Lifeshelter LS4

Target Users (Target Impact Group)

Distributors / Implementing Organizations

Lifeshelter ApS

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 offer panels for houses 4 m wide. The space depth needed determines 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 can also be dismantled and used as insulation material for walls or ceilings.

Intellectural Property Type

Select Type

User Provision Model

Product can be purchased online, directly from the manufacturer

Distributions to Date Status

Around 500 Lifeshelter L4 units has been built in the UK, Denmark, Greece, Jordan, Irak, Nigeria, Uganda, Kenya, Somalia, Tanzania

Design Specifications

The Lifeshelter LS4 can be 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 LS4 aims to be mobile and reusable for future dwellings. It features an arched structure that provides maximum space and strength to the shelter. Its modular design allows it to be adapted and configured for homes, schools, medical facilities, etc. The basic Lifeshelter LS4 eight arch-segments with 16 panels, has soft end walls, and has an area of 18 m². The weight and packed size of a complete packed shelter will consist of one package of 350 kg that can be broken down into smaller packages of weights suitable for transport by two people. The mass of each smaller package is no more than 50 kg. Package will contain: panels (11 kg each), PVC soft-end walls, metal frame, nylon straps, cover tarp, plastic connection tubes, and a tightening kit. The Lifeshlter LS4 is transported in shipping containers to the target context. For example, one shipping container of 40 ft takes 34 packed LS4's.

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 minimal use of materials.^{Interview with designer}

Replacement Components

Panels are not locally available.

Lifecycle

15+ years

Manufacturer Specified Performance Parameters

The manufacturer designed this product with the aim of being simple, rapid, and easy to erect, cost effective, mobile and reusable, well insulated, sturdy, and safe with an adaptable design. In addition, it seeks to avoid transitional waste and reduce 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 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

Compliance with regulations

The design complies with the Sphere standards.

Other Information

Below are several promotional videos of the product. Improved Health and Living Conditions with Lifeshelter, 3 Reasons for Choosing Lifeshelter, Lifeshelter Camp 3d Animation, Lifeshelter in Kurdish Region Iraq Lifeshelter has received the Danish design Award 2016