DESIGN AND IMPLEMENTATION OF SMART URINARY FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING, UNIVERSITY OF BENIN (UNIBEN)
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Abstract
As a response to the compelling requirements of water scarcity, hygiene exposures, and accessibility issues in traditional urinary systems, the current research evolves and implements an economic, touch-free smart urinary system specifically designed for the
University of Benin Department of Mechanical Engineering (UNIBEN) Nigeria. The system features a door-operated system of magnetic reed switches and a pulse-regulated solenoid valve for hands-free operation, significantly reducing microbial transmission while achieving maximum water savings. Enclosed within a specially designed 7.2-foot galvanized steel housing, the system features a fixed-volume flush device (500 mL ± 2%) with 92% reduced water consumption compared to conventional 9-liter manual systems. Field and laboratory testing were characterized by outstanding performance, such as a 3% false trigger rate, 0.47 seconds response time, and Nigerian safety standard (SONCAP) and disability compliance. The users were 95% satisfied with enhanced hygiene and accessibility, particularly for motor-disability users. Economically, the system is a 4-month return on investment (ROI), with a yearly water cost saving of ₦4,910,625 and a maintenance saving of₦80,000, making it suitable for resource-poor settings.
Prioritizing simplicity, affordability, and scalability eschewing IoT dependencies of complexity—the project provides an Africa-wide template for sustainable sanitation in public facilities. Future research directions are suggested as solar integration, modular upgrades, and advocacy to ensure that national standards become compatible with water conservation goals. The innovation not only addresses UNIBEN's current infrastructural deficits but also global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of clean water, sanitation, and sustainable urban development.
University of Benin Department of Mechanical Engineering (UNIBEN) Nigeria. The system features a door-operated system of magnetic reed switches and a pulse-regulated solenoid valve for hands-free operation, significantly reducing microbial transmission while achieving maximum water savings. Enclosed within a specially designed 7.2-foot galvanized steel housing, the system features a fixed-volume flush device (500 mL ± 2%) with 92% reduced water consumption compared to conventional 9-liter manual systems. Field and laboratory testing were characterized by outstanding performance, such as a 3% false trigger rate, 0.47 seconds response time, and Nigerian safety standard (SONCAP) and disability compliance. The users were 95% satisfied with enhanced hygiene and accessibility, particularly for motor-disability users. Economically, the system is a 4-month return on investment (ROI), with a yearly water cost saving of ₦4,910,625 and a maintenance saving of₦80,000, making it suitable for resource-poor settings.
Prioritizing simplicity, affordability, and scalability eschewing IoT dependencies of complexity—the project provides an Africa-wide template for sustainable sanitation in public facilities. Future research directions are suggested as solar integration, modular upgrades, and advocacy to ensure that national standards become compatible with water conservation goals. The innovation not only addresses UNIBEN's current infrastructural deficits but also global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of clean water, sanitation, and sustainable urban development.
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