The AirEnergy3D Project is an open source, 3D printed wind turbine that was developed by Omni3D. Each turbine can generate up to 300 watts of electrical power and is, moreover, fully transportable via backpack. This means that not only could these small units be used at home, they could conceivably be taken camping as a means of producing energy for a campsite. The team has already created a successful proof of concept and has turned to Kickstarter to request the funding necessary to finalize the design and initiate production.
The team hopes to develop a basic kit that is easy to transport and establish. The plans are also all available for those with a DIY mentality who want to create their own kit with things that they can find at their local stores. In addition to the wind turbine itself, the team is working to create a mounting system that will allow their creation to be installed in a variety of locations and be resistant to a wide range of weather conditions.
“There is a problem with power-lines there and the days simply end when the sun goes down. The only option is to transport batteries and charge them at a station. Imagine having to go 10 miles just to get electricity for your desk lamp!”
The team’s commitment to the idea of free, green energy for everyone is demonstrated in the heart of their Kickstarter campaign which promises that for every £2,500 (approximately $4,200) donated, they will provide one fully functional AirEnergy3D with preprinted propellers to an African village in need. Sierzputowski has also recognized that this innovative energy creation system is not just the answer to the lack of electrical infrastructure in sub-Saharan Africa but also answers the call for the creation of cleaner energy sources in places with already highly developed electricity distribution systems.
“Western countries constantly pollute our planet with waste from nuclear and traditional fossil fuel plants. We simply waste electric power and slowly kill our planet. So, let’s bring clean, renewable, and mobile energy to every doorstep around the world.”
The team is hoping to raise a total of £19,000 (almost $32,000) through Kickstarter in the next 33 days. They have received £1,131 (nearly $2,000) to date. Higher funding levels include an AirEnergy3D basic kit itself.
The ultimate likeability of the team comes through because of their passion for this project and their good-natured humor. Donation rewards range from a ‘thank you’ phone call to a personalized trophy because, after all, as they note, “there’s nothing that says YOU more than…well, your name on something!” They offer everything short of flying over to give backers a hug, although I would not be at all surprised to find that if you were in the area they would be glad to provide one.
Have you backed this project or are you considering it? Let’s here you opinion on this project in the AirEnergy3D forum thread on 3DPB.com. Check out the Kickstarter pitch video below: