Project Report
CAD
Group Member:
Asim Abrar IEM-22-08
Waqas Ayub IEM-22-25
Zain-UL-Abdin IEM-21-35
Misbah Ul Haq IEM-21-34
Project Title: Free Energy Machine Design: Spring and Wheel Motion
(SolidWork)
Introduction
The concept of perpetual motion, a machine that operates indefinitely without external
energy input, has captivated inventors and scientists for centuries. While true perpetual
motion is impossible due to the fundamental laws of thermodynamics, the pursuit of such a
machine has driven countless innovations in engineering and physics. This project explores a
theoretical machine that leverages the potential energy stored in springs to generate
continuous rotational motion, mimicking the concept of perpetual motion.
2. Theoretical Background
2.1 Laws of Thermodynamics
First Law of Thermodynamics (Conservation of Energy): Energy cannot be created or
destroyed, only transformed. A perpetual motion machine of the first kind, which creates
energy from nothing, directly violates this law.
Second Law of Thermodynamics: The total entropy of an isolated system can never
decrease over time. A perpetual motion machine of the second kind, which extracts heat
from a single source and converts it entirely into work, also violates this law. Entropy, a
measure of disorder, always increases in a closed system.
2.2 Spring Potential Energy
Springs store mechanical energy when compressed or stretched. This potential energy is a
form of elastic potential energy, given by:
2
Ep=0.5∗k∗x
where:
Ep is the potential energy stored in the spring
k is the spring constant (a measure of the spring's stiffness)
x is the displacement of the spring from its equilibrium position
When a compressed or stretched spring is released, this potential energy is converted into
kinetic energy, which can be used to perform work.
3. Design Approach
3.1 Conceptual Design
The core idea behind this theoretical machine is to harness the potential energy stored in a
system of springs to drive a continuous rotation of a central wheel. This is achieved through a
series of interconnected mechanisms:
Spring System:
Multiple springs with varying spring constants and initial compressions/extensions are
employed. The arrangement of springs is crucial to ensure a continuous energy release and
maintain the wheel's rotation.
Potential configurations include:
Series arrangement: Springs connected end-to-end.
Parallel arrangement: Springs connected side-by-side.
Combination of series and parallel arrangements.
Linkage Mechanism:
A system of rigid bars or chains connects the springs to the wheel. The linkage design
determines how the linear motion of the springs is translated into the rotational motion of the
wheel.
Factors to consider include:
Length of linkages
Angles of linkages
Number of linkages
Wheel and Bearing System:
The wheel is the central rotating component of the machine. High-quality bearings are
essential to minimize friction and ensure smooth rotation.
4. SolidWorks Modeling
4.1 Component Creation
Certainly, let's break down the explanation of each component involved in creating the "Free
Energy Machine Design: Spring and Wheel Motion" project in SolidWorks:
4.1.1 Base Frame
Purpose: Provides a stable foundation for the entire machine.
SolidWorks Creation:
Typically created using features like extrude, revolve, or loft to form a rigid structure. May
involve multiple parts assembled together for complex shapes. Features like holes, slots, and
pockets are added to accommodate other components. Materials are assigned to the frame
based on strength and weight considerations (e.g., steel, aluminum).
Base Stand
4.1.2 Springs
Purpose: Store potential energy and release it to drive the machine.
SolidWorks Creation:
Can be modeled as a simple coil using the spring feature in SolidWorks. Parameters like
spring constant, free length, and wire diameter are defined. Multiple springs with different
properties can be created to meet specific design requirements.
Spring in Red Color
4.1.3 Linkages
Purpose: Connect the springs to the wheel and transmit the spring force into rotational
motion.
SolidWorks Creation:
Created using features like extrude, revolve, or loft to form rods, bars, or chains. Joints (e.g.,
revolute, prismatic) are defined between the linkages and other components to simulate their
motion. Lengths and angles of linkages are critical parameters that influence the machine's
behavior.
Holder
Rod
4.1.4 Wheel
Purpose: The central rotating component of the machine.
SolidWorks Creation:
Created using features like revolve to generate a cylindrical shape. Features like spokes or
other structural elements can be added for strength and aesthetics. Bearings are modeled or
represented to simulate the support and rotation of the wheel.
Fly Wheel
Pulley
4.1.5 Bearings
Purpose: Support the wheel and minimize friction during rotation.
SolidWorks Creation:
Can be modeled as simple cylindrical shapes or using specialized bearing libraries
within SolidWorks.
Properties like bearing type (ball, roller), dimensions, and clearance are defined.
Bearings
4.2 Assembly
All components are assembled in SolidWorks using mating constraints and joints to define
their relative positions and motions. The assembly process ensures that the components
interact correctly and that the machine functions as intended.
Important Considerations:
Materials: Appropriate materials are selected for each component based on strength,
stiffness, weight, and cost.
Tolerances: Manufacturing tolerances are considered to ensure proper fit and function of the
assembled machine.
Motion Analysis: SolidWorks Motion is used to simulate the machine's movement, analyze
its behavior, and identify potential issues.
By carefully designing and assembling these components in SolidWorks, you can create a
virtual representation of the free energy machine, analyze its behavior, and iterate on the
design to improve its performance.
4.2 Assembly Modeling
The individual components are assembled into a complete machine model. Constraints are
applied to define the relationships between components (e.g., joints, mates). The assembly
model allows for visualization of the machine's overall configuration and the interaction
between components.
First is Bearing.
Next is the assembly of the Fly wheel, Pulley, Bearing and Rod.
This is the final assembly of all the parts.
4.3 Parameterization
Key dimensions and parameters of the machine are defined as variables. This allows for easy
modification and optimization of the design.
For example:
o Spring constants
o Linkage lengths
o Wheel diameter
5. Limitations and Challenges
Thermodynamic Limitations: The machine cannot violate the laws of thermodynamics. The
output energy will always be less than the input energy due to energy losses.
Material Properties: The properties of the materials used for the springs, linkages, and cams
(e.g., stiffness, strength, damping) significantly influence the machine's performance.
Design Complexity: Optimizing the design to minimize friction, maximize energy transfer,
and ensure smooth operation requires careful consideration of various parameters.
Spring Fatigue: Repeated compression and extension of the springs can lead to material
fatigue, reducing their energy storage capacity and potentially causing failure.
Manufacturing Tolerances: Manufacturing tolerances can affect the accuracy of the
machine's dimensions and assembly, impacting its performance.
6. Future Research and Development
Prototype Development: Constructing a physical prototype is crucial to validate the
theoretical model and assess its actual performance.
Experimental Analysis: Conducting experiments to measure the energy input, output, and
efficiency of the prototype.
Optimization: Refining the design based on experimental data and simulation results to
improve efficiency, minimize energy losses, and address identified limitations.
Exploring Alternative Mechanisms: Investigating alternative mechanisms for energy
conversion, such as piezoelectric materials or shape memory alloys, to potentially improve
efficiency.
7. Conclusion
The SolidWorks model provides a conceptual framework for a free energy machine using
spring and wheel motion. While true perpetual motion is not achievable, this project serves as
a platform for exploring innovative energy conversion mechanisms and understanding the
fundamental principles of thermodynamics. Further research and development are necessary
to refine the design, optimize performance, and assess the practical applications of such a
machine.
