01-03-2012, 04:12 PM
Magnetic Levitation Train
[attachment=17849]
Abstract
The objective of this project is to create a laboratory scale magnetic levitating train model
using Inductrack technology developed by Dr. Richard Post from Lawrence Livermore
National Labs, Previous work by Paul Friend is discussed as well as the physics
associated with Inductrack. The levitation and propulsion systems built in lab is
described. The conclusion includes the results and suggestions for future work on the
maglev train.
Propulsion
A Linear Synchronous Motor (LSM) was chosen to propel the train. A basic top view of
an LSM is shown in Figure 2.2 below. It consists of copper wire powered by 3ø AC
Power wrapped around slots cut in laminated iron. The iron is laminated to help
eliminate eddy currents. Each color represents a different phase with a 120° phase
difference between each line.
Inductrack Technology
The Inductrack Technology uses the basic concepts above to first propel and then levitate
a train. The train consists of at least two sets of Halbach arrays. One set is placed over
the track to levitate the train, while the other set is placed above the motor to provide
propulsion.
When the motor is powered, the train begins to move on wheels along the track. The
levitation Halbach array induces current in the track which induces a magnetic field
around the slits to oppose the magnetic field of the levitation Halbach array. This
produces the levitation. The faster the train moves, the higher the train levitates. Paul
Friend’s research helped him plot levitation height vs. the velocity of the train as shown
in Figure 4.1. In this example, the train reaches a peak height due to the lessened effect
of the magnets on the track. The height and velocity of the track are dependent on
parameters of the track and Halbach array.
[attachment=17849]
Abstract
The objective of this project is to create a laboratory scale magnetic levitating train model
using Inductrack technology developed by Dr. Richard Post from Lawrence Livermore
National Labs, Previous work by Paul Friend is discussed as well as the physics
associated with Inductrack. The levitation and propulsion systems built in lab is
described. The conclusion includes the results and suggestions for future work on the
maglev train.
Propulsion
A Linear Synchronous Motor (LSM) was chosen to propel the train. A basic top view of
an LSM is shown in Figure 2.2 below. It consists of copper wire powered by 3ø AC
Power wrapped around slots cut in laminated iron. The iron is laminated to help
eliminate eddy currents. Each color represents a different phase with a 120° phase
difference between each line.
Inductrack Technology
The Inductrack Technology uses the basic concepts above to first propel and then levitate
a train. The train consists of at least two sets of Halbach arrays. One set is placed over
the track to levitate the train, while the other set is placed above the motor to provide
propulsion.
When the motor is powered, the train begins to move on wheels along the track. The
levitation Halbach array induces current in the track which induces a magnetic field
around the slits to oppose the magnetic field of the levitation Halbach array. This
produces the levitation. The faster the train moves, the higher the train levitates. Paul
Friend’s research helped him plot levitation height vs. the velocity of the train as shown
in Figure 4.1. In this example, the train reaches a peak height due to the lessened effect
of the magnets on the track. The height and velocity of the track are dependent on
parameters of the track and Halbach array.
