Spring energy to rotational energy

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the conversion of spring energy to rotational energy in the context of a bicycle-like device that utilizes stored energy from a compressed spring to propel forward. Participants explore the feasibility and efficiency of this concept, including design considerations and potential improvements.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the initial energy source used to compress the spring, questioning the "green" aspect of the device.
  • Another participant suggests that the mechanism used in spring toys could be adapted for converting spring energy to rotational motion.
  • A participant describes a design where pressing down on the pedals compresses the spring, storing energy for later use, and seeks ideas for improving this design.
  • Concerns are raised about the additional energy required from the rider to compress the spring, with some participants questioning the overall efficiency compared to traditional bicycles.
  • One participant proposes using a larger gear to turn a smaller gear during spring compression to reduce the force needed, while also emphasizing the need to maintain a "green" approach.
  • Another participant argues that substituting time for reduced force does not change the total work done, suggesting that the design may not yield significant benefits.
  • A participant expresses skepticism about the efficiency of a spring-based system compared to a traditional chain drive, suggesting it may require more energy for the same outcome.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the efficiency and practicality of the proposed design, with no consensus reached on its viability or advantages over conventional bicycles.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight various assumptions regarding energy efficiency, the definition of "green" technology, and the mechanics of energy conversion, which remain unresolved.

0904919H
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How do i convert spring energy to rotational energy? I am building a 'green device' that allows a bicycle to move forward using stored energy (compressed spring energy). So i am figuring out how do i change the spring energy stored to rotational energy so that th bike will be able to propel forward.

Appreciate if you guys help! Thx!
 
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How is this a "green device"? What kind of energy is used to compress the spring initially?

Regarding the conversion to rotation motion, the mechanism in a spring toy can do this.
 
It's something like a bicycle, just that you don't have to pedal as much to move a longer distance. As u press down the pedal, it compresses the spring storing the energy until you release the pedal, there will be two of these of course, meaning two pedals. It's a green concept though, but if you have any good ideas to improvise this design i would appreciate your help!

Thanks!
 
0904919H said:
It's something like a bicycle, just that you don't have to pedal as much to move a longer distance. As u press down the pedal, it compresses the spring storing the energy until you release the pedal, there will be two of these of course, meaning two pedals. It's a green concept though, but if you have any good ideas to improvise this design i would appreciate your help!

Thanks!

You realize that it will take extra energy from the rider to compress the spring to begin with right? I don't see how this will be easier than just riding a bike. Care to elaborate?
 
yea, you're not gaining anything with that kind of design.
 
I'm thinking like have a bigger gear turn a smaller gear when u compress the spring, so that the force will lessen, also thinking of ways to lessen the force used so that u can travel a longer distance...still have to think 'green'. Do you guys have any ideas that i might be able to implement?
 
0904919H said:
I'm thinking like have a bigger gear turn a smaller gear when u compress the spring, so that the force will lessen, also thinking of ways to lessen the force used so that u can travel a longer distance...still have to think 'green'. Do you guys have any ideas that i might be able to implement?

You are substituting time for reduced force necessary to compress the spring. In the end the work done is the same.
 
My guess is that it would end up less efficient than a regular bicycle. A straight chain drive is fairly efficient, and some kind of a spring setup would probably end up with the rider expending more energy for the same final result (as compared to the straight chain drive).
 
Hmmm, alright guys, thanks! I will take that into consideration, feel free to give your suggestions here...its most appreciated!
 

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