Halospheres are extreme velocity desktop toys that are not only stylish, they also promise to lower productivity as employees attempt to nudge theirs to speeds of more than 3600 revolutions per minute.
Each Halospheres is a real showpiece, generating a vortex of kinetic light effects driven by the power of your lungs. Halospheres are first cast from stainless steel and then polished to a mirror finish. The toys are then plated with real gold to help produce that characteristic halo hue. The spinning plate is hand cast from black resin and then highly polished, resulting in a pairing designed for both performance and aesthetics. The toys are scheduled to hit the market this summer, providing a Kickstarter raises the needed $15,223. This project will only be funded if it reaches its goal by April 10.
The lightning-fast speed of the Halospheres is the result of its unique motion. As the toy spins on its centre axis on the concave plate, it also rolls like a wheel, which generates a lift force on one sphere raising it into the air — much like forces at play on a curveball. This is known as the Magnus effect.
This reduced friction together with its high relative mass and angular momentum, allows Halospheres to accelerate to extreme velocities. The halo effects are a result of its spherical shape.
Each sphere creates a pinpoint light reflection in its mirrored finish from any significant light source in the room — be that light from windows, lamps or flashlights. As it spins at great speeds, the pinpoint reflections blend together to our eye, creating its characteristic halo effects.Â
But, according to the makers, it takes a bit of practice to get started:
The first step requires a good flick of the fingers to jump-start the Halospheres into spinning in the correct motion. The next step takes a bit of experimentation to find that sweet-spot of where to aim and angle the pipe. Top Tip: it’s not all about how hard you blow, but rather using repeated controlled breaths aimed towards the outside of the Halospheres.
According to the instructions, playing around with different light sources in different environments will create new and colourful halo combinations. Use light from windows, lamps, flashlights or even laser pointers (Class 1 only — eye safety first!).
Once you hone your skills you’ll know when you’ve nailed it. Compete with your friends and family to see who can drive Halospheres the fastest.
@sthomas10
