SCALE focuses on the evolution of one of the critical hyperloop systems: the on-track launcher. Zeleros’ launcher is differential from other hyperloop approaches by being based on SRLM (Switched Reluctance Linear Motor, a particular Linear Motor configuration). In this approach, the electric machine is designed in sections, fed by a switcher actioning the coils at different stages of the machine, fed by power electronics components highly demanding on power as requires massive amounts of energy deployed in seconds.
SCALE presents an evolution of this system building on previous prototypes already achieved by Zeleros: SCALE addresses new challenges for scaling up the solution towards a design suitable for the operational scale and industrially feasible, fulfilling requirements for a longer acceleration path, pushing a heavier vehicle to reach ultra-high speed (>600km/h) on an efficient, sustainable, and scalable manner. SCALE will address challenges in all the critical systems involved in this SRLM solution (power electronics, power supply, section switcher, sensing, positioning, and control), by researching, designing, implementing, and experimentally validating the system to de-risk the roadmap by assuring feasibility and scalability for an operational design.
The SCALE SRLM solution brings two key operational benefits in comparison with other linear motor alternatives: (1) Sustainability, thanks to its 100%-electric nature with no permanent magnets, using less polluting materials (aluminium instead of copper) in its life cycle; and (2) reduced infrastructure cost, thanks to simple coil geometries, cheaper materials, reduced amount of magnetic material, and sensorless approaches to reduce sensorisation needs.
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Acronym: SCALE
Title: SwitChed reluctAnce Linear motor for Electric ultra-high-speed
ID: CPP2021-008332
Budget: 1.631.740,12 €
Duration: 36 months (01/10/2022 – 30/09/2025)
Programme: Proyectos de colaboración público-privada 2021 – NGEU
Partners: Zeleros
Centro de Investigaciones Energéticas, Medioambientales y Tecnológicas (CIEMAT)
Asociación Centro Tecnológico Ceit (CEIT)
Funding: Project CPP2021-008332 is financed by MCIN/AEI/10.13039/501100011033 and European Union-NextGenerationEU/PRTR.
