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Lexus Unveils Its Working Hoverboard
An anonymous reader writes: Lexus has revealed its eagerly anticipated "SLIDE" hoverboard, which uses magnetic fields to carry its rider without touching the ground. The board is confined to custom-built skatepark, remaining suspended due to the board's repulsion from a specially made magnetic track. Mark Templin, Executive Vice President at Lexus International said: "Embarking on this project, we set out to push the boundaries of technology, design and innovation to make the impossible possible. With this project we call 'SLIDE', we collaborated with partners who share our passion for creating enjoyment out of motion. Even through combining our technology and expertise, we discovered making a hoverboard isn't an easy process. We've experienced the highs and lows and have overcome a few challenges, but through mutual determination we have created a demonstration of our philosophy in design and technology to create Amazing in Motion."
The article is bunk; the Lexus hoverboard works not via opposing magnets but the Meissner effect (a superconductor excluding magnetic fields). Orientation isn't important; you could flip it upside down, turn the board on its side, flip the *track* upside down (if the field is strong enough), and it will hang in place in exactly the way your brain says it shouldn't.
However, the main flaw with this and the Hendo hoverboard is control; you're essentially riding an air-hockey puck. You can't effectively steer by leaning, and good luck kicking off without sending yourself spinning.
How can I believe you when you tell me what I don't want to hear?
How many gigawatts will that thing run on, though?
Actually none - it uses liquid nitrogen to keep the superconducting pads below critical temperature. Hence the wisps of condensation from the feet of the rider in the video. The superconductor is then essentially quantum locked into the magnetic field produced by the buried track: any change in field would induce a current in the superconductor to oppose that change. This is actually a common physics demo they have just improved the presentation. Still it would be a fantastic way to make an entrance for a relevant lecture - I wonder if they offer academic pricing for the board and track installation...
The words you are looking for are actually The Meisnner Effect.
File under 'M' for 'Manic ranting'