Hobbies And Interests
History
The first small engine invented for use in an automobile was invented by French engineer Alphonse Beau de Rochas in 1889. This engine was a four-step combustion engine which is still seen in cars around the world today. This particular engine was Alphonse Beau de Rochas's third public engine invention, as his previous inventions were too large for automobile usage.
Function
Modern day technology combined with historical invention has been able to invent even smaller engines for tool and equipment usage, thanks to several inventors such as James Watt, Rochas and other inventors. Small engines can be found in toys, machinery and other sources, with even smaller engines possibly to be invented in the near future.
Size
The world's smallest engine to date was invented at the University of California, Berkeley in 2001. With a hope to one-day replace batteries, the smallest engine produced only 2.5 watts of electricity, able to power a bicycle headlamp. The university has been experimenting towards increasing the power of their small engine.
Effects
Thanks to the original inventors of different types of engines combined with modern science, new inventors are producing smaller, more efficient and environmentally friendly engines. Most engine inventors were simply seeking a faster and more efficient method of production within the profession they were employed in, at the time and succeeded.
Benefits
Although small engines may not produce as much power as larger engines, they still produce on average 25hp. The speed of a small engine is enough to power a portable generator, lawnmower, auger and other similar tools. The parts of smaller engines are easily replaceable and repairable, without heavy lifting and with easy instruction.