Friction-free transport system and contactless brake system therefor

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an assembly for a transportation system, the assembly comprising a plurality of magnetic wall modules (100a, 100b) coupled to each other, where each module is adapted to conduct an electrical current to form a magnetic field, and having a first wall (106a, 106b) and a second wall (104a, 104b) assembled together, where the second wall has a groove (202a, 202b), where the first wall (106a, 106b) and the second wall (104a, 104b) are arranged in the groove (202a, 202b). A recess divides the second wall into at least two different conductive regions.

Description

[0001] This application is based on the European patent application with the invention name "FRICTIONLESS TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM AND CONTACTLESS BRAKING SYSTEM FOR SUCH" and application number 22305445 filed on April 4, 2022 and the European patent application with the invention name "METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING SUPERCONDUCTING COILS AND DEVICE" and application number 22305437 filed on April 4, 2022, and claims the priority of the above-mentioned European patent applications, which are hereby incorporated by reference to the maximum extent permitted by law. Technical Field

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to the field of transportation systems, and more particularly, to frictionless mass transportation systems operated by magnetic fields; further, the present disclosure also relates to transportation systems using magnetic fields for braking. Background Art

[0003] The transportation of people and goods is one of the most basic needs of the modern world. In recent years, transportation has become increasingly difficult and expensive. On top of that, much of the world remains unconnected. There are no means of transportation between millions of people in Africa, South America, the Middle East and other parts of the world.

[0004] Current transportation systems (including airplanes, cars, ships, trains and railways) have common limitations; among them, dependence on carbon fuels and long, complex and expensive manufacturing times. Although there have been several advances in recent years (e.g., magnetic levitation trains (maglev) constructed in Germany and Japan), complexity still exists for such systems.

[0005] In a maglev train, the train floats a short distance on top of the rails due to a magnetic field. The magnetic field can also be used to move the train. The operation of a maglev train (e.g., German Transrapid and Japanese MLX) can be summarized as consisting of two phases depending on the speed. The two phases can be identified as a low-speed phase and a high-speed phase separated by a speed threshold of 160 km / h.

[0006] During the low-speed phase below or at 160km / h, the train receives power through physical electrical contacts. Since the electrical contacts directly touch each other during the low-speed phase, energy is lost due to friction. During the high-speed phase when the train is traveling at more than 160km / h, power is supplied by induction without physical electrical contacts. In order for the train to operate at these speeds, large magnet coils that generate magnetic fields must be constructed. These coils are usually constructed to the side of the guide rails and run through the track to accompany the train, including the guide structure for the train. The guide structure containing the magnetic coils must be carefully aligned, and any construction defects lead to a large waste of resources including time and money. At present, the guide structure of the maglev train is open to the environment, so the train car is subject to rain, snow, sunlight and other environmental hazards including air resistance at high speeds; this limitation translates into inefficiency during operation, resulting in higher maintenance costs, lower maximum speeds and greater power losses.

[0007] Currently, the complexity and number of components involved in the construction of maglev trains, and more specifically in the construction of the magnetic coils required for their operation, in addition to the high costs involved, prevent maglev train manufacturers from providing solutions to the mentioned inefficiencies.

[0008] Another transportation system called Swissmetro has been unveiled in recent years. In this system, an enclosed space (also described as a tube) is brought to a near vacuum that is mostly devoid of air and other particles. Trains travel inside the tube. The trains in this system are wheeled; and the wheels are in contact with the inner surface of the tube, which is also covered with rails, thereby increasing friction losses. The rails provide electricity for the propulsion of the trains. Although the trains in Swissmetro can also be styled with independent power supplies, in practice this takes up too much space and is therefore rarely preferred.

[0009] A railroad system is described in U.S. Patent No. 8,505,463 to Kwon et al. The railroad system described by Kwon includes a train car inside a tube suspended by magnets mounted on a bogie; the interior of the tube is in a near vacuum. The system described by Kwon requires a specific geometric configuration for the mounted magnets, and it is also described as using linear synchronous motors, which are typically constructed with permanent magnets, two characteristics that make it an expensive alternative to other railroad systems. In Kwon's system, centering of the train inside the track must be achieved with careful configuration and monitoring of the control system, further adding a dangerous component to the system: if the control system does fail unexpectedly, the train will lose centering, which may result in a collision.

[0010] A system that completely dispenses with guide rails, bogies, and tracks is described in U.S. Patent No. 7,137,343 to Pulliam. The transportation system disclosed by Pulliam is best described as a series of rings consisting of a flywheel and roller system that guide and drive the train forward. Pulliam fails to disclose a way to overcome the energy losses evident from the friction involved in the action of the rollers and flywheels. Additionally, Pulliam's system may not be able to achieve speeds comparable to those of maglev trains because it is limited by the power transmission capacity of the motors.

[0011] There remains a need for a transportation system that is easier to construct, includes fewer and simpler components, and allows a train or appropriate vehicle inside a near vacuum to effortlessly traverse space without excessive losses such as those involved in friction effects. Since the braking system is typically the primary source of friction losses in a transportation system, there is also a need for a system that allows contactless braking. Summary of the invention

[0012] One embodiment addresses all or some of the disadvantages of known transport systems.

[0013] One embodiment provides a component for a transportation system, the component comprising a plurality of magnetic wall modules interconnected, wherein each module is adapted to conduct current to form a magnetic field, and each module has a first wall and a second wall assembled together, wherein the second wall has a groove that divides the second wall into at least two different conductive areas.

[0014] One embodiment provides a component for a transportation system, the component comprising a plurality of magnetic wall modules, the plurality of magnetic wall modules being interconnected, wherein each module is adapted to conduct current to form a magnetic field, and each module has a first wall and a second wall assembled together, wherein the second wall has a groove, the groove dividing the second wall into at least two different conductive areas, thereby diverting current and allowing current to pass through the magnetic wall module along different paths, wherein the grooves of different magnetic wall modules are connected to form a continuous groove; and wherein the second wall of a magnetic wall module among the plurality of magnetic wall modules is aligned with the second wall of another magnetic wall module among the plurality of magnetic wall modules so that current can flow from the second wall of the magnetic wall module to the second wall of the other magnetic wall module.

[0015] In one embodiment, the first wall of the magnetic wall module is aligned with the first wall of the other magnetic wall module so that current can flow from the first wall of the magnetic wall module to the first wall of the other magnetic wall module.

[0016] In one embodiment, the groove of a module is adapted to be connected to the groove of another module to form a continuous groove.

[0017] In one embodiment, each module further comprises a third wall assembled to the second wall such that the second wall is between the first wall and the third wall.

[0018] In one embodiment, the third wall of a magnetic wall module among the plurality of magnetic wall modules is aligned with the third wall of another magnetic wall module among the plurality of magnetic wall modules.

[0019] In one embodiment, at least one module among the plurality of modules comprises a connection device located on the face of the third wall and suitable for mechanically and possibly electrically connecting the module to a connection device located on the face of the third wall of another module among the plurality of modules, for example, the connection device comprises a mechanical connector such as a flange, the flange comprising holes suitable for aligning with holes of a flange of the other module.

[0020] In one embodiment, at least one module of the plurality of modules comprises at least one channel passing through the first wall of the module, for example to enable a cooling fluid such as nitrogen or helium to flow through the module, each channel being for example adapted to form a single channel with a channel passing through the first wall of another module of the plurality of modules.

[0021] In one embodiment, the first wall of a module among the plurality of modules is aligned with the first wall of another module among the plurality of modules, the second wall of the module is aligned with the second wall of the other module, and the third wall of the module is aligned with the third wall of the other module.

[0022] In one embodiment, the module is configured to have superconducting properties.

[0023] In one embodiment, at least one module of the plurality of modules comprises a stack of different materials, wherein:

[0024] - the first wall consists of or is covered by a material such as Hastelloy;

[0025] The second wall comprises a superconducting layer and a shunt layer, the grooves of the at least one module being patterned at least in the superconducting layer, the shunt layer being located on the superconducting layer and in the grooves, the shunt layer being made of a metal such as silver.

[0026] In one embodiment, the stack further comprises at least one buffer layer, preferably a plurality of buffer layers, wherein the at least one buffer layer is located between the first wall and the superconducting layer, and the at least one buffer layer is, for example, composed of a material such as aluminum oxide, yttrium oxide, magnesium oxide and / or lanthanum manganate; the grooves are patterned at least in the buffer layer and the superconducting layer.

[0027] In one embodiment, the second wall also includes a repeating portion layer, which is located below the shunt layer, and the repeating portion layer includes repetitions of the buffer layer and the superconducting layer, preferably multiple repetitions such as between 4 and 80 times, and the grooves are patterned in the buffer layer, the superconducting layer and the repeating portion layer.

[0028] In one embodiment, the third wall comprises a further superconducting layer, which is preferably a non-perforated and non-grooved layer.

[0029] One embodiment provides a magnetic wall module, which is suitable for the assembly according to the embodiment.

[0030] One embodiment provides a magnetic wall module, which is one of the plurality of magnetic wall modules coupled to each other included in the assembly according to the embodiment.

[0031] One embodiment provides a transport system, which includes a carrier and a transport container, wherein the transport container is suitable for accommodating the carrier, wherein the transport container and / or the carrier includes a magnetic wall module according to an embodiment or a component according to an embodiment.

[0032] In one embodiment, the transport container comprises at least a magnetic wall module according to an embodiment or an assembly according to an embodiment.

[0033] In one embodiment, the transport container comprises: a low pressure zone having at least one first magnetic wall module; and at least one transition zone adjacent to the low pressure zone, preferably a transition zone located at each end of the low pressure zone, at least one transition zone having at least one second magnetic wall module different from the at least one first magnetic wall module, for example, the low pressure zone is suitable for being in a near vacuum, and the at least one transition zone is suitable for being in a higher pressure than the low pressure zone.

[0034] In one embodiment, the carrier comprises a housing and at least one magnetic panel located in or on a surface of the housing, the at least one magnetic panel comprising a magnetic wall module according to an embodiment or an assembly according to an embodiment.

[0035] In one embodiment, the at least one magnetic panel is positioned to face the at least one magnetic wall module of the transport container.

[0036] In one embodiment, the carrier comprises extension means, such as an extension rod, adapted to extend at least one magnetic panel relative to the outer shell of the carrier towards the transport container.

[0037] In one embodiment, the extension means forms at least part of a contactless braking system adapted to brake the vehicle.

[0038] In one embodiment, the transport container is a transport cylinder and the vehicle is a maglev train.

[0039] advantage

[0040] Advantages of some or all aspects may be described as follows: the transportation system eliminates air resistance, so it can achieve high speeds; the transportation system is inherently safe because unpowered magnetic fields stop the train cars; the system is not limited by the size of the components, because they can be as large or small as needed; the system is easy to maintain because individual panels can be serviced as needed. Other technical advantages will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the detailed description, drawings, and claims. In addition, while specific advantages have been enumerated above, different embodiments may include all, none, or some of the advantages listed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0041] The foregoing features and advantages and other features and advantages will be detailed in the following description of specific embodiments given by way of illustration and not limitation in the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0042] Figure 1A It is an overall stereogram of the magnetic wall module.

[0043] Figure 1B It is an overall stereogram of two magnetic wall modules flanking each other.

[0044] Figure 1C It is an overall stereogram of two magnetic wall modules connected by flanges.

[0045] Figure 2 It is an exploded perspective view of the middle plane of two connected magnetic wall modules.

[0046] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of a stack of materials used to construct a magnetic wall module.

[0047] Figure 4 is a plan view of several magnetic wall modules arranged to form a transport cylinder.

[0048] Figure 5This is an overall view of the maglev train.

[0049] Figure 6 It is a cross-sectional view of the maglev train inside the transport cylinder.

[0050] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of a maglev train inside the transport cylinder with the maglev train exposed.

[0051] Figure 8 It is an overall stereoscopic view of the front of the maglev train.

[0052] Fig. 9 is a general perspective view of the front of the maglev train with the magnetic panels extended.

[0053] Fig.10 It is an overall three-dimensional view of the back of the magnetic panel.

[0054] Reference numerals

[0055] 100a, 100b: Magnetic wall module

[0056] 102a, 102b, 302: structural layer (third wall)

[0057] 104a, 104b, 304: middle layer (second wall)

[0058] 304a: Filling layer (diversion layer)

[0059] 304b: Superconducting layer

[0060] 106a, 106b, 306: lower layer (first wall)

[0061] 108a, 108b, 308: Refrigeration channel (channel)

[0062] 110a, 110b: Flange of magnetic wall module

[0063] 112a, 102b: Hole

[0064] 114a, 114b: outer surface of the structural layer

[0065] 202, 202a, 202b: groove

[0066] 400: Transport cylinder

[0067] 401: First transition zone

[0068] 402: Low pressure area

[0069] 403: Second Transition Zone

[0070] 400a, 400b, 400c: Magnetic wall modules in transport cylinders

[0071] 410a, 410b, 410c: Flanges of magnetic wall modules in transport cylinders

[0072] 500: Maglev train

[0073] 502: Upper magnetic panel

[0074] 504: Vertical Magnetic Panel

[0075] 504a: Rear magnetic panel

[0076] 504b: Front magnetic panel

[0077] 506: Car window

[0078] 508: Door

[0079] 509: Doors and Windows

[0080] 1010: Rod DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0081] In the various figures, the same features have been designated by the same reference numerals. In particular, structural and / or functional features common to the various embodiments may have the same reference numerals and may employ the same structures, dimensions, and material properties.

[0082] For clarity, only operations and elements useful for understanding the embodiments described herein have been explained and described in detail.

[0083] Unless otherwise indicated, when reference is made to two elements being connected together, this means a direct connection without any intermediate elements except conductors, and when reference is made to two elements being coupled together, this means the two elements may be connected or they may be coupled via one or more other elements.

[0084] In the following disclosure, unless otherwise indicated, when reference is made to absolute position qualifiers (e.g., terms "front", "back", "top", "bottom", "left", "right", etc.) or relative position qualifiers (e.g., terms "above", "below", "higher", "lower", etc.) or orientation qualifiers (e.g., "horizontal", "vertical", etc.), reference is made to the orientation shown in the figures.

[0085] Unless otherwise specified, the expressions "about," "approximately," "substantially," and "approximately" mean within 10% and preferably within 5%.

[0086] The drawings are not to scale. It should be noted that when no ambiguity is intended, the drawings refer to embodiments of the disclosed frictionless transport system and its associated contactless braking system, sometimes referred to simply as the transport system or braking system, respectively. Other embodiments may be possible as can be readily understood by a person with appropriate training. The actual dimensions and / or shape of each of the components of the embodiments may vary. Only the important details of the embodiments are shown, however, a person of ordinary skill in the art can understand how to construct the entire device without undue experimentation. Some details have been omitted from the drawings, but the inventors believe that adding these details is unnecessary for a full understanding of the features of the disclosed invention. These omitted details include, among other things, elements for holding or fixing the device or its functional components. Some features of the embodiments appear exaggerated to facilitate understanding. The disclosed embodiments and observed alternatives should not be construed as limiting the invention in any way.

[0087] The main element of the frictionless transport system is the magnetic wall module 100a, an embodiment of which is shown in Figure 1A The magnetic wall module 100a is coupled to (eg, connected to) Figure 1B At least another magnetic wall module 100b shown in the drawings is provided to allow electric current to pass through it and create a magnetic field. Each magnetic wall module 100a is composed of a lower layer 106a, an intermediate layer 104a and a structural layer 102a assembled to each other by construction. In addition, on the outer surface 114a of the structural layer, a flange 110a can be positioned. The flange 110a can also include a hole 112a to create a mechanical connection. A refrigeration tunnel, channel or channel 108a can pass through the lower layer 106a. The lower layer 106a, the intermediate layer 104a and the structural layer 102a can also be referred to as an inner wall, an intermediate wall and an outer wall, or as a first wall, a second wall and a third wall, respectively. When a channel is cited, this also includes a tunnel or a channel.

[0088] Magnetic wall modules are linked with other magnetic wall modules to create an assembly and / or system through which electrical current flows and through which magnetic fields are contained.

[0089] Figure 1B Two of these magnetic wall modules 100a, 100b are shown. The flange 110b of the second magnetic wall module 100b is aligned with the flange 110a of the first magnetic wall module 100a. The magnetic wall modules 100a, 100b are connected to form a single larger magnetic wall module by using holes 112a, 112b on each of the flanges 110a, 110b and appropriate connecting means (e.g., screws or bolts). Figure 1C This results in alignment of the lower layers 106a, 106b, the intermediate layers 104a, 104b and the structural layers 102a, 102b of each of the magnetic wall modules 100a, 100b. With the layers aligned, current can flow from one layer to another.

[0090] In the two magnetic wall modules 100a, 100b, electric current flows through the intermediate layers 104a, 104b. Figure 2 The separation at the intermediate layers 104a, 104b is shown. Figure 1C Exploded view of the joined magnetic wall modules in FIG. During construction of each of the magnetic wall modules 100a, 100b, ridges, wedges or grooves 202a, 202b are created from the intermediate layer 104a, 104b material. The grooves 202a, 202b divide the intermediate layer 104a, 104b into different conductive areas, resulting in the division of current flow and allowing the current to pass through the magnetic modules 100a, 100b along different paths. The grooves 202a, 202b can be joined to form a continuous groove 202.

[0091] When referring to grooves, this also includes ridges or wedges.

[0092] Example of the construction of a magnetic wall module

[0093] Figure 3 A magnetic wall module 300 (eg, from Figure 1A The magnetic wall module 100a and / or from Figure 1B The internal structure of the magnetic wall module 100b). Figure 3 In the first embodiment shown, the lower layer 306 is constructed of a material such as Hastelloy, or may be constructed of a different material and covered with Hastelloy. The intermediate layer 304 is deposited on top of the lower layer 306.

[0094] The middle layer 304 can be divided into two layers, starting from the bottom, first the superconducting layer 304b and then the filling layer 304a (shunt layer). The superconducting layer 304b is deposited directly or indirectly on the lower layer 306. The superconducting layer 304b can be deposited by techniques such as metal organic chemical vapor decomposition MOCVD, and is composed of REBCO, YBCO or other suitable superconducting materials. The buffer material layer can be preferably placed between the lower layer 306 and the superconducting layer 304b. The buffer layer can be composed of several other materials (for example, aluminum oxide, yttrium oxide, magnesium oxide and lanthanum manganite). These layers can be deposited by techniques such as sputtering. The buffer layer can form a suitable template for forming a superconducting layer.

[0095] The groove 202 can be created at least through the superconducting layer 304b using a patterning method (e.g., laser engraving) or another technique (e.g., mechanical techniques or photolithography). On top of the superconducting layer 304b and filling the groove 202, a filling layer 304a (shunt layer) can be positioned. The shunt layer 304a can provide a path in the event of quenching of the superconducting layer 304b. The filling layer 304a can be formed of a material with good electrical conductivity (e.g., silver). The structural layer 302 is deposited on top of the filling layer 304a.

[0096] The shunt layer 304a is optional. There are other solutions for solving the quenching problem (eg, operating at sufficiently low current, temperature and / or magnetic field). Quenching is generally a problem for superconductivity, which is not related to the problem solved by the embodiments.

[0097] The described sequence of buffer layers and superconducting layers can be repeated several times (forming a repeating layer) before forming the grooves 202, wherein the best results are achieved with a layer sequence repetition of between 4 and 80 times (e.g., for a magnetic field of approximately 10 Tesla, with a layer sequence repetition of between 20 and 40 times). The grooves can then also be formed in the repeating layer.

[0098] For example, for one sequence of buffer layers and superconducting layers, the depth of the grooves 202 is comprised between 3 μm and 5 μm. If the sequence is repeated, the depth of the grooves can be multiplied by the number of sequences. For example, the depth of the grooves is comprised between 3×N μm and 5×N μm, where N is the number of sequences.

[0099] The structural layer 302 may have a preferably non-perforated (and non-grooved) layer of superconducting material in order to at least partially produce a phenomenon known as the Meissner effect. The Meissner effect prevents a magnetic field from passing through the structural layer 302.

[0100] The lower layer 306 may also include channels 308, for which a coolant may flow to allow cooling of the entire structure. In particular, the superconducting layer 304b may require substantial cooling during operation.

[0101] According to an embodiment, the magnetic wall module is a modular coil.

[0102] Other suitable materials, other layer configurations and / or methods for constructing magnetic modules (e.g., modular coils) as stacks of layers formed of different materials should be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. Another example is given in European patent application No. EP22305437, entitled “METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING SUPERCONDUCTING COILS AND DEVICE”, filed on April 4, 2022 by the same applicant “RENAISSANCE FUSION”, which is hereby incorporated by reference to the maximum extent permitted by law.

[0103] Description of the frictionless transport system

[0104] Figure 4 Several magnetic wall modules are shown arranged in the shape of a transport cylinder 400 (transport container). Figure 4 In the embodiment of the present invention, the shipping container has a cylindrical shape and is named a shipping cylinder, but in other embodiments, the shipping container may have another shape suitable for accommodating the carrier.

[0105] Figure 4 The transport cylinder 400 is shown in a plan view. The transport cylinder 400 can be divided into three sections or sections: a first transition zone 401, a low pressure zone 402, and a second transition zone 403. The magnetic wall modules in each section can be different. Preferably, the magnetic wall module in the low pressure zone is different from the magnetic wall module in the transition zone. The magnetic wall module 400b (second magnetic wall module) in the transition zone 401 or 403 can be segmented (e.g., substantially a curved square). On the contrary, the magnetic wall module 400a (first magnetic wall module) in the low pressure zone 402 can be cylindrical, that is, not segmented in the azimuth direction: this produces better vacuum sealing, mechanical strength and power efficiency because it avoids resistive joints. In addition, depending on the shape, modules 400a and 400b can be connected by flanges of different types. A first flange 410b may be required to connect the magnetic wall module 400b in the transition zone 401 or 403, and a second flange 410b may be required to connect the magnetic wall module(s) 400a in the low pressure zone 402 with the magnetic wall module 400b in each of the transition zones 401 or 403. Each of the magnetic modules 400a, 400b may have Figure 1A The magnetic wall module 100a and / or Figure 3 Characteristics of the magnetic wall module 300.

[0106] Figure 5 The car of the maglev train 500 (vehicle) is shown in plan view. Figure 5In the embodiment of the present invention, the vehicle is a train, but in other embodiments, the vehicle may be different from a train (e.g., a car or truck) and is suitable for moving in a transport container.

[0107] The maglev train 500 consists of a door 508 and a car window 506. The door 508 may also have a door window 509. Magnetic wall modules or panels 502, 504, 504a and 504b are set into the shell 501 of the maglev train 500, thereby forming at least part of its outer wall. The magnetic wall modules can be identified according to their arrangement in the shell 501 of the maglev train 500. The upper magnetic panel 502 is laid on the upper side of the roof and wall of the maglev train 500. The vertical magnetic panel 504 is located between the door 508 and the car window 506 of the maglev train 500. Below the vertical magnetic panel, on each side of the maglev train is a rear magnetic panel 504b and a front magnetic panel 504a. Each of the magnetic panels 502, 504, 504a and 504b may have Figure 1A The magnetic wall module 100a and / or Figure 3 The characteristics of the magnetic wall module 300. In another embodiment, the magnetic panels 502, 504, 504a and 504b can be constructed of permanent magnets in sequence.

[0108] Figure 6 The maglev train 500 is shown inside the transport cylinder 400. The transport cylinder 400 forms a closed volume bounded by magnetic wall modules 400c, which are coupled (e.g., connected) to each other, such as by flanges 410c. Because the interior of the transport cylinder 400 is a closed volume, the internal air can be removed and a vacuum or near vacuum can be created. The length of the transport cylinder 400 depends on the use, and the transport cylinder 400 can be curved. The car windows 506 on the train allow passengers and train operators to see their destination.

[0109] exist Figure 7 In the figure, a part of the transport cylinder 400 has been removed so that the characteristics of the maglev train 500 inside it can be understood. The magnetic wall module 400c constituting the wall of the transport cylinder 400 faces the magnetic panels 502, 504, 504a and 504b on the outside of the maglev train 500, so that they interact with each other.

[0110] Figure 8 FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a maglev train 500 outside of a transport cylinder 400. Magnetic panels 504 and 504b surround the maglev train 500. All magnetic panels 502, 504, 504b, and 504a may be disposed in different locations and of different sizes. For example, a magnetic wall module (e.g., magnetic wall module 100a from FIG. 1 and / or magnetic wall module 100b from FIG. 1 ) may be used. Figure 3 The magnetic wall module 300 completely covers the outside of the maglev train 500.

[0111] More generally, in a frictionless transport system, at least the magnetic wall module can be installed:

[0112] - only in the transport container (in which the vehicle is intended to move);

[0113] - only on the carrier (at least one magnetic wall module may cover at least the outer surface of the carrier); or

[0114] - Both in the transport container and on the carrier.

[0115] Fig. 9 Magnetic panel 504b is shown in an extended position. All magnetic panels 502, 504, 504b, and 504a can be extended by using an extension device (eg, extension rod 1010) described below.

[0116] Fig.10 1010 is a rear view of the magnetic panel 504b when the magnetic panel 504b is extended by using the extension rod 1010. Fig.10 One such rod 1010 is shown in . The rod may be mechanically operated using a motor or some other suitable device.

[0117] Example of operation of a frictionless transport system

[0118] During operation of the frictionless transportation system, the maglev train 500 is housed inside the transportation cylinder 400, such as Figure 6 As shown. Because the magnetic field exists inside the transport cylinder 400, the maglev train 500 floats or levitates without moving. The effect of the magnetic field also centers the maglev train 500 inside the transport cylinder 400. The interior of the transport cylinder 400 is in a near vacuum and has a low pressure area 402 along with transition areas 401 and 403 that may have higher pressures.

[0119] Reference Figure 7 In order to move the maglev train 500, the magnetic field generated by the magnetic wall module 400c of the transport cylinder 400 or the magnetic field maintained by the magnetic panels 502, 504, 504b and 504a on the surface of the maglev train 500 must withstand the changes that drive the maglev train 500 forward or backward. Modifying the current flow can produce this effect.

[0120] Because the maglev train 500 is in the near vacuum interior, it suffers very low air resistance as it moves, and because the train is floating and there is no guide rail, it does not experience contact friction. Therefore, the movement of the maglev train 500 can be described as frictionless. During operation, the maglev train 500 moves from the low pressure zone 402 to the transition zone 401 or 403 where the air pressure increases slightly, until it arrives at the train station where the air pressure is normal. As the maglev train 500 moves between each section, its speed changes. When the maglev train 500 is leaving the train station, it must accelerate. Acceleration is completed in the transition zone 401 or 403, until it reaches its maximum speed and arrives at the low pressure zone 402. When the train is approaching the station, it must slow down. Coming out of the low pressure zone 402, it enters one of the transition zones 401 or 403 and its speed is reduced, until it arrives at the station and makes a complete stop. At the station, the door 508 is opened, and passengers or goods can enter and exit the train.

[0121] Contactless braking system

[0122] The described embodiment of the frictionless transport system may also include a contactless braking system. In an advantageous embodiment, the contactless braking system utilizes the capacity of the magnetic wall module to extend, such as Fig. 9 and Fig.10 This is shown in the magnetic panel 504b in FIG. This exploits a natural phenomenon common to all magnetic fields. A magnetic field resists sudden changes in its configuration.

[0123] When the maglev train 500 must stop or slow down, the magnetic panels 502, 504, 504b and 504a should be extended. In the following description, reference is made to the front magnetic panel 504b, such as Fig.10 The extension rod 1010 must push the panel 504b outward, reducing the space between the panel 504b and the inner wall of the transport cylinder 400. This results in a sudden change in the configuration of the magnetic field, which in the described embodiment will result in a sharp decrease in the speed of the maglev train 500. The intensity of the speed change can be controlled by the degree or speed at which the panel 504b is extended.

[0124] Example embodiments of the present invention are summarized herein. Other embodiments may also be understood from the complete specification and claims submitted herein.

[0125] Example 1. A component for a transportation system, the component comprising a plurality of magnetic wall modules (100a, 100b; 300), the plurality of magnetic wall modules being interconnected, wherein each module is adapted to conduct electric current to form a magnetic field, and each module has a first wall (106a, 106b; 306) and a second wall (104a, 104b; 304) assembled together, wherein the second wall has a groove (202a, 202b) that divides the second wall into at least two different conductive areas.

[0126] Example 2. The assembly of Example 1, wherein the groove (202a) of a module (100a) is adapted to be connected to the groove (202b) of another module (100b) to form a continuous groove (202).

[0127] Example 3. An assembly as described in Example 1 or 2, wherein each module further comprises a third wall (102a, 102b; 302), the third wall being assembled to the second wall (104a, 104b; 304) so ​​that the second wall is between the first wall and the third wall.

[0128] Example 4. A component as described in any of Examples 1 to 3, wherein the grooves (202a, 202b, 202) of the multiple modules (100a, 100b) are suitable for directing the flow of current in a specific direction or in different paths through at least the second walls (104a, 104b) of the modules.

[0129] Example 5. An assembly as described in any of Examples 1 to 4, wherein at least one module (100a) of the plurality of modules is mechanically and possibly electrically coupled to another module (100b) of the plurality of modules.

[0130] Example 6. A component as described in any one of Examples 1 or 5 in combination with Example 3, wherein at least one module (100a) among the plurality of modules includes a connecting device (110a), the connecting device being located on a surface (114a) of the third wall (102a) and being suitable for mechanically and possibly electrically connecting the module to a connecting device (110b) located on a surface (114b) of the third wall (102b) of another module (100b) among the plurality of modules, for example, the connecting device includes a mechanical connector such as a flange (110a), the flange (110a) including a hole (112a), the hole (112a) being suitable for aligning with a hole (112b) of a flange (110b) of the other module.

[0131] Example 7. A component as described in any of Examples 1 to 6, wherein at least one module (100a) of the plurality of modules includes at least one channel (108a), the at least one channel passing through the first wall (106a) of the module, for example, to enable a cooling fluid such as nitrogen or helium to flow through the module, each channel being suitable for forming a single channel with a channel (108b) passing through the first wall (106b) of another module (100b) of the plurality of modules.

[0132] Example 8. A component as described in any one of Examples 1 to 7 in combination with Example 3, wherein the first wall (106a) of a module (100a) among the multiple modules is aligned with the first wall (106b) of another module (100b) among the multiple modules, the second wall (104a) of the module is aligned with the second wall (104b) of the other module, and the third wall (102a) of the module is aligned with the third wall (102b) of the other module.

[0133] Example 9. The assembly of any of Examples 1 to 8, wherein the module is configured to have superconducting properties.

[0134] Example 10. The assembly of any one of Examples 1 to 9, wherein at least one module (300) of the plurality of modules comprises a stack of different materials, wherein:

[0135] - the first wall (306) consists of or is covered with a material such as Hastelloy;

[0136] The second wall (304) comprises a superconducting layer (304b), the grooves (202) of the at least one module being patterned at least in the superconducting layer, and a shunt layer (304a) being located on the superconducting layer and in the grooves, the shunt layer being made of a metal such as silver.

[0137] Example 11. A component as described in Example 10, wherein the stack further comprises at least one buffer layer, preferably a plurality of buffer layers, the at least one buffer layer being located between the first wall (306) and the superconducting layer (304b), the at least one buffer layer being, for example, composed of a material such as aluminum oxide, yttrium oxide, magnesium oxide and / or lanthanum manganate; the groove (202) being patterned at least in the buffer layer and the superconducting layer.

[0138] Example 12. A component as described in Example 11, wherein the second wall (304) further includes a repeating portion layer, the repeating portion layer being located below the shunt layer (304a), the repeating portion layer including repetitions of the buffer layer and the superconducting layer, preferably multiple repetitions, for example between 4 and 80 times, and the groove (202) is patterned in the buffer layer, the superconducting layer and the repeating portion layer.

[0139] Example 13. The assembly of Example 11 or 12 in combination with Example 3, wherein the third wall (302) comprises another superconducting layer, and the other superconducting layer is preferably a non-perforated and non-grooved layer.

[0140] Example 14. A magnetic wall module (100a, 100b; 300), wherein the magnetic wall module (100a, 100b; 300) is suitable for the assembly according to any one of Examples 1 to 13.

[0141] Example 15. A transport system comprising a carrier (500) and a transport container (400), wherein the transport container (400) is suitable for accommodating the carrier (500), wherein the transport container and / or the carrier comprises a magnetic wall module (400a, 400b, 400c; 502, 504, 504a, 504b) as described in Example 14 or a component as described in any one of Examples 1 to 13.

[0142] Example 16. A system as described in Example 15, wherein the transport container (400) includes at least a magnetic wall module (400a, 400b, 400c) as described in Example 14 or a component as described in any one of Examples 1 to 13.

[0143] Example 17. A system as described in Example 16, wherein the transport container (400) includes: a low pressure zone (401) having at least one first magnetic wall module (400a); and at least one transition zone (402, 403) adjacent to the low pressure zone, preferably a transition zone located at each end of the low pressure zone, the at least one transition zone having at least one second magnetic wall module (400b) different from the at least one first magnetic wall module (400a), for example, the low pressure zone (401) is suitable for being in a near vacuum, and the at least one transition zone (402, 403) is suitable for being in a higher pressure than the low pressure zone (401).

[0144] Example 18. A system as described in any of Examples 15 to 17, wherein the vehicle (500) includes a shell (501) and at least one magnetic panel (502, 504, 504a, 504b), the at least one magnetic panel (502, 504, 504a, 504b) being located in or on the surface of the shell, and the at least one magnetic panel includes a magnetic wall module as described in Example 14, a component as described in any of Examples 1 to 13, and / or a permanent magnet.

[0145] Example 19. The system of claim 18 in combination with claim 16 or 17, wherein the at least one magnetic panel (502, 504, 504a, 504b) is positioned to face the at least one magnetic wall module (400a, 400b, 400c) of the transport container (400).

[0146] Example 20. A system as described in Example 18 or 19, wherein the carrier (500) includes an extension device, such as an extension rod (1010), which is suitable for extending at least one magnetic panel (504b) toward the transport container (400) relative to the shell (501) of the carrier.

[0147] Example 21. A system as described in any one of Examples 15 to 20, further comprising a contactless braking system suitable for braking the vehicle.

[0148] Example 22. The system of Example 20, wherein the extension device forms at least a portion of a contactless braking system suitable for braking the vehicle.

[0149] Example 23. A system as described in any of Examples 15 to 22, wherein the transport container (400) is a transport cylinder and the vehicle (500) is a maglev train.

[0150] Example 24. A method for manufacturing the magnetic wall module as described in Example 14, the method comprising:

[0151] - providing a first layer (306), the first layer (306) for example consisting of or covered by a material such as Hastelloy;

[0152] - depositing a superconducting layer (304b) on said first layer, for example by metal organic chemical vapor deposition;

[0153] - removing material from the superconducting layer, for example using laser engraving techniques, to form grooves (202);

[0154] - depositing a layer formed of a metal on the superconducting layer, comprising: filling the groove with the metal, such as silver, to form a shunt layer (304a).

[0155] Example 25. A method as described in Example 24, wherein the method further comprises: before forming the superconducting layer, forming at least one buffer layer, preferably multiple buffer layers, for example using a sputtering technique, wherein the at least one buffer layer is, for example, composed of a material such as aluminum oxide, yttrium oxide, magnesium oxide and / or lanthanum manganate.

[0156] Example 26. A method as described in Example 25, wherein the method further comprises: forming a repeating layer before forming the shunt layer (304), the repeating layer comprising repetitions of the buffer layer and the superconducting layer, and preferably multiple repetitions, for example, between 4 and 80 times.

[0157] Example 27. The method as described in any one of Examples 24 to 26, further comprising: forming another layer on the shunt layer (304a), wherein the other layer is preferably a non-perforated superconducting layer.

[0158] Various embodiments and variations have been described. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the specific features of these embodiments can be combined, and that other variations will readily occur to those skilled in the art.

[0159] Finally, actual implementation of the embodiments and variations described herein is within the capabilities of those skilled in the art based on the functional description provided above.

[0160] List of acronyms:

[0161] Maglev (Magnetic levitation train)

[0162] MOCVD Metal-organic chemical vapor deposition

[0163] REBCO Rare-earth barium copper oxide

[0164] YBCO Yttrium barium copper oxide

Claims

1. A component for a transportation system, the component comprising a plurality of magnetic wall modules (100a, 100b; 300), the plurality of magnetic wall modules (100a, 100b; 300) being connected to each other, wherein: Each magnetic wall module is suitable for conducting current to form a magnetic field, and each magnetic wall module has a first wall (106a, 106b; 306) and a second wall (104a, 104b; 304) assembled together, wherein the second wall has a groove (202a, 202b), and the groove (202a, 202b) divides the second wall into at least two different conductive areas, thereby dividing the current and allowing the current to pass through the magnetic wall modules (100a, 100b) along different paths, wherein the grooves (202a, 202b) of different magnetic wall modules are connected to form a continuous groove (202); and wherein the second wall (104a) of a magnetic wall module (100a) among the multiple magnetic wall modules is aligned with the second wall (104b) of another magnetic wall module (100b) among the multiple magnetic wall modules, so that the current can flow from the second wall of the magnetic wall module to the second wall of the other magnetic wall module.

2. The assembly according to claim 1, wherein The first wall (106a) of the magnetic wall module (100a) is aligned with the first wall (106b) of the other magnetic wall module (100b) so that current can flow from the first wall of the magnetic wall module to the first wall of the other magnetic wall module.

3. The assembly according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: Each magnetic wall module further comprises a third wall (102a, 102b; 302) assembled to the second wall (104a, 104b; 304) of the magnetic wall module so that the second wall is between the first wall and the third wall of the magnetic wall module.

4. The assembly according to claim 3, wherein: The third wall (102a) of a magnetic wall module (100a) among the plurality of magnetic wall modules is aligned with the third wall (102b) of another magnetic wall module among the plurality of magnetic wall modules.

5. An assembly according to claim 3 or 4, wherein: At least one magnetic wall module (100a) among the plurality of magnetic wall modules comprises a connection device (110a), the connection device (110a) being located on a face (114a) of the third wall (102a) and being suitable for mechanically and possibly electrically coupling the magnetic wall module to a connection device (110b) located on a face (114b) of the third wall (102b) of another magnetic wall module (100b) among the plurality of magnetic wall modules, for example, the connection device of the magnetic wall module comprises a mechanical connector such as a flange (110a), the flange (110a) comprising a hole (112a), the hole (112a) being suitable for aligning with a hole (112b) of a flange (110b) of the other magnetic wall module.

6. An assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: At least one magnetic wall module (100a) among the plurality of magnetic wall modules comprises at least one channel (108a) passing through the first wall (106a) of the magnetic wall module, for example to enable a cooling fluid such as nitrogen or helium to flow through the magnetic wall module, each channel being for example adapted to form a single channel with a channel (108b) passing through the first wall (106b) of another magnetic wall module (100b) among the plurality of magnetic wall modules.

7. An assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: The magnetic wall module is configured to have superconducting properties.

8. An assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein At least one magnetic wall module (300) of the plurality of magnetic wall modules comprises a stack of different materials, wherein: - the first wall (306) consists of or is covered with a material such as Hastelloy; The second wall (304) comprises a superconducting layer (304b) and a shunt layer (304a), the groove (202) of the at least one module being patterned at least in the superconducting layer, the shunt layer (304a) being located on the superconducting layer and in the groove, the shunt layer being made of a metal such as silver.

9. The assembly according to claim 8, wherein: The stack also includes at least one buffer layer, preferably a plurality of buffer layers, the at least one buffer layer being between the first wall (306) and the superconducting layer (304b), the at least one buffer layer being, for example, made of a material such as aluminum oxide, yttrium oxide, magnesium oxide and / or lanthanum manganate; the groove (202) being patterned at least in the buffer layer and the superconducting layer.

10. The assembly according to claim 9, wherein: The second wall (304) also includes a repeating layer, which is located below the shunt layer (304a), and the repeating layer includes repetitions of the buffer layer and the superconducting layer, preferably multiple repetitions, such as between 4 and 80 times, and the groove (202) is patterned in the buffer layer, the superconducting layer and the repeating layer.

11. An assembly according to any one of claims 8 to 10 in combination with claim 3, wherein: The third wall (302) comprises a further superconducting layer, which is preferably a non-perforated and non-grooved layer.

12. A magnetic wall module (100a, 100b; 300), the magnetic wall module (100a, 100b; 300) being one of the plurality of mutually coupled magnetic wall modules included in the assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

13. A transport system, comprising a carrier (500) and a transport container (400), wherein the transport container (400) is suitable for accommodating the carrier (500), wherein: The transport container and / or the carrier comprises a magnetic wall module (400a, 400b, 400c; 502, 504, 504a, 504b) according to claim 12 or an assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

14. The system according to claim 13, wherein: The transport container (400) comprises at least the magnetic wall module (400a, 400b, 400c) according to claim 12 or the assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

15. The system of claim 14, wherein: The transport container (400) comprises: a low pressure zone (401), the low pressure zone (401) having at least one first magnetic wall module (400a); and at least one transition zone (402, 403) adjacent to the low pressure zone, preferably a transition zone located at each end of the low pressure zone, the at least one transition zone (402, 403) having at least one second magnetic wall module (400b) different from the at least one first magnetic wall module (400a), for example, the low pressure zone (401) is suitable for being in a near vacuum, and the at least one transition zone (402, 403) is suitable for being in a higher pressure than the low pressure zone (401).

16. A system according to any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein: The carrier (500) includes a shell (501) and at least one magnetic panel (502, 504, 504a, 504b), wherein the at least one magnetic panel (502, 504, 504a, 504b) is located in the shell or on the surface of the shell, and the at least one magnetic panel includes a magnetic wall module according to claim 12, a component according to any one of claims 1 to 11, and / or a permanent magnet.

17. A system according to claim 16 as appended to claim 14 or 15, wherein: The at least one magnetic panel (502, 504, 504a, 504b) is positioned to face the at least one magnetic wall module (400a, 400b, 400c) of the transport container (400).

18. The system according to claim 16 or 17, wherein: The carrier (500) comprises extension means, such as an extension rod (1010), adapted to extend at least one magnetic panel (504b) relative to the housing (501) of the carrier towards the transport container (400).

19. The system of claim 18, wherein: The extension means forms at least part of a contactless braking system adapted to brake the vehicle.

20. A system according to any one of claims 13 to 19, wherein: The transport container (400) is a transport cylinder, and the vehicle (500) is a maglev train.

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