Ashlin Walter's start-up is taking science to the next level by making drinking water from air. Check them out

Mr Tech's latest product Mr Water turns water vapour in the atmosphere into potable water, utilising the simple process of condensation. We check out this eco-friendly machine
The machine is powered by solar panels
The machine is powered by solar panels

Trigonometry, calculus, almost every concept in Physics - what's the point of learning any of these concepts? Like really, where am I going to apply them in real life? This is what I used to think when I was in school. I must confess, I still think this even now, but sometimes, someone comes along and changes my mind. Who did it this time? Ashlin Walter and his start-up's latest invention. Here, let me explain. Harnessing the simple scientific concept of condensation, a group of youngsters from Meenangadi in Wayanad, Kerala invented a machine that can produce potable water from the air in a matter of a few minutes. Talking us through the principle of Mr Water - yes, that's what they named their invention - Ashlin, the founder and managing director of Mr Tech, says, "Imagine you take out a bottle of cold water from your fridge and leave it outside. In a while, you will see water droplets on the surface of the bottle. Where do you think this water comes from?" Before we can reply, he eagerly says, "Humidity, of course. This is the principle that drives Mr Water."

Explaining the technical side of their product that requires zero electricity, Ashlin says, "The machine is powered by solar panels. A copper tube inside the machine has cold water. This cold water helps in condensing the air. The condensed air, similar to dew drops, is then filtered inside using UV rays and, in a few minutes, the water is ready for consumption. We can produce up to three litres of water in an hour with this machine." By this point, all I could do is gape in awe at how simple and effective this machine is. Now, that makes me curious to know the backstory, A student of Electronics Engineering from Government Polytechnic College, Meenangadi, Ashlin recalls how a WhatsApp conversation started it all. The 19-year-old adds, "My friends Rithik P Ratheesh and Akshay KV also play an important role in our start-up. Each of us have shared the responsibility to complete the invention." 

After repeated trials and two months' worth of sleepless nights, Ashlin and his team managed to complete the product in December 2019. Discussing their future plans, Ashlin says that they aim to improve this product. "It currently weighs about 15 kg due to the external frame. We are planning to manufacture it smaller and make it more handy like a water bottle and also design a multi-purpose dispenser that can make tea, coffee and normal, cold and hot water," he says. With more environment-friendly products in the works at Mr Tech, Ashlin leaves us with one thought, "The water we produce is pure but isn't it important to have a pure atmosphere as well to get pristine water?"

Related Stories

No stories found.
logo
EdexLive
www.edexlive.com