How viable is it to take energy from excess heat?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the feasibility of harnessing energy from excess heat generated by laptops, specifically through the use of devices that could capture and convert this heat into usable energy. The scope includes engineering challenges, potential technologies, and economic considerations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests the idea of using small turbine-like devices to capture energy from the heat exhausted by laptop fans.
  • Another participant argues that any turbine would likely reduce the effectiveness of the cooling fans, thus negating any potential benefits.
  • Some participants mention alternatives like Peltier or Stirling engines, noting that while they could work, they may be costly and provide minimal energy return.
  • A later reply expresses a sense of resignation regarding the practicality of the idea, suggesting that the discussion may have reached a conclusion quickly.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally disagree on the viability of capturing energy from excess heat, with some proposing methods while others challenge their practicality and effectiveness. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best approach and its feasibility.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not fully explored the engineering or manufacturing challenges in detail, and there are unresolved questions about the economic viability of the proposed solutions.

Nano-Passion
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My laptop releases an excess amount of heat. Is it practical to be able to attach a some sort of device that can take a good amount of that heat being exhausted by fans in computers and reuse it as energy. There can be something akin to fan blades in the centi to micro scale, and they would extract energy as they are rotated by the accelerated air.

Thoughts? What are the engineering/manufacturing problems involved? Or is it just a monetary issue?
 
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Any turbine would reduce the effectiveness of the cooling fans, so no benefit there. You could use a peltier or sterling engine, but that would be a lot of money for little benefit.
 
russ_watters said:
Any turbine would reduce the effectiveness of the cooling fans, so no benefit there. You could use a peltier or sterling engine, but that would be a lot of money for little benefit.

Hmm, this topic was over with pretty quickly. :approve: Now I see why this hasn't been incorporated.
 
By the way, I'm definitely a fan of your gallery collection. It must be exhilarating to observe these things yourself. Looks like a lot of fun to do. I wonder how long it takes you to single in on a galaxy or a planet?
 

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