This is a question for you “green” guys.
Have any of you successfully set up an animated scene using solar panels to power it? If so, how did you do it?
I have a couple ideas, but I’d rather not go through a lot of trial and error just to re-invent the wheel.
Not me and not quite. However FWIW I have a very experienced garden railroader friend who uses solar lighting very effectively in several of his buildings. He merely cuts a hole in the roof and shovs a garden light into each one.
If you have any further adventures along this line I’d certainly like to hear about them, Mik.
One day I’d like to do a solar-powered water wheel. What kind of projects do you have in mind?
I’d like to solar power the drill rig - probably need about 3-4v. but they gots so many different ratings, I’m not sure which one is the best compromise between output and cost, or if you must have a battery in the circuit…
I’m really no expert on Solar, but I think your main concern will be current, not voltage. Individual cells put out very little current and your motor might need 500MA or more, especially to start. Probably will require an array of sorts.
I just Googled “Solar Powered toys”…
You can get solar powered worms and cockroaches here:
http://www.electronickits.com/robot/robot.htm?gclid=CPr71qK1h64CFQWFQAod8X9T6A
http://www.dhgate.com/wholesale/solar+powered+toys.html
Regrettably, Jon’s comments may be very valid indeed.
On http://www.electronickits.com/robot/owi608.htm
I ran across this description of a solar battery:
OWI Solar Battery
The Solar Battery is comprised of a number of photo voltaic cells. Each cell is made from a slab of semiconductor crystal. When light shines on the cell voltage is produced that can create an electrical current in a circuit. The greater the light intensity on the solar battery the greater is the current it can produce. Solar Battery is compatible with OWI 6567 and OWI 6577 kits and many other solar experiments. Intended for use to familiarize students and/or hobbyists with functional solar cell principles, and practical applications of solar cells. Mounting bracket not included. Safe, simple-to-use encapsulated mini-panel. Sturdy panel will endure handling without the breakage and cell damage traditionally associated with solar cells. Create various experiments by exposing and positioning the panel to the energy source. This powerful solar battery features 3 cells in a sleek, low-profile protective housing with mounting holes. Positive and negative terminals are indicated to take the guesswork out of installation. Lead wires are included.
Current: 350mA. Voltage: 1.4
Compatible with models: OWI-6567, OWI-6577
Dimensions: 5" x 2.5"
Note: This is a completed product, no assembly required. OWI608 - Solar Battery - $17.95
350mA may be too little, especially @17.95 !!!
I wonder if that would turn a small motor and drive my waterwheel - I suspect that a simple turning waterwheel would require relatively little power, while a pump with its reciprocating action might be a different matter…
I guess I would be prepared if necessary to start my waterwheel with a little push…
But $17.95 … wow, that’s steep for so little power, isn’t it!!
I’m thinking maybe I should forget solar and just use a wall wart after all. But I’ll keep thinking about solar for this future project, maybe do some more research on all this.
You’ve set me thinking, Mik.