a gem from the mini maker faire – I met Niraj Patel, a high school student who created a portable wind turbine.
we all know that wind power is a great possible alternative energy source, though it still has some issues with efficiency and practicality to be worked out for widespread use. the issues for small-scale use are the cost of the generators (which can be over $1000) and the overall efficiency (which is generally around 30%).
Niraj’s solution was to make a vertical-axis wind turbine (VAWT) that uses a special generator containing a permanent magnet alternator. this alternator, unlike the regular ones on cars, works at very low speeds and loads and does not require any kind of starting mechanism.
he decided to use a vertical-axis turbine instead of a horizontal-axis (HAWT) one for several reasons. they are quieter, and are omnidirectional, meaning they can catch wind from almost any direction, including gusts. VAWTs are also more efficient in wind farms because they do not slow down the wind as much as HAWTs do, so can therefore be installed closer together, using less space.
the turbine can charge cell phones, small mini-USB-run appliances, and even regular rechargeable batteries! it was already set up for all three. the blades were made from styrofoam, and his ultimate idea was to cover them with mesh and fiberglass, leaving them sturdier but still lightweight. the base was made from PVC and some basic erector-set-like pieces. it was a terrific prototype with room for optimization.
Niraj mentioned the possibility of using such a wind turbine for camping, but I have an even better idea… doesn’t this sound like something that could fit in perfectly with ATC’s portfolio of designs to help people in poor areas?! Niraj sounds like he’s interested in meeting and working with ATC on this and possibly other designs. he’ll be entering Michigan to major in physics this fall, and he’d be a perfect addition to our group!
ps – he also gave me a contact for a student who designed a low-cost water filter, another possible ATC-like project.
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