Fun with Magnets (Smart Maglev Train & Hall-Sensor Magnetic Field Mapper)
Source:
Levitate a train on magnetic tracks! Construct a model Maglev train using neodymium magnets. A grid of 16 Hall-effect magnetic sensors maps invisible North and South magnetic field lines, displaying live field maps on an OLED screen.
Categorisation
Props & Materials Required
- •Maglev train track with magnetic guide rails
- •Model Maglev car with strong Neodymium magnets
- •4x4 (16 sensor) A3144 Hall-effect magnetic sensor grid array
- •ESP32 controller board
- •0.96-inch OLED display screen
- •DFPlayer Mini MP3 module + 3W speaker
Step-by-Step Instructions
Align Repelling Magnetic Rails
Align magnetic rails so North poles face North poles on the train car.
Float Maglev Train Car
Place train car on track. Magnetic repulsion lifts train 5mm into mid-air float!
Scan Magnetic Field Lines
Move Hall-effect sensor wand over magnets. OLED displays 2D magnetic heat map showing N and S poles.
Frictionless Speed Test
Nudge Maglev car down track. Car glides friction-free! Speaker explains bullet trains travelling at 500 km/h using magnetic levitation!
Why It Works & Notes
Like poles repel (N-N or S-S) while opposite poles attract (N-S). Using neodymium magnet tracks to float a train car frictionless in mid-air while Hall-effect sensors map magnetic field density makes magnetism visible.