Portable Hydropower

Authors

Gerold Curell, University of the PacificFollow
Johanna Jacobi, University of the PacificFollow
Courtney Lowe, University of the PacificFollow
Alex Romelfanger, University of the PacificFollow

Lead Author Major

Mechanical Engineering

Lead Author Status

Senior

Second Author Major

Mechanical Engineering

Second Author Status

Senior

Third Author Major

Mechanical Engineering

Third Author Status

Senior

Fourth Author Major

Mechanical Engineering

Fourth Author Status

Senior

Format

SOECS Senior Project Demonstration

Faculty Mentor Name

Kyle Watson

Faculty Mentor Department

Mechanical Engineering

Abstract/Artist Statement

The purpose of this project is to design and construct a portable, scalable, hydroelectric turbine system which can be used to generate electricity in remote areas where electricity is in short supply, but running water is not. The main project considerations are the safety of the operators, transportability, and producing a power output of 22 W, which can charge four USB devices at once. This is achieved by the use of a free-hanging turbine, suspended by nylon cable, in a body of moving water. Plastic parts are used for their relative ease in manufacturing and light weight. The finished turbine prototype nearly achieves its power goal; the limitations from this method of prototyping (3D printing) could be overcome with an optimal means of mass production (casting). The method of rapid prototyping limits the size, shape, and strength of parts such that the design could not be further optimized without changing production methods.

Location

School of Engineering & Computer Science

Start Date

6-5-2017 2:30 PM

End Date

6-5-2017 4:00 PM