Variable permanent magnet suspension system

Abstract

A magnetic suspension system employing magnetic force-applying means associated with a movable object, in which electrical signals which are a function of at least the rate of change of displacement of said object are applied to said force appliers to restore the object to a reference position whenever it is displaced therefrom by external forces, and in which electrical signals are also applied to said force appliers to produce permanent magnetization therein sufficient to maintain said object in its stable equilibrium position without the application of appreciable power in the absence of further external forces tending to displace it therefrom. The force appliers may comprise loops of magnetically permeable material including as a part thereof a substantially cylindrical portion adapted to encircle a movable object and having a pole piece positioned to exert magnetic force on said object, said loop also being provided with first and second sections of permanently magnetizable material in separate arms thereof, and first and second magnetizing windings respectively encircling said separate arms.