Main goal:
reduce friction between sled and material to reduce drag while moving (especially along the sides)
Strategy:
After reading this forum topic (Vacuum Sled Experiment) I was inspired into experimenting with a hover add-on for the sled. The concept is very similar to the basic function of an air hockey table, a quick search on youtube revealed multiple diy build videos so the following design was made:
*this is actually the second design. The first design had an even spread of holes and no slots, but I quickly realised that the most weight will be on the bottom of the sled where the bricks are, so I re-positioned the holes and added the slots to optimize flow
First prototype cut (on scrap 12mm plywood):
Top and bottom view (yes I know, there’s a chunk missing - its ok, its just a prototype…):
I’ve attached it to the sled so far and tried feeding the blow air from the shop-vac through the top existing hole. It works, BUT, the pressure struggles as-is even without weights
Bottom line, I need more air flow.
Next step: attach a handheld blower with a speed control and see how it behaves… stay tuned