Over the past two years, there has been a steady increase of levitating objects entering the marketplace and wooing people looking to set their decor apart from other everyday objects. Levitation, in particular, is attractive as there is a Harry Potter-esque magic to them, even though it's the understood use of wireless charging and inductive coupling that helps make floating possible. Wireless charging through inductive coupling is possible through an electric current moving through a coiled wire in one device (which creates an amplified magnetic field around the wire) and a second coil of wire in a separate device that receives the current from the first coil and thus charges. But enough with the science, here's are a few of the best "magical" items:
1.OvRcharge: Levitating Wireless Chargers
Currently on Kickstarter, and funded through August 18, 2016, the OvRcharge has managed to raise over $44,000 of its initial $30,885 goal. The device looks like a simple wood block (currently available is dark, walnut and cherry) and is able to wirelessly charge your phone while also allowing it to simultaneously levitate about an inch above the block and spin. The Kickstarter page also claims that after your phone is done charging, it will continue to levitate without charging your device, meaning that not only will it protect your phone from being overcharged but it can also function as a purely decorative piece. Check out the Kickstarter page to see how you can still contribute and get an early bird charger, and see the video below:
2. Hoshinchu Air Bonsai Garden's "Air Bonsai"
Another levitating device brought to reality with the help of Kickstarter, where it received over $800,000, the "Air Bonsai" is a floating bonsai tree with a magnetic base. The "Little Star" design a small mossy sphere with a porcelain energy base. The energy base conducts electric energy to make the plant float and the energy base is made of traditional Japanese "Imari" porcelain, according to the Kickstarter page. Currently available through its own website for pre-order for about $298.56 the device ships to Japan, USA and Canada only.
Another Kickstarter, this one has four days left to back the project and receive your early bird cup by contributing. This idea, in particular, is interesting because of its capabilities for being used in high-end restaurants and bars; there's a neat gif on the Kickstarter page showing a man walking while holding the base and the cup following along, unheld.
4. Crealev
Rather than a single product, Dutch company Crealev is a company that specializes in providing floating devices for businesses, distributors, ad agencies, end-users and consumers. According to the website, Crealev uses "patented magnetic levitation (maglev) technology" for its products, which can be divided up into three main categories:; levitation modules, display products and floating lamps. If you have plenty of money to spend, you can purchase some of its products directly through its website, like Eclipse #2 Floating Lamp for €1,185.80 (including VAT)
5. Flyte
This levitating lightbulb is currently available for purchase in four different wood styles for $349 each. Using a wood block, similar in appearance to OvRcharge, the light bulb can float and is powered without the use of batteries. According to the website each bulb has a lifespan of 50,000 hours, has a brightness of 60 lumens and can float about 15-17 millimeters or just over half an inch. Replacement bulbs are available for purchase separately for $59. Personally, I like the idea of putting this on a nightstand or even hanging it upside down or on a wall where it is seen easily. There are also planters available on Lyfe available for purchase for $199.
