Dynamic response and damping characteristics of a Berdut skate for a magnetically levitated train

Magnetic Force Corporation proposed a new magnetic levitation array for high speed trains. The dynamic response of the magnetic array is examined to have a clear conceptual understanding of where energy dissipation goes when the array is taken out of equilibrium. The damping characteristics are modeled and related to the physical characteristic of the array. A simplified model is developed, exhibiting the same dynamic behavior as the original magnetic array. Through experimentation and finite element simulation, it was found that energy dissipation resulted from hysteresis and eddy current losses. After model validation, the actual array is modeled and its characteristics correlated to its geometry and material properties by means of a sensitivity analysis. The magnetic array had an underdamped response and acted as a pseudo magnetic spring. With these parameters fully characterized it is possible to design a suspension response for rider comfort as part of future work.