Magnetic Fake-Tensegrity Structure

thingiverse

Parts have not been printed or tested yet, they are just potentially functional concept models as of 7/12/2020. These models are designed to be printed with a magnet embedded in their hollow cavity by pausing just before the cavity is closed. Each part has holes to thread fishing wire or some other fiber through, countering the repulsion between the two embedded magnets. By my calculation, based on a calculator provided at kjmagnetics.com/calculator.repel.asp, a distance of 1.75" between the magnets will generate 1.08lb of repelling force and a distance of 1.50" will produce 1.64lb of repelling force. A soda can typically weighs about .75lb, so this should provide ample force. I anticipate that some experimentation may be needed to set this up ideally, so I'll update this page when I get it working.