Development of a Maglev Propulsion System Based on the Halbach Magnet Arrays

Abstract

This paper introduces a design and optimization study investigating the electrical propulsion system of a small-scale EDS Maglev based on the four-piece Halbach permanent magnet arrays.The Halbach arrays are to produce a strong spatially periodic magnetic field on the front surface of the arrays, while canceling the field on their back surface. The study focuses on analysis of the performance limits and optimization of the proof-of-concept system, which is currently located at the University of Central Florida in research collaboration with NASA for its application to the space launch.