Vutia

A collaboration project with Africa Power to design a solar rechargeable underwater fishing light. Vutia is designed for African artisanal night fishers, with the aim of enticing fish and increasing catch sizes. 

Fish are naturally attracted to light and the technique of using lights to lure fish is a global widespread practice. Kerosene lanterns were previously used; however, they are expensive to maintain. Africa Power developed a surface fishing light to replace these and reduce CO2 emissions.

Surface lights are inefficient with up to 50% of the light being reflected off the water. Submersible lights are more direct, so can use lower lumen output and less power, which reduces costs. Research also suggests that they increase catch sizes.

Vutia is designed to be IP68 rated and contains lithium-ion batteries. These can be recharged from solar energy during the day, enabling use during the twelve-hour night shifts. Multiple luminosity modes are used, and light is projected further with the use of a Fresnel lens. Design for disassembly has been considered to encourage repairs and replacements, providing an improved product life cycle.