[DESIGN] Une machine à levitation

Q: How big can the floating gap be?
A: The gap distance down from the head device is fixed by the weight of the item and number of magnets you use ; the heavier the object the smaller the gap for the same number of magnets. The gap distance for the IFO3000 is fixed at about 3 cm across the range of objects we Floating Ideas supplies. The object is held by the upper magnet head alone so the gap between the bottom of the object and the base only depends on the object size.

Q: How easy is it to put the object in the magnetic field?
A: The IFO3000 unit comes with a spacer training aid, which is wooden block preventing the object from passing the gravitional/magnetic 'balance point' and quickly sticking to the head. There is both a visual and an audible indication that the object has been captured in the magnetic field and can be released. After a few insertions using the spacer, you can try using your fingers as a spacer, eventually learning to insert the object using no spacer at all.

Q: Why can't the gap be made larger than it is?
A: Magnetic field strength by nature dies away very quickly. Doubling the gap requires about 8 times more magnet strength and electromagnet power. The IFO3000 achieves an aesthetically pleasing gap for a good price.

Q: If I put my hand in the gap will it cause the object to fall?
A: No. As long as you are not wearing a lot of jewellery made of magnetic material then moving your hand 360 degrees around the object will not affect it.

Q: Can I touch the object in the magnetic field?
A: Yes, one of the features of the IFO3000 is the way the magnets and electronics hold the object in the magnetic field. You can push the object and watch it move in the magnetic field. If you push it too hard it will come out of the grip of the magnetic field.

Q: What are the object restrictions on Floating Ideas?
A: Objects must weigh less than 300 gm (12 ounces) and may contain only small amounts of iron or magnetic steel. Non- magnetic materials are preferred. The item to be levitated must be modified or designed to accept a magnet just underneath its top surface. There is a limit to the amount of 'playing around' (pulling up and down on the item while floating), and the related action of inserting/removing objects. Both actions cause maximum power draw and subsequently the electromagnet portion of the magnetic head heats up. Special powerful rare earth magnets must be used. The typical magnet size is 24mm diameter X 10mm high (1" X 3/8")

Q: Are there any health risks from exposure to the magnetic field?
A: No. The system uses safe amounts of permanent magnet and electromagnet power. Normal precautions concerning magnets and computer media, credit cards, sensitive equipment, pacemakers, watches etc. apply. For example, the object magnets either in or out of an item must be handled carefully (keep 150mm (6 in) or more away from credit cards); and magnetic media would be erased or partially erased if placed directly on top of the magnetic head device.

Q: What happens during a power failure?
A: The floating object will always lift up to the magnetic head thereby preventing damage to the object.

Q: How do I change objects?
A: The objects supplied by Floating Ideas are designed to work with the IFO3000 at the nominal gap of 3 cm.