Electromagnetic Launcher Speed Control with a Multilevel Fast Triggering Time Algorithm (MFTTA)

Abstract

Electromagnetic launchers (EMLs) can provide accurate speed control of a projectile compared to gun-powder based alternatives. However large-caliber launchers have several pulse power supply (PPS) modules connected in parallel to reach the required current levels. Determination of the triggering instants of these parallel PPS modules is a crucial part of the launch mechanism. The triggering instants does not only affect the exit velocity but also the forces on the armature which can lead to transition i.e. separation of the armature from the rails. In this study, a triggering sequence optimization method that is faster than other alternatives in the literature and take into account speed-dependent parasitic masses and transition phenomena. Real-coded genetic algorithm (RCGA) and Partical Swarm Optimization (PSO) are used to create bencmarks. 32 capacitive PPS modules with 8 MJ total energy is used. With the achieved accuracy and speed, this study offer: An effective speed control algorithm with several physical constraints.