A Magnetic Ball and Socket, an ∈-Axle, and a Floating Windmill

摘要

We describe and analyze a magnetic bearing built using a permanent magnet assembly. The magnetic bearing comprises a conical female magnet assembly and a rotation-ally symmetric identically polarized male piece. The opposition of the two parts produces a force between them which tends to hold them apart and aligned along an axis of symmetry. We describe the bearing and its use in generating an ∈-axle, or an axle having a friction of some ∈ > 0. Finally, we integrate this ∈-axle into a windmill design in which a single point of contact exists on the main axle.