Planar Levitation and Propulsion of a Solid-State Craft over Conducting Surfaces

This paper reports on the design and demonstration of a novel vehicle capable of repulsive levitation, propulsion, and steering using a single pair of linear induction motors over a planar conductive surface. The proof-of-concept craft built, comparable in size and weight to a large laptop, uses only aluminum sheets as the track with all electrical components including batteries onboard. The optimization and analysis of the linear induction motors was conducted using finite element analysis to allow for levitation from standstill. The electrical systems including motor controllers were custom built due to the power and weight requirements, and provide wireless control and telemetry. Successful tests demonstrated the craft hovering and propelling itself over a distance of 6m under its own power, limited by the length of aluminum track available.