The Maglev Test Bench is a fixture used to test the Inductrack system. The wood (Nor Board) has been donated by Midwestern Wood Products Co. A computer numerically controlled (CNC) router was used to cut the parts to create the test wheel, and the copper track. This CNC is shown in figure 1.

Figure 1 – CNC Router

Figure 2 shows the Maglev Test Bench created.

Figure 1 – CNC Router

The laminated copper track requires precision machining in order to create grooves closely spaced, and terminating prior to the ends of the sheet. A ‘V’ bit has been used to create the small grooves between conductive strips. The ‘V’ bit allows for the smallest groove possible by a router. The ‘V’ bit is shown in figure 3.

Figure 3 – ‘V’ Bit for Cutting Grooves

This procedure has been found to be very difficult. The copper must be kept flat, held down, and cut slowly. The creation of a piece of track is very time consuming. Figure 4 shows a portion of the track.

Figure 4 – Laminated Copper Track