Overview
Project Summary
Designed and built a fully mechanical energy storage device that captures 10 J from a falling 2 kg mass, stores it for 10 seconds, then releases it to lift a 1 kg output mass — with no electrical components. The chosen design, the Spring Cluster, uses a planetary gearbox and four 3D-printed PLA spiral torsion springs. It achieved a measured efficiency of 36%, placing 3rd in the cohort by efficiency-to-weight ratio.
Design Visuals
Morphological Chart & Concept Sketch
System Architecture
Function Block Diagram
Detail Design
Spring States: Loaded vs Released
Conclusion
Summary & Outcomes
The Spring Cluster battery met all fixed requirements, completed 3+ reliable cycles, and achieved 36% measured efficiency (vs. 54% theoretical). Key losses came from PLA gear/spring friction and assembly tolerances. Ranked 3rd in the cohort by efficiency-to-weight ratio.