DRAFT: This module has unpublished changes.

Vision:

To create an application service that encompasses the collection, refurbishment, and distribution of discarded computational devices at Stony Brook University and connect them with underprivileged children in the local area. Our application will begin to bridge the "digital divide" that connects "have-nots" with technology while simultaneously limiting the amount of E-waste Stony Brook University produces to better the environment. We appropriately named our proposal service “erasEwaste”. The devices we will collect are excess departmental computers purchased through Stony Brook University. Target recipients of this application would be children who do not have access to the technology necessary to further their education through research. Since Stony Brook University is renowned for its research work, providing children with technology to advance their own research will further our commitment to research on multiple levels.  

erasEwaste- “bridging the digital divide by providing refurbished e-waste to underprivileged while simultaneously bettering the environment”

 

Application Creation:

To tackle the previously discussed issues, the erasEwaste team proposes the creation of a database and web application to organize and distribute data using the following software: MIT App Inventor, Filemaker Pro 9,  Filemaker go, and Dreamweaver.

The envisioned system is a web-based application that will allow users to request a computer from our database inventory. The erasEwaste service will also be available as a mobile application. For our service to be successful, we require a storage center to house old computers and volunteers to staff the warehouse.

 

The web application would be modeled similarly to eBay’s layout. Based on available inventory, users will be able request a computer package. Devices will be distributed to users on a first-come-first-serve basis. Each device will come with instructions on usage.

 

Our erasEwaste mobile application will allow the volunteers to input the necessary information about the E-waste they receive. The goal of erasEwaste is to encompass  inventory into an application that connects donors (Property Control) and volunteers with recipients.  This can be visualized by the diagram below (Figure1):



Figure 1

 

The database application concepts are sketched below in Figure 2, which depicts three example phases of what this application may function like.  Please note:  The "user" would be a member of the volunteer team for this database section.  First phase: The user will input data about the donated machine such as whether it is a computer or accessory, the condition, and the date the device was received. This information will be collected and set to a product ID and stored in a QR code for future reference.  Second Phase:  When the device is ready to be refurbished (parts become available), the user will scan the QR code and pull up the information on the device and what needs to/ has been repaired.   This information will be displayed as yes/ no questions.   The Final Phase will be generated when Phase 2 answers are all “Yes,” and will provide a signature section and a date of completion box that signifies the computer is ready to go!   At the end of each phase, there is a timestamp as well as signature box to keep track of users as well as duration of repairs.   

 


Figure 2

 

Our Goal:

The erasEwaste project is designed to start as a local project that cuts down the E-waste that Stony Brook University produces by  distributing functional computers to local communities.  Not only does this project help the environment and local communities, it also reduces expenditure at the university.  Currently Property Control at Stony Brook University is rather disorganized. The current system is:

  • not up to date with current technologies

  • has a paper based inventory system which doesn’t allow for a flat organization with smooth, efficient operations

  • gives technologies to faculty on campus first, then the SUNY system and then eBay

  • pays to have devices taken away

The Difference:

This project is intended to grow in an iterative design, allowing for easy expansion and application as resources grow.  The project allows a cut in financial expenditure from the University while putting the University in a positive light.  The erasEwaste team has future applications and implementations discussed later in this proposal.

 

Constraints:

Project constraints will inhibit progress with our application.  The following are potential constraints and our plans to eliminate them.  

  • Old hardware tends to fail. Protocol will be proposed to check and double check the reliability of refurbished devices.  

  • Old software has bugs. Protocol will be proposed to format the hard drives and reload the OS to ensure smooth running.

  • Our project assumes that the children in need have access to internet and power which raises the question:  Can the families afford to run these systems?

  • Storage and facility solution. Our project runs with the assumption that property control can ensure a facility for storage and refurbishment of devices. The erasEwaste team is currently exploring additional alternatives to host operations.

  • Time and resources will be a prospective issue.  There is no real estimation on how many functional devices the erasEwaste team will be able to receive, refurbish, and distribute at a given time.  

  • Performance and results constraints: We must ensure that the project volunteers are compliant with erasEwaste protocol in refurbishing devices to have a strong and reliable image that lives up to erasEwaste’s image .  

 

DRAFT: This module has unpublished changes.