Innovative Minds: Obafemi Awolowo University Mechanical Engineering Students Shine at 8^th Edition of the Science Technology and Innovation Expo 2024, Abuja

The team from Osun State included two OAU students One from UniOsun and one from Ife Polytechnic. The two persons on the right are from OAU having won first place in the Osun State Tech fair. The Osun team was composed of representative of the first three winners of the Osun state Tech Fair. The OAU innovation was showcased in Abuja.

A team of students from the Department Mechanical Engineering at the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife was selected to represent the Osun State Ministry at the 8th Edition of the STI Expo 2024, hosted by the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology (FMIST) from March 11 to 15, 2024, at Eagle Square, FCT, Abuja.

Competing against various digital products and innovations developed by tertiary institutions, JETS, State Ministries, and Research and Development Groups, the Obafemi Awolowo University Team named team came 2nd position in the Sub-National Category with their groundbreaking innovation, the “3-axis CNC milling machine,” designed and constructed by the students.

The students are Alao Kolawole Oluwaseun, Omotosho Ayomide Quadri, Lasaki Ayomide Isaiah, Damilare Marvellous, and Thompson Godwin. The supervisor is Dr. Ajayi Oluwaseun in Ile-Ife.

Their innovation received accolades for several reasons:

1. Energy Efficiency: The CNC milling machine boasts remarkable energy efficiency, consuming less than 1hp of energy, including the router. Its capability to operate directly from a household socket enhances its convenience and accessibility.
2. Economic Viability: Utilizing locally sourced materials that are both readily available and affordable, the team demonstrated cost-effectiveness and sustainability, reducing production costs from N5-7 million to N1.2 million.
3. Rigidity and Speed: Engineered for rigidity, the machine minimizes vibration and ensures stability during operation. Its impressive speed and precise control outperform conventional machines, indicating superior performance.
4. User-Friendly Interface: Operating the machine is simplified through a USB connection and a PC for generating and transmitting the necessary G-code, enhancing accessibility and usability for a diverse range of users.

Team representing Osun State inclusive of the two students from OAU, Ile-Ife

The team’s exceptional performance during the exhibition led to their recognition under the Sub-National Category, underscoring their dedication, creativity, and technical expertise. Dr. Ajayi Oluwaseun’s guidance undoubtedly played a pivotal role in their success.

Special commendation is extended to the students Alao Kolawole Oluwaseun, Omotosho Ayomide Quadri, Lasaki Ayomide Isaiah, Damilare Marvellous, and Thompson Godwin for their outstanding teamwork, determination, and innovative spirit. Their achievement not only reflects positively on themselves but also on the Department of Mechanical Engineering Department at the Obafemi Awolowo University and the Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology and Digital Economy, Osun State.