Linear motor (assistance required)

[Aerstz]

I am just starting a concept capsule design project. The capsule will be approximately 1 m long, 0.5 m diameter and weigh some 100 kg (fully laden). It will be propelled by a linear motor through a pipeline as part of an automated package delivery system. Its maximum speed will be around 10-20 mph.

I will not be designing the entire system, just one element of it (the capsule). However I need some basic dimensions on which to base the capsule design; I need to know how wide and thick the linear motor ‘track’ (I call it a track through lack of a better term) will be so I can allow for that in the capsule dimensioning.

Please don’t misunderstand me, I do not require exact ‘track’ dimensions just something I can put in my capsule specification that is realistic. For example: If I was designing a wheel for a car I could use an axel diameter of x on which to base the wheel design, without knowing exactly how x was determined. If x was 40 mm it would be realistic; if it was 2 mm it would not.

The capsule will also be electromagnetically levitated, so I also require thickness and width dimensions for the levitation ‘track’.

I am also interested to know approximately how efficient such a linear motor might be (including levitation), and how much electromagnetic shielding the capsule might need (the capsule will be conveying mixed packages of unknown contents, which could include devices susceptible to EM radiation).

If I had enough time I would research the answers for myself, but I don’t so I would appreciate any help offered. I’m really just after a few key ‘pointers’.

Thanks.

Edit: One further question. Can more than one vehicle operate on a single linear motor 'track' at the same time?

 

[KataKoniK]

Thank you for sharing your concept capsule design project with us. I would like to offer some insights and suggestions based on my expertise in the field.

Firstly, the dimensions of the linear motor track will depend on the type of linear motor being used. There are various types of linear motors such as linear induction motors, linear synchronous motors, and linear switched reluctance motors, each with their own specific design and dimensions. However, for a capsule of 1m length and 0.5m diameter, a track width of 0.3-0.4m and a track thickness of 0.1-0.2m would be realistic dimensions to consider.

Furthermore, the levitation track dimensions will also depend on the type of levitation system being used. For example, if you are using an electromagnetic levitation system, the track width would need to be wider to accommodate the electromagnets, while a permanent magnet levitation system would require a thinner track. In general, a track width of 0.5-0.6m and a track thickness of 0.2-0.3m would be suitable for an electromagnetic levitation system.

As for the efficiency of the linear motor, it will depend on various factors such as the type of motor, the design of the track, and the weight of the capsule. In general, linear motors have a higher efficiency compared to traditional rotary motors, with efficiencies ranging from 60-90%. However, the efficiency will also be affected by the levitation system and any electromagnetic shielding that may be required.

Speaking of electromagnetic shielding, it is important to consider the contents of the packages being transported in the capsule. If there are sensitive electronic devices, then the capsule will require a higher level of shielding to protect them from any potential electromagnetic interference. The amount of shielding required will depend on the strength of the electromagnetic fields generated by the linear motor and levitation system, which can be determined through thorough testing and analysis.

Lastly, regarding the operation of multiple vehicles on a single track, it is possible but will require precise control and coordination to avoid any collisions or interference between the capsules. This will also depend on the design and capabilities of the linear motor and levitation system being used.

I hope these pointers will be helpful in your capsule design project. If you have any further questions or need more specific information, please don't hesitate to reach out. Good luck with your project!

Best regards