Magnetic Acceleration: Proof-of-Concept for an Experimental Propulsion System

Abstract

The Magnetic Acceleration (MagAcc) system is a new concept for magnetic levitation and propulsion that uses a specialized configuration of permanent magnets to achieve acceleration without the use of additional electricity or fuel. A bench-level demonstration, a seven-foot straight track system of permanent magnets with a related load cart, was constructed at the Arctic Infrastructure Development Center (AIDC) High Bay on the University of Alaska Fairbanks campus. The demonstration track achieved acceleration using the MagAcc’s passive magnetic propulsion system as predicted. The MagAcc system accelerated the cart from a resting position onto the drive section of the track using solely permanent magnets. This demonstrated the actions of the linear polarity switching series of the magnetic fields and polarity orientation, as well as the effectiveness of the London Assemblage configuration for achieving acceleration.

Iterative improvements were made to the initial design to reduce drag and improve acceleration and speed. Our research with the prototype provided concept validation and initial data for the potential applications and scale of the MagAcc system, and it suggested the potential for streamlined retrofitting of existing tracks. Additional possible implementations include smaller industrial applications, such as on a factory floor, and reductions to the complexity, expense, and emissions in regional and national transit systems. The system could also reduce operational costs associated with maglev systems currently in use.