Design and analysis of ironless linear electromagnetic launcher with high thrust density for space platform

As further research on space exploration and space platform technology, space-based electromagnetic launchers (EML) have aroused widespread attention and interest. This paper presents analysis and optimization of ironless permanent magnet linear synchronous motor (ILPMLSM) which easily meet requirements such as fast response, light weight, small volume and high precision positioning for space-based EML. Electromotive thrust and thrust per volume of ILPMLSM with non-overlapping and overlapping air-cored windings are compared based on the analysis of the magnetic field. It is shown that the overlapping winding machine has certain important advantages compared to the non-overlapping winding machine for space platform. Further, we propose a design optimization to improve thrust density and thrust ripple simultaneously by optimizing structure and dimensions of magnets and windings.The design optimization is verified by 2-D Finite Element analysis.