First bug-repelling, gesture-controlled solar charger unveiled

Start-up Third Wave Power unveiled what it claims is the "World's First" multi-purpose, gesture-controlled solar-powered charger at this year's Clean Energy Expo.

Start-up Third Wave Power unveiled what it claims is the 'World's First' multi-purpose, gesture-controlled solar-powered charger at this year's Clean Energy Expo.

The Singapore-based Third Wave Power, winner of this year's Techventure 'Most Eco-Friendly Start-Up Award,' showcased its multi-purpose solar-powered charger at this year's Clean Energy Expo which was held in Singapore over November 1-3.

The company claims that the solar-powered charger, called the mPowerPad, is the world's first 'all-in-one portable solar charger with gesture based control.'

Designed for people operating 'off-grid' or in remote locations, the tablet-sized device consists of solar panels on the back which can capture energy in six hours, stored in a 2500mAh capacity battery.

In addition to being able to charge gadgets such as smartphones, the device also includes a 8W equivalent LED light output, a radio and even insect repellent -- all of these functions are controlled by tilting the device.

Co-founder of Third Wave Power, Lim Chuin Kiat stated that the device was 'designed for ultimate ease-of-use. With a built-in accelerometer, functions are activated by [simply] tilting or turning the device. Anyone in the world -- regardless of culture, literacy or education, will find [it] extremely easy to use.'

The mPowerPad represents a new twist in the growing market for solar-powered chargers for smartphones and other such devices.

Another innovative approach to solar-powered chargers, albeit in a different direction, was also unveiled in October by German company Changers.

Changers's device, which caters for various makes of smartphones and e-readers, rewards frequent users with possible virtual rewards redeemable through a social community, which the company argues also helps creates a sense of competition among users of the solar-powered charger.

The Changers starter kit is available to pre-order for $149 via Changers.com

The mPowerPad is expected to begin being shipped in 2012 and is estimated to retail for $80 per unit.