Building a Maglev Model: Step-by-Step Guide

[bchach01]

Homework Statement

To design a working maglev model... in steps and phases. I m working on creating a working maglev model for college electrical engineering project. I am building this from scratch and I am currently working on a 4-5 section of track to start with levitation.

Homework Equations

should i use any?

The Attempt at a Solution

Im planning on mounting electromagnets into a wooden board that will hold a lightweight car of foam( for the moment just to prove that it works maybe some thing more realistic later). The car will have a square 1 inch magnetic in it. The track, I am planning on placing electromagnets made from nails and enamel coated wire.

Questions:
Should i be using DC or AC to power. Suggestion of gauge of wire. Any ideas?

 

[Valkarie]

Steps:1. Gather materials: Wooden board, nails, enamel coated wire, magnet, foam car. 2. Design a track from the wooden board by drilling holes for the electromagnets to be placed in. 3. Wind the electromagnets using the enamel coated wire and attach to the board. 4. Connect the electromagnets to a power source (DC or AC).5. Place the magnet onto the car. 6. Test the maglev model by running it on the track. 7. If necessary, adjust the magnets and power supply to increase the levitation. 8. Evaluate the performance of the model and make any modifications.