> One of my current projects has this problem also.  We are using a
> transformer with the secondary rotating on the shaft.  It works fine to
> power up a PIC and a bunch of LEDs.

Was this a specially-made transformer ? My usual winder says he
knows what I want but hasn't the formers to do the job. He's just my
first stop of course, but for this level of power I'm sure I could have
a go at something in the shed that gives results. And as I said, I've
got the materials to make a transformer if I can get a ball-park idea
of what's required

> Instead of putting the display on the rotating board, how about using
> an IR LED to send information to a stationary board and display the
> result there?

Yes, that's a possibility. Minimising the transmissions would certainly
save a lot of power and perhaps make batteries an option, although
I have to say I'm in a tinkering mood

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