Analysis of competing topologies of linear induction machines for high-speed material transport systems

This paper investigates longitudinal and transverse flux linear motor topologies for very high acceleration rate (3-4 g), and high speed (120 km/h), material transport systems which have significant technical and economic potential, in flexible manufacturing environments. The general topology under consideration is a double-sided, short-moving-secondary/long-fixed-primary, linear induction motor (LIM). The transport system requirements place severe demands upon the machine topology. The orientation of the magnetic flux (i.e., longitudinal versus transverse) has a significant impact upon these concerns and is thus a major analytical focus of this paper. A hybrid system topology consisting of a longitudinal-flux orientation within straight sections and a transverse-flux orientation within curvilinear sections appears to offer the best of both topologies. The intended contribution of this paper is a detailed comparison of LIM topologies leading to a better design selection for very high performance systems