Mechanical Resistance in a simple generator?

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the mechanical resistance encountered when operating a simple generator under load, specifically focusing on the implications of adding electrical loads such as light bulbs or small motors. Participants explore the concept of mechanical resistance, its calculation, and related terms like counter torque and electromotive drag.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the mechanical resistance felt when a load is applied to the generator, questioning if more mechanical energy is needed from their hand.
  • Another participant confirms that a load will increase the work required to turn the generator handle, but notes that the sensation of this resistance may vary.
  • There is a request for methods to avoid or calculate the mechanical resistance associated with increased loads.
  • A participant explains that the work required is related to the wattage of the load, linking it to force, distance, and efficiency.
  • Another participant introduces the term "counter torque" as a description of the opposing force experienced when a load is applied.
  • There is a side discussion about software for design, with participants sharing thoughts on affordability and compatibility with Mac systems.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that adding a load increases the work required to operate the generator, but there is no consensus on the best methods to calculate or mitigate this mechanical resistance. The discussion includes multiple perspectives on the terminology and implications of mechanical resistance.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express uncertainty about the terminology used to describe mechanical resistance, such as whether it is referred to as electromotive drag or counter torque. There are also unresolved questions regarding the calculation of energy needed to handle increased loads.

Hypo
Messages
58
Reaction score
0
Hallo everyone!

I'd like to build a simple generator for a project.

Like this picture here:

http://www.interactives.co.uk/images/DSCN7717crr.JPG

I have everything I need but one think keeps coming into mind... Mechanical resistance?(Not friction due to material's touching each other like the conventional generator.) I'm building a generator exactly the same as the one in the image. The mechanical resistance I'm worried about is when I'm actually adding a "load" to the generator can I feel a mechanical resistance? Do I have to add more mechanical energy from my hand?

If I'm applying simple mechanical energy from my hand when adding a load to the coils like a set of led's would I feel a mechanical difference by having a load or not?

Hope I'm making sense... All in all I'm asking about Mechanical resistance if there is a load" light bulb's or small motor" attached to it.

Thank you!
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Engineering news on Phys.org
Yes, a load will increace the work required to turn the handle. However, you may or may not be able to feel it.
 
Integral said:
Yes, a load will increace the work required to turn the handle. However, you may or may not be able to feel it.

Is there a way to avoid it? Or its inevitable?

How can I calculate that? I'd like to add more load's I'd like to calculate how much energy I need into work the extra load.

Thanks!
 
The work required is the same as the wattage of the load, where do you think that work would come from?
Force times distance (and divided by efficiency) is wattage; so is resistance times current.
 
Wow! What an awesome illustration. Sorry that I can't help as much as the others as to electromotive drag (or whatever it's called), but I do have to ask you about your software. I've heard of, and seen examples of, Solidworks and similar things before, but could never possibly afford them. Is there any chance that this is something less expensive (and Mac compatible)?
 
wizwom said:
The work required is the same as the wattage of the load, where do you think that work would come from?
Force times distance (and divided by efficiency) is wattage; so is resistance times current.

The mechanical resistance was my main problem, Whats the name of this resistance electromotive drag? or what?


Danger said:
Wow! What an awesome illustration. Sorry that I can't help as much as the others as to electromotive drag (or whatever it's called), but I do have to ask you about your software. I've heard of, and seen examples of, Solidworks and similar things before, but could never possibly afford them. Is there any chance that this is something less expensive (and Mac compatible)?

hahaha! Thanks about that but I'm sorry I didn't make this illustration I just got it from google.
You could find a lot! Of good programs at a affordable price if you search for it and I grantee you its compatible with a Mac. Generally they state that. Thanks!
 
The opposing force is called counter torque.
 
Ah, got it, Hypo. Thanks for the tip.
If anyone thinks it hypocritical of me to have asked about this after having recommended Sourcforge to Gurudon for drawing software in a different thread, I must point out that the only stuff that they have of this nature is either in Beta or earlier version and/or not Mac-compatible. Believe me; I've downloaded a bunch of them.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
1K
Replies
18
Views
3K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K
Replies
3
Views
2K
Replies
11
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
5K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K