The staggering proliferation of power-generating devices to charge the (equally staggering) proliferation of personal electronics has spawned many unique designs over the last few years. But one that has been conspicuously absent is wind power — that is until now.
A new, portable wind-generator, called Trinity by Minnesota-based company Skajaquoda, could find its way into campgrounds and base camps around the world if the company’s goal to raise $50,000 on Kickstarter is successful.
The simple turbine weighs four pounds and folds into a 12” tube for easy transport. While the device is by no means ultralight for the minimalist backpacker, expeditions could use it as a compliment to solar power, especially in cold-but-windy locations. It can run all night long, too, when solar doesn’t work.
It has a 15W generator and a built-in battery that holds 15,000 mAh of electricity. To capture wind power, open the three blades, pull out the aluminum legs and arrange them in either a tripod configuration or laid flat on the ground.
To close the Trinity push the legs back in and the blades close automatically. It has a USB plug to charge devices on the bottom and a mini USB plug to charge Trinity with a wall socket (for storing power in its battery pack to use in the field).
The company plans to sell the Trinity for $399. But you can get one now through its fundraiser early-bird special for $249. —Sean McCoy
