other applications, and also working with the Cayuga Nature Center (located in Tompkins County) to develop a pilot and demonstration project at the Center.

• Learn more about the 2008-2009 Biofuels project here
• Project Supervisor :  Dr. Anthony Nekut 
• Partner Organization :  Cayuga Nature Center