Three vertical-axis wind turbines jointly drive a central shaft, through bicycle chain and gear, connected to a flywheel/crankshaft that move a bicycle pump to compress air into a fiberglass tank, or a small 12V generator.

The triangular configuration makes for a very strong and stable base, upon which multiple sets of turbines can be stacked. A stack of three sets would provide a ‘swept area’ of around 12 m2 and should be able to generate ‘quite a bit’ of power (1 horsepower at 5 m/s wind?)

The bicycle chain drive system is easily maintained and monitored, and so is the bicycle pump.

This particular prototype hasn’t cost US$100 in materials yet.......

McGyver meets Gilligan’s Island....

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