The concept of ‘HotCork’ was proposed for the contest ‘Hotspot galp’, which was basically to search out an efficient model of gas heater for outdoors or terrace. HotCork is the result of common contribution of Susana Figueiredo, Ana Mafalda Pereira and Marco Carvalho e Silva Adriano. This model is very unique in itself as it used cheap and basic materials for construction, so that it can be accessible for a large group of people. Also, the materials used have good physical properties and make it a very good model for terrace gas heater.
The concept
HotCork used the concept of windbreak and shelter. It makes it somewhat a multipurpose and efficient model. Windbreak helps to prevent the loss of heat into the surroundings and hence adds to its eco friendly credentials. In addition, it encloses the terrace area that provides some private space in outdoor environment to spend with your loved ones. This covering or flap also manages to secure, warm and accommodating users.
Components
The basic model and components to create it has chosen wisely by taking into account the cost factor, durability and qualities like thermal stability, recyclability wear resistance, etc.
The flap of HotCork is made up of cork, which is very accessible cheap and has good physical properties. As it is very thermal stable, it enhances the energy efficiency. It is also non-inflammable and hence, takes care of user’s safety. Wear and water resistance enhances its life. Its cozy appearance also makes the outdoor more soothing. A tube of steel supports the flap from backside and connected to the gas cylinder, which is kept below undercover. The tube is coated with anticorrosion coating. The bubble is made up of polypropylene, which is good at thermal stability. Recyclability, cheapness and good moisture resistance are the properties of polypropylene that make it suitable for this purpose. Hence, overall this model is unique, useful and cost and energy efficient also.
