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Harnessing Gym Power

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Conference

ASEE-NE 2022

Location

Wentworth Institute of Technology, Massachusetts

Publication Date

April 22, 2022

Start Date

April 22, 2022

End Date

April 23, 2022

Page Count

10

DOI

10.18260/1-2--42177

Permanent URL

https://peer.asee.org/42177

Download Count

445

Paper Authors

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Ashley Ruth Banaszewski

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Andrew Hartley

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Kevin T Mai

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Student at Northeastern University, Class of 2026

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Amy Xu

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Bala Maheswaran Northeastern University

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Bala Maheswaran, PhD
Northeastern University
College of Engineering
367 Snell Engineering Center
Boston, MA 02115

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Abstract

With humanity facing the ramifications of climate change due to the extended use of fossil fuels, the need for renewable power sources is as urgent as ever. With 17.5% of global emissions coming from the production of electricity, the amount of emissions we produce must be reduced, lest the planet becomes unlivable. The way we do this is by creating more forms of renewable energy. Currently, the common form of this takes the place of rotational energy, whether that be in the form of hydroelectric, wind, or even nuclear power. On a smaller scale, systems such as dynamo generators are common in many handheld appliances. The object that we have developed to add to the need for renewables is a miniature generator that is meant to be attached to a variety of machines commonly found in gymnasiums, harnessing their rotational energy to produce electricity.

This study explores the practicality of converting human energy into electrical energy with an innovative design using simple science and engineering concepts. Our device is marketed to gyms, and due to its universal nature, it can be used for any machine. Furthermore, individuals will be able to procure one as well for personal use, should the need arise for it. Our device is very small, so the power generated by a single one cannot match a wind turbine. However, our device is meant to be used in mass, and in tandem with other forms of renewables in order to ensure the greatest capacity for the production of electricity.

Banaszewski, A. R., & Hartley, A., & Mai, K. T., & Xu, A., & Maheswaran, B. (2022, April), Harnessing Gym Power Paper presented at ASEE-NE 2022, Wentworth Institute of Technology, Massachusetts. 10.18260/1-2--42177

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