One Laptop Per Child(OLPC) project for Afghanistan has designed a new pedal powered electric generator to provide electricity for laptops. The new design will make it easier for even children to charge the battery as they are using the laptop.

The design as shown in the picture consists of generator, a chain, gears and pedals. It seems to be a good idea but I am not sure for how long a child be able to use the laptop while pedaling for power at the same time. The design is not that child friendly at all – well that is my oppinion based on the looks in a picture as I have not personally used it ever.

I think that foot pedal sewing machine mechanism is much better option to crank the generator as compared this design. Some of you may remember that design.

The other option could be the renewable energy source. Some area of Afghanistan are rich in wind resources and small wind mills for generating electricity to power these laptops as well as the school might be a feasible alternative to this pedal powered design.