A 3-D Analytic-Based Model of a Null-Flux Halbach Array Electrodynamic Suspension Device

The purpose of this paper is to present the derivation of a 3-D analytical solution of a null-flux electrodynamic suspension device for a conductive plate. The device consists of a linear Halbach magnet array placed above and below a conductive plate. The eddy current forces are derived using the second-order vector potential (SOVP). When the conductive plate is assumed to be large relative to the source field, the SOVP enables the equations to be derived in terms of reflection and transmission field components. A 3-D finite-element analysis model as well as the experimental results are used to validate the presented equations.