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Creating Sustainable Energy

UV Powered Sterling Engine

Concept Diagram -

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I found that the way a Stirling engine works is that when the end (left side) of the glass tube is heated, the air inside expands as the atoms move faster. A piece of steel wool will also be inserted into the end of the tube to assist with conduction. In the middle of the tube, there is a blocker with a small-diameter hole that controls airflow. As the piston, connected to a flywheel, moves, it pushes the hot, high-pressure air from the left side to mix with the cooler air on the right side. This creates a pressure differential that drives the piston, similar to how a steam engine generates motion.

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By using focused/ magnified UV rays to heat the end of the tube, you can create propulsion using a natural energy source.

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To turn this natural propulsion into electricity, I want to insert magnets along the flywheel and place a copper coil beside them, as they move in a circular motion around the copper - this will in turn create electricity.

Constant / measured components: 

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Glass tube, Ball bearing, Large Magnifier

Base, Piston, Flywheel, Blocker made and assembled in CAD:

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3D printd and assembled:

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Test Findings -

For second model

  • Magnets must be inserted not only to create electricity but also to add weight to the flywheel so it builds speed

  • The model should be made out of better materials other than 3D printed in a second iteration, allowing for a more air-tight fitment in the piston/ blocker.

  • The magnifier or the steel wool may need to be improved to heat up the air in the chamber more efficiently 

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