Contactless Magnetic Propulsion and Braking System for Energy-efficient Ground Transportation

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This work presents a contactless magnetic propulsion and braking system tailored for energy-efficient ground transportation, particularly Hyperloop systems. Traditional mechanical propulsion systems suffer from significant wear and energy loss due to friction. In contrast, this design leverages electromagnetic induction through a custom-developed Double Linear Induction Motor (DLIM) - engineered for complete physical disengagement from the track.

The propulsion system employs a 24-slot, 2-pole, 3-phase DLIM mounted on either side of a paramagnetic aluminium track (Al 6061-T6), creating a travelling magnetic field to generate thrust. In this iteration, each LIM features 25 turns per slot and is powered by a high-current IGBT inverter system delivering 3-phase AC. The system produces a peak force of 43 N, reaching 6.88 m/s (24.77 km/h) in 20 seconds, with a total mechanical output of 300 W at 95% efficiency. Crucially, the proposed 3 mm air gap balances high magnetic coupling with manufacturability and safety, while inter-motor magnetic coupling enhances stability and performance—an improvement over conventional LIM setups.

This configuration implements key features: 

  1. magnetic field confinement / coupling through DLIM symmetry
  2. integrated safety and vibration-dampening via chassis-mounted LIM casings
  3. minimized thermal buildup through laminated soft iron cores that double as heat sinks. 

These directly address electromagnetic end-effects, ohmic losses, and lateral force mitigation, typically challenging in high-speed electromagnetic propulsion systems.

From a feasibility and manufacturability standpoint, all LIM components are optimized for standard industrial processes—TIG-welded laminations, CNC-machined cores, and enamelled copper windings. The system was extensively validated through CAD modelling and high-fidelity transient electromagnetic simulations in Ansys Maxwell 3D. Static and dynamic structural FEA confirmed that the LIM casing withstands 500 N loading without significant deformation. Thermal analysis revealed minor heating, with ohmic losses adding only 75 W to system power requirements, confirming the system's robustness and thermal safety.

The marketability of this design lies in its scalable architecture and cross-platform utility. While engineered for Hyperloop applications, the core principles of this DLIM system—efficient, contactless linear propulsion—are directly applicable to urban maglev transit, space launch assist systems, and even industrial conveyor automation. In emerging markets where high-speed, low-maintenance transport is critical, such as intercity freight corridors or smart logistics hubs, this system offers a clean, modular propulsion alternative with minimal wear and long operational lifespans.

When made compliant with international EMI, thermal, vibration, and electrical safety standards (IEC, ISO), this propulsion-braking system can represent a significant innovation over the current state of the art. It offers a practical, manufacturable, and high-impact solution for next-generation energy-efficient transportation and industrial motion systems.

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  • About the Entrant

  • Name:
    Aahir Basu
  • Type of entry:
    team
    Team members:
    • Aahir Basu
    • Adarsh Lakshman
    • Vatsal Kalola
    • Lokesh Rastogi
    • Anshuman Lenka
    • Ashish Kumar
    • Divyanshu Shanker
    • Piyush Raj
    • Juhi Umrao
    • Palash Ghosh
  • Software used for this entry:
    Ansys
  • Patent status:
    none