Projects

Summary

The SCALE project focuses on developing the critical launcher technology needed for ultra-high-speed transport systems, based on a Switched Reluctance Linear Motor (SRLM). The objective is to design a launcher capable of accelerating a vehicle of approximately 500 kg to speeds above 600 km/h along an acceleration track of about 600 meters, in an efficient, sustainable and scalable manner. The project addresses the main challenges of the SRLM solution, including power electronics, energy supply, section switches, sensing, positioning and control, and experimentally validates all critical systems involved. In addition, a cost assessment per track section and an environmental impact evaluation through life cycle analysis are carried out.

Objectives

Design a holistic SRLM solution that includes power electronics, energy supply and control algorithms, capable of propelling a 500 kg vehicle to ultra-high speeds (> 600 km/h) along a 600 m acceleration track. Experimentally validate the critical systems, including section-switch synchronization, sensing and positioning, and the SRLM control strategy. Analyse the efficiency, sustainability and scalability of the solution compared with other linear motor approaches. Design the most suitable power converter topology to manage high voltages and currents, including modular and scalable multilevel drives. Evaluate new power semiconductor technologies (SiC, GaN) to reduce losses and improve performance in conversion devices and section switches.

Ceit’s role

Ceit leads the design and implementation of the power electronics for the linear motor section power supply system. This includes: design of the hardware architecture and devices for high-speed, high-current and high-voltage energy flow; study and design of modular and scalable SRM drives; development and analysis of high-speed, high-current/voltage section switches to ensure safe operation and synchronization with the SRLM control strategy; and evaluation of new semiconductor technologies to improve energy efficiency and prepare the future industrialisation of the solution.