Agriculture
June 11, 2024
6th Grain
Read SolutionImplemented by
6th Grain
Updated on August 19, 2024
·Created on August 27, 2015
Chotukool is a portable and mobile cooling system that consumes half the power of traditional refrigerators.
The ChotuKool is a CFC-free, fan-cooled thermoelectric cooling system intended to conserve food and consume half the power of traditional refrigerators.
Target SDGs
SDG 2: Zero Hunger
SDG 1: No Poverty
Market Suggested Retail Price
$69.00
Target Users (Target Impact Group)
Household
Distributors / Implementing Organizations
Godrej, Indian postoffice and NGO in Maharashtra for retail (Sakhi Retail)
Competitive Landscape
Direct competitors include Wakati One and EvaKuula.
Regions
Southeast Asia
Countries
India
Manufacturing/Building Method
Mass produced with customization options.
Intellectural Property Type
Patent
User Provision Model
Chotukool can be purchased at an Indian postoffice. Godrej has partnered with an NGO in Maharashtra for retail (Sakhi Retail). Village level entrepreneurs are hired for sales and distribution on commission basis.
Distributions to Date Status
Over 100,000 were sold by 2012.
Storage capacity (L)
35
Time to cool (hr)
4
Cooling retention (hr)
3
Temperature control
Yes
Minimum internal temperature (°C)
10
Materials of construction
Plastic shell, foam insulation, thermoelectric components
Protection from insect entry
Yes
Refrigeration cycle catalyst
Cooling chip and a fan
Design Specifications
ChotuKool is a portable, a CFC-free, and fan-cooled thermoelectric cooling system with the following dimensions (wxdxh) 736 x 431 x 383 mm and weighing 7.8kg.
It has a capacity of 35L and uses high-end insulation to stay cool without power. ChotuKool doesn't use a compressor, instead it runs on a cooling chip and a fan similar to those used in computers. It operates on 110–240V AC as the main supply. To cope with the erratic power supply in many parts of India (e.g. voltage fluctuation, frequent power cuts, or occasionally a complete lack of electrification in some remote areas), it is equipped to operate on battery or an inverter (Godrej, 2012).
The system cools up to a maximum of 28°C lower than the ambient temperature but no lower than 10°C. ChotuKool cuts of the electricity and enters the sleep mode once the temperature of 10°C is achieved. ChotuKool can retain cooling up to 3 hours without electricity with lid closed.
Technical Support
Over 600 service locations for warranty and post-warranty support.
Replacement Components
Available from service locations.
Lifecycle
380 day (approx. 1 year) warranty.
Manufacturer Specified Performance Parameters
ChotuKool consumes half the energy used by regular refrigerators and uses no compressor or refrigerant. It is suitable for cooling food and beverages, and keeping vegetables, fruits, dairy, and so on, fresh. The system cools up to a maximum of 28°C lower than the ambient temperature but no lower than 10°C. ChotuKool cuts of the electricity and enters the sleep mode once the temperature of 10°C is achieved. ChotuKool can retain cooling up to 3 hours without electricity with lid closed.
Vetted Performance Status
Unknown
Safety
Since ChotuKool is made of several recyclable materials, it is recommended that users consult authorized service providers or Godrej-authorized dealers before disposing of ChotuKool or any of its parts. When disposing of packaging materials, they should place them in the appropriate recycling bins whenever possible.
Additionally, the following safety instructions should be followed:
Complementary Technical Systems
Battery or an inverter
Academic Research and References
Tiwari et.al, 2012, Frugal innovations for the ‘unserved’ customer: An assessment of India’s attractiveness as a lead Market for cost-effective products.
Rory McDonald, Derek van Bever; “chotuKool: ‘Little Cool,’ Big Opportunity”
WIPO Magazine Chotukool: Keeping things cool with frugal innovation.”
Compliance with regulations
None indicated. The design has been adapted and adjusted to local standards in India. Applicable international standards are unknown.
Other Information
The early success of ChotuKool has led to many awards for its manufacturer, Godrej.
This product is typically aimed at home refrigeration for low income Indian households looking to store fruits and vegetables.
Market sales and distribution: An assessment of India's attractiveness as a lead Market for cost-effective products
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