Study of Japanese electrodynamic-suspension maglev systems

This report presents the results of a study of the Japanese MLU magnetic levitation (maglev) system. The development of the MLU system is reviewed, and the dynamic circuit model then is introduced and applied to the figure-eight-shaped null-flux coil suspension system. Three different types of figure-eight-shaped null-flux suspension systems are discussed in detail: (1) the figure-eight-shaped null-flux coil suspension system without cross-connection; (2) the combined suspension and guidance system; and (3) the combined propulsion, levitation, and guidance system. The electrodynamic suspension maglev systems developed in Japan seem to be very promising and could result in a commercial application in the near future.