This generator is not only a low-cost disinfection solution in addressing Covid-19 challenges, but also holds promise as a health solution far beyond the pandemic.
Electrical, electronic and computer engineering student Izak Adendorf (22) is part of the team that is further developing the original invention of Barend Visser, inventor in the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences.
Safeguarding public spaces
The newly designed and updated ozone generator could have a meaningful impact in safeguarding public spaces such as universities, schools, hospitals and public transport.
Izak’s main focus is to develop the NWU’s own sensor technology so that it can measure and regulate ozone levels in real time.
“The sensor will automatically measure the quality, humidity and oxygen levels of the air in a specific area. It will then use computer technology to determine if more ozone needs to be generated and released in that area for disinfection purposes.”
The use of sensor technology with the ozone generator is unique in that it can be remotely controlled and programmed.
Izak has completed the design of the sensor and computer boards, which are currently in the testing phase. He says once the go-ahead is given on the safety and standards regulations, the production for orders already received will start immediately.
Passion leads to meaningful impact
Izak was persuaded during a mini-open day to pursue his tertiary education at the NWU. “I love my studies and have learned so much. Engineering is my passion.
“I am grateful for the opportunities and support I have received throughout my studies at the NWU, especially from the Faculty of Engineering.”
He encourages students to do their part, ask questions, participate and make use of the opportunities offered to them, and to see their lecturers as partners in their development. Some of his lecturers have become mentors and role models he looks up to.
“The NWU is also a great place to meet lifelong friends. I attribute my progress to the encouragement of my mentors and friends.”
must improve people’s lives, says student inventor
TECHNOLOGY
Time will tell
Izak says he is still mulling over his future plans, although he is currently engaged full time in bringing the ozone generator to the market and producing it on mass scale.
“My father is a businessman and apart from engineering, business interests me.
“I would like to combine electronic and computer engineering with entrepreneurship by, for instance, building a business that might focus on supply chain or medical technology such as monitors or sterilisation technology.”
“I also have a few other business ideas, but for now I want to complete my studies on a high note and get the ozone generator to do what it needs to do – improve peoples’ lives. Time will tell…”
The one thing he is sure of is that he wants to use his skills and knowledge to better people’s lives. “Because what good is technology if it does not have a meaningful impact?”
From pushing buttons to developing
cutting-edge technology
Izak’s passion for electronics started when he was a baby. “My parents say I loved to push buttons to see what they do. I was especially fond of the food processor’s flickering buttons. As I grew older I wanted to know exactly how electronic devices worked and also if they could do more than what they were doing.”
This curiosity led to him shadowing at computer shops and technical workshops from the early age of 11 during holidays and weekends. He says the experience and exposure ignited his interests in programming, robotics and network and computer technology, which prompted him to register as an importer.
Izak Adendorff may seem like an ordinary, down-to-earth type of person, but his talents and hard work go beyond engineering.
He holds Protea colours in biathlon and also completed several Midmar Miles. Despite his tight schedule, he keeps fit by swimming. Once completing his studies, he intends to take a break from studies and says he will probably take up open water swimming.
Click here to learn more about the exciting new ozone generator and the team that also include other students.
Izak Adendorf says he loves the outdoors, whether hiking in the mountains or having a picnic in a veld. He has travelled extensively in Southern Africa and overseas. A month-long visit to the Ukraine and four months in Germany as an exchange scholar are among his travel highlights.
A final-year engineering student is at the forefront of developing new sensor technology for an ozone generator that can destroy the coronavirus and other harmful viruses and bacteria.