Analytical Modelling and Experimental Investigation of Linear Harmonic Generator Considering the Eddy Current Effect of Cryogenic Vessel

Energy supply is fundamental to the operation of high-speed Maglev trains. By utilizing the harmonic fields generated by the ground levitation coils, the linear harmonic generator (LHG) in electrodynamics suspension (EDS) system can deliver energy to the vehicle without any electrical contact. This approach offers advantages such as low noise, high robustness, and reduced climate sensitivity. However, its performance is normally affected by the induced current of the cryogenic vessel, where the generating coils of the LHG are mounted. In this study, we propose an analytical model to account for the eddy current effect on the performance of the LHG. Initially, the harmonic field distribution of the levitation coils is deduced by space harmonic method. Subsequently, this field distribution is employed as the boundary conditions to calculate the eddy currents on the cryogenic vessel. Next, the induced voltage in the generating coils is obtained. The model is validated by a finite-element method (FEM) model, and then an equivalent static experimental platform is designed and fabricated to further validate the proposed analytic model. The good agreement between the proposed model and the equivalent experiment indicates that further optimization of the LHG can be achieved through the proposed analytic model.