Sanzhar Myrzagalym
ecoSocket
2014An intelligent system that enables remote control and monitoring of home and industrial appliances for enhanced energy efficiency and conservation
Problem
On a global scale, it's estimated that about 8% to 15% of electricity is lost or wasted through inefficiencies such as outdated equipment, poor insulation, and standby power consumption of electronics and appliances.In countries like Kazakhstan, where electricity generation often relies on environmentally unfriendly sources, these losses not only signify wasted energy but also contribute to greater environmental impacts.
Suggested Solution
Encouraging individuals and organizations to actively monitor and optimize their use of electricity to promote sustainability and reduce unnecessary waste by making this task as easy as
just a few taps on their smartphone.- ecoSocket adapters are designed to be plugged into your power outlets, to which you can then connect any electrical appliance
- each ecoSocket features a relay module for remotely managing electricity flow, a hall sensor to measure power consumption, and a Wi-Fi module to transmit data
- multiple ecoSockets connect wirelessly to your home's internet router, allowing you to monitor and control each appliance remotely via a mobile app
- additionally, the app provides comprehensive analytics and pattern recognition in your usage reports, offering valuable insights into your energy consumption
Hardware Design
The project began as a home management device idea at a hackathon. Following a successful presentation and received feedback, we decided that while remote control comfort was good, we wanted to address a more pressing issue. This led to the idea of collecting information on electricity consumption and making recommendations for its reduction.
Prototype 1
Prototype 2
Prototype 3
With each new iteration, we tried to add new functional features (like replacing Bluetooth with Wi-Fi, and adding a Hall sensor) and making the device's design more ergonomic and aesthetically pleasing.
We experimented with many connection options and ultimately settled on a form factor that is still used in such devices to this day.
Software Design
Although we clearly lacked extensive knowledge in UX/UI design, we always tried to guide our mobile app development by following the design guidelines for respective platforms.
Prototyping Process
At that time, our university did not have a prototyping lab, so without access to 3D printers and other equipment, we had to dismantle splitters, remove all unnecessary parts, and try to fit in the necessary electronic components.
From this constant need, a dream emerged to create a place where everyone could freely work on their ideas and have access to the necessary equipment for prototyping. Later, this idea evolved into the lab we co-founded — Sheberkhana.
From Student Project to Business Venture
The project received many positive reviews from early test users, prompting us to actively pitch it to investors and present at various startup events. As students of a technical specialty, it was then that we gained invaluable experience in business planning, building communications, and "selling" our ideas.
What happened next
We were undergraduate students at the time our project began to gain momentum. However, our lack of maturity business skills prevented us from fully capitalizing on the opportunities that arose at that time.
Looking back, I realize that this project played a significant role in shaping every member of our team and in acquiring skills that, unfortunately, were not taught to technical students. We learned to work on a hardware-software product, progress through iterations, and gather feedback from users.