Continuous Motion Zipline

Sponsor: Empower Playground, Inc.

Team: Englighten

Coach: Carl Sorenson

Students: Nate Boyce, JJ Campbell, James Carroll, Dave Eldredge, Devin Furse

Team Enlighten developed a zipline that generates electricity for rural schools in Ghana that are off the power grid. The team tested gear sizes and ratios, mounting systems, height differentials, and different types of rope in order to maximize the output power.

The team tested various machines for maximum levels of fun and wattage. The machine runs at 10 feet per second and produces 120 watts at its peak.

The zipline was produced using materials available in Ghana. The main structure can be produced for less than $1,000, including labor.