Frictionless transport system and non-contact braking 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 together, each magnetic wall module adapted to conduct an electric current to generate a magnetic field, the assembly comprising a first wall (106a, 106b) and a second wall (104a, 104b) assembled together, the second wall having grooves (202a, 202b) separating the second wall into at least two distinct conductive regions.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to the field of transportation systems, and more specifically to frictionless mass transportation systems that operate with magnetic fields, in addition, the present disclosure further relates to transportation systems in which a magnetic field is used for braking. [Background technology]

[0002] The transportation of people and goods is one of the most basic needs of modern society. In recent years, transportation has become increasingly difficult and costly. Moreover, large parts of the world remain disconnected. Millions of people living in Africa, South America, the Middle East and other parts of the world have no means of transportation between them. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0003] Current transportation systems, including planes, automobiles, ships, trains and railways, share common limitations, including their reliance on carbon fuels and the long manufacturing times, complexity and cost involved in their production. Although some advances have been made in recent years, such as the magnetic levitation trains (maglev trains) built in Germany and Japan, complex problems remain with such systems.

[0004] In a magnetic levitation train, the train is suspended a short distance above the rails by a magnetic field, which may be used to further move the train. The operation of magnetic levitation trains, such as the German Transrapid and the Japanese MLX, may be summarized as consisting of two phases depending on the speed. The two phases may be identified as a low-speed phase and a high-speed phase, separated by a speed threshold of 160 km / h.

[0005] During the low speed phase, below 160 km / h, the train receives power through physical electrical contacts. During the low speed phase, the electrical contacts are in direct contact with each other, resulting in energy loss through friction. During the high speed phase, where the train travels above 160 km / h, power is provided by induction without the need for physical electrical contacts. For the train to operate at such speeds, large magnetic coils that generate a magnetic field need to be constructed. Such magnetic coils are usually constructed on the side of the rail and accompany the train over the entire railway track with the train's guidance structure. The guidance structure including the magnetic coils needs to be carefully aligned and any structural defect results in huge waste of resources including time and cost. Currently, the guidance structure of a magnetic levitation train is open to the environment, thus exposing the train cart to rain, snow, sunlight, and other environmental hazards, and to air drag at high speeds. This limitation leads to inefficiencies during operation, resulting in higher maintenance costs, lower maximum speeds, and higher power losses.

[0006] Currently, in addition to the high cost, the complex and component-rich construction of maglev trains, and more specifically the magnetic coils required for maglev train operation, prevents maglev train manufacturers from providing solutions to the aforementioned inefficiencies.

[0007] Another transportation system called SwissMetro has recently emerged. In this system, an enclosed space, further described as a tube, is close to a vacuum, containing almost no air and other particles. Trains run inside the tube. The trains in such systems are wheeled, and the wheels contact the inner surface of the tube, which is covered with rails, increasing friction losses. The rails provide the power to propel the train. SwissMetro trains may also be configured with an independent power source, but this is less preferred in practice as it takes up too much space.

[0008] A railroad system is described in U.S. Patent No. 8,505,463 to Kwon et al. The railroad system disclosed in Kwon includes a train cart within a tube that is suspended by magnets attached to the bogies, with the interior of the tube being a near vacuum. The railroad system disclosed in Kwon is further described as requiring a specific geometric configuration for the attached magnets and using linear synchronous motors that are typically constructed with permanent magnets, two characteristics that make it an expensive alternative to other railroad systems. Kwon's railroad system requires careful configuration and monitoring of a control system to center the train within the rails, thus adding yet another dangerous component to the system. If the control system were to fail unexpectedly, the train could lose centering and cause a collision.

[0009] A system that completely eliminates rails, bogies, and railroad tracks is described in U.S. Patent No. 7,137,343 to Pulliam. The transportation system disclosed in Pulliam is best described as a series of rings, each made up of a flywheel and roller system that guides and drives the train forward. Pulliam does not disclose how the energy losses resulting from the frictional forces associated with the action of the rollers and flywheels may be overcome. Furthermore, Pulliam's system may not achieve speeds comparable to those of magnetic levitation trains, as it is limited by the power transmission capacity of the motor.

[0010] A need remains for a transportation system that is easy to construct, has fewer and simpler parts, and allows a train or other suitable vehicle to effortlessly traverse space in a near vacuum without excessive losses, such as those associated with friction effects. Because braking systems are typically the primary source of friction losses in transportation systems, a system that allows for non-contact braking is further needed. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] One embodiment overcomes all or some of the shortcomings of known transportation systems.

[0012] One embodiment provides an assembly for a transportation system comprising a plurality of magnetic wall modules coupled to one another, each magnetic wall module adapted to conduct an electric current to generate a magnetic field, the assembly having a first wall and a second wall assembled together, the second wall having a groove separating the second wall into at least two distinct conductive regions.

[0013] One embodiment provides an assembly for a transportation system comprising a plurality of magnetic wall modules coupled to one another, each magnetic wall module adapted to conduct an electric current to generate a magnetic field, the first wall and a second wall assembled together, the second wall having a groove separating the second wall into at least two different conductive regions, dividing the flow of electric current and allowing the current to flow through the magnetic wall module in different paths, the grooves of different magnetic wall modules joining to form a continuous groove, and a second wall of a magnetic wall module within the plurality of magnetic wall modules aligned with a second wall of another magnetic wall module within the plurality of magnetic wall modules such that current can flow from the second wall of the magnetic wall module to the second wall of the other magnetic wall module.

[0014] In one embodiment, the first wall of the magnetic wall module is aligned with the first wall of the other magnetic wall module such that current can flow from the first wall of the magnetic wall module to the first wall of the other magnetic wall module.

[0015] In one embodiment, the groove of said magnetic wall module is adapted to be connected to the groove of another magnetic wall module to form a continuous groove.

[0016] In one embodiment, each magnetic wall module further comprises a third wall assembled to the second wall, the second wall being disposed between the first wall and the third wall.

[0017] In one embodiment, a third wall of a magnetic wall module of said plurality of magnetic wall modules is aligned with a third wall of another magnetic wall module of said plurality of magnetic wall modules.

[0018] In one embodiment, at least a magnetic wall module of the plurality of magnetic wall modules has a connection means arranged on a surface of the third wall, the connection means adapted to mechanically, and possibly electrically, couple the magnetic wall module to a connection means arranged on a surface of the third wall of another magnetic wall module of the plurality of magnetic wall modules, for example the connection means comprising a mechanical connector such as a flange having a hole adapted to align with a hole in a flange of the other magnetic wall module.

[0019] In one embodiment, at least one magnetic wall module of the plurality of magnetic wall modules has at least one flow path across a first wall of the magnetic wall module to allow a cooling fluid, such as nitrogen or helium, to flow through the magnetic wall module, each flow path adapted, for example, to form a flow path together with a flow path across a first wall of another magnetic wall module of the plurality of magnetic wall modules.

[0020] In one embodiment, a first wall of a magnetic wall module of the plurality of magnetic wall modules is aligned with a first wall of another magnetic wall module of the plurality of magnetic wall modules, a second wall of the magnetic wall module is aligned with a second wall of the other magnetic wall module, and a third wall of the magnetic wall module is aligned with a third wall of the other magnetic wall module.

[0021] In one embodiment, the magnetic wall module is configured to exhibit superconducting properties.

[0022] In one embodiment, at least one of the plurality of magnetic wall modules comprises a stack of different materials, wherein within the stack: - the first wall is made of or is covered with a material such as Hastelloy; the second wall comprises a superconducting layer and a shunt layer provided on the superconducting layer and in the groove, the groove of at least one magnetic wall module being patterned in at least the superconducting layer, the shunt layer being formed of a metal, for example silver.

[0023] In one embodiment, the stack further comprises at least a buffer layer, preferably multiple buffer layers, between the first wall and the superconducting layer, at least one buffer layer being formed from a material such as alumina, yttria, magnesium oxide and / or lanthanum manganate, and the grooves being patterned in at least the buffer layer and the superconducting layer.

[0024] In one embodiment, the second wall further comprises a repeater layer below the shunt layer, the repeater layer comprising a repeat, preferably a plurality of repeats, e.g., 4 to 80 repeats, of the buffer layer and the superconducting layer, and the grooves are patterned in the buffer layer, the superconducting layer and the repeater layer.

[0025] In one embodiment, the third wall comprises another superconducting layer, preferably a non-perforated and non-grooved superconducting layer.

[0026] An embodiment provides a magnetic wall module adapted to an assembly according to an embodiment.

[0027] One embodiment provides a magnetic wall module that is one of a plurality of magnetic wall modules that are included in and coupled to one another in an assembly according to an embodiment.

[0028] One embodiment provides a transportation system comprising a vehicle and a transport container adapted to accommodate said vehicle, said transport container and / or said vehicle comprising a magnetic wall module according to an embodiment or an assembly according to an embodiment.

[0029] In one embodiment, the transport container comprises at least an embodiment magnetic wall module or embodiment assembly.

[0030] In one embodiment, the transport container has a low pressure zone having at least a first magnetic wall module and at least a transition zone adjacent to the low pressure zone, preferably at both ends of the low pressure zone, having at least a second magnetic wall module different from the at least one first magnetic wall module, e.g., the low pressure zone is adapted to be near vacuum and the at least one transition zone is adapted to be at a higher pressure than the low pressure zone.

[0031] In one embodiment, the vehicle has a housing and at least one magnetic panel disposed within or on a surface of the housing, the at least one magnetic panel having a magnetic wall module according to an embodiment or an assembly according to an embodiment.

[0032] In one embodiment, the at least one magnetic panel is positioned to face at least one magnetic wall module of the shipping container.

[0033] In one embodiment, the vehicle comprises extension means, e.g. an extension rod, adapted to extend at least one magnetic panel relative to a housing of the vehicle towards the transport container.

[0034] In one embodiment, said extension means forms at least part of a non-contact braking system adapted to brake said vehicle.

[0035] In one embodiment, the shipping container is a shipping cylinder and the vehicle is a magnetic train. Effect of the Invention

[0036] advantage Advantages of the aspects or some aspects may be described as follows: The transportation system can achieve high speeds because it eliminates air resistance. The transportation system is naturally safe because the train carts stop when the magnetic field is not energized. The transportation system is not limited by the size of the parts because they can be made larger or smaller as needed. The transportation system is easy to maintain because individual panels can be utilized as needed. Other technical advantages will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the detailed description, drawings, and claims. Additionally, while certain advantages are enumerated above, various embodiments may include all, none, or some of the enumerated advantages. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0037] The above and other features and advantages are explained in more detail in the following specific embodiments, given as non-limiting examples with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0038] [Figure 1A] FIG. 1 is a general perspective view showing a magnetic wall module. [Figure 1B] FIG. 1 is a general perspective view showing two magnetic wall modules side by side. [Figure 1C] FIG. 1 is a general perspective view showing two magnetic wall modules joined together by a flange. [Diagram 2] FIG. 13 is an exploded perspective view showing the intermediate surface of two joined magnetic wall modules. [Diagram 3] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the stack-up of materials used to construct the magnetic wall module. [Figure 4] FIG. 13 is a plan view showing a number of magnetic wall modules arranged to form a transport cylinder. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is an overall view showing a magnetic train. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a magnetic train within a transport cylinder. [Figure 7] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing the magnetic train within the transport cylinder with the magnetic train exposed. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is a general perspective view showing the front of a magnetic train. [Figure 9] FIG. 1 is a general perspective view of the front of a magnetic train with magnetic panels extended. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a general perspective view showing the rear of the magnetic panel. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0039] In the various figures, similar features are indicated by similar reference numerals, and in particular, structural and / or functional features common to the various embodiments may have the same reference numerals and may have the same structural, dimensional and material characteristics.

[0040] For clarity, only those acts and elements useful for understanding the embodiments described herein have been shown and described in detail.

[0041] Unless otherwise indicated, when referring to two elements connected together, this refers to a direct connection without any intermediate elements other than conductors, and when referring to two elements coupled together, this refers to the two elements being either connected or coupled through one or more other elements.

[0042] In the following disclosure, unless otherwise indicated, when reference is made to terms that qualify absolute positions, such as "front", "back", "top", "bottom", "left", "right", or relative positions, such as "upper", "lower", "high", "low", or orientations, such as "horizontal", "vertical", etc., this term refers to the orientation of the drawings.

[0043] Unless otherwise specified, the terms "about," "approximately," "substantially," and "to the extent of" refer to within 10%, preferably within 5%, of the relevant value.

[0044] The drawings are not drawn to scale. It should be noted that the drawings show an embodiment of the disclosed frictionless transport system and associated non-contact braking system, which may be referred to simply as a transport system or a braking system, respectively, when no ambiguity is assumed. Other embodiments may be possible, as a person with appropriate training may readily recognize. The actual size and / or shape of each of the parts of the embodiments may vary. Only the essential details of the embodiments are shown, but one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize how the entire device may be constructed without undue experimentation. Although some details have been omitted from the drawings, the inventor believes that the addition of these details is unnecessary for an overall appreciation of the disclosed features of the invention. These omitted details include, among others, elements for holding or securing the device or its functional parts. Some features of the embodiments may be exaggerated for ease of understanding. The disclosed embodiments and the alternatives described should not be considered as limiting the invention in any manner.

[0045] The main element of the frictionless transport system is a magnetic wall module 100a, an embodiment of which is shown in FIG. 1A. The magnetic wall module 100a is coupled, e.g. connected, to at least another magnetic wall module 100b, shown in FIG. 1B, allowing a current to flow through it and generating a magnetic field. Each magnetic wall module 100a is composed of a bottom layer 106a, an intermediate layer 104a, and a structural layer 102a that are constructed and assembled together. Furthermore, a flange 110a may be disposed on the outer surface 114a of the structural layer. The flange 110a may further include a hole 112a to form a mechanical connection. A cooling tunnel, cooling flow passage, or cooling channel 108a may pass through the bottom layer 106a. The bottom layer 106a, the intermediate layer 104a, and the structural layer 102a may further be referred to as an inner wall, an intermediate wall, and an outer wall, or a first wall, a second wall, and a third wall, respectively. When referring to a flow passage, the flow passage further includes a tunnel or a channel.

[0046] Magnetic wall modules combine with other magnetic wall modules to form assemblies and / or systems that allow electrical current to flow and contain a magnetic field.

[0047] FIG. 1B shows two of these magnetic wall modules 100a, 100b. The flange 110b of the second magnetic wall module 100b is aligned with the flange 110a of the first magnetic wall module 100a. By using the holes 112a, 112b of each of the flanges 110a, 110b and suitable connecting means such as screws or bolts, the magnetic wall modules 100a, 100b are joined to form one larger magnetic wall module as shown in FIG. 1C. Thus, the bottom layers 106a, 106b, the middle layers 104a, 104b and the structural layers 102a, 102b of each of the magnetic wall modules 100a, 100b are aligned. With the layers aligned, current can flow from one to the other.

[0048] In both magnetic wall modules 100a, 100b, the current flows through the intermediate layers 104a, 104b. FIG. 2 is an exploded view showing the coupled magnetic wall modules of FIG. 1C separated by the intermediate layers 104a, 104b. During construction of each magnetic wall module 100a, 100b, ridges, wedges or grooves 202a, 202b are formed from the material of the intermediate layers 104a, 104b. The grooves 202a, 202b separate the intermediate layers 104a, 104b into different conductive regions, thereby dividing the current flow and allowing the current to flow in different paths through the magnetic wall modules 100a, 100b. The grooves 202a, 202b may be joined to form a continuous groove 202.

[0049] When referring to grooves, the grooves may further include raised or wedge portions.

[0050] Magnetic wall module configuration example Figure 3 shows the internal structure of a magnetic wall module 300 similar to the magnetic wall module 100a of Figure 1A and / or the magnetic wall module 100b of Figure 1B. In the first embodiment shown in Figure 3, the bottom layer 306 is formed from a material such as Hastelloy, or may be constructed from a different material and covered with Hastelloy. The intermediate layer 304 is deposited on the bottom layer 306.

[0051] The intermediate layer 304 may be divided into two layers, from the bottom, first the superconducting layer 304b, then the filling layer 304a (shunt layer). The superconducting layer 304b is deposited directly or indirectly on the bottom layer 306. The superconducting layer 304b may be deposited by techniques such as metalorganic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) and is made of REBCO, YBCO, or other suitable superconducting materials. A layer of buffer material may be preferably placed between the bottom layer 306 and the superconducting layer 304b. The buffer layer may be made of other materials such as alumina, yttria, magnesium oxide, and lanthanum manganate. These layers may be deposited by techniques such as sputtering. The buffer layer may form a suitable template for forming the superconducting layer.

[0052] A groove 202 may be formed at least through the superconducting layer 304b using a patterning method such as laser etching or another technique such as mechanical or photolithography. A filler layer 304a (shunt layer) may be disposed on top of the superconducting layer 304b to fill the groove 202. The shunt layer 304a may provide a path for quenching the superconducting layer 304b. The filler layer 304a may be formed of a material having good electrical conductivity such as silver. The structural layer 302 is deposited on top of the filler layer 304a.

[0053] The shunt layer 304a is optional. There are other solutions to address the quenching problem, such as operation at sufficiently low currents, temperatures and / or magnetic fields. Quenching is a problem in superconductivity in general and is not related to the problem addressed by the embodiments.

[0054] Before forming the grooves 202, the described sequence of buffer layers and superconducting layers may be repeated several times (forming a repeater layer), with best results being achieved with 4-80 repetitions of the sequence of buffer layers and superconducting layers, e.g., 20-40 repetitions of the sequence of buffer layers and superconducting layers for a magnetic field of about 10 Tesla, so that further grooves may be formed in the repeater layer.

[0055] For example, the depth of the groove 202 is in the range of 3-5 μm for a series of buffer layers and superconducting layers. If a series of buffer layers and superconducting layers is repeated, the depth of the groove may be multiplied by the number of times the series of buffer layers and superconducting layers is repeated. For example, the depth of the groove is in the range of 3×N to 5×N μm, where N is the number of repetitions.

[0056] The structural layer 302 may have a preferably non-perforated (non-grooved) layer of superconducting material to at least partially account for a phenomenon known as the Meissner effect, which prevents magnetic fields from crossing the structural layer 302.

[0057] The lower layer 306 may further include channels 308 through which a coolant may flow to allow cooling of the entire structure. In particular, the superconducting layer 304b may require significant cooling during operation.

[0058] According to an embodiment, the magnetic wall module is a modular coil.

[0059] Other suitable materials, other layer configurations, and / or methods for constructing a magnetic module, e.g., a modular coil, as a stack of layers of different materials should be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art. Another example is described in European Patent Application No. 22305437, filed on April 4, 2022 by the same applicant "Renaissance Fusion", entitled "METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING SUPERCONDUCTING COILS AND DEVICE", the contents of which are incorporated by reference to the maximum extent permitted by law.

[0060] Frictionless Transportation System Description Figure 4 shows multiple magnetic wall modules arranged in the form of a shipping cylinder 400 (shipping container). In the embodiment of Figure 4, the shipping container is cylindrical and is referred to as a shipping cylinder, although in other embodiments the shipping container may have another shape adapted to accommodate a vehicle.

[0061] FIG. 4 shows a transport cylinder 400 in plan view. The transport cylinder 400 may be divided into three sections or zones, namely a first transition zone 401, a low pressure zone 402 and a second transition zone 403. The magnetic wall modules of each zone may be different. Preferably, the magnetic wall modules of the low pressure zone are different from the magnetic wall modules of the transition zone. The magnetic wall module 400b (second magnetic wall module) of the transition zone 401 or the transition zone 403 may be divided, for example, substantially curved square shaped. In contrast, the magnetic wall module(s) 400a (first magnetic wall module(s)) of the low pressure zone 402 may be cylindrical, i.e. not divided in the azimuth direction, thus avoiding resistive joints and thus obtaining more desirable vacuum tightness, mechanical strength and power efficiency. Furthermore, the magnetic wall module 400a and the magnetic wall module 400b may be joined by different types of flanges depending on the shape. A first flange 410b may be required to couple magnetic wall modules 400b in transition zone 401 or transition zone 403, and a second flange 410a may be required to couple one or more magnetic wall modules 400a in low pressure zone 402 with magnetic wall modules 400b in transition zone 401 or transition zone 403. Each of magnetic wall modules 400a and 400b may have features of magnetic wall module 100a of FIG. 1A and / or magnetic wall module 300 of FIG.

[0062] Figure 5 shows a rail car of a magnetic train 500 (vehicle) in side view. In the embodiment of Figure 5, the vehicle is a train, but in other embodiments the vehicle may be different from a train, for example a car or truck, adapted to travel within a shipping container.

[0063] The magnetic train 500 is comprised of a door 508 and a vehicle window 506. The door 508 may have a door window 509. The magnetic wall modules or panels 502, 504, 504a, 504b are disposed within a housing 501 of the magnetic train 500 and form at least a portion of the exterior wall of the housing. The magnetic wall modules may be identified according to their location within the housing 501 of the magnetic train 500. The upper magnetic panel 502 covers the roof and the upper side of the wall of the magnetic train 500. The vertical magnetic panel 504 is disposed between the door 508 and the vehicle window 506 of the magnetic train 500. A front magnetic panel 504b and a rear magnetic panel 504a are provided below the vertical magnetic panels on both sides of the magnetic train. Each of the magnetic panels 502, 504, 504a, 504b may have features of the magnetic wall module 100a of Figure 1A and / or the magnetic wall module 300 of Figure 3. In another embodiment, the magnetic panels 502, 504, 504a, 504b may be comprised of permanent magnets.

[0064] FIG. 6 shows a magnetic train 500 in a transport cylinder 400. The transport cylinder 400 forms an enclosed space defined by magnetic wall modules 400c that are coupled, e.g., connected, to each other by flanges 410c. Because the interior of the transport cylinder 400 is an enclosed space, it is possible to remove the air therein to create a vacuum or near vacuum. The length of the transport cylinder 400 depends on the application, and the transport cylinder 400 may be curved. The train's carriage windows 506 allow passengers and the train driver to view the destination.

[0065] 7, a portion of the transport cylinder 400 is removed, allowing the characteristics of the magnetic train 500 inside the transport cylinder to be recognized. The magnetic wall module 400c constituting the wall of the transport cylinder 400 faces the magnetic panels 502, 504, 504a, 504b on the outside of the magnetic train 500, and therefore interacts with them.

[0066] 8 is a perspective view showing the magnetic train 500 outside the transport cylinder 400. Magnetic panel 504 and magnetic panel 504b surround the magnetic train 500. The magnetic panels 502, 504, 504b, 504a may all be arranged in different locations and with different sizes. For example, it should be possible to completely cover the exterior of the magnetic train 500 with magnetic wall modules such as magnetic wall module 100a of FIG. 1 and / or magnetic wall module 300 of FIG. 3.

[0067] More generally, in a frictionless transport system, at least the magnetic wall modules are - Only in the transport container (in which the vehicle is configured to travel), - only on the vehicle (wherein at least one magnetic wall module may cover at least the exterior surface of the vehicle); or - Both in the shipping container and on the vehicle It can be attached to.

[0068] 9 shows magnetic panel 504b in an extended position. All of the magnetic panels 502, 504, 504b, 504a may be extended using an extension means such as an extension rod 1010 described below.

[0069] Figure 10 is a rear view of the magnetic panel 504b when it is extended using an extension rod 1010. One such rod 1010 is shown in Figure 10. The rod may be mechanically actuated using a motor or other suitable device.

[0070] Example of frictionless transportation system in action During operation of the frictionless transportation system, as shown in Figure 6, the magnetic train 500 is contained within the transportation cylinder 400. Due to the presence of a magnetic field inside the transportation cylinder 400, the magnetic train 500 floats or levitates without moving. Due to the influence of the magnetic field, the magnetic train 500 is centered within the transportation cylinder 400. The interior of the transportation cylinder 400 is in near vacuum conditions and has a low pressure zone 402 alongside transition zones 401 and 403 where the pressure may be higher.

[0071] 7, in order to move the magnetic 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, 504a on the surface of the magnetic train 500 needs to undergo a change to drive the magnetic train 500 forward or backward. This effect can be produced by changing the flow of electric current.

[0072] Since the magnetic train 500 is in a near vacuum interior, it experiences very low air resistance as it moves. Also, since the magnetic train is floating and there are no rails, the magnetic train does not experience contact friction. Therefore, the movement of the magnetic train 500 may be described as frictionless. In operation, the magnetic train 500 moves from the low pressure zone 402 to the transition zone 401 or transition zone 403 where the air pressure increases slightly until it reaches a railway station where the air pressure is normal. As the magnetic train 500 moves between zones, the speed of the magnetic train changes. When the magnetic train 500 leaves the railway station, it needs to accelerate. The acceleration occurs until it reaches the low pressure zone 402 where it reaches its maximum speed in the transition zone 401 or transition zone 403. When the magnetic train approaches the railway station, it needs to slow down. When the magnetic train enters from the low pressure zone 402 into either the transition zone 401 or transition zone 403, the speed of the magnetic train decreases until the magnetic train reaches the railway station and comes to a complete stop. At the train station, doors 508 open and passengers or freight may enter or exit the train.

[0073] Non-contact braking system The described embodiments of the frictionless transportation system may further include a non-contact braking system. In one advantageous embodiment, the non-contact braking system takes advantage of the ability of the magnetic wall modules to extend, as shown in magnetic panel 504b in Figures 9 and 10. This takes advantage of a natural phenomenon common to all magnetic fields: magnetic fields resist sudden changes in their configuration.

[0074] When the magnetic train 500 needs to stop or slow down, the magnetic panels 502, 504, 504b, 504a need to be extended. In the following description, reference is made to the front magnetic panel 504b shown in FIG. 10. The extension rod 1010 needs to push the front magnetic panel 504b outward, narrowing the space between the front magnetic panel 504b and the inner wall of the transport cylinder 400. This causes an abrupt change in the configuration of the magnetic field, which in the described embodiment causes the speed of the magnetic train 500 to suddenly decrease. The magnitude of the speed change may be controlled by the amount or speed of extension of the front magnetic panel 504b.

[0075] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention are summarized below: Other embodiments may be further understood from the entire specification and claims of this application.

[0076] Example 1. An assembly for a transport system comprising: The magnetic wall device comprises a plurality of magnetic wall modules (100a, 100b; 300) connected to each other, Each magnetic wall module is adapted to conduct an electric current to generate a magnetic field and includes a first wall (106a, 106b; 306) and a second wall (104a, 104b; 304) assembled together; The second wall has grooves (202a, 202b) separating the second wall into at least two different conductive regions.

[0077] Example 2. The assembly of example 1, wherein the groove (202a) of a magnetic wall module (100a) is adapted to be connected to the groove (202b) of another magnetic wall module (100b) to form a continuous groove (202).

[0078] Example 3. The assembly of example 1 or 2, wherein each magnetic wall module further comprises a third wall (102a, 102b; 302) assembled to the second wall (104a, 104b; 304), the second wall being disposed between the first wall and the third wall.

[0079] Example 4. An assembly according to any one of Examples 1 to 3, wherein the grooves (202a, 202b, 202) of the plurality of magnetic wall modules (100a, 100b) are adapted to direct the flow of electrical current in a particular direction or along a different path through at least the second wall (104a, 104b) of the magnetic wall module.

[0080] Example 5. An assembly as described in any one of Examples 1 to 4, wherein at least a magnetic wall module (100a) of the plurality of magnetic wall modules is mechanically, and possibly electrically, coupled to another magnetic wall module (100b) of the plurality of magnetic wall modules.

[0081] Example 6. At least a magnetic wall module (100a) of the plurality of magnetic wall modules has a connection means (110a) arranged on a surface (114a) of a third wall (102a), the connection means being adapted to mechanically and possibly electrically couple said magnetic wall module to a connection means (110b) arranged on a surface (114b) of a third wall (102b) of another magnetic wall module (100b) of the plurality of magnetic wall modules; For example, an assembly described in any one of Examples 1 to 5 in combination with Example 3, wherein the connection means comprises a mechanical connector such as a flange (110a) having a hole (112a) adapted to align with a hole (112b) in a flange (110b) of another magnetic wall module.

[0082] Example 7. At least one magnetic wall module (100a) of the plurality of magnetic wall modules has at least one flow passage (108a) across a first wall (106a) of the magnetic wall module to allow a cooling fluid, such as nitrogen or helium, to flow through the magnetic wall module; An assembly described in any one of Examples 1 to 6, wherein each flow path is adapted to form one flow path together with a flow path (108b) that crosses, for example, a first wall (106b) of another magnetic wall module (100b) of the plurality of magnetic wall modules.

[0083] Example 8. An assembly described in any one of Examples 1 to 7 in combination with Example 3, wherein a first wall of a magnetic wall module (100a) of the plurality of magnetic wall modules is aligned with a first wall (106b) of another magnetic wall module (100b) of the plurality of magnetic wall modules, a second wall (104a) of the magnetic wall module is aligned with a second wall (104b) of the other magnetic wall module, and a third wall (102a) of the magnetic wall module is aligned with a third wall (102b) of the other magnetic wall module.

[0084] Example 9. The assembly of any one of Examples 1-8, wherein the magnetic wall module is configured to exhibit superconducting properties.

[0085] Example 10. At least one magnetic wall module (300) of the plurality of magnetic wall modules has a stack of different materials, in which: - the first wall (306) is made of or is covered with a material such as Hastelloy; - an assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second wall (304) comprises a superconducting layer (304b) and a shunt layer (304a) disposed on the superconducting layer and within the groove, the groove (202) of at least one magnetic wall module being patterned in at least the superconducting layer, and the shunt layer being formed of a metal, for example silver.

[0086] Example 11. The stack further comprises at least a buffer layer, preferably a plurality of buffer layers, between the first wall (306) and the superconducting layer (304b), at least one of the buffer layers being made of a material such as alumina, yttria, magnesium oxide and / or lanthanum manganate; 11. The assembly of embodiment 10, wherein the grooves (202) are patterned in at least the buffer layer and the superconducting layer.

[0087] Example 12. The second wall (304) further comprises a repeater layer below the shunt layer (304a); The repeater layer includes a repeat, preferably a plurality of repeats, for example 4 to 80 repeats, of the buffer layer and the superconducting layer; The assembly of example 11, wherein the grooves (202) are patterned in the buffer layer, the superconducting layer, and the repeater layer.

[0088] Example 13. The assembly of example 11 or 12 in combination with example 3, wherein the third wall (302) includes another superconducting layer, preferably a non-perforated and non-grooved superconducting layer.

[0089] Example 14. A magnetic wall module (100a, 100b; 300) adapted to an assembly according to any one of Examples 1 to 13.

[0090] Example 15. A vehicle (500) and a transport container (400) adapted to accommodate the vehicle (500), A transport system, wherein the transport container and / or vehicle comprises a magnetic wall module (400a, 400b, 400c; 502, 504, 504a, 504b) according to embodiment 14 or an assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 13.

[0091] Example 16. A transport system as described in Example 15, wherein the transport container (400) comprises at least a magnetic wall module (400a, 400b, 400c) according to Example 14 or an assembly as described in any one of Examples 1 to 13.

[0092] Example 17. A transport container (400) has a low pressure zone (401) having at least a first magnetic wall module (400a) and at least transition zones (402, 403) adjacent the low pressure zone, preferably at both ends of the low pressure zone, having at least a second magnetic wall module (400b) different from the at least one first magnetic wall module (400a), For example, the transport system of Example 16, wherein the low pressure zone (401) is adapted to be near vacuum and at least one transition zone (402, 403) is adapted to be at a higher pressure than the low pressure zone (401).

[0093] Example 18. A vehicle (500) includes a housing (501) and at least magnetic panels (502, 504, 504a, 504b) disposed within or on the surface of the housing; A transportation system described in any one of Examples 15 to 17, wherein at least one magnetic panel has a magnetic wall module described in Example 14, an assembly described in any one of Examples 1 to 13, and / or a permanent magnet.

[0094] Example 19. A transportation system as described in Example 18 in combination with Example 16 or 17, wherein at least one magnetic panel (502, 504, 504a, 504b) is positioned to face at least one magnetic wall module (400a, 400b, 400c) of the transportation container (400).

[0095] Example 20. A transportation system as described in Example 18 or 19, wherein the vehicle (500) is provided with an extension means, such as an extension rod (1010), adapted to extend at least one magnetic panel (504b) relative to the vehicle's housing (501) toward the transportation container (400).

[0096] Example 21. The transportation system of any one of Examples 15-20, further comprising a non-contact braking system adapted to brake the vehicle.

[0097] Example 22. The transportation system of example 20, wherein the extension means forms at least a part of a non-contact braking system adapted to brake the vehicle.

[0098] Example 23. The transportation system according to any one of Examples 15 to 22, wherein the transport container (400) is a transport cylinder and the vehicle (500) is a magnetic train.

[0099] Example 24. A method for manufacturing a magnetic wall module according to example 14, comprising the steps of: - providing a first layer (306) made of or covered with a material such as Hastelloy, - depositing a superconducting layer (304b) on the first layer, for example by metalorganic chemical vapor deposition, - removing material from the superconducting layer, for example by laser etching techniques, to form a groove (202); - filling the grooves with a metal, for example silver, and depositing a layer of said metal on the superconducting layer to form the shunt layer (304a).

[0100] Example 25. Further, before forming the superconducting layer, at least a buffer layer, preferably a plurality of buffer layers, is formed, for example, by using a sputtering technique; 25. The method of embodiment 24, wherein the at least one buffer layer is formed of a material such as alumina, yttria, magnesium oxide, and / or lanthanum manganate.

[0101] Example 26: Further, a repeater layer is formed before forming the shunt layer (304a), 26. The method of embodiment 25, wherein the repeater layer comprises a repeat, preferably a plurality of repeats, for example 4 to 80 repeats, of the buffer layer and the superconducting layer.

[0102] Example 27. The method of any one of Examples 24-26, further comprising forming another superconducting layer, preferably non-perforated, on the shunt layer (304a).

[0103] Various embodiments and variations have been described, and those skilled in the art will understand that certain features of these embodiments can be combined, and other variations will readily occur to those skilled in the art.

[0104] Finally, the actual implementation of the embodiments and variations described herein is within the skill of those of ordinary skill in the art based on the functional representations provided above.

[0105] List of acronyms Maglev (magnetic levitation train) MOCVD Metal-organic chemical vapor deposition REBCO Rare Earth Barium Copper Oxide YBCO Yttrium Barium Copper Oxide

[0106] This application is based on and claims priority to European Patent Application No. 22305445, filed April 4, 2022, entitled "FRICTIONLESS TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM AND CONTACTLESS BRAKING SYSTEM FOR SUCH," and European Patent Application No. 22305437, filed April 4, 2022, entitled "METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING SUPERCONDUCTING COILS AND DEVICE," which are incorporated by reference to the fullest extent permitted by law. [Explanation of symbols]

[0107] 100a, 100b: Magnetic wall module 102a, 102b, 302: structural layer (third wall) 104a, 104b, 304: Middle layer (second wall) 304a: Filling layer (shunt layer) 304b: Superconducting layer 106a, 106b, 306: Lower level (first wall) 108a, 108b, 308: Cooling channel (flow path) 110a, 110b: Flanges of magnetic wall module 112a, 102b: Hole 114a, 114b: outer surface of structural layer 202, 202a, 202b: Groove 400: Transport cylinder 401: First transition zone 402: Low pressure zone 403: Second transition zone 400a, 400b, 400c: Magnetic wall modules in transport cylinders 410a, 410b, 410c: Flanges of magnetic wall modules in transport cylinders 500: Magnetic train 502: Upper magnetic panel 504: Vertical magnetic panel 504a: Rear magnetic panel 504b: Front magnetic panel 506: Train window 508: Door 509: Door window 1010: Rod

Claims

1. 1. An assembly for a transportation system, comprising: a plurality of magnetic wall modules coupled to one another; each magnetic wall module adapted to conduct an electric current to generate a magnetic field and having a first wall and a second wall assembled together; the second wall has a groove separating the second wall into at least two different conductive regions to divide the current flow and allow the current to flow along different paths through the magnetic wall module; The grooves of different magnetic wall modules are joined to form a continuous groove; an assembly wherein the second wall of a magnetic wall module within the plurality of magnetic wall modules is aligned with the second wall of another magnetic wall module within the plurality of magnetic wall modules such that current can flow from the second wall of the magnetic wall module to the second wall of the other magnetic wall module.

2. 2. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the first wall of the magnetic wall module is aligned with the first wall of the other magnetic wall module such that current can flow from the first wall of the magnetic wall module to the first wall of the other magnetic wall module.

3. 3. The assembly of claim 1 or 2, wherein each magnetic wall module further comprises a third wall assembled to the second wall of the magnetic wall module, the second wall being disposed between the first wall and the third wall of the magnetic wall module.

4. The assembly of claim 3 , wherein a third wall of a magnetic wall module of the plurality of magnetic wall modules is aligned with a third wall of another magnetic wall module of the plurality of magnetic wall modules.

5. At least one magnetic wall module of the plurality of magnetic wall modules has a connection means arranged on a surface of the third wall, the connection means being adapted to mechanically and possibly electrically couple the magnetic wall module to a connection means arranged on a surface of the third wall of another magnetic wall module of the plurality of magnetic wall modules; 4. The assembly of claim 3, wherein the connecting means of the magnetic wall modules comprises a mechanical connector such as a flange having holes adapted to align with holes in flanges of other magnetic wall modules.

6. 3. An assembly as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein at least one magnetic wall module of the plurality of magnetic wall modules has at least one flow path across a first wall of the magnetic wall module to allow a cooling fluid, such as nitrogen or helium, to flow through the magnetic wall module, each flow path adapted to form a flow path together with a flow path across a first wall of another magnetic wall module of the plurality of magnetic wall modules.

7. 3. The assembly of claim 1 or 2, wherein the magnetic wall module is configured to exhibit superconducting properties.

8. At least one of the plurality of magnetic wall modules has a stack of different materials, and within the stack: - said first wall is made of or covered with a material such as Hastelloy; 3. An assembly according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second wall comprises a superconducting layer and a shunt layer provided on the superconducting layer and in the groove, the groove of at least one magnetic wall module being patterned in at least the superconducting layer, and the shunt layer being made of a metal, for example silver.

9. the stack further comprises at least a buffer layer, preferably a plurality of buffer layers, between the first wall and the superconducting layer, at least one buffer layer being formed of a material such as alumina, yttria, magnesium oxide and / or lanthanum manganate; The assembly of claim 8 , wherein the grooves are patterned in at least the buffer layer and the superconducting layer.

10. the second wall further comprises a repeater layer below the shunt layer, the repeater layer comprising a repeat, preferably a plurality of repeats, e.g., 4 to 80 repeats, of the buffer layer and the superconducting layer; The assembly of claim 9 , wherein the grooves are patterned in the buffer layer, the superconductor layer, and the repeater layer.

11. Each magnetic wall module further comprises a third wall assembled to a second wall of the magnetic wall module, the second wall being disposed between the first wall and the third wall of the magnetic wall module; 9. The assembly of claim 8, wherein the third wall comprises another superconducting layer, preferably an unperforated and ungrooved superconducting layer.

12. A magnetic wall module which is one of a plurality of interconnected magnetic wall modules included in an assembly according to claim 1 or 2.

13. a vehicle and a shipping container adapted to house the vehicle; A transport system, wherein the transport container and / or the vehicle comprises a magnetic wall module according to claim 12 or an assembly according to claim 1 or 2.

14. 14. A transport system according to claim 13, wherein the transport container comprises at least a magnetic wall module according to claim 12 or an assembly according to claim 1 or 2.

15. the transport container has a low pressure zone having at least a first magnetic wall module and at least a transition zone adjacent to the low pressure zone, preferably at both ends of the low pressure zone, having at least a second magnetic wall module different from the at least one first magnetic wall module; 15. The transport system of claim 14, wherein, for example, the low pressure zone is adapted to be at a near vacuum and the at least one transition zone is adapted to be at a higher pressure than the low pressure zone.

16. 14. The transportation system of claim 13, wherein the vehicle has a housing and at least one magnetic panel disposed within or on the surface of the housing, and the at least one magnetic panel has a magnetic wall module as described in claim 12, an assembly as described in claim 1 or 2, and / or a permanent magnet.

17. The transport container comprises at least a magnetic wall module according to claim 12 or an assembly according to claim 1 or 2, 17. The transportation system of claim 16, wherein the at least one magnetic panel is positioned to face at least one magnetic wall module of the shipping container.

18. 17. The transportation system of claim 16, wherein the vehicle comprises extension means, e.g., an extension rod, adapted to extend at least one magnetic panel relative to a housing of the vehicle toward the transport container.

19. 20. The transport system of claim 18, wherein the extension means forms at least part of a non-contact braking system adapted to brake the vehicle.

20. 14. The transportation system of claim 13, wherein the shipping container is a shipping cylinder and the vehicle is a magnetic train.

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