Topology Optimization of an Alternate Permanent Magnet Electrodynamic Suspension

This paper presents the topology optimization of an alternate permanent magnet electrodynamic suspension in a plane parallel to the track, using therefore a semi-analytical 3-D model. This model is based on the superposition of single permanent magnets to compute the magnetic field of more complex structures. The optimization, divided in three steps, showed that new permanent magnet arrangements can significantly increase the lift-to-drag ratio of the suspension at the expense of a low reduction of the lift-to-weight ratio.