Applied Sciences is a group that has done a hand full of projects ranging widely, from making a top hat to a game console dance pad. Their latest project is a home build (DIY) wind turbine. The best part, the project is open source.
Called the Zoetrope, it functions as a vertical-axis wind turbine. Built from parts easily bought from hardware and home improvement stores, the turbine is able to produce up to 200W. In the Applied Science's guide for building this turbine, the energy generation comes from a self build alternator. Detailed descriptions on how to build a custom Stator in conjunction with the magnetic rotor. Some approximations are made in the number of turns and output voltage. EX: 320 turns 24 ga. ~= 100V @ 120RPM.
Originally the Zoetrope was designed to run to supplement a water heater system. A high voltage is produced that the heating element could use. The Zoetrope outputs 3-phase AC which then needs to be converted to DC, which could power devices or charge batteries, or converted back into usable, single phase for example, AC.
Attached to this post in the design guide.
Some suggested improvements:
1. Make it safe to touch.
2. Enclose the alternator area.
3. Double the size of everything.
Great job Applied Sciences. I may just build one myself.
Eavesdropper
Zoetrope fun fact: The name of the turbine comes from an early
animation device that used a rotating cylinder with
slits in the side to give the illusion of moving
pictures. At certain speeds, the wind turbine gives
a similar effect.
Attachments:
| zoetrope-wind-turbine.pdf |
