ghanaopendata/ghanaian-research-english huggingface dataset:
Design and Fabrication of a Low-cost System for Vitals Monitoring of Hospitalized Patients

Internet of things (IoT) is a quickly growing field that centers around giving savvy and smart solutions that could be incorporated in many fields to solve everyday problems. Further exploration in this field zeros in on the most proficient and often low-cost method to make things and activities smart, continuously monitor and observe changes that occur in environments and may more. One crucial aspect in the healthcare industry is the treatment and monitoring of hospitalized patients which is a factor that speak volumes to the survival rate of the hospitalized patients. However, in many developing countries, patient monitoring structures in hospitals are scarce, which in fact contributes to the alarming deathrates and loss of loved ones in our hospitals. Thus, considering this and the many opportunities IoT presents in conjunction with remote monitoring and data collection system, this Applied Capstone report focuses on how to continuously monitor the vitals of hospitalised patients, use the data collected to present meaningful information to users and other parties anywhere they did themselves via a web application interface. The vitals monitoring system for hospitalised patients is built with the ATMEGA328p as its core processor, it takes information about the patient via the some sensors, stores the data into a database where it can be read at anytime and remotely via a web application.

Source: Ashesi
Design and fabrication of a modularized humanoid arm with pneumatic artificial muscles

With increase investment in the development of humanoids, there offers a window of opportunity to leverage the rapidly growing market of soft robotics in our strides towards more accurate biomimetic motion and study of humanoids and their applicatory areas. This project encompasses the systematic design, implementation and testing of a lightweight low-cost humanoid arm that utilizes Pneumatic Artificial Muscles (PAM). These muscles do not only exhibit twistable and bendable human-like muscle contractions but modularized in design to stand as a complete controllable unit which may be dissociated and mountable on a support frame on its own. This project achieves the design of a mobile arm unit with total weight of less than 2kg of which is distributed with one-third the weight being borne on the arm. The realized powerto- weight ratio of near 5W per kilogram, under an approximate 13.5 litre per minute rate of pressurization is of desired muscle force, and flex speeds. The McKibben tubing choice of PAM is experimentally validated under a linear fit for its force-contraction performance. This design makes considerable strides in cutting down weight, leveraging power, and being much cheaper than existing solutions. Comparable lightweight arm designs of which some are commercially available have weights of 38kg (Mitsubishi PA10arm), 14kg (KUKA lightweight arm), etc., with power-to-weight ratios of near 1W/kg. However, this project designs cuts down these weights drastically to about 2kg (without any sensory unit yet) and more than doubles the power to weight ratios mentioned.

Source: Ashesi
Design and fabrication of a multideck gari sieving machine

Gari is a very important staple food made from cassava and is eaten in many parts of Africa. Gari has a granular nature and may contain different sizes of grains ranging from as small as 1 mm to as large as 6 mm. Depending on where and how gari is going to be eaten, specific particle sizes are desirable. The market value of gari is therefore reduced if a given sample to be bought has different grain sizes mixed together. To correct this, gari is often sieved into varying particle sizes using manual methods and this is often slow and laborious. As such, there arises the need for a machine to sieve gari particles into various sizes which can fit into an existing production setup and is less expensive than already existing ones on the market. This paper discusses all parameters which were considered to design a machine to automatically perform this sieving of the food into 3 distinct grades. A full conceptual design of the machine was developed and was ready for fabrication. Static and vibration simulations were carried out on parts of the machine most susceptible to failure and factors of safety between 1.4 and 5 were obtained for all these parts. Fabrication of the device was started but due to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the fabrication could not be completed.

Source: Ashesi
Design And Fabrication Of A Secured Smart Home To Assist Caregivers In Elderly Care

As the global elderly population continues to rise, the demand for accessible, secure, and context-aware home systems for the elderly and their caregivers increases. In Ghana, the lack of popularity around elderly homes due to the cultural relevance of the younger generation taking care of the older generation makes the demand even higher. The project, Secured Smart Home to Assist Caregivers in Elderly Care, presents the design and implementation of a secured smart home system aimed at aiding caregivers in monitoring and supporting elderly individuals both at home and remotely. The system is composed of three integrated sub-systems: a progressive web application (PWA) for remote device control, a context-aware surveillance system for detecting falls, seizures and prolonged inactivity using computer vision models on a Raspberry Pi 5, and a blockchain-based access control mechanism leveraging Ethereum smart contracts and MetaMask for secure authentication. Sub-system A enables remote interaction with home appliances via an ESP32 microcontroller and Firebase. Sub-system B utilises YOLOv8 and MediaPipe to infer critical events (fall detection, seizures and periodic inactivity) in real time. MediaPipe was ultimately selected for deployment due to its higher accuracy and lower computational demand. Sub-system C ensures robust access control through smart contract logic that restricts unauthorised usage and ensures auditability. Experimental evaluation demonstrates high success rates in device responsiveness, accurate fall and in activity detection, and strong resistance to unauthorised access. Although seizure detection and live video streaming were limited by hardware constraints and video data availability, respectively, the system offers a modular and scalable framework suitable for future expansion.

Source: Ashesi
Design and fabrication of a semi-autonomous tilling machine

The world continues to experience immense technological transformations. Despite the steps, the field of Agriculture in many African countries has not seen much progress with regard to agricultural mechanization. Where progress has been made, many farmers have been unable to benefit due to cost constraints, among other issues. While pushing for more agricultural production through improved mechanization, it is important to factor in the cost and environmental factors. This project succeeds in developing a semi-autonomous tilling machine that performs secondary tillage and seedbed preparation activities. The machine has an average weight of 135 kg, much lighter than tractors that weigh about 2300 kg. An average tillage depth of 10.13 cm. The controller is easy to use with an average training time requirement of 3.33 minutes.

Source: Ashesi
Design and fabrication of a solar powered Stirling engine as a water pumping machine

As the world keeps evolving, the demand for electricity increases. The growing energy consumption leads to higher cost that many people, especially in Ghanaian rural areas, cannot afford. Thus, considering this, this paper focuses on designing a Stirling engine to pump water in homes. In order to contribute to the use of renewable energy with a low carbon footprint, concentrated solar energy will be used to power this system once it is implemented. As such this, source of power was considered in the design of the Stirling engine. The Stirling engine was designed in Solidworks. Simulations were also done in Solidworks and MATLAB to test the performance of the designed engine. Using the Schmidt formula, the work and power output of the engine was calculated.

Source: Ashesi
Design and fabrication of a solar-powered electric stove for rural and urban communities

More than 2.2 million Ghanaian families in rural areas depend on firewood and charcoal as fuel for cooking [1]. This high dependency is taking a toll on forest resources due to rampant deforestation. “Ghana's forest cover, which stood at 8.2 million hectares in 1900, has now been reduced to about 1.2 million hectares, with an estimated loss of 65,000 hectares of forest annually” [2]. More so, Ghana has been facing energy challenges with the birth of frequent load-shedding, termed “dumsor.” This is even worse in rural areas because they do not yet have access to electricity. The problem of electricity accessibility could be solved in Ghana, benching on the testimonies of renewable energy and the technologies associated with it. Thus, the goal of this project is to design and fabricate a solar-powered electric stove. The motivation for this project is the inaccessibility of electricity, especially in rural communities and the shortcomings of Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG), a possible alternative. Success on this project will be defined by a simple and affordable design which will store solar energy during the day and can be used both in the day and at night for cooking. This design will go a long way to improve the lives of individuals in the country whiles safeguarding our environment.

Source: Ashesi
Design and Fabrication of a Solar-Powered Electric Stove for Rural and Urban Communities of Ghana

This report presents the optimisation of a ceramic-matrix composite (anthill sand and cement), reinforced with treated coir fibres for applications in the construction of a low costsolar powered cooking stove to solve the current trends in the depletion of forest spaces in Ghana due to excessive destruction as a result of using firewood for cooking by a higher percentage of rural communities. The reinforced coir fibres reduce undesirable traits in ceramics including, low fracture toughness and low flexural strength. Sample characterisation involved; fibre modification, tensile tests of fibres, three-point bend tests on the composites, water absorption tests on the composite materials, hardness tests, and compressive tests. A prototype was developed and tested for thermal performance and analysis before the first prospective model of the stove was fabricated.

Source: Ashesi
Design And Fabrication Of A Water-Based Hydrogen-Powered Cookstove For Clean Cooking

Most of Sub-Saharan Africa still uses firewood and other biomass fuels mainly because of limited access to clean cooking technologies, which amounts to approximately 80%. The widespread deforestation in countries such as Zimbabwe, combined with indoor air pollution causing respiratory illnesses and social burdens, has called for innovative cooking technology development to protect women and children mainly affected by such problems. This work thus develops a solar-integrated hydrogen-powered cookstove to create a safe, modern cooking system for underprivileged rural areas. This technology generates hydrogen gas from water through a PEM electrolyzer, which receives its power from photovoltaic panels. A high-efficiency burner burns the produced hydrogen to create water vapor as its sole combustion product. The system development prioritized building a 10 kg weight-limited product while integrating safety elements and operational compatibility for different cooking methods and maintaining economic feasibility. The cookstove transforms 900 milliliters of water into 0.09 kilograms of hydrogen through 4.4 kWh of solar power, which can supply the hydrogen needed by a family of four in a single day. A detailed feasibility study guided the development process, including component optimization, material selection, and system integration. The laboratory results showed that the system achieved its specified performance standards for heating capability, water recycling, and static and dynamic structural performance. This solution supports the worldwide clean energy transformation by establishing a localized system that follows sustainable development principles. This work demonstrates the viability of renewable hydrogen for household cooking and provides a blueprint for scalable clean energy systems tailored to energy-poor regions.

Source: Ashesi
Design And Fabrication Of An Affordable Automated Fabric Cutting Machine

The fabric and textile industries play a vital role in fashion, upholstery, and custom apparel production. However, traditional fabric cutting methods often prove to be labour-intensive, time-consuming, and result in significant material waste. In many small and medium-sized enterprises, particularly in Africa, the fabric-cutting process remains manual, which restricts scalability and precision in production. To address these challenges, this report presents the design and development of an affordable automated fabric-cutting machine aimed at supporting tailors, upholstery makers, and small garment production units. The machine employs a drag knife cutting mechanism, selected for its versatility and precision in handling various fabric types. Its CNC-controlled system allows users to upload patterns for consistent cuts, thereby reducing fabric waste and enhancing production efficiency. Key software tools utilized during the design process include SolidWorks for CAD modelling and structural analysis, as well as the Cambridge Engineering Selector for material selection. The final prototype was constructed using durable, cost-effective materials to ensure affordability without sacrificing performance. The estimated cost of this machine is significantly lower than that of existing automated cutting machines on the market, making it accessible for small-scale manufacturers. Its production rate and precision make it suitable for a wide range of applications, including custom tailoring and upholstery manufacturing. This innovative tool aims to bridge the gap between traditional manual cutting methods and high-cost industrial solutions, providing a significant boost to the growing textile industry in Africa.

Source: Ashesi
Design and fabrication of an affordable power wheelchair

This project is concerned with the design and fabrication an affordable electric wheelchair that meets the mobility needs of disabled people from middle-income households in Ghana. It seeks to addresses the limitations of manual wheelchairs, which require sufficient strength to operate, and the high cost of conventional electric wheelchairs that are too bulky and expensive for most Ghanaians. The solution is a power wheelchair made with locally sourced components and designed for the local terrain. The design process involved working closely with potential users and stakeholders to understand their mobility needs and challenges. The mechanical subsystem parts were tested using locally available components to ensure cost-effectiveness and sustainability. The electrical subsystem components that could not be obtained locally were shipped. The electric wheelchair is functional and affordable, with a final production cost of approximately GHs 5,600.00. Several tests were conducted to validate the effectiveness of the solution and compare its performance to standards and benchmark values. The tests showed that the electric wheelchair was just as functional as its counterparts, although slightly less comfortable. The project has broken down some barriers to entry regarding cost for middle-income households in Ghana and has achieved an important milestone in enhancing the mobility and quality of life for disabled people.

Source: Ashesi
Design And Fabrication Of An Automated Chicken Tractor

Poultry farming in Ghana is constantly losing the battle against imported poultry products on the market. Although poultry farming has proven to be a relatively lucrative business for many Ghanaians, it has failed to compete with its foreign competitors. Poultry produce consumption is from the Netherlands, USA, Brazil, Belgium, Turkey and Germany which simply produce in larger quantities with better meat and egg quality. These countries have adopted automated systems, making poultry production more efficient and scalable without compromising on quality. Poultry farmer labour hours are significantly reduced while maintaining poultry safety due to these automated systems. They include automated systems for poultry feeding and watering, poultry weighing, coop cleaning, predator detection and prevention, coop temperature regulation, poultry diagnosis, behavioural training, egg collection and coop door operation. Local poultry farmers have yet to incorporate these systems. This project aims to initiate the use of automated systems in poultry farming by designing and fabricating an automated chicken tractor fitted with systems for remote-controlled coop mobility, feeding and watering, predator prevention, and ventilation. The fabricated prototype successfully achieved its design objectives by enabling wireless control of coop movement, ensuring a steady supply of feed and water, providing effective predator detection and alarm activation, and maintaining healthy environmental conditions through active ventilation. The system demonstrated that automation can be both feasible and beneficial for small-scale poultry farmers in Ghana, setting a foundation for broader adoption of smart farming practices in the local poultry industry.

Source: Ashesi
Design And Fabrication Of An Automated Cleaning Robot

As the world continues to evolve, technology plays a pivotal role in addressing human limitations and enhancing everyday life. One such domain where technology has had a profound impact is in the field of cleaning and automation. For students at Ashesi University, maintaining a clean living space often takes a backseat due to the pressures of academic work. Traditional cleaning methods require time and effort, which students often find in short supply. This project addresses this challenge by designing and implementing an autonomous cleaning robot specifically tailored for student rooms. Unlike manual cleaning, which is time-consuming and inconsistent, our solution offers a consistent, labor-free cleaning experience that allows students to focus on their academic responsibilities. The robot g navigation, obstacle detection, and cleaning, ensuring efficient operation with minimal human intervention. This project provides a scalable and adaptable solution that not only enhances student well-being but also demonstrates the potential of robotics and automation in academic settings.

Source: Ashesi
Design And Fabrication Of An Automated Urine Analyser For Predictive Health Monitoring

Urinalysis plays an important role in detecting urinary tract infections, kidney disease, and diabetes. Performing a manual analysis is tedious and time-consuming, prone to errors, and inefficient. There is a clear gap in affordable and basic automated systems, especially in resource-limited medical facilities. This project seeks to enhance diagnostic precision and reliability by developing an automated urine analyser. A microcontroller-based system with a urine strip holder, high-resolution camera, and custom-coded algorithm to interpret colourimetric change on urine strips was implemented for the product design. The prototype underwent multiple rounds of testing with different artificial urine samples, and the results were validated against the manual strip reading method. The preliminary results demonstrated that the predicted output correlates with manual readings, surpassing a 90 percent accuracy threshold for pH, glucose and protein quantification. This supports the feasibility of using inexpensive and straightforward devices for effective urine analysis. This project has the potential to provide accurate educational health status information to users by using predictive analysis, which is the contribution of this work. Along with that, the reduced need for manual evaluation reduces the chances of misinterpretation, thereby leading to improved patient care. Future works include reducing the height of the device using a wide-angle or autofocus camera to make the system more compact and portable, developing a strip auto-alignment mechanism to improve usability and accuracy, creating a battery-powered version for off-grid use to enhance accessibility in resource-limited settings, using a complex image processing algorithm like computer vision and also increase the number of biomarkers the device can detect and predict.

Source: Ashesi
Design and Fabrication of an Inflatable Wing

This project paper explains the design and fabrication of an inflatable wing using a flexible, low cost and easily accessible PVC material. In recent times, several researchers have explored the building of inflatable structures using expensive and high strength materials like Mylar and Kevlar. However, this project scope was contextualized in the East African region where there is need for flexible and low cost Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) for applications such as military surveillance. The project focused on using the NACA 4318 airfoil profile because it has a simple geometry that can easily be fabricated. PVC material was used to fabricate the wing because it is flexible,low cost, easily accessible and has a high tensile strength. The wing was sewed, put together using epoxy and later heat sealed. After the wing was fabricated, static load tests and wind tunnel tests were performed on the wing. The wing was also simulated in a software, X –Foil where the lift and drag characteristics of the wing were predicted.The wind tunnel tests and X –Foil simulation showed that the stall angle of the wing was between 20° and 25°.In addition, the two data sets showed a trend as both the lift and drag coefficients increased and decreased with in the same range of angles of attack.

Source: Ashesi
Design And Fabrication Of An Underwater Rov For Corrosion Detection

This project presents the design, fabrication, and testing of a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) intended for underwater inspection and corrosion detection. A modular frame constructed from plexiglass and 3D printed components was developed, housing the electronics within a PVC waterproof enclosure. The ROV achieved six degrees of freedom using a thruster configuration powered by a hybrid STM32 and Raspberry Pi control system. A machine learning model based on YOLOv8 was trained for real-time rust detection and successfully deployed on the ROV. Mechanical and electrical subsystems were validated through pool-based experiments. Waterproofing tests revealed minor leakage through motor cables, mitigated with marine-grade silicone. The ROV demonstrated positive buoyancy, resurfacing unaided after submersion. Full maneuverability was achieved in surge, yaw, and limited sway and pitch due to motor placement constraints. Performance evaluations showed an average transit speed of 0.62 m/s, slightly below the 1 m/s target due to hydrodynamic drag and tether resistance. The AI system achieved over 90% precision and recall for mid- to long-range rust detection, although detection performance at close ranges was limited by optical focus issues. Sensor readings for voltage, current, power, depth, and temperature exceeded the 90% accuracy threshold. The camera achieved 65 fps at standard definition, although high-definition streaming was constrained by hardware limits. Motor command latency was measured at approximately 2 seconds, largely due to communication buffering. A full system cost analysis showed a total fabrication cost of approximately GHC 6,800.

Source: Ashesi