Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

In the upcoming project exhibition of our school, I decided to make an atmospheric vortex engine model. The thing which is striking most is the structure of it's model. I want to simplify it's structure and want to make a working model from it. Please can you help in suggesting me about the working model, the things requires and how i can show that electricity is being produced. I tried to make a prototype from a computer fan along with a cylinder but the computer fan isn't creating a tornado which is somehow powerful. And i need a substance to make the rotating air visible to the judges.
You can take a brief look at the model on vortexengine.ca site.