Levitated micro-nano force sensor using diamagnetic materials

Under suitable conditions, diamagnetic materials allow to achieve stable levitation of permanent magnets in entirely passive configuration. Using NdFeB magnets and diamagnetic materials such as graphite in a particular configuration, we build a passive levitated force sensor with a variable stiffness and linear output. The suspended part is used as the sensing device and two directions of force measurement are possible. The absence of friction makes the sensor highly sensitive and forces around nN can be measured. The established model of both magnetic and diamagnetic forces allows to calculate the applied force on the end point of the levitating device after measuring the position of the levitating part. This paper presents the description of the levitated sensor, force calculation and experimental results.