Introducing the, the EDAR, A.K.A. the Hobo-tron, Version 2.0

The designers have continued their involvement with EDAR since the original design, tweaking the product and completing numerous mock-ups by working closely with Mike Orozco of Precision Wire, Inc., all on pro-bono basis.

Modifications since the first iteration have included decreasing the amount of wire to reduce rattling, and simplifying the frame configuration to decrease the number of breakable parts.

The resulting lightweight metal tube frame is approximately the width of a wheelchair and sits on four lockable wheels. It has closable wire baskets at either end, sandwiching a sturdy, waterproof canvas body complete with mesh vision panels and reflective edge stripping.

In "day mode," the EDAR slips easily over pavement. The unit converts quickly and easily to "night mode," in which it can comfortably sleep someone well over six feet (two meters) tall on a mattress supported by a metal-and-wood base. The entire unit bears a slight resemblance to a space invader from the Atari video game.

Each unit costs just under $500 to make. EDAR, Inc. sells them at cost to shelters, churches, and other interested organizations. How those organizations use or distribute the EDARs is up to them, but Samuelson's intent is to make them available to homeless clients free of charge.

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