Small DIY Generator Build/Purchase?

[Macgyverasb]

TL;DR

An electric generator with a 1 AH output?

How easy/difficult would it be to construct an electric generator that can generate a single ampere without a gearbox? How small could this generator be?

I didn't want to jump down the rabbithole of research without asking all of you first. Thanks!

 

[jrmichler]

These will produce about 0.5 or 1 amp: https://www.walmart.com/ip/Universa...MIyq6H79r_6QIVC0WGCh36WwlwEAYYBSABEgJWrPD_BwE. Also from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/bicycle-dynamo-light/s?k=bicycle+dynamo+light&tag=pfamazon01-20. Get the set, throw away the lights, take apart the generator, and copy the design.

The tire friction generators require a fairly high speed, so if you want a lower speed design with similar power output, look at bicycle hub generators: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00OMB7DAI/?tag=pfamazon01-20, or https://www.nashbar.com/shimano-alf...MIxZGgp9z_6QIVFUmGCh0cIQy1EAQYBCABEgIsUfD_BwE.

Use search term bicycle hub generator to find other hub generators. You will need to decide for yourself how easy or difficult it would be to make your own generator. You should be able to get a good idea by taking apart a proven design.

 

[Baluncore]

@Macgyverasb
The important parameter is power. You need to specify; volts * amps = watts. W = V·A
You mention 1 A·h current, but not the voltage required, or if you require AC or DC.

1. What voltage?
2. What current?
3. AC or DC?
4. What will you use to drive the generator?

 

[Macgyverasb]

@Macgyverasb
The important parameter is power. You need to specify; volts * amps = watts. W = V·A
You mention 1 A·h current, but not the voltage required, or if you require AC or DC.

1. What voltage?
2. What current?
3. AC or DC?
4. What will you use to drive the generator?

1. 7.5 volts
2. 1 A
3. Whichever requires less materials/components
4. This is where I'd like to experiment with things.

 

[anorlunda]

So you are clearly in the lab experiment range of power. I suggest with something easy to build, and then you can measure the volts and amps that it could make. Below is a very simple one using a cordless drill.

That and other lab scale experiments are described on this page.
http://www.creative-science.org.uk/gen1.html

Edit: The reason for the suggestion is the advanced calculations to see how much power you get can be more difficult than just building something.

Stay small, low voltages, be safe.

 

[Nik_2213]

IMHO, the neatest way is to get a chunky stepper-motor and add bridge rectifiers...