YouTuber Builds LEGO Electric Motor Achieving 4,000 RPM
One innovative project is drawing attention in the DIY community. Jamie, a creator on YouTube channel Filmogaz.com, has built a fully functional electric motor using LEGO bricks. This motor operates on basic electromagnetic principles and minimal electronic components.
YouTuber Builds LEGO Electric Motor Achieving 4,000 RPM
Jamie’s electric motor design employs common parts found in many households. It requires no complex motors or advanced control systems. Instead, it relies on simple components like copper wire, magnets, a transistor, and a 9-volt battery.
Understanding the Electric Motor’s Core Components
The motor’s construction begins with a rotor, which spins thanks to two neodymium magnets. These magnets are strategically placed on an axle and require temporary adhesive for stability during the testing phase. Jamie utilized two 20×10 mm neodymium magnets that provide sufficient speed for the rotor.
- Rotor: The spinning component with two neodymium magnets.
- Driving Coil: Composed of approximately 150 turns of 27-gauge copper wire.
- Sensor Coil: Features about 100 turns of 32-gauge wire to detect rotor position.
- Transistor: A TIP31C transistor manages power supply.
- Battery: A 9-volt battery initiates motor operation.
How the Motor Maintains Movement
The motor begins to operate with a pulse from the battery. However, this initial push only keeps it running briefly due to diminishing momentum. Jamie addresses this challenge by integrating a sensor coil. As the rotor spins, magnets passing by induce a small current in the sensor coil, which triggers the transistor.
This transistor acts as a switch, delivering a sustained power pulse, vital for continuous motion. Each pulse also activates an LED indicator, confirming that the timing is accurate. If the connections are reversed, the motor may stall, but this can be easily corrected by switching the wires.
Performance Insights
In its basic form with two magnets, the motor achieves a speed of approximately 1,300 RPM. However, Jamie added a 3:1 gear reduction to enhance torque, allowing the motor to drive a small LEGO car. The design strategy emphasizes balancing speed and torque effectively.
Additionally, Jamie experimented with a rotor featuring eight magnets arranged on a disc. This upgrade resulted in a drop in speed to around 480 RPM but offered greater torque and smoother operation. More frequent sensor interactions lead to consistent and evenly spaced power pulses.
The Educational Value of Jamie’s Project
This project goes beyond a simple hobby. It serves as a tangible demonstration of electromagnetism. Electric motors play a crucial role in modern technology, powering everything from appliances to electric vehicles.
By constructing a visible motor, Jamie provides an accessible way for students and enthusiasts to grasp the principles of timing, magnetic interaction, and feedback control. His work demystifies the mechanics behind electric motors, making learning engaging and interactive.
