Motivation

In many countries around the world there are people with scarce means of acquiring power. This is mostly due to the lack of financial funds for a centralized power generation facility, or lack of accessible materials with the potential to generate electricity. A low cost power generator would be a very valuable commodity for them and would greatly enhance their standard of living. The goal of this project was to take readily available parts from the trash of the "developed world" and create an electrical power generator that runs off renewable resources. The project needed be very cost-efficient and reliable for everyday use. It was important to promote clean energy sources, and exploit the value contained within recycled materials.

Problem Statement

Design and construct a power generation device that implements the use of a renewable energy source and is composed entirely of recycled materials.

Objectives

Device must generate 100 Wh/day
Device must store a minimum of 300 Wh
Device must have an output of 12 V DC
Device must sustain severe weather conditions

Constraints

Final kit will be implemented in at least three different geographic locations in third world countries with adequate conditions
- Each location must be 100 km away from the ocean and 500 km away from each other
Final product must cost under $50