Comparative Analysis of Reused Generators for Electric Generation Based on Static Bikes

This research compares the performance of two reused electric generators (a car alternator and a permanent magnet DC motor) coupled to a stationary bike. From physical performance tests, the average (62.13 W) and maximum (150 W) mechanical power delivered by a person were determined. Furthermore, an injection mechanical power system and a data acquisition system were implemented to determine the performance of the generators. Mechanical power was gradually injected into the bicycle-generator system and electrical output power was measured. The vacuum losses and the efficiency for each generator were determined. Subsequently, performance tests were validated with real people. It found the average powers generated with the DC motor and the alternator are 56.4 W and 25 W, respectively. It concludes that generators with characteristics similar to the DC motor used in this research are viable to generate energy when they coupled to stationary bikes.