Multi-factor optimization of railgun using orthogonal test approach and field-circuit method

Abstract

Today the energy storage systems are still encumbering, therefore it is useful to think about the optimization of a railgun system in order to achieve the best performance with the lowest energy input. In this paper, an optimal design method considering 6 parameters is proposed to improve the energy conversion efficiency of a simple railgun. In order to avoid costly trials, the field-circuit method is employed to analyze the operations of different structural railguns with different parameters respectively. And the orthogonal test approach is used to guide the simulation for choosing the better parameter combinations, as well reduce the calculation cost. The research shows that the proposed method gives a better result in the energy efficiency of the system.