Analysis of superconducting linear synchronous motor for electromagnetic propulsion

Abstract

There is a high demand for electromagnetic launchers in applications such as electromagnetic catapults and launch-assist systems for spacecraft, owing to their advantages in terms of controllability and reusability. This work proposes a double-sided superconducting-magnet linear synchronous motor capable of large thrust densities that can satisfy the demands of high-load launcher systems. Ring windings and narrow-toothed structures were applied to increase the density of the armature winding and reduce cogging-torque-induced fluctuations, and superconducting magnet with iron-core was first proposed to produce a strong air gap magnetic field. Numerical simulations are used to construct a simulation model of the motor, which is then used to study the relationships between the thrust characteristics of the motor and the dimensions of its armature and air-gap length. The results of this analysis provide information on the optimal thrust characteristics of linear motors in electromagnetic launcher systems.