Optimization of Suspension Damping in High-Temperature Superconducting Maglev Based on Combined Skyhook-Groundhook Control

High-temperature superconducting (HTS) maglev technology offers significant potential for high-speed transportation due to its zero magnetic resistance. However, the inherent low damping characteristics of HTS maglev systems make them highly vulnerable to external disturbances, leading to reduced system stability, passenger discomfort, and thermal instability of superconducting magnets. Therefore, it is essential to simultaneously address vibrations in both the vehicle body and the suspension frame. To address this challenge, an electromagnetic damper is introduced between the vehicle body and the suspension frame, along with a skyhook-groundhook control strategy to collaboratively regulate vibrations of both components. The parameters of control algorithm are optimized using the entropy weight method, focusing on multiple dynamic performance indicators. Simulation results indicate that the proposed approach significantly reduces vibrations in the suspension frame and vehicle body simultaneously compared to traditional skyhook-only or groundhook-only control strategies. Consequently, the stability and ride quality of HTS maglev systems are enhanced, making them more suitable for high-speed transportation applications.