Oliver Kleikemper

Lane-switching in maglev systems is a key functionality necessary for their successful implementation in commercial solutions, that has largely remained unexplored in terms of experimental validation. The present work investigates a full-scale electrodynamic suspension for its use alongside a conventional electromagnetic suspension. A combined levitation system that incorporates the repulsive force of an electrodynamic suspension and the attraction-based behavior of an electromagnetic suspension facilitates high-speed vertical lane-switching capability. The passivity of electrodynamic suspensions renders them appealing for their integration in this context. A test bench designed for full-scale analysis of this process is presented. The electrodynamic suspension system is discussed, and a finite element model used for system design is established. Acquired experimental lift and drag forces are fitted using an analytical model consisting of an equivalent multi-branch electric circuit, showing good agreement between datasets. A large speed range (10-600 km/h) is tested over several air gaps (35-50 mm). Measurements at smaller air gaps (25 and 30 mm) are used to validate the analytical model. Moreover, full-scale force capability necessary for vehicle levitation is achieved.

This article introduces a novel multiobjective design optimization (MOO) framework for enhancing magnetically levitating (Maglev) systems. By integrating finite-element method (FEM) simulations and focusing on the dynamic interplay between mechanical and electromagnetic properties, as well as control system dynamics, our approach addresses the complex challenges of Maglev design, such as variable inductance, force production due to air-gap fluctuations, and magnetic saturation. The proposed framework facilitates the development of more efficient, reliable, and adaptable Maglev technologies. Through a simulated implementation, we demonstrate the framework’s effectiveness in optimizing electromagnet design for improved system integration and performance, marking a significant advancement in electromechanical system optimization.

A comprehensive understanding of electromagnet behavior is crucial for advancing levitation system development, particularly in high-speed transportation. This paper presents a non-linear magnetic circuit model for analyzing static and dynamic behavior of a magnetic levitation system. The model accommodates iron saturation and the impact of eddy currents. It is validated and parameterized by comparing its behavior with experimental data obtained at a testbench. The static characteristics of the system are analyzed in terms of the magnetic force depending on current and the system’s air gap. Dynamic behavior is explored through the examination of inductance. We show how a differential algebraic structure of the model can be avoided by incorporating eddy currents in a specific way. Thereby, our approach solves mathematical difficulties and leverages physical accuracy to a level which makes the model highly appropriate for fast computation and dynamical analysis. The results obtained show that the proposed magnetic model is able to accurately predict the behavior of the magnetic levitation system over the entire operating range. In contrast to simpler models widely used in magnetic levitation design, the proposed model supports the design, optimization and model-based control of magnetic levitation systems, up to the real implementation within vehicle components.