Magnetic levitation
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Magnetic levitation (maglev) or magnetic suspension is a method by which an object is suspended with no support other than magnetic fields. Magnetic force is used to counteract the effects of the gravitational force and any other forces.
Magnetic levitation can be stabilised using different techniques; here rotation (spin) is used
A superconductor levitating a permanent magnet
An example of magnetic pseudo-levitation with a mechanical guide (wooden rod) providing stability
The Transrapid system uses servomechanisms to pull the train up from underneath the track and maintains a constant gap while travelling at high speed
Linear induction motor
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A linear induction motor (LIM) is an alternating current (AC), asynchronous linear motor that works by the same general principles as other induction motors but is typically designed to directly produce motion in a straight line. Characteristically, linear induction motors have a finite primary or secondary length, which generates end-effects, whereas a conventional induction motor is arranged in an endless loop.
The Birmingham Airport Maglev shuttle
AirTrain JFK trains propel themselves using an aluminium induction strip placed between the rails.
A diagram of EMALS' induction motor
LIMTV Linear Induction Motor Test Vehicle in 1973