Micro-scale hydropower generator

thingiverse

This electricity generator harnesses water power as its primary source of energy. Capable of producing approximately 10 watts of power under optimal water flow conditions (such as a stream or small waterfall), this unit makes efficient use of available hydro-energy resources. Water is channeled through carefully directed nozzles which, in turn, spin a Pelton wheel at high velocity. The wheel's rotational force engages a NEMA 17 stepper motor - a commonly utilized component in numerous 3D printing applications. As the motor operates, it generates alternating current electricity, thus providing power for various devices. Designed as a parametric model, this concept allows for seamless modifications and adaptations to meet specific requirements or scale demands. By adjusting design parameters such as size, nozzle count, or motor specification, users can easily optimize the unit for use with different motors of varying sizes. Although untested in practice (having neither printed nor assembled these components), the proposed device exhibits sound theoretical viability, lending credence to its feasibility.