Design and development of a magnetic lead screw propulsion device for general transport system

This study proposes a magnetic lead screw (MLS) as a continuous propulsion device for the general transport system (GTS). By integrating the outer rotor machine with the MLS, it is possible to construct a high force design with the improved operating surface area. Initially, a brief statement of the novel GTS is given, leading to an introduction of the MLS. Besides, a scaled 2.6-kN MLS demonstrator is presented to verify the propulsion principle and thrust force. Furthermore, the MLS design focuses on several types, which use different materials and magnetic structures. The three-dimensional finite element analysis is used to optimise design, with the goal of force performance. Moreover, the shear stress, cost-effectiveness, magnetic losses, and mechanical stress of the different topologies are compared, revealing that the MLS made by ferrite magnet is more suitable for employed in GTS applications. Finally, a dynamic model of the GTS is developed to verify the acceleration and speed responded.