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| Student of Aquaculture at Universitas Muhammadiyah Malang (UMM) created a prototype relying on solar panels without backup energy (Photo: Laili Public Relations). |
Teaching critical thinking and problem-solving to students based on field findings is no easy task. In support of this, the Aquaculture Program at UMM organized an exhibition titled 'Aquafest Innovation Technology'. The event, held on June 10, was attended and enlivened by hundreds of students. Various tools and innovations were showcased during this agenda.
Rindya Fery Indrawan, S.Pi., MP., a lecturer in Aquaculture at UMM, explained that this event is part of the Final Semester Examination (UAS) for the Computer Applications and Digital Fisheries course. "After completing this course, students create prototypes related to technology or applications based on fisheries that are initiated from their field findings," he said.
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The event was participated by various groups, each showcasing their prototype results. Indrawan mentioned two app-based innovations, namely 'Terquality' and 'Marine Market Place', while others were based on devices to facilitate fish farming processes. These innovations include the Automatic Transmission Switch, Aquamaster Auto Top-up Water Tank, Automatic Food Feeder, Anco, and Solar Bubble Aerator, among others.
One of the prototypes that adopts solar energy is the Solar Bubble Aerator. According to Serli Viviani Patrisia, the group's leader, this innovation aims to provide sustainable solutions for fish farmers by reducing dependence on electricity and ensuring oxygen supply remains intact even at night.
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"The Solar Bubble Aerator consists of three main components: an aerator, solar panels, and a power bank. The solar panels absorb sunlight and convert it into electrical energy, which is then used to operate the aerator. The energy generated is capable of creating oxygen bubbles for fish," she explained.
Interestingly, this device is equipped with a power bank that serves as backup energy. The power bank stores the energy generated by the solar panels so the aerator can operate continuously for 24 hours, including during the night or cloudy weather. Thus, fish farmers need not worry about sudden power outages.
Furthermore, this innovation is expected to provide practical solutions for fish farmers in Indonesia. "Generally, devices available on the market only rely on solar panels without backup energy. With the power bank, the Solar Bubble Aerator can still be used even without sunlight," said Serli.
Additionally, this device has the potential to save electricity usage and anticipate power outage risks. The Solar Bubble Aerator can be used for various fish farming needs, from aquariums to fish shipping expeditions, thereby supporting the sustainability of the fisheries sector in Indonesia.
This innovation demonstrates that sustainable and efficient solutions can be created by optimizing natural resources. "It is hoped that the Solar Bubble Aerator can serve as a model for other innovations in aquaculture and environmentally friendly technology in the future," she concluded. (lai/wil/fajr)
