WO2002000492A1 - Dynamo amelioree - Google Patents

Dynamo amelioree Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2002000492A1
WO2002000492A1 PCT/NZ2001/000126 NZ0100126W WO0200492A1 WO 2002000492 A1 WO2002000492 A1 WO 2002000492A1 NZ 0100126 W NZ0100126 W NZ 0100126W WO 0200492 A1 WO0200492 A1 WO 0200492A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
bicycle
magnets
pick
wheel
vehicle
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/NZ2001/000126
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Jonathan Ross Eisen
Peter Bruce Clark
Original Assignee
Light Eye Developments Limited
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Light Eye Developments Limited filed Critical Light Eye Developments Limited
Priority to AU2001267963A priority Critical patent/AU2001267963A1/en
Publication of WO2002000492A1 publication Critical patent/WO2002000492A1/fr

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Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
    • H02K—DYNAMO-ELECTRIC MACHINES
    • H02K7/00—Arrangements for handling mechanical energy structurally associated with dynamo-electric machines, e.g. structural association with mechanical driving motors or auxiliary dynamo-electric machines
    • H02K7/18—Structural association of electric generators with mechanical driving motors, e.g. with turbines
    • H02K7/1807—Rotary generators
    • H02K7/1846—Rotary generators structurally associated with wheels or associated parts
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
    • B62J—CYCLE SADDLES OR SEATS; AUXILIARY DEVICES OR ACCESSORIES SPECIALLY ADAPTED TO CYCLES AND NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, e.g. ARTICLE CARRIERS OR CYCLE PROTECTORS
    • B62J6/00—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices on cycles; Mounting or supporting thereof; Circuits therefor
    • B62J6/06—Arrangement of lighting dynamos or drives therefor
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
    • H02K—DYNAMO-ELECTRIC MACHINES
    • H02K21/00—Synchronous motors having permanent magnets; Synchronous generators having permanent magnets
    • H02K21/12—Synchronous motors having permanent magnets; Synchronous generators having permanent magnets with stationary armatures and rotating magnets
    • H02K21/24—Synchronous motors having permanent magnets; Synchronous generators having permanent magnets with stationary armatures and rotating magnets with magnets axially facing the armatures, e.g. hub-type cycle dynamos

Definitions

  • This invention relates to a device that powers electrical devices on motorised and non- motorised vehicles, more particularly to a device for powering safety lighting on bicycles.
  • Cyclists acquire lighting devices on their bicycles when riding at night so they are able to see where they are going and so motorists are able to see them. Inadequate lighting increases the risk of cyclists being injured.
  • Battery-powered lights can provide effective lighting but only when the battery is sufficiently charged. To ensure there is sufficient charge the cyclist must regularly test the battery and if necessary, replace the battery or re-charge the existing battery. This check must be repeated each time the cyclist wishes to ride at night, which can be inconvenient especially since battery charging takes time.
  • the invention provides an electrical lighting system for a vehicle such as a bicycle including at least one light emitting diode capable of being connected electrically to a dynamo assembly comprising one or more magnet assemblies adapted to be connected to the bicycle wheel adjacent the rim thereof, and one or more pick-up coils adapted to be mounted on part of the bicycle frame closely adjacent the rotational location of the magnet assemblies so that in use the light emitting diodes can be powered at least intermittently by the movement of the magnet assemblies past the pick-up coils.
  • the magnet assemblies are provided in arcuate segments so that they can be mounted substantially continuously around the bicycle wheel to provide a substantially continuos electrical power output from the pick-up when in use.
  • each magnet assembly contains at least 3 magnets.
  • the output from the pick-up is connectable to a storage device which is in turn connectable to a power circuit which is connectable to and controls the electrical power to be supplied to the one or more light emitting diodes.
  • the power circuit includes pulse means to periodically or intermittently supply electrical energy to at least one of the rear light emitting diodes to cause it to flash so that in use at least the one or more rear light emitting diodes can flash when the bicycle is stopped temporarily.
  • the storage device is a single rechargeable battery cell
  • the power circuit includes voltage step up means to step up the battery voltage to the output of the power supply.
  • the magnets are rare earth magnets and the pick-up coil is a 3 phase ironless pickup adapted to be mounted to one side of the bicycle wheel on the forks or a suitable part of the frame closely adjacent the position of the magnet assemblies.
  • the magnets are provided with a back-iron plate on the side away from the pickup coil and are the magnets are covered with a layer of plastics.
  • the pick-up coil has brushes adapted to brush off and detach any magnetic material adhering to the magnet assemblies.
  • the invention may broadly be said to provide a device for powering electrical devices on non-motorised vehicles, and consists of a magnet assembly and a conductor, wherein the magnet assembly comprises one or more magnets joined to a placement sheet.
  • the magnet assembly comprises of one or more magnets.
  • the component magnets are made of a material capable of strong and permanent magnetism.
  • the placement sheet is made of a material that is light, durable and cost effective.
  • the placement sheet has attachment portions for connecting to the wheel of a vehicle.
  • the placement sheets attach to one, or more than one wheel on a vehicle.
  • the magnet assembly can be located about the circumference of the wheel at intervals, or continuously spanning the whole circumference of the wheel.
  • the stationary conductor consists of a magnet, a bobbin, and a wire capable of inducing a current when exposed to field lines of a magnet.
  • the wire is wound around the bobbin to form a coil.
  • the wire is made out of a conducting material such as copper or aluminium.
  • the ferrite core is partially inserted inside the bobbin.
  • the stationary conductor is located / in a position to enable contact with the magnetic field lines of the magnet assemblies on the wheel.
  • the stationary conductor links to at least one electrical device by a conducting _ means.
  • conducting means is a second wire.
  • the electrical device is selected from the group including lights and batteries.
  • the invention may broadly be said to consist in apparatus for powering an electrical device on a vehicle, the apparatus including generating means for generating energy from movement of the vehicle, and an energy storage means for receiving energy generated by movement of the vehicle and for providing the energy for the electrical device.
  • the generating means includes one or more permanent magnets for mounting on the wheel of the vehicle. '
  • the vehicle is a bicycle.
  • the generating means includes a pick up coil for provision on the vehicle in a location to receive magnetic flux from the one or more magnets as the wheel rotates.
  • the storage means include a rechargeable battery to which electrical energy from the pickup coil is supplied.
  • the storage means include electrical energy conditioning means including voltage step up means to step up the battery voltage to an output of the power supply.
  • the step up means is inoperable until the appliance is switched on.
  • timing means are also provided, whereby the power supply output is only inoperable for a certain period of time after the supply is switched on.
  • the supply includes a pulse means to regulate the output power provided by the supply.
  • the device to which power is supplied is a light, such as an LED.
  • the supply to the light is pulsed.
  • the invention may be said to consist in an electric light for a vehicle such as a bicycle including
  • a light emitting diode to provide visible light
  • a pulse means to supply electric energy to the light emitting diode periodically.
  • the periodic supply of energy to the light emitting diode is timed such that the visible light supplied by the light emitting diode appears to be substantially constant to the human eye.
  • the apparatus includes timing means whereby the light is only energised for a certain period of time after the light is turned on.
  • the light includes voltage step up means to step up the battery voltage for supply to the light emitting diodes.
  • the apparatus includes inductive pickup means for having energy induced therein from a magnetic field which is located remotely from the light.
  • voltage step up means to step up the battery voltage to the output of the power supply.
  • inductive pick up means also provided for providing electrical energy induced therein from a magnetic field located remotely from a power supply to the battery.
  • a solar cell provides electrical energy to the battery for charging the battery.
  • the invention may broadly be said to consist in a power supply for an electrical device for a vehicle such as a bicycle, the supply including one or more solar cells for providing electrical energy,
  • step up means to step up the battery voltage to an output of the power supply.
  • rechargeable battery referred to in this document may be replaced with another energy storage device such as a large capacitor for example.
  • the invention may also be broadly said to consist in parts, elements or features which are either novel in themselves or in combination.
  • FIG. 1 top view of a first magnet assembly
  • FIG. 2. end view of a magnet assembly of Figure 1 ;
  • FIG. 3. schematic view of another magnet assembly
  • FIG. 4 schematic view of two dynamo systems on a bicycle
  • FIG. 5 schematic view of stationary coil for use on a bicycle
  • FIG. 6. shows a sample circuit for the red and white LED's
  • FIG. 7 schematic view of a rear light fitting
  • FIG. 8. is a circuit diagram of a first example of a power supply according to the present invention.
  • FIG. 9. is a circuit diagram of a second example of a power supply according to the present invention.
  • FIG. 10. is a circuit diagram of a third example of a power supply according to the present invention.
  • FIG. 11 shows a front elevation of one half of the magnet holders inserted on the bicycle spokes
  • FIG. 12. is a top plan view of the two halves of the magnet holders clipped together;
  • FIG. 13 is a front elevation showing how the pick up coils can be attached to the bicycle forks
  • FIG. 14. is a side view showing more details of the location of the windings, and their adjustment relative to the position of the wheel magnet;
  • FIG. 15. is a top plan view, cut away at centre sections X-X of Figure 13;
  • FIG. 16. is a schematic diagram of the pick up windings
  • FIG. 17. illustrates an ironless three-phase pick up on one side of the wheel magnets
  • FIG. 18. ' illustrates a schematic winding diagram for the arrangement of Figure 16.
  • FIG. 19. illustrates voltage output over time as the wheel rotates.
  • Example 1 - Flashing lights for a bicycle ( Figures 1 - 2)
  • This example relates to safety lights for bicycles.
  • Those skilled in the art will recognise that many applications of the invention are possible, and that many variations in lighting configurations and lighting output are possible.
  • the invention makes use of a multi-component device with one or more assemblies of magnets which can be attached to the spokes of a bicycle wheel, and at least one stationary conductor which can be attached to an adjacent part of the bicycle frame, e.g. to the front or rear forks.
  • Each assembly of magnets 1 consists of 8 component magnets.
  • Each of the magnets 1 comprising the magnet assemblies 4 is of height 22 mm, width 20 mm, and thickness of 8.5 mm. These dimensions allow for the magnet assemblies 4 to fit comfortably on the bicycle wheel.
  • the magnets 1 are made of Grade 8 Strontium Ferrite so that magnetism is strong and permanent. Other magnetic materials with similar properties could be used in place of the Grade 8 Strontium Ferrite.
  • the magnets 1 are lined up along side one another, each magnet 1 being placed beside a magnet 1 of opposite polarity so that the magnet configuration will be north-south-north as illustrated in Figure 1. This configuration prevents the magnets 1 from repelling each other and allows for a current to be generated.
  • the edges of the magnets 1 can abut against edges of neighbouring magnets.
  • the magnet assembly 4 will be attached to a zinc-plated steel sheet 2, which keeps the magnets 1 together and allows for the magnet assembly 4 to be attached to the spokes.
  • Steel is used because it is strong and capable of being magnetised.
  • the zinc-coated steel sheet 2 could be made of other magnetic materials such as nickel and cobalt.
  • the steel is plated with zinc to prevent oxidation of the steel.
  • the zinc-plated steel sheet 2 provides attachment points 3 for connecting the magnet assemblies 4 to the spokes of the bicycle wheel.
  • the attachments points 3 can be in various forms such as clips, wires and the like.
  • the zinc-plated steel sheet 2 will preferably be of height and width to accommodate the magnet assembly 4 and provide attachment points 3. It is desirable that the zinc-plated steel sheet 2 will be 1.5 mm thick so the magnets 1 will not protrude too far from the spokes and provide sufficient flux carrying capacity for the magnets.
  • magnet assemblies 4 attached to a wheel and they are evenly spaced about the wheel to provide a regular supply of current.
  • magnets 1 to be included than the 8 provided above.
  • the stationary conductor consists of a wire that is manipulated to form a coil.
  • the coil is positioned on the forks of the wheel.
  • the coil is positioned here so the magnets on the wheel pass through the coil as the wheel rotates.
  • the coil is made of a conducting material such as copper. It is necessary to have the coil made from a conducting material so that an electromotive force can induced and a current generated.
  • the coil is connected to a wire, which conducts the generated current to the head light or rear light(s).
  • These lights contain one or more light emitting diodes (LED's) as the light sources. They require only low currents (compared to incandescent bulbs) and are more robust.
  • re-chargeable batteries In addition there may be one or more re-chargeable batteries.
  • the batteries would connect to the coil and the lights through wire. Having the battery would provide light at night when the bicycle is stationary and regulate current.
  • the dynamo automatically re-charges the battery as the bicycle is moving. Having the battery re-charged by the dynamo means that the cyclist need not re-charge the battery, or worry about the current supply while partaking in long rides.
  • One or both sides of the magnet assembly 4 could be covered with a non-magnetic material. Preferably this covers the entire section of the magnet assembly 4 but not the attachment portion of the zinc-coated steel sheet 2.
  • the cover can be made from a coloured plastic that reflects light and . has a smooth surface. The cover doubles as a reflector and enhances visibility of the bicycle when viewed from the side.
  • the head and rear lights are powered by the movement of magnet assemblies 4 past the coil which generates an electromagnetic force and a current.
  • the generated current will be conducted through the wire to the lights directly or to a battery which then conducts the current to the head and rear lights.
  • the magnet assembly 4 moves with it.
  • the field lines of the magnet assembly passes through the conductor coil and electromagnetic force and current is generated within the conductor coil.
  • the current may be conducted to the rear light through a conducting means for example a copper wire.
  • a conducting means for example a copper wire.
  • the headlight may be allowed to flash in a similar way to the rear lights.
  • the flashing frequency of the lights can be used as an indicator of the speed of the bicycle.
  • the head light provides a substantially constant or continuous light so the current to the head light must be substantially continuous. Having a continuous current can be achieved by placing a continuous magnet assembly around the circumference of the wheel (see the front wheel assembly of Figure 4). The continuous supply of current to the head light provides better vision for cyclists, which is especially important to off-road cyclists such as mountain- bikers. The rear light can also have a continuous supply of current in the same way.
  • An alternative to having a continuous magnet assembly around the circumference of the wheel is to use a battery in conjunction with the interval magnetic assemblies.
  • the battery will deliver a continuous supply of current to the head light.
  • the dynamo also recharges the battery, the battery will be fully maintained.
  • the bicycle is stationary and there is little or no current being produced by the dynamo, the current can be drawn from the battery to power the head light.
  • the rear light can have a continuous current supply in the same way by using a battery. Battery charging arrangements are described in more detail in later examples.
  • the head and rear lights can be powered by the same magnetic assemblies 4 on the one wheel either by use of the continuous magnetic assembly, or by using one or more batteries in conjunction with the interval magnet assembly.
  • One example is using an interval magnet assembly 4 on one wheel to power the rear light and a continuous wheel assembly on another wheel to power the head light.
  • the head light could be independently powered by an interval assembly combined with a battery.
  • This example also makes use of a multi-component device with one or more magnet assemblies consisting of magnets placed on a mounting sheet, and at least one pick-up conductor in a fixed position on the bicycle.
  • Each magnet assembly 6 consists of between 3 to 4 component magnets 5 for easier placement on the mounting strip (with fewer magnets the support need not be as in Figure 1).
  • Each of the magnets 5 comprising the magnet assembly 6 are circular in shape having a diameter of 22 mm, and thickness, of 8.0 mm. These dimensions allow for the magnet assemblies 6 to fit comfortably on the spokes near the rim of a bicycle wheel of most standard sizes.
  • the magnets 5 are made of Grade 8 Strontium Ferrite so that their magnetic properties are strong and permanent. Other magnetic materials with similar properties could be used in place of Grade 8 Strontium Ferrite. (We have tested both Ferrite magnets and the much higher strength neodymium magnets).
  • the magnets' 5 are lined up along side one another, each magnet 5 being placed beside a magnet 5 of opposite polarity so the magnet configuration will be north-south-north as illustrated in Figure 3. This configuration prevents the magnets 5 from repelling each other and allows for a current to be generated.
  • the edges of the magnets 5 can abut against edges of neighbouring magnets.
  • the magnet assembly 6 will be attached to a PVC placement sheet 7.
  • the PVC placement sheet secures the magnets 5 together and allows for the magnet assembly 6 to be attached to the spokes.
  • PVC is used because it is cost effective, light and durable.
  • the PVC placement sheet 7 could be made of other plastics or any material offering similar properties.
  • the PVC placement sheet 7 provides attachment points 8 for connecting the magnet assemblies 6 to the spokes 10 of the bicycle wheel 9.
  • the attachment points 8 can be holes through which screws pass, being secured by bolts or alternatively clips that fasten the magnet assembly 6 to the spokes 10 could be used.
  • the PVC placement sheet 7 will preferably be of height and width to accommodate the magnet assembly 6 and provide attachment points 8. It is desirable the PVC placement sheet 7 is 5.0 mm thick and able to hold the weight of the magnets 5 without protruding too far from the wheel 9.
  • the stationary conductor 14 consists of wire wound into a coil around a bobbin 18, and a ferrite core 20 partially inserted inside the bobbin 18. This. is illustrated in Figure 5.
  • the bobbin 18 is made from a plastic moulding and has a hollow centre for the ferrite core to be inserted.
  • the bobbin 18 has attachment portions 12 for attaching the conductor to a fork 13 of the wheel 9 as seen in Figure 4.
  • the ferrite core 20 is made from a ferrite material that has a relatively high permeability.
  • the ferrite core 20 has a symmetrical U shape.
  • One half of the coil magnet 20 (taken through the vertical centre) is inserted inside the hollow centre of the bobbin 18.
  • the stationary conductor 14 is positioned on the forks 13 of the wheel 9.
  • the stationary conductor 14 is positioned here so the magnets 5 on the wheel 9 pass through the stationary conductor 14 as the wheel 9 rotates and generate an electromotive force and current.
  • the distance between the magnets and the stationary conductor 26 when the magnets pass is 4mm.
  • the coil wire 17 is made of a conducting material such as copper or aluminium. It is necessary to have the coil wire 17 made from a conducting material so that an electromotive force can induced and a current generated.
  • the diameter of the wire is 0.2mm and will be wound around the bobbin 18, 1200 times.
  • the wire has PEI grade 2 insulation and a resistance of 45 ohms. These variables allow for a voltage coefficient (Kv) of 2V when the wheel turns at 30 rpm, and an output in the milli-amp range.
  • the coil wire 17 joins with the connecting wire 21 which conducts the generated current to the head light 11 or rear light 12.
  • the head light 11 and rear light 12 are powered by the movement of magnet assemblies 6 past the stationary conductor 14 which generate an electromagnetic force and a current.
  • the generated current will be conducted through a connecting wire 21 to the head light 11 and rear light 12 directly or be used to charge a battery which subsequently provides the current to the head light 11 and rear light 12.
  • the lights used will be LED's as they are an ideal focused light source for headlights and do not necessitate the use of diffusers or lenses. There will be three main LED's used: red, white, and amber. The white or amber LED's will be used for the headlight 11 and the red LED will be used for the rear light 12.
  • the red LED 22 will have a light intensity of 8 candela and 20 degree viewing angle with a current of 20mA and voltage of 2 volts DC.
  • the white LED 23 will have a light intensity of 4 candela and 20 degree viewing angle with a current of 20mA and a voltage of 3.6 volts DC.
  • An amber LED could be used as an alternative and has a light intensity of 6.5 candela and 15 degree viewing angle with a current of 25 mA and voltage of 2.6 volts DC.
  • the circuit for the invention is illustrated in Figure 6 which shows the red LED 22, white LED 23 and the coil wire 17 all joined by the connecting wire 21.
  • the light fitting of the LED's is illustrated in Figure 7.
  • the light fitting consists of a bulb case 24 and a diffuser cap 25.
  • the bulb case 24 is a plastic receptacle that is connected to the circuit and contains the bulb.
  • the diameter of the bulb case is 80mm.
  • the width of the bulb cap is 35 mm.
  • 'Attached to the bulb case is the diffuser cap, which is translucent and can be coloured red, amber or left clear.
  • the diffuser cap emits the light produced from the bulb container. With this light fitting a viewing angle of up to 20 degrees will be produced. At a distance of 6 metres, from the light and a beam angle of 20 degrees, the height of the light beam is 1 metre.
  • the current may be conducted to the rear light 12 through a connecting wire 21.
  • the current may be conducted to the rear light 12 through a connecting wire 21.
  • the light will illuminate.
  • the rear light 12 will continue to be illuminated in this way each time the magnet field lines come into contact with the stationary conductor 14.
  • no electricity is generated and therefore no current is conducted to the light and illumination ceases.
  • interval magnet assembly 16 There are three or four magnet assemblies 6 at even intervals around the wheel 9 so that the flashes are more frequent. This will be referred to the interval magnet assembly 16.
  • the headlight 11 requires a continuous supply of light so the current to the headlight 11 must be continuous. Having a continuous current can be achieved by placing a continuous magnet assembly 15 around the circumference of the wheel. The continuous supply of current to the headlight 11 provides better vision for cyclists, which is especially important to off-road cyclists such as mountain-bikers.
  • the rear light 12 can also have a continuous supply of current in the same way.
  • An alternative to having a continuous magnet assembly 15 around the circumference of the wheel is to use a battery in conjunction with the interval magnet assemblies 16.
  • the battery will deliver a continuous supply of current to the headlight 11.
  • the dynamo also recharges the battery, the battery will be fully maintained.
  • the bicycle is stationary and there is little or no current being produced by the dynamo, the current can be drawn from the battery to power the headlight.
  • the rear light 12 can have a continuous current supply in the same way by using a battery.
  • the head light 11 and rear light 12 can be powered by the same magnetic assemblies 6 on the one wheel either by use of the continuous magnetic assembly 15, or by using one or more batteries in conjunction with the interval magnet assembly 16.
  • One example is using an interval magnet assembly 16 on one wheel to power the rear light 12 and a continuous wheel assembly 15 on another wheel to power the headlight 11. This example can be seen in Figure 4.
  • the headlight 11 could be independently powered by an interval magnet assembly 16 combined with a battery.
  • the supply has a pick up coil into which a current is induced by virtue of the pick up coil to being located adjacent to (but not in contact with) a changing or moving magnetic field such as that of a magnet (not shown) attached to the wheel of a vehicle such as a bicycle.
  • a changing or moving magnetic field such as that of a magnet (not shown) attached to the wheel of a vehicle such as a bicycle.
  • the magnets ' mounted on the vehicle wheel move past the pick up coil periodically, so current is induced in the pick up coil 102 periodically, and polarity of the current will not always be known because the arrangement or polarity of the magnets or other source of the required Yield will not always be consistent or known in all applications. Therefore, the alternating current is rectified using diodes Dl to D4 so that rectified current is supplied to a
  • Dl to D4 are LN4001 diodes rated at 1A, 50V. Due to the battery B having a relatively constant DC output, and being able to sink reasonable amounts of current, the battery B can act as a filter for the rectified current supplied by the diode bridge, so the potential of rails 104 and 106 of the rectified supply is substantially constant.
  • the pick up coil 102 or in addition to the pick up coil, a
  • 15 charger socket, S3 may also be used to recharge the battery B.
  • the charger socket. S3 is intended to have an AC supply connected to it and the supply charges the battery by passing through diode DS which only allows the alternating current to pass in one direction to the battery so that the battery is charged.
  • Two IK resistors are provided to limit the maximum flow of current to the battery.
  • switch SI The main switch for the power supply is switch SI.
  • switch SI When switch SI is in the OFF position, as shown in Figure 8, the power is not supplied to the remainder of the circuit, however the battery may still be charged when the switch is in the OFF position, as is apparent from the diagram.
  • the battery B is a 1.5 volt nicad cell. Therefore there is a potential 25 difference between rails 4 and 6 of 1.5 volts.
  • the 1.5 volt supply is supplied to an integrated circuit, being a Texas instruments a TL496 which has the appropriate switching circuitry to implement a switch mode power supply.
  • the boost choke used in the supply is inductor LI which in this example is 60 turns of 0.63 mm diameter copper wire on a powdered iron core.
  • the outward pin 8 of the IC produces an output at potential of 9 volts relative to the bus 106. 3.0
  • a capacitor Cl being 220uf in this example rated at 16 volts, is connected between the output pin 8 and the low potential rail 106.
  • the 9 volt output can then be used to supply a number of different appliances, including but not limited to a light for example a flashlight, torch or headlight and tail light for a bicycle for example.
  • Figure 9 is essentially the same circuit as shown in Figure 8, but including a timing circuit which limits the time for which the supply is operative once the supply has been activated.
  • R3 Connected between pins 6 and 7 and the 9 volt rail is a resistor R3 which is 150k for example.
  • the time constant established by R3 and C3 provides the timing for operation of the timing circuit IC2.
  • Output pin 3 of IC2 is connected to the base of transistor T2 and this will normally be high for a certain period of time, being 2 minutes in this example after switch S2 is pulsed. When the circuit times out, the current supply to the base of transistor T2 is stopped, which disables the output until the switch is pulsed again.
  • Timing the output of the supply can be very helpful, particularly in instances where the power supply is powering a device such as a light. Having the power supply switch off after a period of a few minutes can prevent the light from being left on for long periods of time which may occur if the user inadvertently forgets to turn it off.
  • the circuit is specifically adapted for powering two light emitting diodes (LEDs). Although two LEDs are illustrated, only one LED, or more may be supplied. Two LEDs of the high intensity white type which each supply 4 candela of light has been found to work suitably with the circuit illustrated in Figure 10. These LED's have also been found to be suitably bright to provide an effective bicycle headlamp.
  • the power supply that results in the 9 volt rail at the output is the same that is described with reference to Figure 8 and Figure 9 above.
  • the timing circuit is essentially the same, however the output at pin 3 at IC2 is instead provided to pin 4 of a further timing IC labelled IC 3 which is also in this example a TLC555 timer.
  • IC3 provides a pulsed output at frequency of approximately 50 hertz and a 50% duty cycle.
  • the output frequency and duty cycle are determined resistor R4 which is a 2.2M resistor and C4 which is a capacitor of .Oluf.
  • the output of IC3 is fed to the base of transistor T2 which causes the LED to flash.
  • the LEDs are supplied by current from the 9 volt rail through the resistor R5 which is 82 ohms for example, to limit the current through the LED.
  • the timing circuit of IC2 ensures that the IC3 (and thus the LED) are only operable for a set period of time, in this example, two minutes.
  • the LEDs flashing at approximately 50 hertz, appears to be substantially continuous to the human eye. Also, the intensity of light is sufficient to operate as a headlight for a bicycle, or for a torch for example. Having the LED flashing, results in some saving of power due to energy only being provided to the LED for approximately half the time
  • Pick ups are attached to the front or back forks of the bicycle, and can be adjusted to be positioned close to the wheel magnet.
  • Wheel magnets should preferably be located in plastic magnet holders, formed in two halves put together as shown in figures 11 and 12. These halves preferably have grooves for the location of the wheel spokes, and the clicking of the plastic valves together, is best achieved by using external self engaging clips. Alternatively, though less preferably it is possible to provide internal self engaging clips, or fasteners such as screws or the like. They are designed to fit on the spokes as close as possible to the wheel rim.
  • Magnets may even be provided in pole pairs, in each half of the holders, or larger magnets could be located on one of the halves, the other half having open cavities to receive and cover the other magnet. It is preferred that magnets are covered by a thin layer of plastic to assist in the removal of metallic objects which might otherwise be picked up by the magnets as the wheel rotates.
  • the plastic layer can also function as a side reflector.
  • bristles or brushes are provided in association with the pick up coils, so that the surface of the magnet holders can be brushed clean of any metallic objects which might otherwise accumulate on the magnet. This is particularly useful in the case of high strength neodymium magnets. Such magnets have typical field strengths of up to 12000 Gauss. These brushes function as "cow catchers” to intercept and brush away any ' metallic objects adhering to the plastic cover of the magnet holders. Stiff nylon bristles work well to dislodge metal objects.
  • the pick up coils are positioned approximately 3mm clear of the surface of the magnet holders so that the coils operate at high field strength, and at reasonably high efficiency.
  • the coils may be ironless, or be provided with back-iron or laminations
  • the pick up coils have a supporting iron substrate as will be seen from Figure 13.
  • the magnet holders of figures 11 and 12 preferably have their exterior formed from a clear plastic with reflective aluminium powder embedded within the plastic, to enable the surface of these holders to function as side reflectors for the bicycle. They can have grooves or channels to accommodate the spokes.
  • the pick up coils are located on the bicycle forks by suitable clamps as shown in figures 13 - 15.
  • pick up coils have their windings close to the wheel magnets, and can be provided with an adjustment screw, and a pair of locking screws so that the windings can be moved towards or away from the wheel magnets, when the wheel magnets have been clipped onto the wheel spokes, and the coils attached to the forks.
  • the manually pick up has a round pole piece, provided with a powered iron or ferrite or laminated steel pieces.
  • Figure 15 shows the cut away view on section X-X of Figure 14, showing how the pair of pick up coils are positioned in a U-shaped frame, move towards or away from the right fork of the bicycle. Dimensions are shown in figures 10 and 14 to illustrate the relevant size of the components when mounted on a convention bicycle.
  • Figure I ⁇ shows a schematic winding layout.
  • the bicycle frame can be used as the earth.
  • a pickup on each side of the forks balances up the 15-20 kilograms side force caused by using only one pickup with high strength magnets on the wheel and iron or ferrite in the pick up coils.
  • back-iron in the pick up coils, but in some applications it may be preferable to eliminate side loads, by eliminating the back-iron in the pickup. In which case the available power in the pickup is reduced by 4-5 times that of the arrangement shown in Figure 13 where back-iron is used. However this could be compensated for by a full rim of ceramic magnets, or by using higher strength neodymium (or other rare earth) magnets.
  • the magnets can be 20mm x 10mm neodymium magnets, in this case the magnets having 20mm centres and 3mm gaps between them.
  • the pick up is preferably an ironless pick up in which the windings are provided as three phase copper coils spaced 240 electrical degrees apart.
  • the winding ratio is shown in Figure 18 for phases LI, L2 and L3.
  • each phase has 400 turns of 0.25mm diameter copper wire and each phase is 25mm in diameter with a central average of 12mm and a gap of 9mm between the coils.
  • Figure 19 shows that as each unit passes the pick up the red LED's flash twice in time period ti (as the * four poles pass the three wire ends of the pick up coil) then there is a delay T 2 until the next unit reaches the pick up. The cycle is repeated for period ti as the next unit passes the pick up coils. This results in two flashing rates. Rapid flashing as each pole passes the pick up during period ti and a slower more noticeable flashing as each unit (group of magnets) passes the pick up. The slower rate has an interval T between flashes.
  • Table 1 we have measured the light output at different speeds for a 26 inch wheel bicycle, with an ironless pick up of the type described in our example 8, and stored only on one side of the bicycle wheel.
  • this arrangement we have measured the light output for four magnets of 20mm diameter, and 10mm thick, each magnet being a high strength neodymium magnet, and there being four magnets per unit, and three such units installed on a 26 inch wheel of the bicycle. It does not make any difference if the units are installed on the front wheel or the back wheel, the placing station being chosen by the user, and the ease of access of location of the pick up coil.
  • the units are reinstalled on the rear wheel of the bicycle, and the pick up mounted on a suitable part of the bicycle frame adjacent the wheel, in line with the rotational path of the units.
  • the pick up mounted on a suitable part of the bicycle frame adjacent the wheel, in line with the rotational path of the units.
  • Table 1 shows the relationship between the speed of the cycle in miles per hour, the peak candle power, and the average candle power output as the cycle is moving.
  • the examples of this invention provides cyclists with a device for powering various electrical devices in an efficient and useful manner.
  • the invention does not produce the unacceptable drag of conventional dynamos and can provide lighting in all useful directions.
  • the examples of this invention do not require disposable batteries to power electrical devices such as lights which means that it provides consumers with an environmentally-friendly option for powering electrical devices on their vehicles.
  • Another significant advantage of these examples is that by using only a single cell, such as a nicad cell or a nickel hydride (or other new battery technology), full cycling of the cell is possible. This lowers the possibility of charge and discharge inefficiencies which occur with strings of cells. It will also be appreciated by one skilled in the art that full cycling of the individual cell of the present invention could be built into the charging unit. -Therefore, further circuitry could be added to detect when the cell charge reaches a certain lower value before charging begins. Providing full discharge and recharge of the individual cell also has the advantage that it eliminates memory effect.
  • magnet assemblies 6 on the front and or back wheel.
  • the magnet assemblies 6 can be continuous or interval. These assemblies can include reflectors to increase side-on visibility 8.
  • the rechargeable battery versions can be powered by one or more solar cells in addition to the dynamo.
  • the stationary conductor 14 can be located in a different position than on the forks 13.
  • magnets 5 There could also be a different number of magnets 5 used.
  • the magnets 5 could also be of a different size.
  • the electricity generated could be used for different purposes other than powering " lighting.
  • the light fittings on the LED's could also contain some sort of diffuser to allow light to be emitted from the sides. This would assist in making the cyclist visible from side view, resulting in more effective safety lighting.
  • electricity generated could be used to power other devices such as radios or timers during the day.
  • the invention could be used on motorised vehicles as well as on non-motorised vehicles.
  • the invention could also be used on a vehicle that has been placed on a stand which prevents the vehicle from moving when the wheel is being turned, for example on an exercycle or on 0 a stationary cycle wheel to generate electricity from human exercise.
  • neodymium magnets In some of the examples we have tried high strength neodymium magnets, and in other examples we have used lower strength Strontium Ferrite magnets (which are cheaper than the rare earth neodymium magnets). We have also experimented with different pick up configurations. The following comparison is a comparison between the number of pick ups, and the type of magnets that could be used. If each unit has four magnets per unit as for example shown in Figure 11. If we used neodymium magnets of the same size as ferrite magnets, the neodymium magnets have eight times the field strength of the ferrite magnets, and hence can produce eight times the power output of the equivalent insulation-using ferrite magnets.
  • Power is. also proportional to the number of units (i.e. magnet sets) spaced around the wheel. Consequently, three to four sets of coils using three phase coils, and Strontium Ferrite magnets will approximate the power output of the same number of neodymium magnets using one single phase coil.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Power Engineering (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Lighting Device Outwards From Vehicle And Optical Signal (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention concerne un éclairage de sécurité pour bicyclettes constitué d'une série d'attaches placées sur des aimants (6), quatre séries d'aimants (6) étant fixés sur les rayons des roues (10) à proximité de la jante (16) de la roue arrière de la bicyclette, et d'une série de bobines de déclenchement (14) situées sur les fourches (13) de la roue appropriée. Sous sa forme la plus simple, une série de diodes luminescentes (11, 12) clignotent, lorsque la roue tourne. Dans un autre mode de réalisation, des circuits permettent à la bobine de déclenchement de charger une batterie NiCd de 1,5 volts à élément unique. On peut augmenter la sortie de cette batterie à 9 volts afin d'alimenter les diodes luminescentes (11, 12). Les lumières arrière (12) peuvent ainsi clignoter, lorsque la bicyclette est stationnaire aux feux de circulation, et on obtient une sortie plus constante du phare (11), lorsqu'on utilise la bicyclette.
PCT/NZ2001/000126 2000-06-30 2001-06-29 Dynamo amelioree WO2002000492A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AU2001267963A AU2001267963A1 (en) 2000-06-30 2001-06-29 Improved dynamo

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Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
NZ505527 2000-06-30
NZ50552700 2000-06-30
NZ505745 2000-07-13
NZ50574500 2000-07-17
NZ510558 2001-03-14
NZ51055801 2001-03-14

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Cited By (10)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2003084804A1 (fr) * 2002-04-09 2003-10-16 Glow S.R.L. Structure de jante notamment pour roue de bicyclette avec dynamo generatrice de courant a champ magnetique variable
JP2007502257A (ja) * 2003-08-14 2007-02-08 エフ．ホフマン−ラ　ロシュ　アーゲー γアミノ酪酸作動性モジュレーター
WO2009039727A1 (fr) * 2007-09-27 2009-04-02 Heiwang Lee Dispositif d'entraînement pour une dynamo de bicyclette
FR2950024A1 (fr) * 2009-09-16 2011-03-18 Afonso Manuel Carlos Rodrigues Dispositif de signalisation nocturne de velos
FR2969572A1 (fr) * 2010-12-23 2012-06-29 Aatr Dynamo facilement adaptable a tout type de bicyclette constituee d'elements totalement statiques et etanches
WO2016054052A1 (fr) * 2014-09-30 2016-04-07 Raeen Bahram Génératrice électrique
US9771124B2 (en) 2015-02-25 2017-09-26 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Wheel rim-mounted regeneration coil-magnet system
EP3858715A1 (fr) * 2020-02-03 2021-08-04 Hobby-Wohnwagenwerk Ing. Harald Striewski GmbH Remorque de véhicule pourvue de générateur électrique
US20220379988A1 (en) * 2016-11-03 2022-12-01 Sinewave Inc. Bicycle Light
US11811264B1 (en) 2014-09-30 2023-11-07 Raeentek Llc Electric device

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FR2653612A1 (fr) * 1989-10-23 1991-04-26 Loyseau De Grand Maison Guy Chargeur magnetique pour cycle.
DE4109693A1 (de) * 1991-03-23 1991-10-17 Kunzig Hans Werner Stromgenerator fuer zweiraeder ohne direktgetriebenen rotor
US5128840A (en) * 1989-07-12 1992-07-07 Hiroshi Seki Bicycle luminaire
US5590946A (en) * 1995-02-28 1997-01-07 Jung; Ruey-Feng Generator for bicycle and a light system using the same
DE29822343U1 (de) * 1998-12-15 1999-03-18 Merlaku Kastriot High-Tech Stromerzeugungs- und Brems-System für Fahrräder
WO2000059769A1 (fr) * 1999-04-05 2000-10-12 Klaeui Werner Dispositif mixte de freinage et de generation de courant destine a des bicyclettes
JP2000333407A (ja) * 1999-05-18 2000-11-30 Seiichi Tada ホイールモーター

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US5128840A (en) * 1989-07-12 1992-07-07 Hiroshi Seki Bicycle luminaire
FR2653612A1 (fr) * 1989-10-23 1991-04-26 Loyseau De Grand Maison Guy Chargeur magnetique pour cycle.
DE4109693A1 (de) * 1991-03-23 1991-10-17 Kunzig Hans Werner Stromgenerator fuer zweiraeder ohne direktgetriebenen rotor
US5590946A (en) * 1995-02-28 1997-01-07 Jung; Ruey-Feng Generator for bicycle and a light system using the same
DE29822343U1 (de) * 1998-12-15 1999-03-18 Merlaku Kastriot High-Tech Stromerzeugungs- und Brems-System für Fahrräder
WO2000059769A1 (fr) * 1999-04-05 2000-10-12 Klaeui Werner Dispositif mixte de freinage et de generation de courant destine a des bicyclettes
JP2000333407A (ja) * 1999-05-18 2000-11-30 Seiichi Tada ホイールモーター

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DATABASE WPI Derwent World Patents Index; Class Q11, AN 2001-087254/10 *

Cited By (13)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2003084804A1 (fr) * 2002-04-09 2003-10-16 Glow S.R.L. Structure de jante notamment pour roue de bicyclette avec dynamo generatrice de courant a champ magnetique variable
JP2007502257A (ja) * 2003-08-14 2007-02-08 エフ．ホフマン−ラ　ロシュ　アーゲー γアミノ酪酸作動性モジュレーター
WO2009039727A1 (fr) * 2007-09-27 2009-04-02 Heiwang Lee Dispositif d'entraînement pour une dynamo de bicyclette
CN101397039B (zh) * 2007-09-27 2011-11-23 李希宏 自行车发电机的驱动装置
FR2950024A1 (fr) * 2009-09-16 2011-03-18 Afonso Manuel Carlos Rodrigues Dispositif de signalisation nocturne de velos
FR2969572A1 (fr) * 2010-12-23 2012-06-29 Aatr Dynamo facilement adaptable a tout type de bicyclette constituee d'elements totalement statiques et etanches
WO2016054052A1 (fr) * 2014-09-30 2016-04-07 Raeen Bahram Génératrice électrique
RU2752698C2 (ru) * 2014-09-30 2021-07-30 Бахрам РАИН Электрическое устройство
US11811264B1 (en) 2014-09-30 2023-11-07 Raeentek Llc Electric device
US9771124B2 (en) 2015-02-25 2017-09-26 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Wheel rim-mounted regeneration coil-magnet system
US10501143B2 (en) 2015-02-25 2019-12-10 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Wheel rim-mounted regeneration coil-magnet system
US20220379988A1 (en) * 2016-11-03 2022-12-01 Sinewave Inc. Bicycle Light
EP3858715A1 (fr) * 2020-02-03 2021-08-04 Hobby-Wohnwagenwerk Ing. Harald Striewski GmbH Remorque de véhicule pourvue de générateur électrique

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