Hi Folks,
This is a variation on an idea I had years ago, and I'm planning to prototype this device. I'm looking for advice / comments etc. I know there have been similar devices invented in the past... Images below.
ConstructionIt consists of 3 main parts. All are made of tinfoil glued between perspex sheet, or similar:
- 2 square stationary 'Emitters'. Connected to the terminals of a High Voltage source.
These are just 2 square sheets of alu foil between perspex.
I'll be using a HV transformer I made which has 2 ignition coils in flyback mode. It makes about 1000v for each 1v of input.
I'll be aiming for enough insulation for 20-30Kv
- 1 square stationary 'Collector'
This has an even number of segments of tinfoil. Each segment is connected via a wire to the output circuit.
- 2 round rotors
These alternate tinfoil segments with gaps. The segments should overlap the Collector segments alternately as they rotate.
These segments are connected directly to the shaft - which is earthed via a slip-ring (or similar).
There's one rotor each side of the collector.
Principle Of Operation: - The 'Emitters' create a strong electrostatic field.
- The 'Collector' segments are alternately shielded from the 2 fields by the earthed rotor plates as it rotates.
- So each segment in the collector alternates between +ve and -ve, and there are two sets.
- The segments are connnected together via a load. I'll probably be using a Microwave Oven Transformer to step down the high voltage.
- The 2 sets of rotor plates are essentially capacitor plates.
- The rotor experiences no drag...
One interesting aspect of this design - is that it's possible to get very fast switching rates - by having more segments. A large radius machine could switch very fast - at fairly low shaft RPM.
The power output is limited by:
a) the emitter voltages (i.e. the power supply / insulation),
b) the switching speed, and
c) the surface area of all the collector segments.
However, the design is extremely thin (25-50mm), and multiple sections could easily fit into a small space.
Cheers
Tim