The Toroflux or Torofluxus is a
toy that was invented in mid-1990s by Jochen Valett. It is a ribbon of
steel
Steel is an alloy made up of iron with added carbon to improve its strength and fracture resistance compared to other forms of iron. Many other elements may be present or added. Stainless steels that are corrosion- and oxidation-resistant ty ...
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
External links
Description of the mechanical properties of the TorofluxA "Mathologer" video, featuring the mathematical properties of the TorofluxYouTube video of the Toroflux with plastic ringYouTube video of the Toroflux used as a toyProduct website
Educational toys
Springs (mechanical)
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