A 23-year-old University of Malawi student Enock Emanuel Mvula has modified an electric fan to respond to his commands.
Mvula, from Mzuzu and pursuing a degree in electronics, began this project in his first year at the university.
The innovative system requires a motion sensor installed in the room where the fan is located.
The sensor detects movement and sends a signal to a controller unit which activates a switch connected to the fan.
“This system automatically cools the room when someone enters, providing comfort and energy efficiency by only turning on the fan when necessary,” Mvula explained.
In addition to the modified fan system, he has developed an iron and room assistant project.
The innovative system uses a sensor to detect when a hand is placed on the iron handle, triggering the switching mechanism to turn on the iron’s heating element.
“This was designed for convenience and safety, ensuring the iron only operates when actively being used,” he added.
The room assistant project is programmed to respond to pre-defined triggers, performing various functions such as turning the fan on and off, greeting the user, or controlling other smart devices in the room.
Mvula emphasised that each project demonstrates the application of electronic sensors and programming to create automated systems that improve convenience and efficiency.
Despite his commitment to contributing to creativity and innovation in the technology and engineering field, Mvula faces challenges such as funding and limited resources.
“It is a beacon of support that illuminates the path to success; hence, your creativity and ability to be innovative makes you destined to succeed. We need various agencies as partners to address challenges in technology, engineering, and innovation to make Malawi an inclusively wealthy and self-reliant nation by 2063,” he said.
Mvula can be found on TikTok as 265Engineer and can be contacted via phone or WhatsApp at 0887 249 034.”
