Linear homopolar synchronous motor for urban transit application

A linear homopolar synchronous motor suitable for application in tracked urban transit vehicles is described, analyzed and tested as a small machine in a rotating test wheel. In addition to providing propulsion which is independent of adhesion limitations, this motor promises to provide better efficiency and power factor than other types of linear motor and thus to require a smaller on-board inverter. Potential economics in track construction are also envisaged. The paper presents some design information and an equivalent circuit model of the motor.