Magnetic levitation technology for automated guideway transit applications

The major difference in requirements for various magnetic levitation applications are reviewed and the resulting system designs are summarized. Maglev application requirements and developments in Europe, Japan and the United States are discussed. Developments in the United States of an integrated magnetic levitation and propulsion system for Automated Guideway Transit (AGT) applications in urban areas are reviewed in detail. Characteristics of the power conditioning unit (PCU), the integrated linear induction motor (LIM), its control system, and basic configuration designs for both bottom supported and top suspended vehicles are presented. The advantage of a mag-lev AGT system in reducing operation and maintenance costs, increasing reliability, and enhancing passenger acceptance are also summarized.