MAGFRIDER

College of Engineering: Engineers turn ideas (technical, scientific, mathematical) into reality. Tell us about your interest in engineering or an engineering idea you have. Explain how Cornell engineering can help you further explore this interest or idea.

 

Abstract

 

"Magfrider" is an electronic replacement for ball bearings in moveable parts of machines. The system includes electro-magnets placed on two concentric wheels: the Internal Rotating Wheel (IRW) and the Outer Stationary Wheel (OSW). Electro-magnets are aligned in such a way that poles of magnets from IRW face like poles of magnets from the OSW. The IRW is connected to an axel from another system while the OSW is clamped to a rigid surface. Assuming that magnets in the system are powerful enough, the IRW levitates inside the OSW.

 

"Magfrider" can have many applications but an important one would be in the field of electricity generation. In Wind Generators, two Magfrider Wheels can be used to hold the axel joining the turbine with the generator. Since Magfriders prevent physical contact between the moving parts, friction in the wind generator will reduce drastically resulting in higher yield rate. Magfriders can also be used in the generators upon replacing them with the bearings. Infact, they can also be used in any machines where ball-bearings are used and this includes vehicles, industrial appliances and so on.

                                                 

Although the electromagnets consume electricity, a Magfrider helps immensely to slow capital depreciation and therefore, even has economic implications. Where machines wear out in matter of years, the use of Magfriders can help lengthen the life of machines. With moving parts free from abrasion, firms will have to invest less on the maintenance of their machines.