https://video.jeffmcbride.net/videos/watch/76b085c9-e642-48f3-884b-9a63692797b1 One of the struggles in using the XY PCB linear motor to position magnets is that the force is quite low compared to the friction, and so it is difficult to make small precise movements, due to the "stiction". In other words, the static friction is strong, and it takes a certain force to break it, and then it is broken and suddenly the friction drops to the kinetic friction and it probably overshoots the target. I've often thought about using a fluid layer (e.g. silicone oil) and floating the magnet sled on that, but I haven't ever tried it, mainly because it seemed to messy to be worthwhile. I realized that just a small amount of ferrofluid might work, because it should pool up and cling onto the magnets. And indeed, it does, but obviously also makes a huge mess. It certainly lowered friction, but it is very unstable! Sat, 18 Apr 2026 00:51:45 GMT https://validator.w3.org/feed/docs/rss2.html PeerTube - https://video.jeffmcbride.net https://video.jeffmcbride.net/client/assets/images/icons/icon-96x96.png https://video.jeffmcbride.net/videos/watch/76b085c9-e642-48f3-884b-9a63692797b1 All rights reserved, unless otherwise specified in the terms specified at https://video.jeffmcbride.net/about and potential licenses granted by each content's rightholder.