Updated on March 11, 2024

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Created on May 24, 2020

Lifeshelter LS5-LS6

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Lifeshelter is a temporary classroom for emergency situations.

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Product Description

Lifeshelter LS5-LS6 is a temporary classroom solution for emergency situations. This shelter provides an alternative to the use of tents, and can also be used as a permanent building. The concept draws from housing construction methods that are an alternative to typical corrugated iron-sheeted roof structures, and the design allows for materials such as clay or limestone to be plastered for a solid structure.

Market Suggested Retail Price

$5,000.00

Distributors / Implementing Organizations

Manufacturing/Building Method

This product is mass-produced and distributed through Lifeshelter ApS. This self-supporting building is assembled on-site and it is made of segments of panels following a catenary arch-form. Each arch is made of two curved panels supported by a steel component at the bottom and connected together at the top. The producer offers panels for classrooms 5 m and 6 m wide. The space depth needed determine the number of segments of arches required.  The design allows the product to be disassembled, transported and reused in a different location or as the primary part of the roof-structure in a future permanent house. The panels could also be dismantled and use as insulation material for walls or ceilings.

Intellectural Property Type

Select Type

User Provision Model

Product can be purchased online, directly from manufacturer.

Distributions to Date Status

Under 100 units of Lifeshelter L5 have been distributed in Somalia, Uganda, and Tanzania. The Lifeshelter L6 is currently under testing.  

Intended number of occupants (#)

54-79

Speed of assembly (h)

LS5: 120 – 168 h,

LS6: 240 – 336 h

Footprint area (m²)

LS5: 34-48 m²,

LS6: 54-70 m²

 

Internal volume (m³)

LS5:  ~102 m³,

LS6: ~187 m³

Material composition

Steel reinforced concrete (foundation), stone wool insulation boards reinforced with steel (panels and endwalls), steel frames with bamboo cladding (endwalls), aluminum and galvanized steel net or aluminum and polycarbonate (doors and windows),  galvanize steel (floor frame), and waterproof cement cladding (roof).

Lifespan (years)

25+ years

Flammable flash point temperature (ºC)

The stone wool insulation which is the main component of the structure is a non-combustible material with a flammable flash point temperature of about 2000 °C. Interview with designer

Maximum snow load (kg/m²)

Maximum wind speed (km/h)

120 km/h

Suitable climates

All climates

Design Specifications

The Lifeshelter LS5-LS6 showcases several unique design characteristics. It can be rapidly assembled without complex tools. It is made from durable, low-weight components. It eliminates the need for external wood, steel, and screws, and the manufacturer claims it is stable during the course of an earthquake or storm. The Lifeshelter LS5-LS6 aims to be mobile and reusable for future dwellings. It features an arched structure that provides maximum space and strength to the classroom. Its modular design allows it to be adapted and configured for homes, schools, medical facilities, etc. Each panel for Lifeshelter LS5 weights 14.5 kg and for Lifeshelter LS6 weights 17.5 kg. In addition with changes in dimensions and weight of the panels, the end walls for LS5 and LS6 vary to steel frames with bamboo cladding.  

Product Schematics

Technical Support

This product is meant to be self-built, constructed by the user. The aim is for this to be a rapid assembly without complex tools, with a minimal use of materials.Interview with designer

Replacement Components

Panels are not locally available.

Lifecycle

25+ years

Manufacturer Specified Performance Parameters

The manufacturer designed this product with the aim of being simple and easy to erect, cost effective, mobile and reusable, well insulated, sturdy, and safe with an adaptable design. In addition, it avoids transitional waste and avoids future slums with the option to plaster the shelter with local materials such as clay or limestone to create a more permanent solid structure.Interview with designer

Vetted Performance Status

Lifeshelter has been tested for technical and structural performance, user satisfaction and logistical and operational challenges by the Copenhagen University in collaboration with IFCR, UNHCR, and UN-Habitat, University of Bath in the UK, and the organization Save the Children. Interview with designer

Safety

No specific hazards have been listed.

Complementary Technical Systems

While not provided by the manufacturer, solar panels and floor mats can be added to enhance this technology.

Academic Research and References

None

Compliance with regulations

The design complies with the Sphere standards.

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