Pedal-Powered Water Pump for Rural Irrigation

 

Project Synopsis

Title: Design and Implementation of a Pedal-Powered Water Pump for Rural Irrigation

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1. Introduction

In rural areas, farmers often face challenges in irrigating their fields due to lack of electricity, high fuel costs, and unavailability of modern pumping systems. A pedal-powered water pump is a cost-effective, eco-friendly, and sustainable solution that harnesses human power to lift water. This project aims to design and implement a pedal-powered pump system that can be operated like a bicycle, making it simple, affordable, and highly useful for small-scale irrigation.

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2. Problem Statement

• Lack of affordable irrigation systems in rural and remote areas.

• Dependence on electricity or diesel-powered pumps, which are costly and unreliable.

• Manual methods of water lifting are time-consuming and physically exhausting.

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3. Objectives

• To design a mechanical system that utilizes pedaling power for water pumping.

• To develop an ergonomically efficient mechanism that minimizes operator fatigue.

• To fabricate a working prototype suitable for small farms and household water needs.

• To analyze and compare the efficiency of the pedal pump with traditional pumping methods.

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4. Methodology

1. Literature Review – Study existing pedal-powered devices and irrigation needs.

2. System Design –

   • Pedal setup connected to crank and chain drive.

   • Rotary motion transferred to a reciprocating/centrifugal pump.

   • Water outlet connected to irrigation pipes.

3. Fabrication –

   • Assemble bicycle frame, flywheel, sprocket-chain mechanism, and pump.

   • Ensure ergonomic seating and stable mounting.

4. Testing –

   • Measure water discharge rate, operator comfort, and endurance.

   • Compare with hand-operated pumps.

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5. Block Diagram

Pedal System → Chain Drive → Pump Shaft → Pump Mechanism → Water Outlet → Irrigation Field

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6. Expected Outcomes

• A functional, user-friendly pedal-powered water pump prototype.

• Water pumping capacity of 500–1200 liters/hour depending on design.

• Low-cost, energy-efficient irrigation solution for small farmers.

• Reduced dependency on fuel and electricity.

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7. Applications

• Small-scale irrigation in rural agriculture.

• Water supply for domestic and livestock purposes.

• Emergency water pumping in areas without electricity.

• Sustainable and eco-friendly water management solution.

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8. Tools & Components Required

• Bicycle Frame & Pedal Assembly

• Chain & Sprocket Mechanism

• Flywheel (for smooth rotation)

• Centrifugal / Reciprocating Pump

• Water Pipes and Valves

• Support Stand & Structural Materials

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9. Cost Estimation (Approx.)

• Bicycle Frame & Pedal Setup: ₹2,000

• Pump Mechanism: ₹3,500

• Chain, Sprocket & Flywheel: ₹1,500

• Structural Frame & Pipes: ₹2,000

• Miscellaneous: ₹1,000
  Total Estimated Cost: ₹10,000

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10. Conclusion

The proposed pedal-powered water pump will provide a sustainable and low-cost irrigation solution for rural farmers. It reduces dependency on electricity and fossil fuels while promoting clean, green technology. This project can contribute towards rural development, energy conservation, and environmental sustainability.