Abstract: A method and system for magnetically levitating a load is disclosed. One embodiment of the invention is a system for magnetically levitating a load, the system comprising at least two lift generators, each comprising a source of magnetic flux configured to induce a magnetic flux in a rail via a leg on either side of the rail, at least one magnetically permeable beam connecting the lift generators, and control circuitry configured to generate and modulate a magnetic current flux through the crossbeam so as to maintain gaps between the legs and rail, wherein the gaps defined by the legs on either side of the rail are of unequal size.

Abstract: A method and system for transportation using a magnetic bearing structure is disclosed. In one aspect, an apparatus for carrying a load comprises a source of magnetic flux and a controller configured to control the position of the source of magnetic flux relative to a magnetizable structure. The source of magnetic flux comprises a first upper portion and a first lower portion of opposite polarities. The first portions are spaced apart horizontally from a first side of the magnetizable structure. The source of magnetic flux further comprises a second upper portion and a second lower portion of opposite polarities. The second portions are spaced apart horizontally from a second side of the magnetizable structure. The second side is opposite the first side. The first and second upper portions are magnetically attracted to an upper portion of the magnetizable structure and the first and second lower portions are magnetically attracted to a lower portion of the magnetizable structure.

Abstract: A system and method for moving an object is disclosed. In one aspect, there is a device for moving an object. The device comprises a penetrating structure comprising an externally threaded surface. The device further comprises a receiving structure comprising an internally threaded cylinder surrounding the penetrating structure. The device further comprises a source of magnetic flux configured to magnetize the externally threaded surface with a first polarity and to magnetize the internally threaded cylinder with a second polarity that is different from the first polarity. The device further comprises a conductor positioned between the penetrating structure and the receiving structure configured to conduct an electric current. The device further comprises a sensor configured to determine the radial position of the penetrating structure with respect to the receiving structure.

Abstract: A method and system for transportation using a magnetic bearing structure is disclosed. In one aspect, an apparatus for carrying a load comprises a source of magnetic flux and a controller configured to control the position of the source of magnetic flux relative to a magnetizable structure. The source of magnetic flux comprises a first upper portion and a first lower portion of opposite polarities. The first portions are spaced apart horizontally from a first side of the magnetizable structure. The source of magnetic flux further comprises a second upper portion and a second lower portion of opposite polarities. The second portions are spaced apart horizontally from a second side of the magnetizable structure. The second side is opposite the first side. The first and second upper portions are magnetically attracted to an upper portion of the magnetizable structure and the first and second lower portions are magnetically attracted to a lower portion of the magnetizable structure.

Abstract: This disclosure describes an electromagnetic system for efficient propulsion, suspension, and guidance. The track is inexpensive totally passive steel. This linear form of the D.C. motor provides traction motor characteristics without physical contact, The moveable element (vehicle) comprises both the integrated armature and field magnet flux source which induces magnetizing flux into pairs of rails each energizing a set of interdigitated poles of alternating polarity in the track against which its own armature conductors interact for thrust and braking. This source of magnetic flux requires no power and provides passive suspension at any speed and, with control, guidance. The permanent magnet and control flux in common airgaps multiply the effectiveness of lateral control for magnetic stabilization and to restrain external forces.