Abstract of Thesis presented at COPPE/UFRJ as a partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science (M.Sc.)

Regenerative Braking System with Linear Induction Motor of the Vehicle Maglev-Cobra

Roberto André Henrique de Oliveira

August/2013

Advisor:

Richard Magdalena Stephan

Department:

Eletrical Engineering

      The cities of the future will require the public transport systems to present a high energetic efficiency, to have a reduced implantation cost and to be less aggressive to the environment.
      MagLev-Cobra, superconductor magnetic levitation train developed in the labs of COPPE/UFRJ, is inserted in the world context of passengers transport because it meets the demands presented. This vehicle presents features that allow it to ascend acclivities with a 15% slope, being the excavation of tunnels unnecessary, largely reducing the implantation cost. The modular construction allows the vehicle to make 50-m-radius curves, ensuring the adjustment to the cities' contours. Powered by electrical energy, whose generation in Brazil is predominantly hydraulic, the system operates without emitting polluting gases. Since the train levitates, it does not produce any noise pollution.
      This dissertation, proposes the analysis of the implementation and operation of MagLev-Cobra's regenerative braking system with linear induction motor. This type of braking enables the recovery of the energy generated during deceleration, increasing the vehicle's energetic efficiency. The experimental results, including the calculation of the energy generated, are presented in this work. The operation of the bidirectional power converter, implemented in the drive, will also be described.