Steam powered iPod charger made from LEGOS
LEGOS. Is there anything they CAN’T do?
Steampunk reader Thomas writes:
“I coupled a Lego Technic Motor to a Jensen #75 steam engine to make a crude generator. From there I built a 5V regulator circuit and soldered in a female USB connection to power any USB device. Since I wanted to use it to charge my iPod, I put in a diode and a .5 amp fuse to provide some circuit protection. Attached are some pictures of it and here are some links to videos of it in action. Unfortunately you can’t see the charge light on the ipod, But as you can hear, the iPod really loads the engine. I was somewhat surprise it could hack it.”
Aaahhh… the old Jensen #75. Now THAT takes me back. I’m actually very excited about this mod, as one of my bigger fears is being sent back in time to the 1800′s and not having any way to charge my iPhone. It would suck to miss out on my chance to call President Lincoln. I guess I just need to remember to always carry a LEGO Technic Motor, female USB connector, diod, and .5 amp with me at all times, just in case, which I usually do anyway.
[Steampunk Workshop via Sava's Place]
Dr. Macenstein rules. You can send him news tips at: plotsuggestion@macenstein.com, and follow him on Twittter @DrMacenstein. You can also play him in Words With Friends under the username: Dr Macenstein.
Macenstein's "Mac Chick of the Month" (April 2007): Andrea Grant
Macenstein's "Mac Chick of the Month" (May 2007): Posh Suicide
Macenstein's "Mac Chick of the Month" (June 2007): Mandy Amano
And don’t forget the solding equipment, or you’ll be stuck trying to melt the wires by sitting on them!
Don’t forget your flux capacitor.
Don’t forget the equipment/parts to build a cell tower too…..