AYG2009.sg, 27 June 2009
A Flame Powered by our Youths


Solar panel for Flame Igniting System

27 June 2009 - Cutting-edge design and technology by youths from five polytechnics will be showcased at the 1st Asian Youth Games (AYG) Singapore 2009 Torch Relay which begins at the Kallang Waterfront on 28 June 2009.

The flame igniting system for the AYG was designed by Singapore Polytechnic and jointly developed by Nanyang Polytechnic, Ngee Ann Polytechnic, Temasek Polytechnic, and Republic Polytechnic.

Singapore Polytechnic soared amongst the four other polytechnics to have their design accepted for the flame igniting system in a competition held last March. The winning entry came from the team at the School of Mechanical and Aeronautical Engineering and Centre of Experience Design.

With the Games' objectives in mind, the team proposed the strategy of "Energised by the Sun, Powered by our Youth", and this was, literally, captured in their creation.

One of the design elements involves harnessing solar energy as its main source of power. A rotating solar disc captures the Sun's energy which is then stored.

At the torch podium, the flame will be kindled by a swivelling igniting device which taps on the electric power stored within the solar panel. To ensure that the flame podium has enough energy to light the torches, the solar charging panel will rotate hourly a day before the event to capture as much sunlight as possible.

"The process of transforming the winning concept into a working system was an exciting and challenging one. It is a dream come true for youths and staff of Singapore Polytechnic and our fellow polytechnics to be able to add spark to the Games," said Mr. Lawrence Ng, a lecturer at Singapore Polytechnic, who is also the Project Manager of the Flame Igniting System.

"There were multi-disciplinary challenges within a tight deadline. There was much scepticism in the beginning, but we've managed to piece everything nicely to make it work," Mr Ng added.

Mr. Roy Chew, Head of Torch Relay, is delighted to have the polytechnic's involvement.

"It is great to have the support of the Singapore Polytechnic and those assisting them to ensure we have an efficient and eye-catching mechanism that will light the torches and represent the spirit of the Games," he said.

Mr. Chew added: "We are all excited about seeing it put into practice on June 28 and June 29."

The Torch Relay Flame Lighting Ceremony begins the proceedings at the Kallang Waterfront on tomorrow at 6.50am.

Written by Shaiful Rizal