A Railgun Secondary Propulsion System for High-Speed Hyperloop Transportation

Abstract

Secondary propulsion methods for high-speed hyperloop transportation are sparsely researched. Secondary propulsion methods are essential to quickly, efficiently, and safely get a hyperloop pod up to its target speed from a stationary state. In this paper, we propose and analyze the feasibility of a form of electromagnetic secondary hyperloop propulsion, called a railgun, commonly used in modern-day artillery technology for high-speed ammunition launching. We assess the feasibility of two different materials and three different geometries for a railgun armature to propel a hyperloop pod. Inverse design of multiphysics simulation of multibody dynamics, magnetic fields, and electric currents are used for material selection of the armature that minimizes rail current energy requirements and the armature geometry that maximizes structural integrity.

Characteristics simulations of the electrodynamic railgun different constructions and their measurement verification

“…The research on the electrodynamic accelerators (EA), commonly called railguns, concern mainly military applications and exploration of the space [1][2][3][4]. However, more and more studies are related to their applications in industry or measuring systems, like the impact testing of some materials [5][6][7][8][9]. Constructions of accelerators and their power supply systems are being tested [10], as well.…”

Influence of the different capacitor configurations of the supply system on the efficiency of the rail accelerator

“…geological research (impact measurements) or measuring of impact resistance of materials (for space shuttle covers, satellites and aeroplanes) [4][5][6]. There are also articles proposing using the electromagnetic gun principle for transport [7].…”