The Effect of Time and Velocity on a Homemade Generator
The purpose of the experiment was to determine how the velocity of a person and time spent walking with the generator attached to their leg had an impact on the amount of voltage produced with electromagnetic induction. The experiment was conducted using a handmade generator in which a magnet moved up and down through a coil of copper wire with a person’s every step. A person wearing the generator went on a treadmill for velocities of 3, 4.5, and 6 miles per hour for times of 2, 4, and 6 minutes. The change in voltage was then calculated.
To analyze the data, the scientists used a two-factor Design of Experiment. Each of the factors and their interaction had a positive effect, but only velocity had a significant effect. Engineers can use the findings from this research and know that increasing velocity of the magnet with respect to the coil will positively impact the voltage produced.
Electromagnetic induction has been used for wirelessly charging devices, such as cellphones (“Pulling the Plug on Conventional Charging”). Engineers can use the findings from this research and know that increasing velocity of the magnet with respect to the coil will positively impact the voltage produced.
Research Done By:
Jamie George
Cousino High School
Angelica Meli
Warren Mott High School
Warren Consolidated Schools