Solar Engine Made from 3D Printer

Using 3D printing technology, an average person can create a solar-powered engine.

3D printing technology can create solar-powered engines. Photo: Popsci

German engineer Andreas Haeuser uses a 3D printer to create a solar-powered Stirling engine.

Stirling engines typically use heat to drive a flywheel. But instead of using steam, Haeuser’s technology uses optical mirrors to concentrate sunlight and increase efficiency. This engine model could be used to pump water or generate electricity.

Aside from commonly available parts like nuts and bolts, all the rest of the engine can be 3D printed from a variety of plastics. Hauser is selling the files to print the parts for around $15.

Although the motor is limited in its ability to generate energy, the convenience and reasonable cost of production can be applied anywhere there is sunlight, from rural areas to developed areas. Owning a 3D printer is enough to be able to freely create solar-powered motors.

According to VnExpress