DESIGN APPROACHES AND PARAMETERS FOR MAGNETICALLY LEVITATED TRANSPORT SYSTEMS. CONFERENCE ON SUPERCONDUCTIVITY AND APPLICATIONS, BUFFALO, NEW YORK, APRIL 18, 1988

Mechanically levitated transport system approaches are assessed with regard to thrust power needs, track cost, suspension stability, and safety. The null flux suspension appears as the favored approach, having the least thrust power requirements, highest stability, and lowest amount of track material. Various null flux configurations are described, together with their operating parameters. The Linear Synchronous Motor (LSM) propulsion system is also described for propelling the suspended vehicles. Cryogenics and superconductivity aspects are discussed, and the effect of high T/sub c/superconductors evaluated.