Inspiration

There are only a scant few functional MAGLEV trains in use around the world; only used in Korea, Japan, and China. They are highly efficient and minimize friction/energy consumption with electro-magnets and auto-propulsion systems. However, these MAGLEV trains are extremely expensive to make, so we sought out to make a model that minimizes costs but also maximizes efficiency

What it does

A down-scaled model of a train that levitates via magnetism on a same-pole magnet track. It moves along the track with minimal friction, and practically glides across it.

How we built it

We bought decently strong magnets and made the railroad track out of cardboard and duct tape. The chassis of the train is made out of a block of wood cut to size.

Challenges we ran into

Cutting down friction, getting the size of our train "hood" to fit around the track, and assorting the magnets in an efficient way.

Accomplishments that we're proud of

Getting the basics down of magnetic levitation, and even achieving stand-still levitation.

What we learned

The intricacies of magnetism, levitation, and the variations in different MAGLEV models.

What's next for MAGLEV train model

Acquiring the proper resources, using more precise measurements, and expanding on our research.

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