Often, inventions did not get public acceptance of the technology used.

Jepson lcd might have nano technology screen(Corning glass) for more efficient display(more viewing angle and nanotubes exit on spherical lens). Cow driven electrical generator is stretching the needs a little too far for invention; when India just used 2 shovels of cow dung into 100 gallons of water to make gasoline? Lithium batteries age due to chemical reaction(overcharging) increasing impedance in its equivalent circuit(some discharge cycle is needed to restore chemical balance). Lithium compounds leak and insolates the contact terminals(water rinse needed).

So, the failure to sell OLPC, is their own technology, not acceptable by mainstream government officials. Classmate is more conventional. ASUS EeePc is most conventional.

Hopefully, Jepson will do some market research on her next invention. Keeping up with many other technological advances are most important in the venture capital field. They always hire big business management to get things rolling, after the original inventors failed in their pursuit of big business.