Forum Discussions - Piclopedia2024-03-28T13:09:20Zhttp://piclopedia.ning.com/forum?feed=yes&xn_auth=noHow to translate into Universal Design Language (IKEA-style graphics)tag:piclopedia.ning.com,2008-06-13:2084822:Topic:1432008-06-13T07:35:57.000ZDaniel Wolfhttp://piclopedia.ning.com/profile/DanielWolf
This section contains a number of documents that explain different aspects of the translation process; please add more if you discover other good sources.<br />
<br />
We eventually will write our own instructions, but in the meantime these will give you the idea. Feel free to interpret where the suggestions/advice don't tally with our task. And please share with others what you have learned about the process of translating designs into self-explanatory pictures. From your sharing we'll be able to write…
This section contains a number of documents that explain different aspects of the translation process; please add more if you discover other good sources.<br />
<br />
We eventually will write our own instructions, but in the meantime these will give you the idea. Feel free to interpret where the suggestions/advice don't tally with our task. And please share with others what you have learned about the process of translating designs into self-explanatory pictures. From your sharing we'll be able to write our own manual that is specific to our task.<br />
<br />
Here are some links that discuss other aspects of the topic.<br />
<br />
Techniques and examples for developing illustrated training manuals for non-literate people in developing countries (Principal 3 is attached below.)<br />
<a href="http://www.imdp.org.uk/techniques/download.html">http://www.imdp.org.uk/techniques/download.html</a><br />
<br />
Walking the Walk: Universal Design on the Web<br />
<a href="http://jset.unlv.edu/15.3/asseds/rose.html">http://jset.unlv.edu/15.3/asseds/rose.html</a><br />
<br />
Universal Design: Process, Principles, and Applications (Posted below already) <a href="http://www.washington.edu/doit/Brochures/Programs/ud.html">http://www.washington.edu/doit/Brochures/Programs/ud.html</a><br />
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I should say that graphics don't have to be all drawings: Here is an example of how photos can serve the purpose perfectly well, and perhaps better, since photos are comprehended by most viewers whereas understanding a drawing requires a certain amount of training in the reading of them.<br />
25 Amazing Everyday Do It Yourself Inventions<br />
<a href="http://www.wtfzup.com/profile_blogs/WTFZup/&action=view&id=2">http://www.wtfzup.com/profile_blogs/WTFZup/&action=view&id=2</a><br />
<br />
And here is an example of a video that gives information about the use and construction of a tool - in this case a pedal-powered washing machine. Of course, were this video made for our purposes it would be far more detailed, but still, it makes the point that a video can provide important construction and operation information also.<br />
Remya Jose Innovation - Mini Washing Machine<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rk-H8gGPsGU">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rk-H8gGPsGU</a><br />
<br />
Dan Low Cost Ecological Energy Sources from Bio-Digesters Generating Methane Gas and Solar Generated Steam can both Generate Electricitytag:piclopedia.ning.com,2008-05-13:2084822:Topic:612008-05-13T02:35:08.000ZRobert J. Owenshttp://piclopedia.ning.com/profile/RobertJOwens
This is a discussion and collection of information focusing on low cost ways of generating energy with minimum pollution. In some cases the energy production can eliminate pollution from the air, ground and water. Initial topics focus on bio-digesters that generate methane and solar collectors that generate steam or at least hot water. Both steam and methane can be used for generating electricity.<br />
<br />
<b>Biodigester installation manual</b><br />
Lylian Rodriguez and T R Preston<br />
University of Tropical…
This is a discussion and collection of information focusing on low cost ways of generating energy with minimum pollution. In some cases the energy production can eliminate pollution from the air, ground and water. Initial topics focus on bio-digesters that generate methane and solar collectors that generate steam or at least hot water. Both steam and methane can be used for generating electricity.<br />
<br />
<b>Biodigester installation manual</b><br />
Lylian Rodriguez and T R Preston<br />
University of Tropical Agriculture Foundation<br />
Finca Ecologica, University of Agriculture and Forestry,<br />
Thu Duc, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam<br />
<br />
<b>Introduction</b><br />
Biodigesters can play a pivotal role in integrated farming systems by reducing health<br />
risks, facilitating control of pollution and at the same time adding value to livestock<br />
excreta through production of biogas and improved nutrient status of the effluent as<br />
fertilizer for ponds and crop land. Energy is also a fundamental factor for economic<br />
development” of biodigester systems.<br />
“In many developing countries there is a serious shortage of fuel and the energy crisis is a<br />
daily reality for most families. Cooking is one of the most energy-consuming activities,<br />
yet is often inefficient. The open fire is still very common.<br />
lylianr@email.com<br />
trpreston@email.com<br />
<a href="http://www.wcasfmra.org/biogas_docs/5%20Vietnam%20Plastic%20Tube%20Manual%20Biodigester.pdf">http://www.wcasfmra.org/biogas_docs/5%20Vietnam%20Plastic%20Tube%20Manual%20Biodigester.pdf</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Biogas technology transfer in small scale farms in<br />
Northern provinces of VietNam</b><br />
Bui Van Chinh, Le Viet Ly, Nguyen Huu Tao<br />
and Nguyen Giang Phuc<br />
<b>National Institute of Animal Husbandry, Ha Noi</b><br />
<br />
<b>Abstract</b><br />
During the last twelve years, animal production on small-scale farms in Northern Vietnam has developed rapidly. Biogas technology transfer has been an important element in these activities. Biodigesters made of polyethylene tube (cheap biodigester) and by brick - cement (solid dome) construction have been well accepted by small-holder farmers. The former are popular in upland areas; while the latter are favoured in the low-lying delta where farms are smaller and space is limited. The most effective way to set up introduce these biodigesters in Northern Vietnam has been through pilot demonstrations followed by training and extension.<br />
Key words: Bjodigsters, small-scale farm, polyethylene tiube, solid-dome<br />
<a href="http://www.mekarn.org/procbiod/chinh.htm"></a><br />
<br />
<b>US EPA AgSTAR<br />
The Introduction of Low-Cost Polyethylene Tube Biodigesters on Small-Scale Farms in Vietnam<br />
<br />
Introduction</b><br />
In recent years, the conversion of biomass to methane for use as an energy source has excited interest throughout the world. Biogas digestion was introduced into developing countries as a low-cost alternative source of energy to partially alleviate the problem of acute energy shortage for households. However, few farmers used biogas in practice. The poor acceptability of the digesters is believed to be due mainly to the high cost of the digesters, difficulty in installing them and difficulty in getting spare parts. The biogas programs developed quickly in some developing countries only under substantial support from governments and aid agencies (Gunnerson,, 1986; Kristoferson and Bokalders, 1991; Marchaim,, 1992; Karki,, 1996). Besides, the replacement of worn-out parts posed another technical problem, in addition to the fact that such spare parts were not always locally available.<br />
Many developing countries, such as Colombia, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Vietnam, Cambodia and Bangladesh promoted the low-cost biodigester technology aiming at reducing the production cost by using local materials and simplifying its installation and operation (Solarte, 1995; Chater, 1986; Hieu et al, 1994; Sarwatt, 1995; Soeurn, 1994; Khan, 1996). To this end it was decided to use a continuous-flow flexible tube biodigester based on the bag digester model as described by Pound et al (1981) and later simplified by Preston and co-workers first in Ethiopia (Preston, unpubl.), Colombia (Botero and Preston, 1987) and later in Vietnam (An et al, 1994). Within three years, more than 800 polyethylene digesters were installed in Vietnam, mainly paid for by farmers (An and Preston, 1995).<br />
The objectives of this study were to assess the effects of low-cost biodigesters in small farms in Vietnam and to identify experiences, effects, constraints and problems associated with this technology.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.epa.gov/agstar/resources/smldigesters.html"></a> Collections of inventions: List of bookstag:piclopedia.ning.com,2008-04-29:2084822:Topic:122008-04-29T09:50:09.000ZDaniel Wolfhttp://piclopedia.ning.com/profile/DanielWolf
Here is a list of books containing designs for farm tools, devices, advice, etc. originally published between about 1880 and 1920. I obtained this list by searching on <a href="http://www.Abe.com">www.Abe.com</a>, the website of the association of independent booksellers. I haven't read most of them, and provide them as a starting point for building an inventory of ideas, inventions, plans, etc.<br />
<br />
Abbreviated list of farm device books found on Abe.com<br />
<br />
Handy Farm Devices and How to Make…
Here is a list of books containing designs for farm tools, devices, advice, etc. originally published between about 1880 and 1920. I obtained this list by searching on <a href="http://www.Abe.com">www.Abe.com</a>, the website of the association of independent booksellers. I haven't read most of them, and provide them as a starting point for building an inventory of ideas, inventions, plans, etc.<br />
<br />
Abbreviated list of farm device books found on Abe.com<br />
<br />
Handy Farm Devices and How to Make Them<br />
Cobleigh, Rolfe<br />
This book is what stimulated this idea in the first place, back in 2001. It is a reprint of the original, now published by MIT Press, and is available as a free download at <a href="http://www.ebook3000.com/Handy-Farm-Devices--And-How-to-Make-Them_15348.html">http://www.ebook3000.com/Handy-Farm-Devices--And-How-to-Make-Them_15348.html</a>.<br />
<br />
Museum of Early American Tools<br />
Sloane, Eric<br />
<br />
How to Do Things, a Compendium of New and Practical Farm and Household Devices, Helps, Hints, Recipes, Formulas and Useful Information from the Farm Journal<br />
<br />
The manse garden: or, pleasant culture of fruit trees, flowers, vegetables, and sweet herbs, for the beauty and profit of the villa or farm.<br />
PATERSON, Nathaniel<br />
<br />
THE CODE OF AGRICULTURE; INCLUDING OBSERVATIONS ON GARDENS, ORCHARDS, WOODS, AND PLANTATIONS.<br />
Bart, John Sinclair<br />
<br />
Bookseller: Alan's Books (Marion IN, U.S.A.)<br />
Farm Conveniences<br />
<br />
Farm Conveniences and How to Make Them<br />
Dennis Boyles<br />
<br />
Farm Implements and Farm Machinery, and the Principles of Their Construction and Use: With Explanations of the Laws of Motion and Force as Applied on the Farm<br />
Thomas, John J.<br />
<br />
Farm Equipment of the Roman World<br />
K D White<br />
<br />
Patent No. 12,242 Provisional Specification, A Device for Preventing Foxes from Entering Fowl Houses, Runs and the Like : Date of Application 29th May 1902 -Accepted 16th Apr 1903<br />
Alexander Iles<br />
<br />
The Stockowner's Guide: Practical Devices for Farm and Station. Live Stock Diseases and Remedies<br />
(Pastoral Review Prop.)<br />
<br />
Farm Equipment & Hand Tools (Farm Appliances: A Practical Manual)<br />
Martin, George A., Editor, Illustrated by Unidentified<br />
<br />
Farm Conveniences: 1897<br />
<br />
Farm Equipment & Hand Tools: Yesterday's Devices for Today's Homesteader<br />
Martin, George A.<br />
<br />
Handy Farm Devices for Field, Barnyard, Shop, and Home<br />
Progressive Farmer<br />
<br />
The Stockowner's Guide: Practical Devices for Farm and Station. Live Stock Diseases and Remedies<br />
<br />
Foster, W. A., and Deane G. Carter. FARM BUILDINGS.<br />
<br />
The Black Image in the New Deal: The Politics of FSA Photography<br />
Natanson, Nicholas US$ 40.00<br />
[Convert Currency]<br />
<br />
Handy Farm and Home Devices and How to Make Them<br />
Bartlett, J.V.<br />
<br />
Farm Conveniences: A Practical Hand-Book for the Farm<br />
Anonymous<br />
<br />
The Guide Workshop Scrapbook ...Illustrates and Describes 538 Separate Devices for the Farm and Home That May be Constructed in "The Farm Workshop" ...Fully Illustrated New and Enlarged 2nd Edition<br />
Colquette, R. D.<br />
<br />
The Guide Workshop Scrapbook ...Ilustrates and Describes 600 Separate Devices for the Farm and Home That May be Constructed in "The Farm Workshop" ..Fully Illustrated New & Enlarged 3rd Edition<br />
Colquette, R. D. Initial ideas for Piclopediatag:piclopedia.ning.com,2008-04-29:2084822:Topic:92008-04-29T09:33:09.000ZDaniel Wolfhttp://piclopedia.ning.com/profile/DanielWolf
During the 19th and early 20th centuries farmers in the US, Canada and Australia shared, through their farming newsletters and magazines zillions drawings and instructions about how to build low-cost, easy-to-build devices to make farming more productive and easier. These included wheelbarrows made with scrap lumber, wagons using Model T axles, drip irrigation, and so on.<br />
<br />
Now those farmers are rich enough to buy advanced technologies, from computers to harvesters, to do whatever they need, so…
During the 19th and early 20th centuries farmers in the US, Canada and Australia shared, through their farming newsletters and magazines zillions drawings and instructions about how to build low-cost, easy-to-build devices to make farming more productive and easier. These included wheelbarrows made with scrap lumber, wagons using Model T axles, drip irrigation, and so on.<br />
<br />
Now those farmers are rich enough to buy advanced technologies, from computers to harvesters, to do whatever they need, so the low-tech inventions have disappeared - except in reprinted books memorializing these remarkable organic inventions.<br />
<br />
But farmers in developing countries can still use them. The trouble is, they are not available in a form that they can use. First, the drawings are not always self-explanatory. Second, the explanations are all in English. Third, local materials vary. Fourth, there's no easy way for them to get the reprinted books, even if they could afford them. The result? They have to reinvent the wheel over and over and over again.<br />
<br />
What difference would it make in the lives of a farmer and his or her family if s/he could make (or purchase from a local artisan) such low-cost productivity enhancing devices? Plenty! Take, for example, a wheelbarrow made with a couple of dollars worth of wood and steel scraps. A cheap wheelbarrow costs US$20-40, a month's earnings for a poor farmer, so s/he goes without, and carries everything in buckets. But with a wheelbarrow s/he can move three to five times the weight and volume in the same time and without the strain. The result? More work gets done in less time. Income goes up. More money is available to invest in more crops. The kids can go to school. Life gets better.<br />
<br />
Take a real-life example, cited by Paul Polack, founder of International Development Enterprises. His nonprofit company down-teched the expensive drip irrigation system invented by Israelis to the point that a system could be set up for about US$26. A farmer in Bangladesh discovered the system and, though he was earning only a dollar a day, set one up. As a result he was able to grow vegetables in the off season, thereby doubling his income. With the extra cash he invested in expanding his plantings even more. To make a long story short, in five years he was earning US$4,800/year, allowing him to provide better housing, education and food for his family. All because he had a low-tech entry point he could invest in.<br />
<br />
So what is Piclopedia about? It is about making such inventions available to developing world farmers and artisans widely and freely. It is about giving farmers the choice of tools that fit for their situations. It is about giving them an opportunity to have what the developed country farmers had when they were just a few inches ahead of where developing-country farmers find themselves now. And giving them an opportunity to share their experiences with others just as the inventors of these old low-tech devices did with their compatriots.<br />
<br />
Many things will have to be done to make this happen, not least putting the drawings into visual forms that can be understood by anyone irrespective of their language. For instance, that wheelbarrow drawing and explanation can be converted to an IKEA-style instruction sheet, put up on the Piclopedia website, <a href="http://www.piclopedia.org">www.piclopedia.org</a> (not built yet - that's another thing to do).<br />
<br />
And with the Internet now available in all but the absolutely poorest areas of the world, the entire content of all those old inventions can be accessed easily. So we have to create a website that provides the drawings, but also makes it possible for users to provide feedback in their language about how they did it with their own locally available materials, as well as provide information on how to use them, and even suggest or provide new ideas on other subjects, including animal husbandry, crop practices, whatever they, in their collective experience, consider relevant and important. (We developed-country folk can have no idea of the depth of knowledge that is likely to exist out there, just waiting to be shared, magnified and amplified.)<br />
<br />
And there can be an outreach component as well. For instance, we can get grants to provide local people the wherewithal to compose loose-leaf binders of designs/instructions that are appropriate and popular in their regions, with the sheets laminated, and the binders made available to, e.g., schoolteachers in villages. The schoolteachers would become lending librarians of the designs/instructions.<br />
<br />
These are just a few ideas. Among ourselves I'm positive that many more good ideas will be generated. My vision is that this will be a completely open-source project, with only loose moderation/supervision to maintain quality, strategic direction, and keep finished products preserved.<br />
<br />
So now I throw it open to you. Tell me - tell us - what the next step is, and let's start. Little steps for little feet. But a few miles down this road - and we will get there, if we but start - I promise that we will change the world.