DTRC electromagnetic launcher with feedback control

• Published in: IEEE transactions on magnetics Vol. 29; no. 1; pp. 804 - 809
• Main Authors: Emad, F.P., Borraccini, J.P., Waltman, D.J., Fikse, T.H., Ruby, W.R., Superczynski, M.J., Whitestone, R.C., Thomas, E.V.
• Format: Journal Article Conference Proceeding
• Language: English
• Published: New York, NY IEEE 01.01.1993; Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers
• Subjects: Analytical models; Applied sciences; Coaxial components; Computational modeling; Differential equations; Electrical engineering. Electrical power engineering; Electromagnetic coupling; Electromagnetic launching; Exact sciences and technology; Feedback control; Force control; Miscellaneous; Power system modeling; Testing; Various equipment and components; Automatic control; Launching; Computer simulation; Electromagnetic device; Accelerator
• ISSN: 0018-9464; 1941-0069
• DOI: 10.1109/20.195679

F.P. Emad et al. (see ibid., vol.25, no.1, 1989) described the development of an analytical model used to simulate and aid in the design and construction of a coaxial launcher. The authors present a more powerful launcher, improved design methods, and the use of feedback to control the forces as the launch is taking place. The model is based on a variable set of differential equations that represent the electromagnetics of the system coupled with the mechanical equations of motion. This approach in modeling results in excellent accuracy, numerical stability, and efficiency. The simulation can be performed on a desktop computer. The resultant design was used to build a full-scale model which was instrumented and tested. Both simulation and actual test results of the new launcher are presented. The most important conclusion is that the simulation is useful in making it possible to produce empirical control schemes to manipulate the resulting force curve.< >