Tom’s Lesson

Tom’s lesson included a demonstration and explanation of the Sterling Engine, the Peltier, and the Mendocino Motor. All of these motors work in a unique way, being powered bu things other than electricity.  These motors are still around in some aspect today, almost 200 years after they were created.

The Sterling Engine was created in 1816 and is used as a substitute for a steam engine. It is a cyclic compression and expansion of air that works at an efficiency rate of 40 percent, which is actually quite high.

The Peltier generator, created by a French scientist, was erected in 1834 which included two dissimilar metals; heated on one side, cooled down on the other side which generated electricity.

Last but not least, the Mendocino Motor was powered by solar mini motors, which spin rapidly especially in sunlight. When light strikes the panels, it causes an electric current which then energizes the rotor. As of now this motor only generates a low power output, making it infeasible for real life usage.

Tom’s lesson was very informative. It was fascinating to see how these various generators worked. Personally, I thought the Peltier Generator was the most interesting one because it ran solely on hot and cold water, which I did not know was possible prior to this lesson. I also thought that it was interesting that the Sterling Engine was considered to have a high efficiency even though it was only 40 percent efficient. Tom’s lesson enlightened me on the world of motors/generators.