INVENTION FOR THE WEEK The Freeplay Self-powered Lantern   The Freeplay self-powered electric lantern, designed by Syzygy, is a robust, ergonomically designed, environment friendly, cost-effective long-life lantern that does not require batteries. However, unlike other wind-up” lanterns, the Freeplay is capable o~ storing energy for use at a later stage. This unique lantern features an internal, constant torque windup spring that powers an electricity generator on demand. A full wind of about 30 seconds duration, will supply about: four minutes of shine time. The energy to be stored can be delivered via the winder or an adaptor for mains or motorcar electrical outlets. The latter two options will provide a shine time of up to two hours. It also features a flashing light and a 3 V DC outlet that makes it possible to use the lantern as a power source for devices such as a walkman and some cellular telephones. The lantern has multi-functional high-efficiency electronic circuitry that not only controls the output of power to the low Dower light bulb to keep the beam at a constant strength, but also protects the bulb from over-voltage acts as a dummy loads for the generator should the bulb fail. The efficiency of the lantern is further enhanced by a patented HI-GAI N lens reflector that maximises the available light and projects it as a bright, focused beam. It is manufactured in South Africa and exported to Africa, the USA. The UK, Canada and Europe. The Freeplay lantern utilizes the same technology as the Freeplay radio that was designed in the United Kingdom by Trevor or Baylis who realized the need for radios that could operate at low cost, with an external source of electricity. HC envisaged particular applications in emergencies and underdeveloped countries where electricity is not available