This project was developed for the AAKRUTI GLOBAL INNOVATION COMPETITION 2024, where our team, Degeyopang, achieved the incredible milestone of becoming the 2nd Place Winner (Global Runner-up) for the Geo AP-South region. Our focus was on addressing urban drainage challenges through mechanical design, innovative transmission systems, and human-centric engineering.

The Problem: Rethinking Urban Maintenance

We targeted the critical issue of sediment and waste accumulation in open ditches, which often leads to severe flooding and public health risks.

• Manual Labor Risks: Traditional cleaning methods are exhausting and expose workers to hazardous waste and diseases.
• Efficiency Gaps: Existing high-tech solutions like Culvert Jets often underperform in ditches filled with stagnant water
• Impact: Our goal was to create a tool that saves time and labor while ensuring a cleaner, safer environment.

Our Vision: The Degeyopang Solution

Our machine was engineered to provide a reliable, low-cost, and high-efficiency alternative for maintaining open drainage systems.

Key Technical Innovations

1. Kinetic-to-Rotational Transmission: We designed a system that converts simple pushing force into high-torque digging power through a precision gear ratio connected to the wheels.
2. Continuous Bucket Digging: The machine features 10 specialized buckets attached to a chain-driven system for non-stop sediment removal.
3. Smart Perforated Design: Each bucket is designed with fine-perforated holes to ensure mud and trash are collected while allowing water to stay in the ditch, reducing the load.
4. Variable Depth Adjustment: To accommodate different ditch sizes, the digging mechanism is fully adjustable up to a maximum depth of 80 cm.

Engineering Validation & Simulation

We utilized the 3DEXPERIENCE platform and SolidWorks to validate every aspect of the machine:

• FEA Simulation: Stress analysis was performed on the main frame to confirm structural integrity and a high Factor of Safety.
• Mechanical Analysis: We calculated a shaft torque of 2.41 Nm and a kinetic friction of 32.18 N to ensure ergonomic operation.
• Power Optimization: Our design operates at a calculated 0.867 Watt, proving the extreme efficiency of the manual drive system.

Beyond the Trophy

Winning the Global Runner-up spot was a testament to our belief that engineering should serve the community. This experience taught us how to turn a conceptual design into a functional, validated solution that can truly make a difference.