In an impressive display of engineering and creativity, the famous DIY youtuber JLaser has successfully built a functional hoverboard inspired by the iconic device from the "Back to the Future" film series. The creator achieved this levitation effect by utilizing the physics concept known as the ground effect. The hoverboard hovers above the ground, thanks to a cushion of air, offering a glimpse of the future right now.
The hoverboard's functionality relies on the ground effect, a principle where fast-moving air sticks to the smooth surfaces of an object, creating a low-pressure area on top that counteracts gravity. This unique property allows the hoverboard to self-correct its height, providing stable and controlled levitation. While the prototype utilizes air compressors, the creator's ultimate goal is to develop a hoverboard that can operate independently without the need for external equipment.
Throughout the development process, the creator explored various levitation techniques, such as magnetic levitation using powerful magnets and superconductors. While these methods showed promise, they came with limitations, including cost and temperature requirements.
The ground effect emerged as the most practical means of achieving true hoverboard capabilities, with the added benefit of being able to hover over different surfaces.
