I came across this site somehow and although I'm not the greatest environmentalist in the world I admire their determination.
What interested me was the possibility of using a similar device in reverse as a motor. Using a lesser quantity of poles to get 750 RPM and generally making it smaller would seem effort spent wisely. I presume that like a bicycle dynamo it wouldn't be self starting...but I'm willing to be proven wrong!
http://www.otherpower.com/pmg2.html
Given a source of suitable magnets and bearings it's something that even the mechanically challenged (me) might have a go at.
I see the following advantages. No brush sparking interference. Direct drive to the drum/disc. Built-in mass acting as a flywheel, but that could be a double-edged sword though.
There is a trade-off as ever. mechanically it's simpler but the drive electronics might be a bit more complex...a trade off I would make any day!! But I understand that's not for everyone.
I wasn't sure where to put this posting, but if it develops into a viable NBTV device I'll move it.
Anyway, your thoughts?
Steve A.