Abstract

An integrated MAGLEV (Magnetic Levitated Vehicle) system consists of permanent or preferably superconducting vehicle-mounted magnets which interact with both active and induced track-based currents. The magnets on the vehicle which are used for propulsion serve the dual purpose of realizing both levitation and lateral stabilization (guidance). The contribution offered by this invention is that it is able to provide propulsion, levitation, and guidance using a single type of track-based coil interacting with a singular type of magnetic field which is affixed to the vehicle. The realization of multiple functions with a single coil reduces the cost and enhances the efficiency of this MAGLEV system. In the main embodiment of this invention, propulsion currents are injected into brushes sliding along brush contact surfaces on the rail. Motion induced currents in the coils realize both the necessary levitation and guidance forces for the vehicle. The propulsion system is basically a linear DC motor and requires no power handling along the track. Necessary operating power can either be carried on the vehicle or collected by a third rail pickup system. All coils in the track are supported by a reinforced recycled plastic matrix (polyvinyl fiberglass) or similar material.