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Sleeping Safe: My Electrified Mosquito Net Experiment

ZappNet prototype

Introduction:

Mosquitoes are small, but their impact is massive. Growing up in regions like India, I've seen how a good night's sleep can be ruined—and even health threatened—by these tiny creatures. In many tropical and densely populated areas, mosquito-borne diseases are a daily concern. I wanted to create something that doesn't just protect but prevents—a solution that's simple, affordable, and actually works.

ZappNet prototype
Mosquitoes are small, but their impact is massive. Growing up in regions like India, I've seen how a good night's sleep can be ruined—and even health threatened—by these tiny creatures. In many tropical and densely populated areas, mosquito-borne diseases are a daily concern. I wanted to create something that doesn't just protect but prevents—a solution that's simple, affordable, and actually works.

Prototype 1: The Concept

This first prototype focuses on proving that a safe, electrified mosquito barrier can actually be built using low-cost materials and a mosquito-bat-style circuit.

The structure is designed like a collapsible frame, forming a light cage over the bed. The sides and top are covered with metallic meshthat's powered by a DC → AC → DC conversion circuit—just like a mosquito bat. This ensures that when a mosquito lands on the mesh, it receives a quick zap, but the current remains at a safe level for humans sleeping inside.

ZappNet prototype

It sounds simple now, but setting it up was an experiment full of trial and error. Still, the concept itself felt exciting.

Core Components:

  • Metallic mesh net - doubles as both barrier and zapper.
  • DC-AC-DC circuit - inspired by standard mosquito bat circuitry for cost-effectiveness.
  • Lightweight foldable frame - easy to assemble, disassemble, and carry.
  • Battery & adapter setup - allows it to run on common rechargeable DC sources, making it usable even in power-cut-prone areas.
ZappNet prototype
ZappNet prototype

Challenges & Learnings

  • Balancing safety and effectiveness: The biggest challenge was regulating the current. The voltage must be high enough to kill mosquitoes instantly,but low enough to remain harmless for people nearby.
  • Material optimization: Early mesh tests either conducted too little or too much current; finding the right coating and resistance balance was tricky.
  • Cost reduction: Prototype 1 uses readily available circuits and recycled parts from damaged mosquito bats—keeping the total cost surprisingly low.
ZappNet prototype

Future Improvements

Prototype 1 successfully validates the idea. The next step will be to:

  • Add insulating corner seals to make it safer and sturdier.
  • Integrate a fold–unfold motor mechanismfor automatic setup.
  • Design a low-power control boardto manage current flow and timing.
  • Work toward mass production modelsthat can be distributed in high mosquito-density regions like India, Africa, and Southeast Asia.
ZappNet prototype

Conclusion

This isn't just about comfort—it's about safety and accessibility. The electrified mosquito net could become a low-cost, high-impact solution for millions who still struggle with mosquito-related diseases.

Prototype 1 may be simple, but it's the start of a safer night's sleep for many.