Fog-prone regions often struggle with low visibility and energy shortages. To address this, students from the Girls Section of TABS College of Science, Hyderabad, developed Nebulavolt, an innovative fog-to-electricity safety device. Winning the ninth cycle of Enterprise Challenge Pakistan, this project combines sustainability, safety, and technology in a single low-cost solution.
Nebulavolt captures fog using a hydrophilic mesh and converts the energy of water droplets into electricity through triboelectric nanogenerators. This clean energy can power streetlights, traffic signals, and other roadside infrastructure, significantly improving visibility, reducing road accidents, and lowering energy costs.
What is Nebulavolt?
Nebulavolt is a unique device designed to generate electricity directly from fog. Unlike traditional solar or wind energy devices, it operates even in low-light and foggy conditions, making it ideal for fog-prone regions.
The device uses a hydrophilic mesh to capture tiny water droplets from fog. As these droplets move across the surface, they create an electric charge through triboelectric nanogenerators, converting natural atmospheric moisture into usable electricity.
This approach provides a clean, renewable energy source that can be integrated into existing infrastructure without major modifications. Its portability and low cost make it accessible for both urban and rural applications.
Key Features of Nebulavolt
Nebulavolt stands out for its simplicity, efficiency, and environmental benefits:
- Low-cost technology: Affordable for both municipal and rural applications
- Renewable energy source: Converts fog into electricity without fuel or emissions
- Multi-purpose use: Powers streetlights, traffic signals, and roadside devices
- Improved safety: Increases visibility and reduces road accidents
- Eco-friendly design: Minimal environmental footprint
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Benefits of Using Nebulavolt
Nebulavolt offers multiple benefits, both environmentally and economically. By utilizing fog, it reduces dependency on conventional electricity sources and helps local governments save on energy costs.
- Environmental Benefits: Reduces carbon emissions and promotes clean energy
- Cost Savings: Lowers electricity bills for street lighting and infrastructure
- Safety Improvements: Enhances visibility in foggy conditions, reducing accidents
- Sustainable Development: Supports green technology initiatives
Summary of Benefits in Bullet Points:
- Captures fog and generates electricity efficiently
- Provides reliable power for safety devices
- Cost-effective alternative to traditional energy
- Eco-friendly and renewable solution
- Enhances road safety in fog-prone areas
How Nebulavolt Works
Understanding the working of Nebulavolt is essential to check and maintain the device effectively.
- Fog Capture: The hydrophilic mesh collects water droplets from fog.
- Energy Conversion: Droplet movement over the mesh creates electric charges through triboelectric nanogenerators.
- Power Output: Electricity is stored or directly used for powering streetlights, traffic signals, and other infrastructure.
This mechanism is not only efficient but also low-maintenance, making it ideal for remote areas where traditional electricity supply is challenging.
How to Check Your Nebulavolt Device
Regular checks ensure Nebulavolt performs efficiently. Following these steps can help detect issues early and maintain optimal performance.
Visual Inspection Steps
- Inspect the hydrophilic mesh for dirt, debris, or damages.
- Check the structural framework for cracks or wear.
- Ensure no water blockages are preventing proper fog capture.
Measuring Electrical Output
To confirm the device is working:
- Use a multimeter or voltmeter.
- Measure voltage and current output under normal foggy conditions.
- Compare readings with standard expected outputs.
Normal vs Abnormal Readings Table:
| Reading Type | Normal Range | Action if Abnormal |
|---|---|---|
| Voltage Output (V) | 5-15 V | Clean mesh, check nanogenerators |
| Current Output (mA) | 50-150 mA | Inspect wiring and connections |
Maintenance Tips for Longevity
- Clean the mesh regularly to remove dust and residues.
- Conduct seasonal checks, especially before foggy periods.
- Test electrical output at regular intervals to ensure efficiency.
Applications of Nebulavolt
Nebulavolt’s versatility makes it suitable for various applications:
- Streetlights: Reliable fog energy source reduces electricity costs.
- Traffic Signals: Ensures uninterrupted signaling in foggy conditions.
- Roadside Infrastructure: Powers signboards, surveillance cameras, and charging stations.
- Rural Electrification: Provides energy in areas with limited access to electricity.
Energy Output Comparison Table:
| Source | Output (kWh/day) | Cost Efficiency | Environmental Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nebulavolt Fog Device | 1-2 kWh | High | Low |
| Diesel Generator | 5-10 kWh | Low | High CO2 Emission |
| Solar Panel | 3-5 kWh | Medium | Low |
Success Story of Nebulavolt
The success of Nebulavolt is a testament to innovation in student-led projects. Students from the Girls Section of TABS College of Science, Hyderabad, developed this device and won the ninth cycle of Enterprise Challenge Pakistan.
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The national final took place in Karachi on January 24, hosted by British Deputy High Commissioner Lance Domm, in collaboration with King’s Trust International and SEED Ventures. Their project has demonstrated how student innovations can solve real-world problems while promoting renewable energy solutions.
Future Prospects
Nebulavolt has great potential for expansion:
- Commercial Use: Cities can adopt it for streetlights and traffic management.
- Industrial Applications: Powering small machinery or remote equipment.
- Technology Improvements: Enhancing energy conversion efficiency and storage capacity.
Its adaptability to different environments and low-cost model makes it a promising solution for sustainable development worldwide.
Conclusion
Nebulavolt is more than just a fog energy device it is a revolution in clean energy and safety technology. By following the steps for checking, maintaining, and measuring the device’s output, users can ensure its efficiency and longevity.
This innovative solution demonstrates the potential of student-led innovations to improve safety, save costs, and protect the environment, encouraging communities to adopt eco-friendly technologies for a sustainable future.