Modeling and control of a simplified high-speed vehicle moving in reduced-pressure conditions

In times of rapidly progressing globalization, the possibility of fast long-distance travel between high traffic cities has become an extremely important issue. Currently, available transportation systems have numerous limitations, therefore, the idea of a high-speed transportation system moving in reduced-pressure conditions has emerged recently. This paper presents an approach to the modelling and simulation of the dynamic behaviour of a simplified high-speed vehicle that hovers over the track as a magnetically levitated system. The developed model is used for control system design. The purpose of passive and active suspension discussed in the text is to improve both the performance and stability of the vehicle as well as ride comfort of passengers travelling in a compartment. Comparative numerical studies are performed and the results of the simulations are reported in the paper with the intent to demonstrate the benefits of the approach employed here.