The AMT maglev test sled -- EML weapons technology transition to transportation

Journal Article · Wed Jan 01 00:00:00 EST 1997 · IEEE Transactions on Magnetics

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1109/20.560041· OSTI ID:462692

Schaaf, Jr, J C ^[1]; Zowarka, Jr, R C ^[2]; Davey, K ^[3]; Weldon, J M ^[4]

---

1. BDM Federal, Huntsville, AL (United States)
2. Univ. of Texas, Austin, TX (United States)
3. American Maglev Technology, Inc., Edgewater, FL (United States)
4. Parker Kinetic Designs, Inc., Austin, TX (United States)

Technology spinoffs from prior electromagnetic launcher work enhance a magnetic levitation transportation system test bed being developed by American Maglev Technology of Florida. This project uses a series wound linear DC motor and brushes to simplify the magnetic levitation propulsion system. It takes advantage of previous related work in electromagnetic launcher technology to achieve success with this innovative design. Technology and knowledge gained from developments for homopolar generators and proposed railgun arc control are key to successful performance. This contribution supports a cost effective design that is competitive with alternative concepts. Brushes transfer power from the guideway (rail) to the vehicle (armature) in a novel design that activates the guideway only under the vehicle, reducing power losses and guideway construction costs. The vehicle carries no power for propulsion and levitation, and acts only as a conduit for the power through the high speed brushes. Brush selection and performance is based on previous EML homopolar generator research. A counterpulse circuit, first introduced in an early EML conference, is used to suppress arcing on the trailing brush and to transfer inductive energy to the next propulsion coil. Isolated static lift and preliminary propulsion tests have been completed, and integrated propulsion and lift tests are scheduled in early 1996.

• Sponsoring Organization: Advanced Research Projects Agency, Washington, DC (United States)
• OSTI ID: 462692
• Report Number(s): CONF-9604202-; ISSN 0018-9464; TRN: IM9719%%162
• Journal Information: IEEE Transactions on Magnetics, Vol. 33, Issue 1Pt1; Conference: 8. Symposium on electromagnetic launch technology, Baltimore, MD (United States), 21-24 Apr 1996; Other Information: PBD: Jan 1997
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

32 ENERGY CONSERVATION, CONSUMPTION, AND UTILIZATION
33 ADVANCED PROPULSION SYSTEMS
LEVITATED TRAINS
TEST FACILITIES
TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER
PROPULSION SYSTEMS
PERFORMANCE
OPERATION