Waterlily Turbine: A Micro-Turbine That Powers Devices With Water or Wind
In the last couple of decades, the world’s population has increased rapidly. And with rapid increase in population comes the high increase in energy demand and consumption. Our planet, our lives, and our existence as living species thrive on energy.
With this demand for energy and the continuous improvement in the lifestyle and the technologically-driven growth across the world, there is an undeniable need to supplement energy generation, order than the continuous exploitation of natural mineral resources, which could lead to deficiency of energy resources in the future.
The most obvious source of alternative energy would be our renewable natural energy sources, which are; Sunlight, Water and Wind.
This option is born out of our present need and dependence on electronic devices and gadgets which are not about to decrease anytime soon. However, the technology and means of constantly keeping them powered up is continuously going through phases with the passing of time.
The Need for New Energy Harvesters
With the world’s continuous and progressive breakthrough in science and technology; harvesting energy through the use of natural renewable resources will definitely receive optimum focus in the nearest future.
When it comes to outdoor activities, every fun-seeking individual and adventurer doesn’t need to be told of the essence of a bringing along a little extra power in order to charge up their devices and stay in touch with friends and family at home.
Therefore any technology that can enable one to conveniently power up their devices without battery packs, a vehicle, or battery would be a superb innovation as compared to other options such as solar panels or power generators that run on fuel and other hydrocarbons.
The Waterlily: A New Energy Harvester
A Canadian start-up company, Seaformatics, is developing a tiny and very portable energy generator, called the “Waterlily” turbine. It is much smaller than most off-grid power generators.
The Seaformatics Company is a renewable energy solutions company, that designs and manufactures energy harvesting turbines and wireless communication products which are used for the ocean monitoring industry.
The ‘Waterlily” turbine is a river or wind powered hybrid renewable energy source that can comfortably charge any USB device from either moving water, wind, or by human crank power.
Features of the ‘WaterLily’ Turbine
The ‘Waterlily’ is a versatile turbine which can generate power from water currents and wind. It functions at a peak efficiency of 4.5 mph in water currents and 45 mph via winds. Its highlighted capabilities include:
- It is river or wind powered.
- It charges all USB compatible devices.
- It can charge day and night – so, sleep on, and let Waterlily do its bidding.
- It is compact and durable – it weighs about 1.3kg (2lb) and fits easily in backpacks.
- It has a diameter of 7 inches and has a maximum power output of 5A (25 watts).
- Optimum charge can be generated by towing the Waterlily turbine behind any watercraft such as boat, canoe, or kayak.
- It boasts of manual charging, using the hand crank accessory when wind or water isn’t reachable.
How long will it take to charge your device?
In Summary
The Seaformatics Systems invention of the miniaturized Waterlily turbine is a very unique device that would help outdoor campers, hikers, cyclists, paddler etc. to utilize the renewable energy generated from the low-speed turbine while enjoying their outdoor activities.
A patent for the device is currently being finalized. Pre-orders have also begun in earnest, as intending users aim to be the first to make use of the stylish and portable "Waterlily Turbine".
Reference: waterlilyturbine, futureentech, seaformatics
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I hope this can be used in area where energy is lacking in Nigeria. Thanks for sharing.
Woooow this is so interesting and good to individuals thanks for the information sheared