Windmills in Malawi

Here is a beautiful video about a Malawian man who designed his own windmill for his family compound with only a photo and a library book to reference. Check it out!

Moving Windmills from m ss ng p eces on Vimeo.

Installing a back up generator transfer switch

I've been getting questions about how to install a back up generator transfer switch.  The installation can happen at any time, either at the beginning of a build or home remodel, or it can be added later to provide your home with a back up power option in case of power failure.  The switch provides a safe and quick way to transfer the input of power from the utility company to your personal back up generator.  Here is a very clear and carefully explained video about how to install the back up generator transfer switch your self.  It is made by the 'Reliance' company.  I know very little about this company or their products so I am in no way endorsing the product itself.  I do appreciate the thorough nature of this video. 

Bio Polymer Film Developed by MIT

 

MIT has developed a Bio Polymer film that harvests electricity through its reaction with water.  This is a brand new material. As it curls and moves when introduced to tiny bits of water, sensors harness the power created by movement.  This process converts mechanical energy into electricity.  The efficiency is still under modifications for efficiency, but it is an entirely new and exciting material! 

Also, Happy New Year!  Lots on the horizon this 2013 in the Wirerunner world.  Be sure to check back often.  Thank you for reading and I appreciate all the support!

Inflatable Solar Powered Lights

These LuminAID lights are solar powered led lights that are inflatable and water proof.  Designed for emergency lighting, they fold up and are extremely portable.  You can hang them up like a lantern AND they float!  The luminAID lights are fully charged after 5 hours of sunlight.  They have two light settings.  The high setting light lasts for 8 hours on a full charge.  They are perfect for an emergency kit and traveling.  For disaster zones, approximately 50 LuminAID Lights can be packed and shipped for every 8 small conventional flashlights by volume.

LuminAID is donating one light for every light purchased through their Give Light, Get Light package.  Check it out!

New Cone Shaped Solar Panels!

Image by V3 Solar

Designed by V3 Solar.  Using the same area of cells as flat panels, these spinning cell cones generate over 20 times more electricity.  Plus they look like alien pods, which is awesome!
           

Wifi enabled multi color L.E.D. light bulb!

Sexy Futuristic Light Fixtures!

I came across this light fixture series while I was posting to my Square Hustle tumblr.  The whole series is incredible!  So much detail and precision.  I love the steam punk look of each light.  They are all designed and created by Frank Buchwald from Berlin.  There are beautiful photos of his process on the site.   I recommend checking it out.  He also has a really great 'blackboard' or blog with lots of wirerunner approved images of electrical situations around the world, its right up my alley!