🔧 SayPro Prototype & Model Development Plan
Project Title: SayPro AquaHarvest – Smart Atmospheric Water Harvesting System
🎯 Objective of the Prototype
To design, construct, and test a functioning small-scale physical model of the SayPro AquaHarvest system that:
- Collects water from atmospheric humidity (fog/dew)
- Operates using solar power
- Transmits water yield and environmental data via sensors
- Demonstrates the core principles of atmospheric water harvesting in real-time
🛠️ Prototype Components and Design Overview
| Module | Description |
|---|---|
| Mesh Collector | Nano-coated or standard hydrophilic mesh mounted on a sloped PVC frame |
| Collection Trough | Funnels condensed water into a sealed container (1–5 L capacity) |
| Support Frame | Lightweight, weather-resistant structure (PVC or recycled plastic) |
| Solar Power System | 10–20W solar panel, small battery pack, charge controller |
| IoT Sensor Kit | BME280 or DHT22 sensor (humidity/temp), YF-S201 flow sensor, ESP32 microboard |
| Data Display | LCD or web-based dashboard to show live data on water collected, RH, temp |
| Filtration Unit | (Optional) Simple activated carbon and sand filter for visual water clarity |
📏 Prototype Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | ~1 meter height, 1.5 meters wide |
| Mesh Material Area | 1 m² (vertical fog/dew mesh) |
| Collection Tank | 5-liter food-safe plastic tank |
| Solar Panel | 10W panel with 5V battery system |
| Sensor Accuracy | ±2–3% RH, ±0.5°C Temp, 0.3–0.5L precision |
| Data Output | Displayed via smartphone or LCD module |
🔬 Step-by-Step Prototype Development Process
Step 1: Design & Material Selection (Week 1)
- Choose between standard and nano-treated mesh (both will be tested).
- Use recycled PVC for frame construction to demonstrate eco-innovation.
- Design a sloped collection surface that mimics fog net behavior.
Step 2: Mechanical Assembly (Week 2)
- Build frame structure and mount mesh collector.
- Install water trough and connect to storage container.
- Ensure water-tight seals and tilt for gravity flow.
Step 3: Solar + IoT Integration (Week 3)
- Mount small solar panel and battery on side of the unit.
- Install sensors (humidity, temperature, flow rate).
- Program ESP32/Arduino microcontroller to collect and transmit sensor data.
Step 4: Testing and Debugging (Week 4)
- Conduct tests in high-humidity conditions (early morning or simulated fog).
- Record water yield (liters/day), solar charging, and sensor data accuracy.
- Test dashboard or mobile app interface for real-time data visibility.
🧪 Prototype Testing Parameters
| Test Area | Target Benchmark |
|---|---|
| Water Yield | ≥ 1–3 L/day under local humidity conditions |
| Power Performance | Full sensor function during day + night |
| Sensor Readings | Live RH/temp/water flow data visible on app |
| Durability Test | Withstands 1 week outdoors in varying weather |
| Maintenance | Simple cleaning; mesh rinsed weekly |
🧑🔬 Youth Involvement & Learning Integration
The prototype will be co-developed by SayPro Youth Innovation Club members who will:
- Learn basic electronics, sensor calibration, and solar power integration.
- Apply STEM learning through real-time environmental monitoring.
- Build digital dashboards using Arduino IDE, Blynk, or MIT App Inventor.
📦 Prototype Material List & Estimated Costs (ZAR)
| Item | Unit Cost | Quantity | Total Cost (ZAR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mesh (hydrophilic/nano) | R60/m² | 2 | R120 |
| PVC piping/frame material | R200 | 1 set | R200 |
| Solar panel (10W) | R350 | 1 | R350 |
| Battery + controller | R200 | 1 | R200 |
| Sensors (BME280, flow) | R250 | 1 set | R250 |
| ESP32 microcontroller | R150 | 1 | R150 |
| Collection tank (5L) | R100 | 1 | R100 |
| Misc. (wires, soldering) | R100 | — | R100 |
| Total Estimated Cost | R1,470 |
📸 Prototype Demonstration Plan
During the competition:
- Display a working prototype in a controlled setting (humidifier or natural dew).
- Set up a real-time dashboard or mobile view showing water collection and sensor data.
- Include a video presentation showing field testing and youth participation.
✅ Conclusion
The prototype of SayPro AquaHarvest proves that atmospheric water harvesting is not just theoretical—it is a practical, replicable, and youth-driven innovation that can deliver tangible impact in climate-affected communities. This working model will serve as both a technical proof-of-concept and an educational tool for scaling across the SayPro network.
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