How can I build a hand crank generator to power a universal powermat?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the construction of a hand crank generator intended to power a universal powermat, specifically aiming to replicate the K-tor pocket socket. Participants explore the requirements for producing 10 watts at 120 volts, addressing both theoretical and practical aspects of generator assembly.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a need for detailed instructions on building a hand crank generator to achieve the desired power output.
  • Another participant questions the type of generator to use, suggesting the need for an AC converter if a DC motor is employed, and mentions the possibility of using a capacitor for energy storage.
  • A third participant shares a specific example of a previous project that utilized a Bodine motor as a generator, providing model numbers and output specifications.
  • There is a suggestion that the maximum output may be limited to about 10 watts when using a single-phase configuration.
  • A link to a video demonstrating a hand and bike generator is provided as a potential resource.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not appear to reach a consensus on the best approach to building the generator, with multiple competing views on the type of motor and configuration to use remaining unresolved.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty regarding the necessary wiring and power production methods, as well as the specifications of the motor to be used, indicating a lack of hands-on experience.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for individuals interested in DIY generator projects, students working on related school assignments, or those exploring alternative energy solutions.

jhendren
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Alright, so I am building a hand crank generator, and my goal is to replicate the K-tor pocket socket. http://www.k-tor.com/

The goal is to power a universal powermat with the generator.

I need to produce 10watts at 120volts, and my group is completely lost. If anyone could provide detailed instructions it would be very welcomed.
 
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jhendren said:
Alright, so I am building a hand crank generator, and my goal is to replicate the K-tor pocket socket. http://www.k-tor.com/

The goal is to power a universal powermat with the generator.

I need to produce 10watts at 120volts, and my group is completely lost. If anyone could provide detailed instructions it would be very welcomed.

It's a good thing that you have a few PF posts under your belt -- this thread almost got deleted as spam! :-p

Since this is a school project, you need to do the bulk of the work on it. What can you tell us about generator assemblies in this power range? How will you regulate the AC output? Do you think it would be best to use an AC or DC generator?
 
Here's the thing, I posted this because we have no idea. I know it needs to have an AC converter if I use a DC motor, and we thought we should feed the energy to a capacitor, but we don't have enough hands on experience to know how to wire or produce the power. Also, we don't know if it's necessary to use a 120volt DC motor
 
This is not a simple project, so here is something that worked. This project used an electric motor to drive a motor as a generator.
The motor was a Bodine model 5240. You will need this information to determine the speed to drive the motor/generator.
The motor/generator was a Bodine motor type 3302.
The maximum output was 17.3 watt 3 phase. You will only be using single phase so the maximum output will probably be only about 10 watt.
A transformer was used to convert from the motor/generator output to 120 volt.

Sounds like a fun project.
Good Luck
Carl
 

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