Ultrasonic Levitation Kit

Kit includes:

• Base PCB
• Top PCB
• STC 8G1K17A-36I MCU
• TC4427 MOSFET driver chip
• 40 KHz ultrasonic sensor (x2)
• AMS1117-5.0 voltage regulator
• DIP-8 IC socket
• 1 kΩ metal film resistor
• 3 mm red LED
• 10 µF electrolytic capacitor (x2)
• 104 ceramic capacitor (x2)
• DC Power jack
• Copper fixtures
• AC/DC adapter
• Expanded polystyrene particles
  

Note, a power adapter is included but only a US plug version is available. This can be plugged into any travel adapter and used anywhere in the world. Alternatively, any 9V or 12V power supply with a 5.5 x 2.1 mm plug you have available will also work.

Specifications:

• Working Voltage: 9V or 12V
• Working Current: 36mA for 9V, 45mA for 12V
• Power Interface: 5.5 x 2.1 mm
• PCB Radius: 25 mm
• Height: 46 mm or 51 mm with height adjusters (included)
• Operating Frequency: 40 KHz
• Suspension Capacity: Capable of levitating light objects with a diameter of 2-3 mm, such as expanded polystyrene pieces (included)

Age: 12+

Difficulty: Beginner - Intermediate

Time to assemble: 2-4 hours

Young children require adult supervision when soldering

Ultrasonic Levitation and Its Industrial Applications.

Ultrasonic levitation is a captivating technology that defies gravity using the power of sound waves. By generating high-frequency ultrasonic waves, it creates standing wave patterns that can trap and suspend lightweight objects in mid-air. This phenomenon occurs due to the precise interference of sound waves, which forms pressure nodes capable of counteracting the force of gravity on the suspended item.

Imagine a tiny object, like a piece of foam, floating effortlessly above a device without any physical contact. This isn't science fiction—it's the practical application of ultrasonic levitation. The technology has far-reaching implications, not just for educational kits and DIY projects, but also for various industrial applications. For instance, it allows for the non-contact handling of delicate materials such as microchips, wafers, and even certain biological samples. This contact-free method minimizes the risk of contamination and mechanical damage, which is crucial in fields like semiconductor manufacturing and pharmaceuticals.

Ultrasonic levitation also offers exciting possibilities for scientific research. It provides a unique way to study the properties of materials in a zero-gravity-like environment, enhancing our understanding of fundamental physics. As we continue to explore and harness this technology, the potential applications seem almost limitless, making ultrasonic levitation a true marvel of modern science.

Skills developed and learning benefits:

Explore how ultrasonic waves propagate through a medium.

Learn about wave frequency, wavelength, and amplitude.

Explore the concept of standing waves and how they form through the interference of sound waves.

Investigate sonic nodes (points of zero displacement) and antinodes (points of maximum displacement).

Discover the principles behind acoustic levitation and how sound waves can exert pressure to suspend objects.

By varying the distances between the sound sources, learn how resonance amplifies sound waves and enhances the levitation effect.

Discover the role of various electronic components in generating and controlling ultrasonic waves.

By varying the power input into the system, learn about the relationship between electric currents and sound wave generation.

Develop practical skills in soldering and assembling electronic components. Learn about the importance of component polarity and about current flow in a circuit.

Gain experience in constructing and troubleshooting electronic circuits. Enhance problem-solving skills by diagnosing and fixing issues during assembly and operation. Learn to approach technical challenges methodically.

Learn how to apply the scientific method. Design experiments to collect and analyze data related to the performance of the levitation system. Learn how to interpret experimental results to improve system design. Develop the ability to document and report on experimental procedures and findings.

Learn to follow detailed technical instructions for assembly and operation.

Encourages curiosity and experimentation to explore the effects of varying parameters (e.g., frequency, amplitude) on levitation.

Gain an understanding of how theoretical knowledge of physics can be translated to a real-world application.

Integrates knowledge from physics, electronics, and engineering to understand and build the levitation system.

Developing a deeper understanding of scientific concepts through practical engagement rather than purely theoretical learning.

Inspires further exploration and study in the fields of physics, engineering, and technology and helps to build a foundation for more advanced studies and projects in acoustics, electronics, and related fields.

Prepares learners for future educational and career opportunities in STEM fields.