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From the decision making process, it was decided that a prefabricated stand would best meet the specified criteria. A prefabricated stand is a very practical component to our design because it lifts the bicycle's back wheel off the ground, allowing it to spin freely, and acts as a framework for other components of the system. The prefabricated stand is designed to attach at the axle of the back wheel. The axle extends out on either side of the bike wheel so that it rests on the stand and is locked into place.
From the decision making process, it was decided that a prefabricated stand would best meet the specified criteria. A prefabricated stand is a very practical component to our design because it lifts the bicycle's back wheel off the ground, allowing it to spin freely, and acts as a framework for other components of the system. The prefabricated stand is designed to attach at the axle of the back wheel. The axle extends out on either side of the bike wheel so that it rests on the stand and is locked into place.


The circuitry of the system will run direct current (DC) from the generator into a bank of marine batteries. Along the way, the current will pass through an initial diode in order to prevent the current from running in reverse. The current then passes through a voltage regulator so the voltage does not exceed the determined capacity of the battery. The flow next passes through an amp meter and directly into a battery bank where usable energy will be stored for later use. In order to maintain a functioning electrical circuit, the current returns through the battery and back through a fuse. After the current passes through the voltage regulator again, the direct current passes through a final fuse and completes the circuit.
The circuitry of the system will run [[direct current]] (DC) from the generator into a bank of marine batteries. Along the way, the current will pass through an initial diode in order to prevent the current from running in reverse. The current then passes through a voltage regulator so the [[voltage]] does not exceed the determined capacity of the battery. The flow next passes through an amp meter and directly into a battery bank where usable energy will be stored for later use. In order to maintain a functioning electrical circuit, the current returns through the battery and back through a fuse. After the current passes through the voltage regulator again, the direct current passes through a final fuse and completes the circuit.


=== Materials ===
=== Materials ===
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=== Estimated time of construction ===
=== Estimated time of construction ===


== Costs ==
== Costs ==

Revision as of 19:52, 5 May 2009

Template:WaterPod header

Background

As the need for renewable energy has become more aware by the concerned public, we have discovered ways to ween ourselves off our dependence of fossil fuels and nuclear power. Our team has designed an alternative way to convert kinetic energy to AC power by means of a bicycle energy generator. With this, the WaterPod as well as others can use our design to generate their own electricity.

Abstract

The Bicycle Energy Generator will use kinetic energy supplied through a mechanical system and return usable DC current by means of a direct current energy generator. Direct current will then run through an electrical circuit and eventually be stored in a bank of marine batteries. This battery bank will provide a source of usable energy for the Water Pod community. Keywords:

Problem Analysis and Criteria

Criteria Weight Description
Safety 10 Must be designed to support a person up to 300lbs and allow the cyclist to ride without being harmed.
Functions for 5 months 10 Design must withstand daily use for 5 months.
Cost 9 Entire design must cost less than $300.
Shippability 8 The System must be able to be shipped through mail from California to New York, considering the size, shape, and weight of the design.
Compatibility with other Bicycles 8 Design must be to incorporate different styles and sizes of bikes to run the system.
Power output generated 7 Design must be able to produce an adequate amount of energy for the WaterPod's daily use.
Aesthetically Pleasing 6 Design must look professional.
Educational value 5 Design must provide visitors with an educational experience.

Final Design

From the decision making process, it was decided that a prefabricated stand would best meet the specified criteria. A prefabricated stand is a very practical component to our design because it lifts the bicycle's back wheel off the ground, allowing it to spin freely, and acts as a framework for other components of the system. The prefabricated stand is designed to attach at the axle of the back wheel. The axle extends out on either side of the bike wheel so that it rests on the stand and is locked into place.

The circuitry of the system will run direct current (DC) from the generator into a bank of marine batteries. Along the way, the current will pass through an initial diode in order to prevent the current from running in reverse. The current then passes through a voltage regulator so the voltage does not exceed the determined capacity of the battery. The flow next passes through an amp meter and directly into a battery bank where usable energy will be stored for later use. In order to maintain a functioning electrical circuit, the current returns through the battery and back through a fuse. After the current passes through the voltage regulator again, the direct current passes through a final fuse and completes the circuit.

Materials

See this example of a cost table for more on tables.

Possible alternative materials

Tools

Estimated time of construction

Costs

Material What We Paid Retail Price
Bike Stand $50.00 $299.99
Shipping and Handling $24.00 $24.00
DC Motor $65.00 $404.99
Fuse $0.99 $0.99
Fuse holder $2.69 $2.69
12 gauge wire(15 ft) $4.99 $4.99
Voltmeter $9.99 $9.99
Diode Free $1.59
Voltage Regulator Free $19.99
Total $157.66 $769.22

D.I.Y.

Location

References

See Help:Footnotes for more.

Categories

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