Mechanical Engineering
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Online Seminar Series - Dr. Daniel Frey, MIT

Friday, October 1, 2021 · 3:30 - 4:30 PM
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Comparative performance of appropriate technologies for international development

Dr. Daniel Frey
Professor, Mechanical Engineering Department, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)



Abstract:

A large number of low-cost technologies have been designed for enhancing the quality of life of low-income households in developing nations. Despite substantial investments made in creating numerous products, there is little reliable information about which products work relatively well and which ones perform poorly.  This lack of comparative performance information may a be contributor to failure of new products and technologies to achieve their intended outcomes.  The Comprehensive Initiative on Technology Evaluation was established at MIT to help fill this knowledge gap.  We set out to offer more and better quality information on the performance of products and technologies intended to alleviate problems associated with global poverty.  This seminar will sketch the origins of our approach which was based on Consumer Reports, describes adaptations we implemented in our technology evaluation methods, and presents examples. 

Bio:

Dan Frey is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering at MIT where he conducts research on the design process with an emphasis on experiments as a means to adaptively gain information and make decisions.  He also teaches those same subjects as well as hands-on courses in mechanical design, numerical methods, and electronics.  He engages in scholarship on engineering education and has participated in starting new programs and upgrading existing programs in Asia, Europe, North America, and now leads a major USAID funded program focused on Central America.  He currently serves as the Design and Manufacturing area head for the MIT Department of Mechanical Engineering.  He is a licensed automotive mechanic and commercial pilot.
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