Energies

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15 pages, 4407 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Rapid Solver for the Prediction of Flow-Field of High-Speed Vehicle Moving in a Tube

by Mohammed Abdulla and Khalid A. Juhany

Energies 2022, 15(16), 6074; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15166074 - 22 Aug 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1319

High-speed vehicles traveling in a tube with pressures similar to those experienced by aircraft at their maximum altitude are presented. Although the concept resembles Hyperloop, the pressure level investigated here is much higher and safer than that suggested by Hyperloop, and, therefore, the [...] Read more.

High-speed vehicles traveling in a tube with pressures similar to those experienced by aircraft at their maximum altitude are presented. Although the concept resembles Hyperloop, the pressure level investigated here is much higher and safer than that suggested by Hyperloop, and, therefore, the system design is markedly different. Calculating a vehicle’s aerodynamic performance in the initial design stages requires low-budget computational tools to enable iterative design processes. This study presents an algorithm for rapid flow-field prediction based on a one-dimensional Reimann solution, including viscosity and heat transfer effects. The flow-field is divided into near- and far-fields, where the near-field represents the solution directly around the vehicle. The far-field demonstrates the impact of the vehicle’s motion on the vehicle’s flow-field upstream and downstream. Two-dimensional URANS models are compared to the current numerical scheme. The developed algorithm analyzes the flow-field and the propagation of pressure waves along the tube to simulate the vehicle’s movement. The one-dimensional model shows the robustness and predictability of the near and far flow-fields. The results from the developed scheme provide good agreement, with less than a few percent deviations, compared to CFD simulations but with significantly lower computational resources. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hyperloop and Associated Technologies)

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15 pages, 1993 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Concepts of Hyperloop Wireless Communication at 1200 km/h: 5G, Wi-Fi, Propagation, Doppler and Handover

by Ali Tavsanoglu, César Briso, Diego Carmena-Cabanillas and Rafael B. Arancibia

Energies 2021, 14(4), 983; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14040983 - 13 Feb 2021

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3431

Abstract

The new generation of capsules that circulate through vacuum tubes at speeds up to 1200 km/h, which is being developed, demands communication systems that can operate at these speeds with high capacity and quality of service. Currently, the two technologies available are the [...] Read more.

The new generation of capsules that circulate through vacuum tubes at speeds up to 1200 km/h, which is being developed, demands communication systems that can operate at these speeds with high capacity and quality of service. Currently, the two technologies available are the new generation of 802.11ax networks and 5G NR. Using these technologies at such high speeds in a confined environment requires a careful study and design of the configuration of the network and optimization of the physical interface. This paper describes the requirements for critical and business communications, proposing a WLAN and 5G network design based on the analysis of the propagation characteristics and constraints of vacuum tubes and using propagation measurements and simulations made in similar environments at frequencies of 2.5/5.7/24 GHz. These measurements and simulations show that propagation losses in this environment are low (4–5 dB/100 m), as a consequence of the guided propagation, so that the use of bands is preferred. Finally, considering the propagation constraints and requirements of a Hyperloop system, a complete wireless communication system is proposed using two networks with 802.11 and 5G technology. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hyperloop and Associated Technologies)

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18 pages, 8069 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mitigating the Piston Effect in High-Speed Hyperloop Transportation: A Study on the Use of Aerofoils

by Aditya Bose and Vimal K. Viswanathan

Energies 2021, 14(2), 464; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14020464 - 16 Jan 2021

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 4426

Abstract

The Hyperloop is a concept for the high-speed ground transportation of passengers traveling in pods at transonic speeds in a partially evacuated tube. It consists of a low-pressure tube with capsules traveling at both low and high speeds throughout the length of the [...] Read more.

The Hyperloop is a concept for the high-speed ground transportation of passengers traveling in pods at transonic speeds in a partially evacuated tube. It consists of a low-pressure tube with capsules traveling at both low and high speeds throughout the length of the tube. When a high-speed system travels through a low-pressure tube with a constrained diameter such as in the case of the Hyperloop, it becomes an aerodynamically challenging problem. Airflow tends to get choked at the constrained areas around the pod, creating a high-pressure region at the front of the pod, a phenomenon referred to as the “piston effect.” Papers exploring potential solutions for the piston effect are scarce. In this study, using the Reynolds-Average Navier–Stokes (RANS) technique for three-dimensional computational analysis, the aerodynamic performance of a Hyperloop pod inside a vacuum tube is studied. Further, aerofoil-shaped fins are added to the aeroshell as a potential way to mitigate the piston effect. The results show that the addition of fins helps in reducing the drag and eddy currents while providing a positive lift to the pod. Further, these fins are found to be effective in reducing the pressure build-up at the front of the pod. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hyperloop and Associated Technologies)

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25 pages, 3336 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Displacements of the Levitation Systems in the Vehicle Hyperloop

by Jerzy Kisilowski and Rafał Kowalik

Energies 2020, 13(24), 6595; https://doi.org/10.3390/en13246595 - 14 Dec 2020

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2268

Abstract

The paper will present a mathematical model for the guideway as a continuous system, followed by a moving force coming from the capsule and the capsule as a discrete system. The theoretical problem selected for analysis comes from a group of technical problems, [...] Read more.

The paper will present a mathematical model for the guideway as a continuous system, followed by a moving force coming from the capsule and the capsule as a discrete system. The theoretical problem selected for analysis comes from a group of technical problems, which solve the dynamics of systems subjected to moving loads. Dynamic reactions in the system are described by a system of coupled partial and ordinary differential equations. Their solution was obtained using approximate numerical methods. The article concerns the analysis of Hyperloop vehicle guideway displacement in the occurrence of magnetic levitation phenomenon, which appears when starting, driving and braking the vehicle. The analysis was carried out using a numerical, three-dimensional model of the guideway. The results of the analysis are illustrated with calculation examples. The displacement of the guideway and magnet elements was determined by simulations. The simulations were conducted using MBS software. The presented results refer to the movements of the capsule of Hyperloop vehicles. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hyperloop and Associated Technologies)

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23 pages, 4864 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Concept of Integration of a Vactrain Underground Station with the Solidarity Transport Hub Poland

by Olena Stryhunivska, Katarzyna Gdowska and Rafał Rumin

Energies 2020, 13(21), 5737; https://doi.org/10.3390/en13215737 - 2 Nov 2020

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 4326

Abstract

This paper provides an analysis of a designed underground station infrastructure for vacuum tube high-speed trains for the planned mega transport hub in Poland. The potential of integrating the infrastructure of the station building with sealed low-pressure tubes system is analyzed. The Solidarity [...] Read more.

This paper provides an analysis of a designed underground station infrastructure for vacuum tube high-speed trains for the planned mega transport hub in Poland. The potential of integrating the infrastructure of the station building with sealed low-pressure tubes system is analyzed. The Solidarity Transport Hub Poland is a planned mega hub to be located in Baranów Municipality, Poland, which is comprised of an airport, an airport city, a road, and railway infrastructure. It is to be integrated with the first route of vactrains in Poland. The aim of this paper is to design a hyperloop station building adequate for the advanced technology of low-pressure high-speed trains. Designing a hyperloop station is not trivial, due to technological aspects which have not been hitherto present in airport or railway planning and design, such as low-pressure zones or airlocks which determine possible passenger paths and evacuation roads. Both the mega airport and Polish hyperloop are in the planning stage, therefore, in this paper, available models and designs of the hyperloop station building and infrastructure are used in order to formulate recommendations for further development and identify critical issues related to the safety and reduction of passenger transit time. The main contribution of this paper is a model of the hyperloop station building which respects the principles of spatial planning and safety standards. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hyperloop and Associated Technologies)

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21 pages, 6301 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Design Model of Null-Flux Coil Electrodynamic Suspension for the Hyperloop

by Jungyoul Lim, Chang-Young Lee, Jin-Ho Lee, Wonhee You, Kwan-Sup Lee and Suyong Choi

Energies 2020, 13(19), 5075; https://doi.org/10.3390/en13195075 - 28 Sep 2020

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 3231

Abstract

The Hyperloop has been developed using various technologies to reach a maximum speed of 1200 km/h. Such technologies include magnetic levitation technologies that are suitable for subsonic driving. In the Hyperloop, the null-flux electrodynamic suspension (EDS) system and superconducting magnets (SCMs) can perform [...] Read more.

The Hyperloop has been developed using various technologies to reach a maximum speed of 1200 km/h. Such technologies include magnetic levitation technologies that are suitable for subsonic driving. In the Hyperloop, the null-flux electrodynamic suspension (EDS) system and superconducting magnets (SCMs) can perform stable levitation without control during high-speed driving. Although an EDS device can be accurately analyzed using numerical analysis methods, such as the 3D finite element method (FEM) or dynamic circuitry theory, its 3D configurations make it difficult to use in various design analyses. This paper presents a new design model that fast analyzes and compares many designs of null-flux EDS devices for the Hyperloop system. For a fast and effective evaluation of various levitation coil shapes and arrangements, the computational process of the induced electromotive force and the coupling effect were simplified using a 2D rectangular coil loop, and the induced current and force equations were written as closed-form solutions using the Fourier analysis. Also, levitation coils were designed, and their characteristics were analyzed and compared with each other. To validate the proposed model, the analyzed force responses for various driving conditions and the changed performance trend by design variables were compared with analyzed FEM results. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hyperloop and Associated Technologies)

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21 pages, 4095 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Concepts on Train-to-Ground Wireless Communication System for Hyperloop: Channel, Network Architecture, and Resource Management

by Jiachi Zhang, Liu Liu, Botao Han, Zheng Li, Tao Zhou, Kai Wang, Dong Wang and Bo Ai

Energies 2020, 13(17), 4309; https://doi.org/10.3390/en13174309 - 20 Aug 2020

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 3290

Abstract

Hyperloop is envisioned as a novel transportation way with merits of ultra-high velocity and great traveling comforts. In this paper, we present some concepts on the key technologies dedicated to the train-to-ground communication system based on some prevailing fifth-generation communication (5G) technologies from [...] Read more.

Hyperloop is envisioned as a novel transportation way with merits of ultra-high velocity and great traveling comforts. In this paper, we present some concepts on the key technologies dedicated to the train-to-ground communication system based on some prevailing fifth-generation communication (5G) technologies from three aspects: wireless channel, network architecture, and resource management. First, we characterize the wireless channel of the distributed antenna system (DAS) using the propagation-graph channel modelling theory. Simulation reveals that a drastic Doppler shift variation appears when crossing the trackside antenna. Hence, the leaky waveguide system is a promising way to provide a stable receiving signal. In this regard, the radio coverage is briefly estimated. Second, a cloud architecture is utilized to integrate several successive trackside leaky waveguides into a logical cell to reduce the handover frequency. Moreover, based on a many-to-many mapping relationship between distributed units (DUs) and centralized units (CUs), a novel access network architecture is proposed to reduce the inevitable handover cost by using the graph theory. Simulation results show that this scheme can yield a low handover cost. Then, with regards to the ultra-reliable and low latency communication (uRLLC) traffic, a physical resource block (PRB) multiplexing scheme considering the latency requirements of each traffic type is exploited. Simulation presents that this scheme can maximize the throughput of non-critical mission communication services while guaranteeing the requirements of uRLLC traffic. Finally, in terms of the non-critical mission communication services, two cache-based resource management strategies are proposed to boost the throughput and reduce the midhaul link burden by pre-fetching and post-uploading schemes. Simulation demonstrates that the cache-based schemes can boost the throughput dramatically. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hyperloop and Associated Technologies)

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18 pages, 7722 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sub-Sonic Linear Synchronous Motors Using Superconducting Magnets for the Hyperloop

by Su Y. Choi, Chang Y. Lee, Jung M. Jo, Jae H. Choe, Ye Jun Oh, Kwan S. Lee and Jung Y. Lim

Energies 2019, 12(24), 4611; https://doi.org/10.3390/en12244611 - 4 Dec 2019

Cited by 34 | Viewed by 3879

Abstract

Sub-sonic linear synchronous motors (LSMs) with high-temperature superconducting (HTS) magnets, which aim to accelerate to a velocity of 1200 km/h in the near-vacuum tubes of 0.001 atm for the Hyperloop, are newly introduced in this paper. By the virtue of the combination of [...] Read more.

Sub-sonic linear synchronous motors (LSMs) with high-temperature superconducting (HTS) magnets, which aim to accelerate to a velocity of 1200 km/h in the near-vacuum tubes of 0.001 atm for the Hyperloop, are newly introduced in this paper. By the virtue of the combination of LSMs and electrodynamic suspensions (EDSs) with HTS magnets, a large air-gap of 24 cm, low magnetic resistance forces of below 2 kN, and the efficient as well as practical design of propulsion power supply systems of around 10 MVA could be guaranteed at a sub-sonic velocity. The characteristics of the proposed LSMs with HTS magnets, in addition, are widely analyzed with theories and simulation results. Optimal design methods for LSMs and inverters, which account for more than half of the total construction cost, are introduced with design guidelines and examples for the commercialization version of the Hyperloop. At the end of the paper, in order to verify the proposed design models of the sub-sonic LSMs, two different test-beds—i.e., 6 m long static and 20 m long dynamic propulsion test-beds—are fabricated, and it is found that the experimental results are well matched with proposed design models as well as simulation results; therefore, the design methods constitute guidelines for the design of sub-sonic LSMs for the Hyperloop. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hyperloop and Associated Technologies)

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18 pages, 2532 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Levitation Methods for Use in the Hyperloop High-Speed Transportation System

by Eric Chaidez, Shankar P. Bhattacharyya and Adonios N. Karpetis

Energies 2019, 12(21), 4190; https://doi.org/10.3390/en12214190 - 2 Nov 2019

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 9132

Abstract

The Hyperloop system offers the promise of transportation over distances of 1000 km or more, at speeds approaching the speed of sound, without the complexity and cost of high-speed trains or commercial aviation. Two crucial technological issues must be addressed before a practical [...] Read more.

The Hyperloop system offers the promise of transportation over distances of 1000 km or more, at speeds approaching the speed of sound, without the complexity and cost of high-speed trains or commercial aviation. Two crucial technological issues must be addressed before a practical system can become operational: air resistance, and contact/levitation friction must both be minimized in order to minimize power requirements and system size. The present work addresses the second issue by estimating the power requirements for each of the three major modes of Hyperloop operation: rolling wheels, sliding air bearings, and levitating magnetic suspension systems. The salient features of each approach are examined using simple theories and a comparison is made of power consumption necessary in each case. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hyperloop and Associated Technologies)

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