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At my former Science Centre, we went through various iterations of bicycle
generators.  The most recent versions have lasted many years, using upright
exercise bikes, with the generators housed in clear plexi boxes in front.
One of the bikes was tied in to a series of large LED displays (the more you
pedalled, the higher the lights lit).  At certain spots in the series, an
arrow indicated that you were generating enough electricity to power various
electrical devices.

The other bike was even more popular.  I purchased a B&W 12volt TV and video
camera from radio shack (about $200 way back then) and had it wired to the
generator.  The camera is directed at the rider.  Upon reaching a certain
level of exertion (and electrical generation), the camera and tv powered up
and displayed the grinning face of the rider.  People loved it - they just
love to see themselves on TV!  You might want to consider something along
those lines (much greater attracting power than powering up a radio or fan).

-George Wurtak Consulting
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-----original message-----

> Our museum is looking to replace our well-worn bicycle generator exhibit
with a new one. The current exhibit consists of a Schwinn exercise bicycle
hooked up to a generator that is wired to a series of light bulbs. The
faster the visitor pedals, the more lights light up. Next to the lights, we
have illustrations of household items that could be powered by the different
amounts of electricity generated.
> This exhibit is a good one, and still quite popular, so we'd like to offer
the same type of exhibit, but we think maybe it can be done better.
>
> Has anyone seen an exemplary version of this exhibit anywhere?
> Anybody know of a fabricator that builds one of these in an off-the shelf
version?
> Have you ever seen one of these done with a recumbent bike?
> We would appreciate any suggestions.
> Thanks!
>
> Bruce Quast
> Exhibits Director
> Discovery Center Museum
> 815/972-2833
> [log in to unmask]
>
>

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