Linear alternators produce AC using linear motion, but it’s often more practical to convert linear motion into rotational motion. They use electromagnetic induction and can be applied in low force requirements. They have potential for growth in various applications, such as generating electricity from shoe movements. New uses are constantly being discovered, and advancements in magnetic field densities and nanotechnology could lead to cost benefits and simpler production. Harnessing small-scale mechanical energy could lead to positive changes in people’s lives.
A linear alternator is a generator that produces alternating current (AC) using linear motion and may not be as common as the rotary alternator which generates AC using rotary motion. Most of the time it is easier and more practical to translate linear motion into rotational motion. For example, a hydroelectric power plant harnesses the energy in the potential energy of stored water. This energy provides power seen as a downward pointing vector, so it can drive a linear device, but it is much easier to convert power into rotational energy using a turbine. For other purposes, using a linear device is also more practical.
Electric generators, including the linear alternator, generally use electromagnetic induction, which employs the principle that a wire that is moved to cut magnetic lines of force will have current generated in it. Electricity is generated on a massive scale by electromagnetic induction. The linear motor, counterpart to the linear alternator, uses a shaft that can move back and forth partly in and partly out of its housing. The resulting motion is similar to the motion available in pneumatic or pneumatic actuators and in hydraulic or hydraulic actuators. Electric linear motors are applied in relatively low force requirements, such as in dispensing food products in vending machines.
This principle can be applied to the common shake rechargeable flashlight. The light emitting diode (LED) in this flashlight consumes little energy, so the rechargeable flashlight is convenient to use because a few shocks could significantly extend the flashlight “on time”. Linear alternators are seen as a possible area of technical growth due to the many applications that can be expected. For example, if a shoe requires electrical generation capabilities, it might use a linear alternator with small displacements in the sole. The idea is that the squeezing action of stepping and weight release could be harnessed to generate electricity for personal gadgets.
New uses are found all the time for linear alternators and linear motors. Current and future discoveries in increasing magnetic field densities in permanent magnets are one factor. Another factor is the potential for smaller machines in nanotechnology. There may be new applications that will emerge due to cost benefits and simpler production. For example, harnessing small-scale mechanical energy on a large scale could lead to positive changes in the way people live.
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