
Gene'sG's instructables
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- Gene'sG's instructable Zwift Capable Pedal Generator's weekly stats:
- Gene'sG entered Zwift Capable Pedal Generator in the Anything Goes Contest 2021 contest
- Gene'sG commented on Gene'sG's instructable Best Design DIY Bike Trainer Generator
- Gene'sG commented on Gene'sG's instructable Fast Charging Portable Power Station
- Gene'sG commented on Gene'sG's instructable OpenErg Based Erg Rower GeneratorView Instructable »
The force required to pull is directly related to the watts required to power or charge what you have connected. A smaller motor won’t make much difference. The TV you see in the video only needed about 35 watts and was easy to pull. Plugging in a laptop (65 watts), iPhone (12 watts), iPad (12 watts) and a battery pack (13 watts) makes for a good workout.
- Gene'sG commented on Gene'sG's instructable OpenErg Based Erg Rower GeneratorView Instructable »
It really depends on the load. If I plug in around 100 watts of resistance, for example my laptop (65 watts), iPad (12 watts), iPhone (12 watts) and a battery pack (13 watts) its comfortable and consistent with what a typical rowing machine feels like. Less than that and it’s too easy, more than that just makes it a more challenging workout 🙂
- Gene'sG commented on Gene'sG's instructable OpenErg Based Erg Rower GeneratorView Instructable »
The capacitors are needed as a buffer to keep a steady flow of power during the return stroke on the rower when less power is being generated.
- Gene'sG commented on Gene'sG's instructable OpenErg Based Erg Rower GeneratorView Instructable »
I totally agree!! Much of the reason I’ve built these human powered generators, I felt like I’m wasting perfectly good energy as heat that could actually power something.
- Gene'sG commented on Gene'sG's instructable OpenErg Based Erg Rower Generator
I was just thinking about adding a second string of capacitors this weekend! The fact is, the ones I used are pretty close to the right capacity. Doubling them should be more than adequate for my capability. I’ll need a bigger project box, it’s pretty crowded already.
View Instructable »Agree, if you’ve got kids around that flywheel could be a hazard. A shroud would be a nice add on.
- Gene'sG commented on Gene'sG's instructable OpenErg Based Erg Rower GeneratorView Instructable »
Thank you!
- Gene'sG entered OpenErg Based Erg Rower Generator in the Woodworking Contest contest
- Gene'sG commented on Gene'sG's instructable Best Design DIY Bike Trainer GeneratorView Instructable »
That one might work - if you go that route, take out the magnetic resistance parts and measure the shaft before ordering the shaft coupler. It also looks a little narrower and might pose some issues fitting the coupler.This one looks like an exact match to the trainer I used:https://amzn.to/3i4EasS
- Gene'sG commented on Gene'sG's instructable Best Design DIY Bike Trainer GeneratorView Instructable »
Hi Sheridan233 - this one will work: https://amzn.to/2KSvFoN
- Gene'sG's entry Fast Charging Portable Power Station is a winner in the Battery Powered Contest contest
- Gene'sG's entry Fast Charging Portable Power Station is a finalist in the Battery Powered Contest contest
- Gene'sG commented on Gene'sG's instructable Fast Charging Portable Power StationView Instructable »
Hi Moderate,That really depends on how you want to charge it! I use a pedal generator and am really happy with the way this 15A adjustable charge controller works: https://amzn.to/3nTwTOkIf you plan to charge using solar, then I'd suggest a good MPPT charge controller like this Renogy: https://amzn.to/346hgM2 paired with a decent solar panel like this Renogy 100w https://amzn.to/37V5O6Nor if you want something built to travel this RockPals 100w comes with Anderson connections so would be easy to hook right up: https://amzn.to/3ndtlGOIf you just want to charge it with AC, I'd probably go with this one, but change the alligator clips to Anderson PowerPoles: https://amzn.to/3oEqrerGlad to answer any other questions you have.
- Gene'sG commented on Gene'sG's instructable Fast Charging Portable Power StationView Instructable »
Exactly right, Ben - everybody has their own goals for these projects. I went for the LiFePO4 batteries for lighter weight and faster charging capability. I like your custom wood panel inside your ammo can, much fancier than my cardboard!
- Gene'sG's instructable Fast Charging Portable Power Station's weekly stats:
- Gene'sG commented on Gene'sG's instructable Fast Charging Portable Power StationView Instructable »
Hi Rep828 - I added a video on the last step to show how I charge and use the portable power station. I have a charge controller on my pedal generator.
- Gene'sG commented on Gene'sG's instructable Fast Charging Portable Power Station
The quality of the circuit in the USB ports that came with the kit are likely not as efficient as the better quality USB socket adapters, but I haven't done a test to prove that. I was basing that on how hot they get after just a little bit of use.
6 lb, 3.6 oz
View Instructable »Thanks for that, makes sense!
- Gene'sG entered Fast Charging Portable Power Station in the Battery Powered Contest contest
- Gene'sG commented on Gene'sG's instructable Spin Bike RC Motor Pedal GeneratorView Instructable »
I have just what you’re looking for - take a look at my bike trainer pedal generator design - http://genesgreenmachine.com/best-design-diy-bike-trainer-pedal-generator/With that design, you can leave the tire on the bike, generate when you need to, pop it off the trainer and ride whenever you want to!
- Gene'sG's instructable 750 Watt Human Powered Battery Charger's weekly stats:
- Gene'sG followed den.salzmann
- Gene'sG entered 750 Watt Human Powered Battery Charger in the Bikes Challenge contest
- Gene'sG's instructable Exercise Bike Pedal Generator/Human Powered Lipo Charger!'s weekly stats:
- Gene'sG entered Exercise Bike Pedal Generator/Human Powered Lipo Charger! in the STEM Contest contest
- Gene'sG commented on Gene'sG's instructable Best DIY Bike Trainer GeneratorView Instructable »
Good question! I'm sure you could leave the resistance unit in place, but would need to find a way to connect the generator motor. That could get complicated, you'd probably need a custom adapter. As long as there is enough distance between the motor and the resistance unit, there shouldn't be much interference. If you're looking for a setup that allows you to generate electricity, and still be able to add resistance, check out my other 'able using a spin bike: https://www.instructables.com/Spin-Bike-RC-Motor-Pedal-Generator/ That design allows for both, and benefits from a much bigger flywheel!
- Gene'sG commented on Gene'sG's instructable Spin Bike RC Motor Pedal GeneratorView Instructable »
Thank you, and nice work! I considered using an old drill for this project too, but you are right - really noisy. Using the RC motor is much quieter for 2 reasons: (1) there are no gears (2) there are no brushes. If you watch the videos, you can easily hear me talking while I'm demonstrating the generator - it is fairly quiet to operate.As far as voltage regulators go, it's a good option if you are charging/powering devices that are sensitive to higher voltage, or you want to put a specific voltage into a device/battery, or you just don't want to watch the meter. I like this regulator, however if you need up increase (step up) the voltage like in your case, this one should do the trick.
- Gene'sG commented on Gene'sG's instructable Best DIY Bike Trainer GeneratorView Instructable »
Hi uWave - what you are proposing makes a lot of sense. When I initially set out on this journey of building pedal generators, my intent was to make a product or products I could sell. Those dreams were squashed by the accounting department (wife) and the scheduling department (also wife) so with limited time and funds I decided to just give away my designs - and here we are. I make a few dollars a month by people following my links to Amazon, so I guess that's something for my time. In my first design https://www.genesgreenmachine.com/build-spin-bike-pedal-generator/, I did add a charge controller which works perfectly for powering anything 12v (up you the limit of you and/or the charge controller). Creating a purpose build PCB with a controller that gives both 12v and USB 5v output,…
see more » - Gene'sG commented on Gene'sG's instructable Best DIY Bike Trainer GeneratorView Instructable »
So thrilled to hear you built it - please share a picture of your build! The challenge when you get up in watts drawn is we humans aren't creating steady power - it's very difficult to keep the pedals cranking at exactly the same speed/power. You've also hit on the solution by adding the super capacitor. The other option is to drop in a 12v lead acid battery to the circuit, which is the approach I have personally taken. Adding the battery works as a buffer of our varying input (likewise with the ultra-capacitor), smoothing out the voltage input to the inverter.
- Gene'sG commented on plays in traffic's instructable No TV Unless You Exercise!View Instructable »
Hi alcurb - if you're looking for an easy build "bike generator->TV", I've put together an -ible you might want to check out:https://www.instructables.com/Best-DIY-Bike-Trainer-Generator/
- Gene'sG commented on Gene'sG's instructable Best DIY Bike Trainer GeneratorView Instructable »
As cool as it might, be - I’m never going to be able to produce 2400 watts with these legs (show me a human that can). By the way, the motor I use has more capability than I’ll ever push - it’s max rating is 1820 watts, so the limiting factor on watts produced will be the person spinning the cranks on the bike. I’ve personally generated almost 400 watts with this setup (and I’m an old, out of shape, fair weather mountain biker), I’m sure others can do much better.
- Gene'sG's entry Spin Bike RC Motor Pedal Generator is a winner in the Safe and Secure Challenge contest
- Gene'sG's entry Spin Bike RC Motor Pedal Generator is a finalist in the Safe and Secure Challenge contest
- Gene'sG commented on masoon's instructable Hidden Spare Car Key for EmergenciesView Instructable »
Very cool - sounds like it would work much better than your standard fair duct tape, I might have to get some! Looks like you can find it on Amazon too: https://amzn.to/2Gu9JM0
- Gene'sG commented on BjørnKarmann's instructable Project AliasView Instructable »
I’ve used MakeXYZ before with good luck. https://www.makexyz.com/
- Gene'sG commented on Gene'sG's instructable Spin Bike RC Motor Pedal GeneratorView Instructable »
Thanks rrwood! Don't believe for a second I haven't thought about coming up with some kind of Zwift integration. Just haven't figured out all the details yet...
- Gene'sG's instructable Spin Bike RC Motor Pedal Generator's weekly stats:
- Gene'sG commented on Gene'sG's instructable Spin Bike RC Motor Pedal Generator
Hi Garzo - I agree with the idea of a smart charger, I use the same for charging a Lipo battery. However, I've avoided using a step down regulator by designing this to produce power within the voltage range that is suitable for using car chargers and inverters. The regulator would add another area of power loss, and efficiency was one of my goals. You certainly could add a regulator if you really need fine control of voltage, but isn't necessary for charging/powering as I demonstrate.
Hi Simon, to help answer this question, I created another video and added it under the "Charge!" section. If your question isn't answered after watching that video, I'll be happy to clarify.
Thanks, WeavingBird! As much as I sweat, I really need the fan :)
View Instructable »If you do, please share a picture of your build - I'd love to see it!
- Gene'sG commented on Gene'sG's instructable Best DIY Bike Trainer GeneratorView Instructable »
Good question! There are a couple reasons:1. DC motors typically use brushes, which are both noisy, and can wear out2. AC RC motors come is a wide range of Kv ratings, so I was easily able to find one that matched the RPM of the trainer drive shaft to get us to the ideal 10-15 charging volts.
- Gene'sG entered Spin Bike RC Motor Pedal Generator in the Safe and Secure Challenge contest
- Gene'sG commented on Gene'sG's instructable Spin Bike RC Motor Pedal GeneratorView Instructable »
Thanks so much, Matt! Really appreciate the positive feedback.
- Gene'sG commented on In The Kitchen With Matt's instructable Low Carb and Sugar Free Peanut Butter Cups (Keto Friendly)View Instructable »
I've got to try these - peanut butter cups are my kryptonite! Thanks for sharing, well done!
- Gene'sG's instructable Super Strong Magnets's weekly stats:
- Gene'sG commented on Gene'sG's instructable Best DIY Bike Trainer GeneratorView Instructable »
Very good point, Lorddrake! One of the very reasons I like this Drok meter as you can set it up to blink the screen when you reach an upper limit on voltage. I used this meter for the box you see in the video mounted on the bike. Another nice feature of this meter is it 'remembers' the total watt hours generated even if you stop pedaling.
- Gene'sG's instructable Perfect Top Shelf Honey Lemon Anejo Margarita 's weekly stats:
- Gene'sG commented on Gene'sG's instructable Super Strong MagnetsView Instructable »
Good tip! Thanks Lorddrake.
- Gene'sG entered Super Strong Magnets in the Stick It! Contest contest
- Gene'sG commented on Gene'sG's instructable Best DIY Bike Trainer Generator
I see your quandary - let me try to clarify. To your last statement - the current (amps) will be defined by the load, so when I’m charging my 5500mAh 11.1v Lipo battery, the proper settings to charge it are 5.5 Amps and the volts are managed by the balance charger, starting out at whatever the battery is at, usually around 11.2v. Watts = volts * amps, so we get 61.6 watts of resistance while pedaling. Not exactly - the charger isn’t 100% efficient, so that load is more like 70 watts. The wattage will actually increase as the battery charges until the battery gets to 12.6v, at which time it will taper off as each cell reaches a fully charged state (which makes for a good cool down). To your question about which motor to choose, what you really need to determine is what RPM…
see more »View Instructable »Yes, you certainly could, depending on your fitness level. That balance charger should work perfectly, with the added benefit that it accepts a pretty wide range of input voltage. The great thing with these balance chargers is you can always adjust the amperage down if you physically can’t maintain the max wattage needed to charge a battery.
- Gene'sG made the instructable Best DIY Bike Trainer GeneratorView Instructable »
I took the suggestion from simplewriter and hooked the bike generator up to a 5500 maH LIPO battery and using a balance charger, put over 60 watts into the battery - in 25 minutes of pedaling, I’d added 30Wh to the battery. I think this will be a great setup as I can get lots of watts into this battery bank in a short time, then use the battery to charge all the “slow charge” stuff - things like my iPad Pro, Kindle and other things take hours to charge. Now I can just blast a bunch of power into the battery, then hook it to these devices after and let them take their slow sweet time to charge. Thanks for the suggestion, simplewriter!
- Gene'sG's instructable Best DIY Bike Trainer Generator's weekly stats:
- Gene'sG commented on Gene'sG's instructable Best DIY Bike Trainer GeneratorView Instructable »
Thank you! Glad you like it. No reason why you couldn't use this to charge an RC LiPo battery, although I haven't tried it. The input voltage for a typical B6 IMax or similar Lipo battery charger is 11-18v, right in the sweet spot of this design. The nice thing with using a Lipo battery is you can put a lot of watts (50, max) into the battery in a short time. Typical USB battery packs will only accept 5 watts charging, and quick charge 3.0 battery packs top out at 18 watts. I like your idea! I'll have to get a Lipo battery and one of these chargers ( http://amzn.to/2jzAoKf ) and try it out! As long as the volts out of the Lipo are between 9 and 24, then any good USB car charger will charge your devices with the battery. Great thought!
- Gene'sG commented on Gene'sG's instructable Best DIY Bike Trainer Generator
- Gene'sG entered Best DIY Bike Trainer Generator in the Wheels Contest 2017 contest