Enhancing lateral dynamic performance of HTS Maglev vehicles using electromagnetic shunt dampers: optimisation and experimental validation
Haitao Li, Yuchen He, Li Wang, Zongpeng Li, Zigang Deng, Weihua Zhang
Abstract
High-temperature superconducting (HTS) magnetic levitation (maglev) vehicles offer great promise for high-speed transportation due to their simple structure, passive stability, and frictionless operation. However, increasing load capacity often leads to reduced lateral restoring force, and the inherently low damping presents challenges in managing vibrations induced by track irregularities, curves and crosswinds. To address this, this paper proposes the use of electromagnetic shunt dampers (EMSDs) to enhance lateral vibration suppression. The optimal EMSD coil size and position are first determined through simulation based on the cross-section of the permanent magnet guideway (PMG). Experimental tests are then conducted on a scaled HTS maglev system equipped with secondary suspension to validate the damping effect. The results demonstrate that EMSDs can significantly improve lateral vibration characteristics, showing clear effectiveness for both the vehicle body and the suspension bogie. A multi-body dynamic model incorporating the optimised electromagnetic parameters is further developed to evaluate system response under various operating conditions. This work demonstrates a feasible and contactless damping strategy to improve the lateral dynamic performance of HTS maglev vehicles without increasing reliance on superconducting or magnetic materials, providing a cost-effective solution for future high-speed maglev applications.