Combined system of levitation, propulsion and guidance for Maglev vehicles using high-temperature superconducting magnetic potential well

A hybrid electrodynamic (ED) propulsion system intended for 480 km/hr and 100 kN thrust is described using an integral system of ED repulsive suspension and ED lateral guidance of the vehicle on a common primary structure. The machine is intended to operate as a hybrid synchronous-induction motor with the Maglev vehicle carrying the primary structure; the guideway is passive. An array of 20 K HTSC superconducting excitation coils on-board the vehicle yields a magnetic potential well over a 50 mm airgap with high lateral restoring forces sufficient to stabilize and levitate a 75 tonne vehicle. The proposed cryogenic support system uses gaseous helium cooling. Test results are provided from an active guideway 1/16th scale Maglev using a 28 mm airgap and normal conducting excitation.<>