Energy extraction help requested

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    Energy Extraction
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the question of whether usable energy can be extracted from a mechanism that exerts force without movement. The initial query involves a scenario where a book is pressed against a wall, creating static force, and seeks to understand how energy can be derived from this force without any displacement.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions if usable energy can be extracted from a static force without movement, specifically using the example of pressing a book against a wall.
  • Another participant asserts that energy cannot be extracted from force without displacement.
  • A follow-up question proposes the idea of extracting energy from very small displacements, specifically mentioning a displacement of 0.25mm.
  • One suggestion involves the use of piezoelectricity, which can utilize small displacements to generate energy.
  • Another suggestion is to use a lever to amplify small displacements for energy extraction with generators.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is no consensus on the initial question regarding energy extraction from static force without movement, as one participant states it is not possible, while another explores the potential of small displacements for energy extraction.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights the dependence on the concept of displacement for energy extraction and the limitations of static force in this context. The feasibility of extracting energy from very small displacements remains an open question.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be of interest to individuals exploring energy harvesting techniques, particularly in contexts involving minimal movement or displacement, as well as those interested in the principles of force and energy conversion.

zydubion1
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My basic question is this. Can usable energy be extracted from a mechanism that has force only, no movement. Here is an example. You press a hard cover book against a wall. You now lean into the book thus there is static force against the wall. There is no movement, just force. This happens over and over, you release the force and re-apply the force over and over, the book never moving to or from the wall. How can one extract the force and convert it into usable energy? I realize energy can not be created, only converted. How can the weight of my body exerting force to the wall via the book be extracted without movement?
 
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Hi zydubion1, welcome to PF. The basic answer is: no, energy cannot be extracted from force without displacement.
 
Thanks Mapes. Next question: If one could get a very small displacement, say 0.25mm, what are some of the best ways to extract usable energy when such small displacement is available?
 
Hmm... the first thing that comes to mind is piezoelectricity, which employs very small displacements. Alternatively, a lever might be used to amplify the displacement for use with other types of generators.

You might also get some ideas http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Energy_Harvesting" .
 
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Mapes...Thanks for your help. I will start doing some homework based our your suggestions.
 

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