Design of a wind turbine kit for a car

In summary, the conversation discusses designing a kit to recharge a car's battery or power its components using a wind turbine. However, it is suggested that an alternator already fulfills this purpose and a wind turbine would be redundant and inefficient. The individual is advised to conduct their own research and calculations instead of relying on others' opinions.
  • #1
hammerhead
1
0
Hi!

I’m a 4th year student at mechanical engineering. I have been asked to design a kit that can be installed in a car/vehicle which can be used to recharge the car's battery or connected to some of the car's/vehicle's component to power them. Where and how do I start?
Does anyone have a books/articles which can be supportive at completing my project?

As a start, I considered the following questions:
What is the amount of energy can be produced by wind turbines?
What car/vehicle components can be synchronized with such kit?
Which is better to be used for this project? Vertical or horizontal wind turbine?
 
Engineering news on Phys.org
  • #2
By the 4th year of an engineering degree, you should really be having a stab at these answers yourself. Do some bloody work, your 1st, 2nd and 3rd years of a mech eng degree should have taught you that (and how to conduct independent research and basic energy calculations yourself).

If you have specific technical questions which you need help with, you'll get all the help you need here. You won't get any marks for choosing a vertical design "because some guy on Physicsforums told me it was better".
 
  • #3
A "kit" that recharges the car's battery already exists: the alternator. It takes power directly from the engine and turns it into electricity.

A wind turbine takes power from the wind, which is powered by the moving car, which is powered by the wheels, which are powered by the gearbox, which is powered by the engine.

Not only would a wind turbine be redundant, but also terribly inefficient considering the alternative (which is already installed).

Why a wind turbine?
 
  • #4
Lsos said:
A "kit" that recharges the car's battery already exists: the alternator. It takes power directly from the engine and turns it into electricity.

A wind turbine takes power from the wind, which is powered by the moving car, which is powered by the wheels, which are powered by the gearbox, which is powered by the engine.

Not only would a wind turbine be redundant, but also terribly inefficient considering the alternative (which is already installed).

Why a wind turbine?

You could always deploy the turbine only when parked... might need a good sized mast to get it up into the wind. Of course, it wouldn't work in a garage. :biggrin:
 

Related to Design of a wind turbine kit for a car

1. What is the purpose of a wind turbine kit for a car?

The purpose of a wind turbine kit for a car is to harness the power of wind energy and convert it into electricity, which can then be used to power various components of the car.

2. How does a wind turbine kit for a car work?

A wind turbine kit for a car typically consists of a small wind turbine, a generator, and a charge controller. The wind turbine rotates as the car moves, and this rotation generates electricity through the generator. The charge controller regulates the flow of electricity to ensure that it is compatible with the car's electrical system.

3. What are the benefits of using a wind turbine kit for a car?

There are several benefits of using a wind turbine kit for a car. It can reduce the car's reliance on fossil fuels and decrease its carbon footprint. It can also help improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. Additionally, it can provide a backup source of power in case of a dead battery.

4. Are there any limitations to using a wind turbine kit for a car?

One limitation of using a wind turbine kit for a car is that it is dependent on wind speed. If there is no wind or very little wind, the kit may not generate enough electricity to power the car. Additionally, the kit may add weight and drag to the car, which can affect its performance and fuel efficiency.

5. Can a wind turbine kit for a car be used on any type of car?

A wind turbine kit for a car can be used on most types of cars, but it may be more suitable for certain vehicles such as hybrid or electric cars. It is important to consider the car's aerodynamics and weight when installing a wind turbine kit. Additionally, the kit may require modifications or adjustments to fit on certain cars.

Similar threads

Limiting factor in design of small gas turbine w/ LOW self sustain speed
    • Mechanical Engineering
Replies
5
Views
254
Automotive What Are the Benefits and Challenges of Using a Turbine Engine in Cars?
    • Mechanical Engineering
Replies
21
Views
2K
How to calculate the torque for a vertical axis wind turbine (VAWT)
    • Mechanical Engineering
Replies
1
Views
4K
Designing 3kW Vertical Axis Wind Turbine Blade
    • Mechanical Engineering
Replies
4
Views
2K
Where in the world can i purchase a A ram air turbine Rat_
    • Mechanical Engineering
Replies
3
Views
2K
Gap needed for two adjacent aerodynamic blades to be useful
    • Aerospace Engineering
Replies
10
Views
1K
Automotive Does vehicle weight have an effect on torque capacity of the gearbox?
    • Mechanical Engineering
Replies
5
Views
3K
Vertical wind turbine with two concentric rotors
    • General Engineering
Replies
7
Views
2K
Building Horizontal-Axis Wind Turbine: Testing Blade Designs without Generator
    • Mechanical Engineering
Replies
2
Views
2K
Is a Larger DC Motor Needed for Low Wind Speed Power Generation?
    • Mechanical Engineering
Replies
34
Views
2K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top