Applying Quantum Levitation to Real World Applications

After Listening to an amazing talk by Boaz Almog on Quantum Levitation, I got really exited on how it can apply to real world problems and situations.  Quantum levitation (or quantum locking) is when a superconductor is locked in place with a magnetic field (see the Meissner effect). This phenomenon allows the superconductor to be levitated above the magnet. If you place the superconductor on a magnetic track, it will lock in place as it moves around the track. Another cool thing is that if you tilt it at a specific angle, it will continue to stay locked at that angle even as it’s moving (see Boaz’s TED Presentation for demonstration).

At the end of Boaz’s TED presentation, he gives an example of how it could be used to lift a car with your bare hands. That really got me thinking of how else this phenomenon can be used for.

1. Car Luggage for Compact Vehicles
What if compact cars can carry luggage twice it’s weight. It would solve any weight issues that could slow the car down or damage the suspension. Also, it would free room inside the car that can be used to add passengers or other important items.

2. Joy Riding
I always imagined what’s it like to fly. Imagine if you’re able to suspend yourself on your car. As you glide from left to right, it will positioning you to your every movement just like eagles in the sky.

3. Using Public Toilets
As an avid trail runner, I’ve seen my share of foul-smelling infested toilets. But when you gotta go … you gotta go. What if there was a portable kit that you can carry with you that allows you to set up a stand (which has a magnetic field). There could then be sticker-like superconductors that you can apply anywhere (in this case, your bottom region). This would allow you to stay suspended in the air, not having to deal with bacteria, viruses, or other harmful things.

4. Avoiding Head-On Collisions
No matter how safe you drive, accidents are inevitable. One of the worst types of accidents are head-on collisions. What if that could be avoided?

5. New Way of Riding Roller Coasters
Roller coaster are constantly getting larger, faster, and full of adrenaline. I can’t imagine a bigger rush than going 60+ mph in loops, turns, twists, and drops while being suspended in thin air. I know they would have to go through thousands of tests to make sure it’s safety proof, but I would jump at the chance of being a beta tester.

What are some other ways this technology can be used? Love to hear your thoughts.