Collen Maseko, an Allen Glen High School Grade 11 pupil, won bronze at the regional Eskom Science Expo.
Maseko, a Fairland resident, entered his solar-powered cellphone charging device into the Eskom Science Expo.
The great idea was sparked by a speech he gave in English class.
He decided to invent something to use as a talking point, thereby stumbling upon his creative energy effective charger.
“One of my friends suggested I find out more about the expo after he heard my speech in class,” said Maseko.
It was here that Allen Glen High School physical science teacher Willem Odendaal encouraged Maseko to improve his product.
“We didn’t have many pupils who were interested to enter the regionals. It was only Collen, who was the brave one who decided to enter,” said Odendaal.
His solar-powered cellphone charger runs off of two double A batteries, two solar panels and a transistor.
“I put the batteries parallel to each other (positive to positive, negative to negative), in order to increase the current.”
The batteries were then connected to the solar panels and directed to a transistor that amplifies the voltage.
This allows the charger to produce about 5 Volts which can charge the average cellphone in about four hours.
“I created the charger for the times when I go on holiday in New Castle and there is no power and of course, for times during load shedding,” added Maseko.
At the Eskom Science Expo regionals Maseko was expected to deliver an interview with the judges where he presented his finding, analysis, scientific method and investigation. He was then proudly awarded a bronze medal for his project. “I want to thank my teacher Mr Odendaal for his continued support and assistance during the project; he helped me shape many of my idea.”
Details: Allen Glen High School, 011 475 4971/2.
