Project description
In 7/1/2009 the works on "Test Drive Facility SupraTrans II" began at the IFW Dresden. Within the scope of the from Federal Government and the free state Saxony initiated economic stimulus package II this research investment is promoted by the Saxon state ministry of science and art. SupraTrans II goes back to the successful realisation of the group project "SupraTrans - Demonstrator for a superconductive beared transport system". within the scope of which in 2002-2004 at the IFW Dresden a Demonstrator had been created which illustrates the general suitability of the supraconductor technology for an own-stable levitating passenger or cargo transport system.
The aim of the works on "Test Drive Facility SupraTrans II" is the test of the vehicle and driveway components of a superconductive beared magnetic levitation system for passenger or cargo transport under practically oriented operating conditions.
Within the scope of the works a 80-m-long test and demonstration track originated in the form of an oval circuit (see figure) with an turnout and a vehicle on which passengers or goods can be transported.
The construction of the experimental plant occured in a hall rented specially for this purpose in Dresden-Niedersedlitz.
In comparison to the SupraTrans-Demonstrator the Test Drive Facility shows essential new components which are necessary for a practical application of the transport system:
- Bended driveway segments (curves)
- Control systems for simultan operation of multiple vehicles
- Continuous energy supply of the vehicle
- Driveway intersection (turnout)
- Second brake system
Sketch of the planned test track
Outside view of the test hall
