The Exo Shelter is inspired by the humble coffee cup – a sturdy, stackable, insulated object that is easily transported and utilized to deliver life-saving sustenance. Turn that coffee cup upside down and you’ve got an emergency shelter. McDaniel took that idea and developed it into a workable prototype that could safely and comfortably house four people inside. The stackable units can be efficiently transported on trailers and easily set up by four people without any equipment in just minutes. This allows a response team to rapidly deliver and set up emergency housing faster than most other methods out there.
Related: Reaction Housing Unveils Rapid Response Exo Emergency Shelter
Exo units can be clustered together in a variety of configurations and even connected together to provide larger living quarters. Each unit is equipped for lighting and can be connected to outside power and air conditioning. Translucent panels allow for daylighting, and integrated insulation helps maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. Units are wired for networking capabilities so that aid responders can keep track of which units are online or offline. The rugged and durable shelters are designed for extended use and can also be reused once the emergency is over and families have moved into long-term housing.
The Reaction Housing team is currently working on their next stage of development, which involves real-world testing in a refugee camp in Syria. They have teamed up with the Maram Foundation and will deliver at least 5 units to families there, who will offer feedback on their experience. Currently, the team is seeking $50,000 through an IndieGoGo campaign to raise the necessary funds, and hopefully the project will be overfunded so that more shelters can be sent over. Results of the Exo testing in Syria will inform modifications and improvements to the design and make them even better equipped to help families in need after disasters, emergencies or conflicts.
Images ©Reaction Housing
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