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I just want to spend a moment of my time to wish my fellow readers and your families a Wonderful and Merry Christmas! 

I came across a wonderful website called Battery Universe.  This website provides lots of insightful information to the most popular types of batteries, Li-Ion, NiMH, NiCd, and other types.  They are very informative providing details on how to extend the life of these batteries by describing optimal charging circuits and what kind of charge and discharge cycles should be applied that would inhibit the least negative effect on the battery.

The folks at Applied Sciences have created a Vertical Wind Turbine with a very good step by step guide posted for anyone to use.  They are calling this turbine 'The Zeotrope'.

The Zeotrope was created keeping one item in mind, how can a DIY be able to easily re-create this device on their own.  The first step in achieving this was to use commonly available parts.  The second was easy construction setup.  And three, make good instructions.

The folks at Applied Sciences have succeeded at all three of these steps.  For materials, they strictly stuck to items you can find at your local Home Depot or Lowe's Home Improvement stores.  The only exception is the magnetic wire which you'll have to scavenge around a bit to find.  (Hint: Used electric motors or automotive alternators are a good source for these materials).

And most importantly they have posted detailed instructions are some video's to show you exactly how they have performed the creation of this turbine.

The end result you may ask?  Is a turbine that won't be an eye-sore in your neighborhood, therefore your neighbors won't be complaining.  Best of all, when done right to the posted instructions it is capable of producing 200-watts of energy at moderate winds is being quoted around 20-mph.  Although I have not seen the maximum wind speed this device can accept before destruction, its not bad first time task for someone looking to get involved in wind power devices.

To read about all the details of the unit including the ability to watch the How-To Guides to this Open Source based VAWT Check out the Article Here from Applied Sciences.