Importance

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Abstract

Systems and methods for a magnetic braking system for controlling the descent of a payload against gravity are disclosed herein. The magnetic braking system may allow for a user to descend along a descending structure, such as a rope, hands-free. A plurality of conductive bands, comprising a non-ferromagnetic material, may be affixed to an exterior of the descending structure. The payload may be connected to the descending structure via a lanyard having a collar that circumferentially attaches to the descending structure. The collar may comprise magnetic assemblies arranged as a linear Halbach array. As the collar translates past the conductors, eddy currents may be generated within the conductive bands, resulting in a repelling magnetic field that may provide a braking force that acts upon the collar, thereby slowing the descent of the payload.

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First Claim