Sketch (Blueprint)

Above is the first sketch/blueprint of our model, which is a water turbine that can generate electricity via the gravitational potential energy of the water. The model consists of 3 main parts, being the faucet/water source, the turbine, and the dynamo setup. The original idea was that the water would turn the turbine, which was connected to an elaborate gearbox (to generate more torque) and ultimately spin the dynamo, which would in turn, power the lightbulb.

Materials list:

  • Wood (the platform and walls of our turbine consisted of wood, which was sturdy and water resistant).
  • Hot glue (used to quickly attach pieces of wood together and was sturdy).
  • Plastic gears (to gain more torque),
  • 3D printing device (in order to make the turbine).
  • Metal axles (sturdy and light, and was easily attached to the gears and turbine).
  • Dynamo (for generating electricity).
  • LED (powered by the dynamo, shows that electricity is generated).
  • Water (Needed for the turbine to spin).

Timeline for our project

February 21st :

  • Start of project.
  • Planned the idea, and sketched out a model.
  • Made a replica out of cardboard and styrofoam.

February 23rd

  • Made gearbox out of wood and glue.
  • Began construction on the dynamo setup.

February 27th

  • Finalized design, and polished the mechanisms.
  • Started to decorate the exterior.

March 1st

  • Finished decorating, ready for presentation.

Goals we want to succeed:

  • Generate electricity
  • Have consistent working rates
  • Look decent
  • Sturdy