Design and construction of a paper cutting device incorporating a charging system using locally sourced components.
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Date
2026
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Busitema University
Abstract
This project focused on the design and construction of a low cost paper cutting device incorporating a rechargeable charging system using locally sourced materials and electronic components. The study was motivated by increasing need for affordable and portable paper cutting equipment in schools, offices and small printing business enterprises, especially in areas with unstable electricity supply. The most available electric paper cutting Machines are expensive and difficult to maintain, while manual cutting tools require a lot of human effort and often produce
inaccurate cuts.
The device was constructed using a DC motor, rechargeable battery, charging circuit components such as resistors, capacitors, LEDs, diodes, USB charging port, breadboard, switch, double-edged blade, timber frame, wires, and adhesive materials. The charging system enabled the device to operate continuously even during power interruptions. A design and experimental research approach was adopted during the construction and testing of the prototype.
Performance evaluation was conducted based on cutting efficiency, portability, safety, durability, and reliability of the charging system. The findings revealed that the constructed device was capable of cutting ten sheets of paper measuring 24 cm × 16 cm into smaller pieces of 2 cm × 2 cm within approximately three minutes. This was faster compared to ordinary manual scissors, which required about five minutes to complete the same task. The device also reduced direct hand contact with cutting blades, thereby improving user safety.
The total cost of construction was approximately UGX 64,000, which is relatively cheaper than commercially available electric paper cutting machines. However, the device showed reduced efficiency when cutting thicker stacks of paper and lacked advanced safety guarding mechanisms. The study concluded that locally sourced materials can successfully be used to construct an affordable and functional paper cutting device with an integrated charging system. The study recommends further improvements such as incorporation of speed control mechanisms, protective blade covers, and automated paper feeding systems to improve efficiency and safety.
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Undergraduate research report
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Citation
Wesonga, E. (2026). Design and construction of a paper cutting device incorporating a charging system using locally sourced components. [Unpublished undergraduate dissertation]. Busitema University.