The validity and the limitations of the AC impedance- modeling technique in electrodynamic levitation systems

Because the impedance-modeling technique is such a convenient tool, it is used often (and sometimes incorrectly) for the prediction of forces in electrodynamic levitation systems. In spite of its widespread applications, the technique rests on flimsy theoretical foundations. This paper presents force formulas, derived from the dynamic circuit theory, which establish both the validity and the limitations of the technique. The cases of a holonomic and a nonholonomic guideway are treated. The method of equivalencing frequency to velocity is found to be incorrect algebraically. The extent to which approximate equivalencing of frequency to velocity can be relied on, is demonstrated by numerical examples.