Induction generator powered coaxial launchers

A launcher design which avoids the need for switching and automatically excites only the windings in the vicinity of the projectile is presented. The energy store for the launcher consists of rotating induction machines. The excitation for the launcher is provided by an excitation winding on the projectile, which makes the projectile act like the rotor of a synchronous condenser. This combination of super-synchronous induction machines (the energy stores) and synchronous alternators (the projectile) is called an induction generator. The induction generator powered launcher concept is described, and scaling laws to assess the applicability of this technology for tactical and space launch applications are investigated