Would This Setup for a Ball Bearing Accelerator Work?

In summary: I would have explained it more clearly in a way that you could understand. A toroid core is more efficient because it has a smaller magnetic field inside its coils. It also has a higher Q factor, which means that it can generate a stronger magnetic field. An iron core will give you a stronger magnetic field, but it will also be more efficient because it has a smaller core. A ferrite core will give you a weaker magnetic field, but it will also be more efficient because it has a larger core.
  • #1

WorldWiz

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TL;DR Summary
Proposal to Use an Inductor Coil underneath Wire Tracks to Accelerate Ball Bearings
I need a method to accelerate a ball bearing down a pair of wire tracks, and to generate a consistent amount of force on every activation. Please critique my tentative design:

I want to use an inductive coil activated by a proximity sensor to generate a transient EM field to accelerate the ball bearing. Since the ball just runs on a pair of wires, I think I may need to place the coil below the tracks (rather than run the tracks through the center of a solenoid), so that there will be some force keeping the ball from flying off the tracks.

As follow-up questions, I’m also wondering if I would get better current to field strength efficiency with a toroid core inductor coil or with a bar core inductor coil generating the attractive magnetic field? I also don’t entirely understand the Q-factor, so for my purposes, would an iron core or a ferrite core be a better choice?

Thanks for your help.
 
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  • #2
WorldWiz said:
I need a method to accelerate a ball bearing down a pair of wire tracks, and to generate a consistent amount of force on every activation. Please critique my tentative design:
Will the ball roll or slide as it travels along the tracks ?
If it rolls, the kinetic energy will be reduced by the rotational energy.
If it slides, the kinetic energy will only be reduced by friction.
If both, the velocity will be unpredictable.

Skin effect will limit the depth of the ball subjected to the magnetic field pulse. The currents and magnetic field, induced in the surface of the ball, will rotate with the ball. You might get a greater launch speed from a hollow sphere, or an aluminium ring.
 
  • #3
WorldWiz said:
As follow-up questions, I’m also wondering if I would get better current to field strength efficiency with a toroid core inductor coil or with a bar core inductor coil generating the attractive magnetic field?
So you didn't read my replies in your other thread? That is most disappointing...
 

1. How does a ball bearing accelerator work?

A ball bearing accelerator works by using a series of ramps and magnets to propel a ball bearing at high speeds. The ramps are designed to increase the ball bearing's speed as it rolls down, while the magnets repel the ball bearing, providing an additional force.

2. What materials are needed to build a ball bearing accelerator?

The main materials needed to build a ball bearing accelerator are ramps, magnets, and a sturdy base. The ramps can be made from various materials such as wood or metal, while the magnets can be either neodymium or ceramic. The base should be able to support the weight of the ramps and magnets and provide stability for the accelerator.

3. Can a ball bearing accelerator be used for scientific experiments?

Yes, a ball bearing accelerator can be used for scientific experiments. It can be used to demonstrate concepts such as potential and kinetic energy, forces, and magnetism. It can also be used to test the effects of different ramp angles and magnetic strengths on the acceleration of the ball bearing.

4. What are the limitations of a ball bearing accelerator?

One limitation of a ball bearing accelerator is the maximum speed that can be achieved. The speed is limited by the material and design of the ramps and the strength of the magnets. Another limitation is the accuracy and consistency of the acceleration, which can be affected by variations in the surface of the ramps and the alignment of the magnets.

5. Can a ball bearing accelerator be scaled up for larger objects?

Yes, a ball bearing accelerator can be scaled up for larger objects. However, the design and materials used may need to be adjusted to accommodate the weight and size of the objects. Additionally, the speed and accuracy of the acceleration may also be affected by the size of the objects.

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