1. ©2006 CSUC Institute for Research in Intelligent Systems Electric Generator June 13, 2006

2. ©2006 CSUC Institute for Research in Intelligent Systems Electric Generator We know that the motors get their power from the batteries that are inside the RCX. The motor converts electrical power into rotational motion. But, is it possible to go the other way. Can you create electrical power from rotational motion?

3. ©2006 CSUC Institute for Research in Intelligent Systems Electric Generator YES! Try the following experiment. Connect two motors together with a motor cable as shown. Attach wheels to the axles so you can turn it. Turn one of the wheels. Does the other one turn?

4. ©2006 CSUC Institute for Research in Intelligent Systems Electric Generator The motor has become an electric generator. Rotational motion (supplied by you) is converted into electrical power, which is sent to the other motor.

5. ©2006 CSUC Institute for Research in Intelligent Systems Electric Generator The RCX gets its energy from batteries. This is what allows the Mindstorm to see, and move.