Virtually zero power linear magnetic bearing

DETAILED DESCRIPTION An object of the present invention is to provide improved and more efficient magnetic levitation vehicles.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a linear magnetic bearing capable of magnetic support using permanent magnets and an electronic control system in such a manner that virtually zero power is required for the system under its steady-state conditions.
A further object of the present invention is to eliminate linear magnetic damping with respect to magnetic levitation vehicles by the use of rails which prevent the formation of eddy currents.
Still a further object of the present invention is to provide an economical and practical magnetic levitation vehicle.
Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a system of virtually zero power linear magnetic suspension.
In accordance with the present invention, a virtually zero power linear magnetic bearing is provided using permanent magnets and an electronic control system for regulating electromagnets.
The electronic control system functions to move the linear magnetic bearing to a neutral force position where power supplied to the electromagnets of the bearing is then substantially reduced or discontinued.
Such linear magnetic bearings can advantageously be used to suspend magnetic levitation vehicles.
An economical and practical MAGLEV can be operated by utilizing linear magnetic bearings for suspension, particularly when a LIM and laminated rails are used.