Abstract: A magnetic levitation system for supporting an object against gravity by a supporting force includes a permanent-magnet dipole aligned in a vertical position and coupled to the object, a supporting-field generator and a stabilization system. The supporting-field generator generates a supporting force on the permanent-magnet dipole via a supporting field. The supporting field is a two-dimensional or three-dimensional magnetic quadrupole field so that the supporting force is independent of a position of the dipole. The stabilization system constrains the dipole against movements in at least one horizontal direction, and includes a diamagnetic element coupled to the dipole and arranged below the dipole, and a stabilizing-field generator generating a second two-dimensional or three-dimensional stabilizing field to restore said diamagnetic element to a position where the field strength of the stabilizing field has a local minimum.

Abstract: Evaporative cooler pump apparatus includes a generally round housing having a plurality of slots on the bottom of the housing which provides the function of an integral screen for the pump to screen out debris and which provides the function of absorbing vibration or dampening vibration to prevent motor vibration from being transmitted to the evaporative cooler in which the pump is disposed. The pump apparatus further includes a circular housing for the pump motor, and may include a wall above the pump motor separating the pump motor from a blower disposed above the motor. Cooled air is drawn upwardly over the motor and is expelled outwardly.