Linear Permanent Magnet Generator

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on building an efficient permanent magnet linear generator, exploring whether AC or DC is preferable, with no clear consensus on superiority. A participant suggests that a design similar to the ForeverFlashlight, which uses a moving magnet and coil system, could be effective. The mechanics of such generators are explained, highlighting how mechanical energy is converted into electrical energy through electromagnetic induction. The conversation also touches on the components of the ForeverFlashlight, noting its use of LEDs and capacitors instead of traditional batteries. Overall, the thread emphasizes the principles of electromagnetic energy and practical applications in personal projects.
Syed F. Karim
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What is the most efficient way to build a permanent magnet linear generator--AC or DC, it makes no difference. I'm working on a personal project but don't know where to start. I'm assuming that a generator similar to the one inside of a ForeverFlashlight is probably the best way to go, but I'm not real sure, so I'm asking.
 
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Greetings !

Frankly, I don't know what a ForeverFlashLight is
but it probably uses a permanent magnet and a coil
with one of them moving (probably when you shake the thing ?),
an AC/DC converter and an accumulator.

In a car for example, a conducting loop is
turned between the poles of a permanent magnet thus
producing an AC in the loop (which you can then of course
transfer into whatever "form" you like depending on the
purpose of your generator, like DC to charge your accumulators).

The circuilar motion of the loop is of course due to
the chemical energy of the internal combustion reaction
in the car's engine which is transferred into mechanical
energy of the turning loop which, in turn, converts it into
electrical energy (abviously though, in a car most of that
mechanical energy is used to turn the wheels and thus
increase the kinetic energy of the car or maintain it since
energy is constantly lost to friction with the road and air resistance [zz)] ).

Live long and prosper.
 
Originally posted by
The Forever Flashlight uses the Faraday Principle
of Electromagnetic Energy...
Wasn't it induction ? Or did they just decide to skip
the whole story for the average buyer...
I suppose that someone spending that much on that thing
wouldn't know the difference...
 
Haha, yeah, I never bothered to read the article 'cause I was trying too much to find a close-up image of the thing.
 
Thats a cool flashlight! It has an LED instead of a bulb, and I think it has a capacitor instead of a battery.
 
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