In a remarkable student-led innovation, a team from the Computer Science and Designing Department at Bapuji Institute of Engineering and Technology (BIET), Davanagere, has developed a prototype device capable of producing clean drinking water directly from air. Installed on the terrace of the college building, the Smart Atmosphere System is being hailed as one of Karnataka’s most promising student innovations in recent years.
Device converts air into potable water
The system, named the Smart Atmosphere System, uses three spinning fans to draw in high-speed winds that pass over tall structures. Powered by solar panels, the device harvests moisture present in the air and converts it into drinkable water without requiring external filtration.
According to the team, the collected water contains natural minerals, making it safe and suitable for consumption. The innovation holds significant potential for regions facing acute water scarcity, including forests, arid lands and remote habitations with limited access to freshwater.
A collaborative student-driven innovation
Hundreds of students, staff members and professors contributed to conceptualising and developing the prototype. The team spent nearly three months building the system using limited materials, resulting in modest output at present.
“This is still a small-scale model,” said Prof Srinivas B R from the department. “We used basic materials, so the water collection is limited. But the model is scalable. We sent the collected water for laboratory testing and received confirmation that it is clean. With industrial support, larger and more efficient units can be developed, especially in windy regions.”
Solar-powered system aims for higher yield
The current model uses a combination of solar panels, a condenser, a blower and a heater to extract moisture from the air. The idea was born after plans to use costly hydro panels were abandoned in favour of a more affordable and adaptable system.
“Air always contains moisture,” Prof Srinivas said. “In forests and deserts, animals die because they cannot access water. We wanted to use atmospheric moisture that is freely available. At present, we are generating around 8 to 10 litres of water a day and aim to reach 15 to 20 litres. Weekly assessments are helping us understand how output changes with climate variations.”
He added that the system could be deployed anywhere with water scarcity concerns, especially in remote or disaster-prone regions.
Students motivated by real-world challenges
Shashank, a student member of the team, said the project began as a search for a meaningful solution to the global water crisis. “It took us two to three months to build this, and seeing it work brings immense satisfaction,” he said.
Another student, Vaibhav, highlighted the system’s low energy requirement. “The device needs only 2 to 3 watts of power. We use solar energy, and the system works even during heatwaves and windy conditions,” he explained.
Potential for household and industrial applications
Faculty members at BIET believe that with more affordable materials and industry partnership, such devices could eventually be installed on rooftops to help households generate their own drinking water. They emphasised that industrial collaboration will be crucial for scaling up the system, improving its efficiency and turning the concept into a commercially viable product.
Observers say the Smart Atmosphere System is a compelling example of how Karnataka’s young innovators are creating sustainable, real-world solutions. With continued support, the device could contribute significantly to addressing water scarcity in the state and beyond.