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Electrae - An Innovative Modular Device to Generate Energy from Three Sources

AJAS · 2020 Energy and Transport (inferred)

Laalitya Acharya · Ohio Academy of Science, The

Overview

Energy poverty is a global crisis with over 3 billion people without access to electricity. Those who do have access, mostly rely on energy from fossil fuels. In the United States < 10% is from renewable sources. This generates 5,271 million metric tons of CO2. The world needs a cost-effective, adaptable and renewable energy source. Elec­trae (names after Greek mythological character meaning shining with light) is a modular prototype to generate electricity from the following 3 sources. (1) Piezo ceramic to generate energy from vehicle traffic, (2) custom de­signed, 3D printed, turbines, (3) Photovoltaic panels. Piezo ceramic has a unique property; electricity is generat­ed when mechanical stress is applied on piezo. The device was installed on a road and when vehicles passed over it, the piezo mechanism generated electricity. Based on multiple trials conducted, polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) with mass was selected for flexibility, durability, and electrical output. Readings were taken based on a wooden road with a simulated "ve­hicle" created from Lego® MindStorms®. (2) Multiple 3D printed and custom designed turbines were used. Flow was regulated through a manifold garden hose. Turbines were tested at different flow rates for electricity output. Direct belt, gear train designs were tested for transmission to generator from turbines. Finally 4.8:1 gears were used. (3) Photovoltaic panels were selected based on trials conducted under cloudy and sunny conditions. Readings were taken at different times of the day at 10 to 15 minute intervals. A setup with dome shaped structure was finalized as it produced maximum electricity under most conditions. A final prototype combined all compo­nents and generated 5 to 11 watts. Future work includes increasing efficiency for commercial scalability.

Competition history

  • AJAS 2020 Category not listed

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Source: AAAS Annual Meeting (Confex) / American Junior Academy of Science

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