System for collecting stray energy

A converter system for generating electrical signal from an optical signal utilizes a collector for collecting an energy source as an optical signal. The collected optical signal is transmitted to a receiver which is associated with a converter for converting the optical signal to an electric signal. In one embodiment the converter system is incorporated in an electric motor of the type having a housing, a rotating shaft mounted in the housing, a commutator on the shaft, and a pair of permanent magnets, whereby the shaft is rotated in response to electrical power being applied to the commutator. The system includes an optical collector mounted in the housing in non-interfering relationship with the commutator and the shaft, whereby the optical collector is adapted for generating an optical signal from the stray energy in the motor housing when power is applied to the motor and the shaft is rotating. The optical signal thus generated is transmitted to the receiver.