People pedal powered computer charger

Author avatarVélo M² | Last edit 9/12/2019 by Clementflipo

People pedal powered computer charger DSC05302.JPG
The people pedal powered computer charger is a device that harvests human energy to charge a computer. The energy input comes from an ordinary bicycle in a stand that drives a generator. The energy output is the charging voltage of the computer.

Introduction

The project Vélo M2 plays with PPP (people pedal power) applications. In Brussels we're having PPP open-air cinéma projections, PPP mobile fablab workshops and PPP music scenes and DJ sets. [www.velom2.be www.velom2.be]

This projects takes the PPP to a smaller scale, where we will be charging a computer. In order to demonstrate the accessibility, we're construction the device in a remote town in Sweden, Torsby.

Materials

- bicycle stand

- wood

- DC generator

- power display

- DC/DC converter

- cables, connectors and plugs

Tools

- woord or metalworking tools

- multimeter

Step 1 - People Pedal Power

To find out more about People Pedal Power, visit our site https://ciklic.wordpress.com/2017/08/05/renewable-energy-what-can-you-expect/

Step 2 - Overview

Step 3 - Charging : adapting to the computer voltage

The aim of the people pedal power is to charge a computer. A computer battery is normally charges by an adapter that converts AC mains power to DC power. This charger will be only for YOUR computer.

Be informed :

- we want to charge with the same power as the adapter does

Check the voltage and the current at which the adapter charges your computer. Mine charges at 20V and 4.5A.

- you will be cutting your power cable

You can also chose to buy the plug separately and assemble a new cable.

Step 4 - Conversion : messy DC power to flat DC voltage

Step 5 - Bicycle : human energy to mechanical energy

The fist etape is the conversion of the human energy to slow-rotating mechanical energy. We are using an ordinary bicycle to harvest the energy.

Think about this :

- your bike should have low-profile tires

When the profile is too important (see picture) there will be a large energy loss due to vibrations. You will also have more noise when pedaling.

- the fixation of the axis should be not of the fast-release type

The fast-release-type with flat end (se picture) is often not compatible with the bike stands. You can easily change the axle with another (second hand) axle.


Step 6 - Bicycle stand :

Step 7 - Roller : slow- to fast-rotation mechanical energy

The second etape is converting the slow-turning mechanical energy of the bicycle wheel to a fast-turning mechanical energy. Electric generators like high speeds.

Step 8 - Generator : mechanical to electric energy

Step 9 - Conversion : messy DC power to flat DC voltage

Step 10 - Charging : adapting to the computer voltage

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