No Power, No Problem | ‘Happy Iron’ by Kashmiri students offers solution to power cuts

Srinagar, Feb 24: Two engineering students, Saheeba Maqbool and Iaman Gulzar, have devised a portable iron named ‘Happy Iron’ that addresses the challenges of low wattage and power shortage prevalent in Kashmir.

This innovative appliance utilises calcium oxide capsules and inverters to function effectively even in the absence of electricity.

Saheeba, hailing from Qazigund, and Iaman, from Ganderbal, were inspired to revive the traditional coal iron with a modern twist.

Their ‘Happy Iron’ harnesses the heat generated from an exothermic reaction between calcium oxide and water, eliminating dependence on conventional electricity sources.

“The primary objective of this invention is to address the challenges of low wattage and power shortages in the region,” Saheeba told Greater Kashmir.

She said, unlike traditional irons, 'Happy Iron' can function effectively even in the absence of electricity, offering a practical solution to households facing power cuts.

“Unlike traditional irons that rely solely on electricity, the Happy Iron harnesses the heat generated from an exothermic reaction between calcium oxide and water. This innovative approach ensures that the iron can function effectively even in the absence of electricity, offering a practical solution to households facing power shortages,” Saheeba said.

She said that ‘Happy Iron’ features a sophisticated design comprising a reaction chamber, electric coils, and two storage containers for water and calcium oxide.

Controlled by a microcontroller, the iron operates in three distinct modes.

“When proper power supply with adequate voltage is available, the microcontroller shuts off the exothermic reaction, and the iron functions purely on electricity,” Saheeba said. She said that in case of low voltage, the microcontroller initiates the exothermic reaction according to the input voltage.

“The degree of reaction is adjusted based on the voltage level, ensuring optimal performance,” Saheeba said.

She said that in the absence of electricity, the iron relies solely on the heat generated from the exothermic reaction to iron clothes efficiently.

The innovative technology behind the Happy Iron is rooted in the exothermic chemical reaction between calcium oxide and water, which produces sufficient heat to heat the iron plate.

This novel approach not only ensures reliable ironing capabilities but also reduces dependence on conventional electricity sources, making it an ideal solution for regions with limited access to power.

Moreover, this iron offers environmental benefits by minimising reliance on electricity and promoting sustainability in household chores.

By combining the benefits of electrical and non-electrical processes, this innovative appliance represents a significant step towards addressing the energy needs of communities in developing regions.

Guided by their mentor, Jahangir Ahmad, an inventor at Kashovatics Institute, Saheeba and Iaman’s invention represents a significant step towards addressing the energy needs of communities facing power constraints.