Exploration of Split-Guideway Permanent Magnet Linear Eddy Current Brake With Improved Brake Force and Critical Speed Implemented in HTS Maglev System

The self-stabilization and absence of the drag force in a high-temperature superconducting (HTS) maglev system render its competitive edge over others, and the successful development of the first high-speed engineering prototype validates its potential. However, addressing the braking challenge has become a significant concern. In this work, a split-guideway (SG) permanent magnet eddy current brake (PMECB) with enhanced brake ability is proposed. Analytical models that consider the induced current in the truncation section and source magnetic field are developed and verified. A novel periodical simulation method is proposed to simulate an infinite guideway with a finite solid model. In addition, the dependence of the number, size, and position of the slit on the brake force is investigated, and the guidelines are presented, and a case design is performed. The superiority of SG is demonstrated in terms of brake distance and lateral oscillation frequency. Finally, through the high-speed test rig, simulation and analytical models are verified, and the effectiveness of the SG PMECB is confirmed. The evolutions of the electromagnetic forces throughout the continuous test are examined. The influences of transverse and vertical disturbances on PMECB are experimentally investigated.