Spring Polymagnets
This design note goes into detail about spring Polymagnets, which rest at a defined distance apart from each other, repel when pushed together and attract when pulled apart.
Spring Polymagnets are available for purchase in the Polymagnet Catalog in a range of sizes and configurations that exhibit different attach and repel strengths and with different resting points.
Below is a video demonstration and an animation of the Spring Polymagnet function.
Spring Polymagnets behave like a magnetic spring. The magnets rest at a defined distance apart from each other and repel when pushed. If the magnets are pulled apart, they try to pull together.
Spring Polymagnets are produced in matched pairs and rest at an equilibrium distance apart. Spring Polymagnets do not automatically align so they must be constrained and centered with respect to each other to perform properly.
Some observers have described the behavior of the spring Polymagnet as a contactless attachment, which is a unique property in the world of mechanical engineering.
Another unique attribute of spring Polymagnets is that they dampen vibrations from one magnet to the other. They act as a vibration isolation device across a range of mass and frequencies, which can be tuned for a specific application.
I see in the vid that you use a pole to constrain the lateral movement of the magnets. Is there a reason why one could not use other poly magnets to constrain the lateral movement, to create a truly contactless spring? Imagine a tube with poly magnets along the wall of the tube.
Seems like there might be applications here in frictionless gearing. I’m not sure how strong of a field might need to be in place for a typical (engine?) scenario, but if the forces can be overcome in gearing, it seems like huge gains in efficiency without needing lubricants could be provided. Thoughts?
shapes have changing permeability as the dimensions change and motion produces eddy currents. Not as “frictionless” as you might hope. Certainly rate sensitive.
My thoughts go to bearings. And how ubiquitous rotating equipment is in today’s world.