A humdinger of an idea (the micro windbelt).

During my search for an even more ridiculous contraption then the pedal powered ride on lawn mower (see thread), I came across mention of an invention from Shawn Fayne, the micro windbelt. I have to say this seems a very nifty idea for powering low power devices in remote locations.

Essentially it's based on scavenging power from a belt which vibrates in the wind liked a plucked string. Apparently it was inspired by Galloping Gurdy (the Tacoma Narrows bridge which suffered catastrophic failure in 1940).

If your curious there's more information at http://www.humdingerwind.com/

Former Member over 15 years ago

I gotta say, I am really digging the humdinger.

I could see a string of those on my roof to power some outdoor lighting.
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Ghamble over 15 years ago in reply to Former Member

Yeah, they could be set up as a new eco friendly roof tile.

I have to say that since seeing this device, I can't help but think of my electric guitar, and the strings vibrating over the pickups, the idea has kind of been staring me in the face for years, but I never spotted it.

I wonder if you could make a 6 string humdinger, or perhaps incorporate a little device which can tune the string length to ensure maximum energy capture for a given wind speed.
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Former Member over 15 years ago in reply to Ghamble

Hi Ghamble,

This is actually a very good and nice device, think of all the hitchkikers.
You cant carry loads off batteries, if they make some kind of way to plug in your mobile of other device gps transmitter with low power need. (thru mini USB)
Think of al the ways you could use this.

Wenn i am on vacation i always have trubles keeping my mobile charged just take out of your backpack (or give it to your wive and let her carry it) and charge your phone for a couple of minutes and your off to go for a couple off hours.
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Former Member over 15 years ago

Got to say this is one of the cleaverist idea's about eco energy and one that is easy to use i hope this works as well as they say cos the numbers so far are great.
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