Calculating Energy Production of a Linear Generator

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the energy production of a linear generator, focusing on the relationship between displacement, time, and the resulting electromagnetic effects. Participants explore theoretical and practical aspects of measuring and calculating energy output, including the rate of change of magnetic flux and the influence of movement speed on energy production.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks guidance on calculating the rate of change of magnetic flux through the coil based on displacement and time measurements.
  • Another participant suggests that energy output can be calculated as the product of voltage and current integrated over time, noting that faster magnet movement results in higher voltage.
  • A question is raised about whether the total energy produced depends on the time taken to move the magnet a certain distance, indicating a potential relationship between speed and energy output.
  • There is a request for clarification on whether the time derivative of the flux can be determined theoretically or if it requires direct voltage measurements.
  • One participant expresses uncertainty about the equation relating stroke displacement to cycles per second for voltage output.
  • A participant shares a graphic representation of a linear generator and poses additional questions, indicating a desire to build a model using specific materials.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express various viewpoints and questions regarding the calculations and principles involved in energy production by linear generators. No consensus is reached on the specific methods or equations to be used, and several aspects of the discussion remain unresolved.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention the need for measurements and theoretical understanding, but there are unresolved questions about the relationships between displacement, time, and energy output. The discussion also highlights the importance of safety considerations in the construction and operation of the generator.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be of interest to individuals involved in engineering, physics, or hobbyist projects related to energy generation and electromagnetic principles.

Petrucci
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Before building a linear generator I am trying to figure out how much energy it will produce over a given period of time, but I'm having trouble getting my head around it.

Firstly, assuming I can measure displacement (of the magnet) vs. time, specifications of the magnet, and the dimensions of the coil), can / how do I calculate rate of change of flux through the coil?

The big one: Can / How do you calculate total energy produced?

One last little querie: Is the total energy produced by moving a magnet a distance d in a coil dependent on the time it takes to do so? In other words will moving it d in 2 seconds produce more(or less) energy than moving it the same distance in 4 seconds?

Any guidance is appreciated!
 
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The energy it delivers will be V*I integrated over the time of the linear stroke. V will be the open circuit EMF which will be equal to the time derivative of the flux. So the faster the magnet moves, the higher the voltage. The current will depend on the load you connect to it. Maximum power transfer will occurr when the load has the same resistance as the generator's coils.
 
As an added suggestion, keep safety foremost in mind.
Both kinetic and electrical shielding.
 
Thanks very much for that.

Alas, 1 little thing... (assuming you know the structure of the generator and can measure displacement vs. time of the magnet) Is there a way to figure out the time derivative of the flux theoretically? OR, do you have to directly measure voltage with respect to time and then figure it out?

Cheers.
 
Did you figure out the equation for the stroke displacement with the cycles per second for the V output?

I am still trying to figure this out but no one seems to know.

Anything would be appreciated.
 
I drew a graphic of a linear generator and put some questions on it. Does this represent the problem that you are discussing? I would like to build a model with some "Bucky Balls" (very cool toys). Here is the link to the image; http://gravitybuoyancy.com/lingen.jpg
 

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