Embodiments described herein provide devices, systems, and techniques for generating a magnetic field pattern that includes a plurality of magnetic poles. In specific embodiments, a magnetic device is disclosed which generates a magnetic field pattern including two magnetic poles of the same polarity on both ends, or sides of the magnetic device, and a third magnetic pole of a different polarity from the other two magnetic poles, wherein the third magnetic pole is located inside the magnetic device and between the other two magnetic poles. Moreover, the magnetic device is configured with two openings located at the two transition boundaries/interfaces of the three-pole magnetic field. As such, the two transition boundaries become accessible to objects. In particular, when another magnet is inserted at an interface between two magnetic poles, the magnet will “register” right at the interface and hover over or be suspended at the opening of the magnetic device.