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Future of Maglev in the US Military

Posted by ryuzaki0 on from the vroooooom dept.

The Hippy of Death writes "An article at The Weekly Standard discusses the current maglev research being funded by the US military. From the article: 'But what if you could drastically reduce the amount of noise a ship makes directly at the source? ...Vibration & Sound Solutions Limited suggested placing mag-lev sensors at the source of the electromagnetic fields, such as motors. The idea was to actually levitate the machinery with an array of electromagnets while using a small amount of power.'"

1 of 268 comments (clear)

  1. Public benefits of military research. by keilinw · · Score: 5, Insightful

    As an engineer and scientist I oftentimes find myself excited about whatever technologies the military is funding. No, I'm not a proponent of destructive technologies -- even though military advancements oftentimes contribute to destruction (a topic for another conversation). But, what really excites me is the benefit to humanity that stems from such research.

    While applying magnetic levitation technologies to engines is a rather roundabout solution, the research will improve humanities knowledge of such technologies in general, potentially expediting the timeframe in which you and I can reap the benefits. Who knows what the future will be? Perhaps we will see MagLev public transportation soon? Or perhaps air travel will be much quieter (now that would be enjoyable)... nevertheless research into the field is necessary.

    One interesting note is that MagLev technologies are NOT that difficult to implement. It's really just a control system of an electromagnetic field. OK, so it is difficult, but its nothing new. What advancements we really NEED have to do with:

    1.) Efficiency. Superconductivity will reduce the overall power / energy demands of the system.
    2.) Reliability. What happens when the power goes out? Does the train / engine / whatever just fall to the ground? This is a BIG consideration.
    3.) Safety. Does exposure to such large EM fields cause cancer?
    4.) etc.

    Despite all of the these concerns I am REALLY excited that this type of research is getting funding... at the very least it is a very practical application!

    Well, thats enough for now.

    Matthew Wong
    http://www.themindofmatthew.com