Magnetic levitation by chaotic oscillation: a new method

We suggest an unusual new switching-mode control strategy for magnetic levitation. We show that the apparently simplest control strategy, one that relies on a single decision plane, is not capable of levitation, but relying on two decision planes is sufficient for levitation. We demonstrate that the information, whether the suspended object is above an upper reference plane or below a slightly lower reference plane or in between, is sufficient for activating a switch that energizes an electromagnet in such a manner that it stably supports the suspended object. We have analyzed the dynamic features of the suggested system theoretically and have investigated them by experiment and comprehensive simulation. An interesting dynamics associated with chaotic behavior is revealed: the region of stability of the suspended object is related to a strange attractor. We discuss possible applications of the present method.