The SCML-05 Developed for Studying the 3D Force and PMG Irregularities Characteristics of HTS Maglev

In order to promote the application of high temperature superconducting (HTS) maglev vehicle, the series of superconducting maglev (SCML) measurement devices — 01, 02 & 03 have been developed in Southwest Jiaotong University. During the course of research, the importance of three-dimensional (3D) study of the interaction between HTS bulks and permanent magnet guideways (PMGs) has become evident. More specifically, when the HTS vehicle is moving at a high speed, small irregularities of the PMG's magnetic field become the source of vibration. Therefore, in order to study the 3D force and the characteristics of HTS maglev under PMG irregularities, a new measurement device called SCML-05 was designed, constructed, and validated. This newly developed measurement device consists of two major parts. The first one is a closed-loop sliding platform providing 3D motion. The second part is measurement and data acquisition system with the software developed for this purpose. In addition, a laser displacement sensor is used to measure the geometry irregularities of the PMG. Overall, the SCML-05 is flexible and light. The force characteristics of the HTS bulks placed above the PMG can be precisely investigated by means of this system. Additionally, the PMG irregularities including geometry and magnetic field irregularities can be measured. These parameters are required to analyze the relationship between the PMG irregularities and the force of HTS maglev vehicle. The test process and typical results obtained by this system are presented in this paper.