Improved generator for use with low-speed rotating machines

A low technology, maintenance free DC electrical generator suited for use with low speed rotating machines such as windmills or waterwheels was constructed. The generator consists of permanent magnets affixed to the circumference of the rotating device, and stationary coils mounted on a semicircular frame. As the device rotates, the magnets move past the coils and magnetically induce an AC voltage in the coils. This voltage is rectified and stored in a battery. No gears, belts, or bushes are used. By mounting the magnets at the circumference of the rotating device high relative velocities between magnets and coils even at slow rotations are achieved to extract energy from very light winds or slowly flowing water. The generator easily reaches charging voltages at low speeds, and operates quietly without mechanical wear. But the charging current is very low in comparison to a wind turbine of conventional design.