1. 1985/01/01 This nest of three beds will save space in a small room during the daytime because it takes up only the space needed for one bed. The beds are low in cost and easy to make from local materials. Dimensions suggested here are approximate. The exact dimensions depend on the kind of wood used.
  2. 1985/01/01 Batteries have been in use for many years, but today there is a greater demand for battery power than ever before. This renewed interest has been brought about not only by new developments but also by the diversity of uses for batteries in civilian, industrial, and military applications. This...
  3. 1992/01/01 The intent is to offer suggestions to drivers or mechanics who operate in an area where service facilities and technical assistance are not readily available and they must be their own advisers on every problem that may arise. In the event that readers happen to have some service facilities at...
  4. 1986/01/01 Over the centuries, the treadle has been the most common method of using the legs to produce power. Treadles are still common in the low-power range, especially for sewing machines. Historically, two treadles were used for some tasks, but even then the maximum output would have been quite small,...
  5. 1983/01/01 Complete instructions for building each pump are included in the manual, with detailed drawings to guide construction. Operating and maintenance directions are also given. Efficiency comparisons enable the user to choose the best design for a particular situation. Readers who may be using this...
  6. 1983/01/01 Soap is an essential cleaning agent, helping people to keep themselves and their surroundings clean. When soap is mixed with water, it forms a lather that washes out dirt and grease far better than water alone. Soap can be made on a small scale in the home or village cheaply and easily. The main...
  7. 1983/01/01 This study is an assessment of the "appropriateness" of biogas technology in meeting some of the needs of India's rural population. Such an assessment is quite complicated, despite claims that a biogas system is a simple village-level technology. While there is evidence that biogas systems have...
  8. 1980/01/01 A biogas digester is the apparatus used to control anaerobic decomposition. In general, it consists of a sealed tank or pit that holds the organic material, and some means to collect the gases that are produced. Many different shapes and styles of biogas plants have been experimented with:...
  9. 1984/01/01 Biogas generation is a process that takes place in an oxygen-free environment. It uses anaerobic bacteria--bacteria that live only in the absence of oxygen--to break down complex organic compounds in fairly well-defined stages. The process is called anaerobic digestion. It produces biogas, a gas...
  10. 1980/01/01 The retort is one of the most efficient means of producing good quality charcoal. Wood is placed in a large steel cylinder (or "retort"). This has a tightly closed door, and some means to let tar and gases escape. The cylinder is heated from the outside. No air enters the barrel. When the wood in...