MagAcc: Proof-of-Concept for Experimental Propulsion System (TR5-TR6)

The goal is to develop a scaled-down prototype of the propulsion portion of the MagAcc system and demonstrate the actions of the linear polarity switching series of the magnetic fields and polarity orientation. The test of this concept for a new propulsion system will prove how to achieve the train’s acceleration, slowdown and braking by solely utilizing permanent magnets. The research team proposes to complete the construction and perform tests on a track that would accelerate a train over a ten-foot oval area. In particular, this track will demonstrate the effectiveness of acceleration solely utilizing permanent magnets arranged in the London Assemblage (LA) configuration. This track will allow the team to test the peak speed of the train, as well as gain understanding of how existing train tracks can be retrofitted with this propulsion system. Preliminary research suggests that the Linear Polarity Switching series features inherent advantages, such as cheap and simplistic construction, because windings and electricity are eliminated; less stress due to high force ripples, less vibration and acoustic noise, and less complex polarity switching control units, because its switching is internal. The team expects that this new research on the MagAcc propulsion system will confirm that. Once developed and scaled up, this alternative propulsion system should outperform present Maglev systems in efficiency and cost.

• Record URL:
  https://depts.washington.edu/pactrans/research/projects/magacc-proof-of-concept-for-experimental-propulsion-system-tr5-tr6/

Language

• English

Project

• Status: Active
• Funding: $120000
• Contract Numbers:

  69A3551747110

• Sponsor Organizations:

  Pacific Northwest Transportation Consortium

  University of Washington
  More Hall Room 112
  Seattle, WA  United States  98195-2700

  Office of the Assistant Secretary for Research and Technology

  University Transportation Centers Program
  Department of Transportation
  Washington, DC  United States  20590
• Managing Organizations:

  University of Alaska, Fairbanks

  Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering
  P.O. Box 755900
  Fairbanks, AK  United States  99775-5900
• Project Managers:

  Connor, Billy

• Performing Organizations:

  University of Alaska, Fairbanks

  Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering
  P.O. Box 755900
  Fairbanks, AK  United States  99775-5900
• Principal Investigators:

  Connor, Billy

• Start Date: 20220316
• Expected Completion Date: 20230630
• Actual Completion Date: 0
• USDOT Program: Vessel and Port Emissions

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Acceleration (Mechanics); Braking; Magnets; Propulsion; Railroad tracks; Railroad trains; Retrofitting
• Subject Areas: Railroads; Vehicles and Equipment;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01872754
• Record Type: Research project
• Source Agency: Pacific Northwest Transportation Consortium
• Contract Numbers: 69A3551747110
• Files: UTC, RIP
• Created Date: Feb 7 2023 7:51PM