Initiative to reduce virus spread: City engg student invents automatic prasadam dispenser for temples

As the device is based on Infra-Red (IR) sensor, a small amount of “Viboothi, (the sacred ash) and Kungumam (red turmeric powder)” would be released when devotees keep their palm near the machine. “When the user places his/her hand near the device, it would cut the IR beam signalling the motor to dispense “Prasadam”. A small microcontroller is used to trigger the output device,” Pavan Hari, a third-year student at a private city college told DT Next.

Stating that the entire contraption is enclosed in a 3D printed container, the student said, “The project revolves around the Auger mechanism which is similar to Archimedes screw.” Explaining the device operations, Pavan said that a box containing either Viboothi or Kungumam will be fitted on top of the machine and the equipment will suck a minimum 1 gram of Prasadam which will be released onto the devotees’ palm.

Stating that the device could be fitted anywhere in the temple, the student said, “If we install two devices next to each other on the wall, (one for Viboothi and another for Kungumam), the machine can dispense both Prasadams simultaneously. “The machine has been designed in a way where Viboothi and Kugumam could be filled at any time and not just when it is empty,” he said.

Claiming that the size and capacity of the machine could be increased according to requirement, the engineer said, “The minimum cost of the device will be Rs 900 only. Will apply for patent very soon and I am also planning improvements on the machine so the cost would come down further.”