| Subsystems |
 MicrocontrollerBattery System (rechargeable)Thermistor CircuitMoisture/Contact SensorSirenPush-buttonDimmable LEDIndicator LEDs |
| Approximate build cost |
| US$16, ZAR240 |
| Operation |
| The moisture spike is pushed into the ground or placed in a position where it will get wet when flooding occurs. The unit itself must be mounted near the area where fire is to be used but not directly above normal cooking areas.Mounting the unit on a ceiling will often give the best illumination from the light. The solar panel must be put on the roof facing upwards (the wire is connected to the bottom of the panel). Glue the panel down securely to prevent wind damage or theft. Make sure that there are as few shadows on the solar panel as possible. Press the button on the edge of the unit to turn the light on or off. When the sun is shining the battery will charge up so that the light can be used at night. When the battery is charging, a small white light will be lit. A green light will indicate that the battery is fully charged .The light can be used even if the battery is not entirely full. The light is about as bright as ten normal candles. It will typically run for several hours a day even in winter, and more in summer. When the battery is flat the light will turn off and it may be turned on again after sunshine has recharged the battery. Even when the light goes off, there is still enough power left to detect fires and floods. The siren will sound and the light will flash when a flood or a fire situation is detected. In the case of a fire a red light will also be illuminated. To stop the siren, press the button on the edge of the unit. The moisture probe may need to be dried off to prevent the siren from going off again if it is wet. |
Safety, Resilience, Convenience