streetfootballworld network member Africaid – WhizzKids United is testing the sOccket ball, a special football developed by four Harvard students that generates and stores enough electricity during a game to power an LED lamp or charge a mobile afterwards.

Harvard University students research innovative forms of alternative energy
In many developing countries the widespread use of kerosene lamps is a leading cause of illnesses in the local populace, according to numerous studies by the World Bank. This insight motivated students at Harvard University to tackle the problem as part of a related seminar. Their idea: a ball that would generate energy during play, bringing a source of green electricity to remote areas.

Through the work of Harvard University and the support of the Clinton Global Initiative University, the idea came to fruition in the form of the sOccket ball. The ball's size is roughly equivalent to that of an average football and the additional five grams of weight went unnoticed by all of the test players. This high-tech marvel also retains the same fun-factor as the original!

An energising kick
As soon as the ball is kicked, dribbled, or thrown, a small dynamo generates electricity from the motion and saves it. After roughly 15 minutes of play, enough energy is generated to power an LED lamp for up to 3 hours. While impressive, the Harvard students understand that their invention will not instantly solve the fundamental energy needs of developing countries. Rather, they hope to set an example and promote thought and innovation in the production of alternative energy sources.

For a more detailed analysis of the capabilities of the ball, as well as potential interest, the students chose the participants of Africaid – WhizzKids United in South Africa. WhizzKids tried out the sOccket in both urban and rural areas of KwaZulu Natals, the latter of which involved playing surfaces that were rough and uneven and therefore served as a good test of the ball's stability.

sOccket expected on the market by the end of 2010
After much intensive training it was clear that the ball passed the test. The sOccket held up under tough conditions and it kept its form for at least a month in dry environments. However, even if young people were given a few of the balls, the invention could not be used as a total source of energy. Until such a solution is discovered, the sOccket team is working hard to improve the ball by better securing the dynamo in the sphere's centre and making the charging apparatus more easily accessible. The sOccket is then expected to appear on the market by the end of 2010.

Through the "buy one, donate one" model, the sOccket team hopes that strong sales in Western markets will simultaneously allow development organisations like Africaid to use the ball free of cost.   

For more infromation about the sOccket ball klick here.
 

Translated by Jordan Krechmer