FIRST PHOTOS: Solar-Powered Transforming EDV-01 Emergency Shelter Unveiled!

<a href="http://www.daiwalease.co.jp/edv-01/edv01_special.html">Daiwa Lease</a> just sent us the first photos of their new transforming <a href="http://inhabitat.com/edv-01-robotic-emergency-housing-unit-is-entirely-self-sufficient/">EDV-1</a> shelter, which can be set on any terrain, doubles in size with the flick of a switch, and can sustain itself without any outside resources for up to a month by catching and reusing water and generating electricity with a sizable built-in <a href="http://inhabitat.com/solar-power">solar array</a>. The container sized <a href="http://inhabitat.com/emergency-shelters-and-disaster-relief-for-the-people-of-haiti/">emergency shelter</a> can be deployed anywhere a truck or helicopter can travel, and its pixilated skin can even light up to serve as signage and provide critical information during emergencies.

The high-tech shelter is designed to provide a sustainable source of vital resources on-site.

Four hydraulic legs quickly stabilize the structure on rugged terrain, and an outer wall rises to create a second story, providing shelter in less than five minutes. Bunk beds and an office desk are built-in as well.

The lower section stores a shower and bio toilet, a small kitchen, storage for supplies, and equipment.

Solar cells built into the roof and walls feed<a href="http://inhabitat.com/new-lithium-ion-batteries-could-significantly-extend-the-range-of-electric-cars/"> lithium-ion batteries</a>, and the building is supplemented by a fuel cell.

Water is also created by a condensing atmospheric moister that can provide up to 20 liters a day.

The skin is <a href="http://inhabitat.com/thousands-of-dotted-windows-flood-japanese-library-with-light/">perforated</a> to allow diffused light into the upper story, and built-in LEDs can indicate visual information for miles.

The developers see the EDV-1 used as an anchor for emergency hospitals, temporary tent cities or logistical support.

The prefab will be the centerpiece of <a href="http://www.ltdesignweek.com/">­Little Tokyo Design Week</a> which begins on <a href="http://www.ltdesignweek.com/schedule/">July 14th</a> in Los Angeles.