Is a Battery/Solar Powered Heater Feasible and Safe for Personal Use?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the feasibility and safety of a battery and solar-powered heating device designed to dry damp objects. Participants explore the design, necessary components, and potential challenges related to the electronics and power supply.

Discussion Character

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

Main Points Raised

  • One participant proposes a device that activates based on moisture sensors or a pressure switch to heat a damp object safely to around 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Another participant suggests that simple circuitry could involve electrodes, a transistor, a relay, and an adjustable thermostat, indicating that using nichrome wire or other materials for the heating element is feasible.
  • It is mentioned that a battery voltage of at least 3 volts is necessary, with 12 volts being the most accessible for chargers and components.
  • A suggestion is made to include a small fan to help remove damp air, which could enhance the drying process.
  • One participant requests assistance with a wiring diagram due to a lack of electrical knowledge.
  • Common battery voltages are listed, and resources for learning about electric circuits are provided.
  • Another participant notes that the availability of certain battery voltages and components may depend on the country of residence.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the feasibility of the device and the basic components needed, but there are varying opinions on specific design elements and the complexity of the circuitry involved. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the optimal design and safety considerations.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not fully explored the safety implications of the device at the proposed operating temperature or the efficiency of solar power integration. There are also unresolved questions about the specific wiring and component choices.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in DIY electronics, renewable energy applications, or those looking to create personal heating devices may find this discussion relevant.

jsbarone
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Hey,

I have an idea for a device that I'm trying to fabricate, and I could use some help with the design. Hopefully you can tell me if what I want to do is possible, and what components I'd need. Thanks.

My idea is for a device, maybe 6 inches long by four wide that would contain a damp object. When the damp object is inserted, either a pressure switch or some moisture sensors would activate the device and it would begin heating the object either for a specified period of time, or until the object was dry. It would be powered by rechargeable batteries that you could charge via a wall socket, but possibly also powered or partially powered via solar cells. The temperature produced by the device would need to be low enough to be safe to the human touch---maybe 120 degrees fahrenheit.

Is this feasible via battery power, and how complicated would the electronics be? Thanks.
 
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simple circutry- 2 electrodes switching a transistor switching a relay and adjustable thermostat for temp control and a heating element- nichrome wire possibly or carbon rod, tungsten, iron, ect...
fesable, yes voltage of the battery has to be at least 3 volts, but 12 volt is the easiest to find chargers and things like that
 
You should also look at adding a small fan.
Removing the damp air is also a pretty effective way of drying something.
 
could any of you help me out with a wiring diagram? I am not electrically inclined...
 
common battery voltages-1.5, 3, 5, 6, 9, 12, 24, and 36 volts
two very good sites out start out on:
http://openbookproject.net//electricCircuits/Exper/index.html"
and
good reference- http://www.discovercircuits.com/list.htm"
 
Last edited by a moderator:
the country you are located in will determine avalibility of certain things like battery voltages and fan voltages, computer fans are usually 12 volt, at least all the ones i have encountered.
 

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