3D modeling and characteristics analysis of magnetic-thermal-force coupling for PMEDS vehicle with passive damping plate

Abstract Permanent magnet electrodynamic suspension (PMEDS) is recognized for its simplicity, cost-effectiveness and stable electromagnetic forces. However, its inherent weak damping characteristics lead to vertical instability, requiring improved damping performance. In this work, a three-dimensional (3D) magnetic-thermal-force coupling model for PMEDS with a passive damping plate along with its characteristics is implemented. First, its 3D electromagnetic model is established to calculate the damping force and evaluate the eddy current distributions. Secondly, a transient lumped parameter thermal model is developed to evaluate the temperature rise caused by eddy current and it’s accuracy is compared with that of the 3D simulation model. Additionally, dependences of key parameters covering electromagnetic gap, damping plate specifications and material on the damping force are analyzed. An optimal calculation is conducted to determine the size scaling factor of the damping plate. Finally, a simplified vertical dynamic model is determined with displacement excitation, and the electromagnetic and transient thermal models are coupled to calculate the corresponding temperature rise. The findings demonstrate the efficacy of the proposed model in enhancing damping calculation while considering thermal effects, providing a theoretical foundation for the passive damping design and optimization analysis of PMEDS vehicle.