Physics:Toroflux
The Toroflux or Torofluxus is a toy that was invented in mid-1990s by Jochen Valett. It is a 27-foot-long (8.2 m) ribbon of steel which is woven into a torus spring. It is often sold pre-attached to a larger plastic ring. The spring flows downwards along the plastic ring, creating a shimmering effect like a silver bubble. The spring tension in the steel tightens the inner spiral core, causing it to cling to the plastic ring — just like a silver bubble.
In 2010, California -based company "Flowtoys" purchased the rights to the Toroflux and began manufacturing it as a consumer item. There are different brands who manufacture the Toroflux under a different name. It is now purchasable on multiple websites.
References
"流动环现象的动力学分析" (in zh). 力学与实践 41 (6). doi:10.6052/1000-0879-19-276. ISSN 1000-0879. https://lxsj.cstam.org.cn/fileLXYSJ/journal/article/lxysj/html/article/2019/1000-0879/1000-0879-41-6-649.shtml.
External links
- Description of the mechanical properties of the Toroflux
- A "Mathologer" video, featuring the mathematical properties of the Toroflux
- YouTube video of the Toroflux with plastic ring
- YouTube video of the Toroflux used as a toy
- Product website
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