Third Prototype

We sat down and had a discussion with Prabhat about the output performance of the generator, and brainstormed possible ways in which we could increase the current output. 

The consensus was to go back to the basics of energy generation, and incorporate an iron core to the generator design. We decided to wrap the coil with an iron plate around its outer surface, which would theoretically help strengthen the magnetic field.

Another key point of interest was the air gap between the magnet and coil, which proved to be excessive. We believed that this air gap actually weakened the strength of the magnetic field and so we reduced the air gap by increasing the permanent magnet diameter by attaching a magnetic strip around the magnet circumference to fill the gap. On the downside, the modification has increased the overall weight of the magnet and so extra force is needed to stimulate the up and down rotor movement. 

Figure - 1: Generator fitted with iron plate 

The same tests were carried out for this as for prototypes 1 and 2. The results showed a significant increase in voltage and current, which allowed the capacitor to charge up quicker.

Figure - 2: Third prototype, Max. Voltage= 1.82 V @ 1Hz

We are satisfied with the current performance of the generator, and we believed the output will be sufficient for the generator to be installed and tested on vehicle.

Second Prototype

After the first bench test, we came to the realization that the output voltage produced by the generator was not sufficient. So we decided to make improvements to the design in the hopes of increasing its output. The second prototype was an adaptation of the first design. The physical construction remains unchanged from the first one, the only key change being the copper winding which  was increased to 600 windings (N), up from 300 N. The same test procedures were carried out to simulate the voltage output. The output waves of the second tests were captured in the following charts.

Figure - 1: Peak Voltage=2.168 V @ 1Hz

The results of the second prototype show that at a frequency of ±1Hz, the peak voltage has risen from 0.961V to 2.168V, while at a frequency of ±1.5Hz the peak voltage raised from 1.169V to 3.129V. With this in mind, the  generated current at these voltages was able to charge the 3900μF capacitor (accumulator) up to 0.961V.

Figure - 2: Peak Voltage=3.129 V @ 1.5Hz

The test results prove that the number of coil windings plays a substantial role in increasing the peak voltages at various frequencies, and also increasing the charging capacity through the higher amperage produced.