The potential application method of magnetic levitation technology – as a ground-based power – to assist the aircraft takeoff and landing processes
Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology
ISSN: 0002-2667
Article publication date: 29 April 2014
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to present the first-year results of the EU-supported GABRIEL project on the possible use of magnetic levitation (MagLev) technology to assist aircraft take-off and landing (ATOL).
Design/methodology/approach
Developing a radically new technology is a complex task. It is based on extensive expert analysis, use of technology identification evaluation and selection methods, principle of the design philosophies and development of the radically new technologies.
Findings
A possible solution of using the MagLev technology to assist ATOL was developed and defined, including several original ideas, such as the cart-sledge concept or the unconventional climb principle.
Research limitations/implications
This is a typical “out-of-the-box” project without limitations on the developing new principles and technologies, but it is working on the development of a possible solution within the predictable technical and technological envelopes.
Practical implications
The developed concept should assess whether MagLev technology for the ATOL is feasible, cost-effective and safe.
Social implications
The developed GABRIEL principle may significantly reduce the noise and chemical emissions in airport regions and increase the efficiency of the air transportation system.
Originality/value
The GABRIEL concept is the first concept for using the MagLev technology to assist the takeoff and landing processes related to the commercial civil aviation.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
This research has been supported by the European Framework Programme 7, under the GABRIEL project grant agreement number 284884.
The paper uses the results of the EU supported GABRIEL project and it is a version of lecture given by first author on the, “2nd EASN WORKSHOP on Flight Physics and Propulsion”, Prague, 31st October-2nd November 2012.
Citation
Rohacs, J. and Rohacs, D. (2014), "The potential application method of magnetic levitation technology – as a ground-based power – to assist the aircraft takeoff and landing processes", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 86 No. 3, pp. 188-197. https://doi.org/10.1108/AEAT-01-2013-0017
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2014, Emerald Group Publishing Limited