Spark Logo

SPARK CHALLENGE

The SPARK Challenge will reward groups of students that create unique, innovative, sustainable and socially/environmentally aware solutions; the results potentially having significant positive transformative impact on society, industry and the wider environment. The project will endeavour to nurture, drive and sustain innovation and originality by the introduction of Raspberry Pi into ENTC; creating an environment that allows for play, teamwork and experimentation.

Main features of the SPARK challenge:

  • The challenge is expected to run in each academic year with teams' under-graduates working together to deliver solutions.
  • External industrial and commercial specialists will evaluate the proposals in a “Shark Tank/Dragons Den” environment.
  • The most innovative and progressive solutions will be recognised, cele-brated and applauded as the culmination of the SPARK Challenge.

Several supporting activities will be undertaken for a successful outcome for the Challenge:

  • A team of undergraduates from ENTC will manage the delivery of the SPARK programme.
  • A marketing campaign will be undertaken to raise awareness and seeking long-term form within ENTC.
  • Workshops on the subject of “Design Led Innovation” will be delivered in support of students developing Challenge solution.
  • A series of lectures on United Nations - Sustainable Development Goals (SDG's) will be available to all students.

Celebration 23/24

The SPARK Challenge for 2023/24 concluded on September 28, 2024, with five shortlisted teams from over 21 proposals, pitching their solutions to a panel of commercial and industrial heavyweights. This year’s evaluation process was particularly challenging, involving extended discussions among the panel about the relative merits of the solutions presented. Ultimately, three proposals were highlighted as outstanding, showcasing exceptional imagination, skill, and teamwork.

Team Eco Nova

Eco Nova’s Smart Agri-Voltaic System, developed for the SPARK Challenge, combines cutting-edge solar energy production with sustainable agriculture to address Sri Lanka’s energy and agricultural challenges. This innovative system maximizes land use by integrating solar panels with high-quality crop production, increasing yields while reducing water waste. With advanced IoT-based monitoring, predictive maintenance, and smart drip irrigation, it ensures optimal solar panel efficiency and crop health. The Agro-Plan Model, powered by GIS data, recommends ideal crop selections and solar panel layouts tailored to specific locations. Our solution supports energy independence, job creation, and food security while reducing carbon emissions and crude oil dependency, contributing to sustainable development goals.

Team Members

  • Odil Janadith
  • Kaveendra Alwis
  • Danidu Dabare
  • Sasika Amarasinghe
Team Eco Nova | Image: 0Team Eco Nova | Image: 1

Team Drarosg

The poultry industry faces significant challenges, including disease outbreaks and inefficient management. Farm Knight addresses these issues with an innovative solution that uses advanced technologies like machine learning, cloud integration, and thermal imaging for real-time monitoring of poultry health and behavior. It detects early disease signs and tracks individual animal performance, allowing farmers to act promptly, reducing losses, and enhancing productivity. Sensors around the farm collect crucial data on environmental conditions, which is analyzed in the cloud. Machine learning algorithms generate actionable insights available via a user-friendly mobile app. By detecting diseases early and optimizing resources, Farm Knight promotes sustainability and supports global climate change initiatives.

Team Members

  • Sasindu Abewickrema
  • Sandaru Lokudadalla
  • Damsith Adikari
  • Gavin Botheju
  • Lohan Atapattu
Team Drarosg | Image: 0Team Drarosg | Image: 1

Team Sustainix

Hedwig is an IoT-based energy monitoring solution designed to enhance energy efficiency in industrial settings for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) and large enterprises. It addresses high operational costs, unexpected downtime, and maintenance issues. The system features real-time data acquisition, wireless connectivity, and advanced measurements for voltage, current, and power factor. Its modular design ensures cost-effectiveness across various industries. The integrated platform offers predictive maintenance, automated alerts, and user-friendly analytics for proactive energy management. AI-driven insights provide actionable recommendations for optimization, helping industries reduce energy costs while supporting sustainable development goals, including clean energy and climate action.

Team Members

  • Kumal Hewagamage
  • Dulmin Edirisinghe
  • Nimshi Wanniarachchi
  • Yasiru Basnayaka
  • Udula Abeysinghe
Team Sustainix | Image: 0Team Sustainix | Image: 1

Spark Challenge Facebook Page

Spark at UoM Facebook Page informs all followers about the latest news and events done by the Spark branch of the Electronic club.

Fb logo

The Facebook group can be found here

Learn More

Spark Challenge Youtube Channel

The Spark Challenge YouTube channel serves as a repository for all significant recording of events undertaken by Spark Branch of the Electronics club.

Youtube logo

The YouTube channel can be found here

Learn More