HyperXite 10
Summary
HyperXite is a multidisciplinary undergraduate student team at UC Irvine dedicated to creating sustainable transportation technology through innovative research and development. Our project aims to revolutionize high-speed travel by designing and building a small-scale, self-propelled train pod that validates system models, incorporates important sustainable technologies, and proves the feasibility of Hyperloop and magnetic levitation concepts.
Background
The Hyperloop, introduced in 2013, represents a revolutionary mode of transportation, utilizing magnetically levitated pods propelled by electromagnetic forces within a near-vacuum tube. This design minimizes air resistance and eliminates friction, enabling speeds of up to 760 mph. HyperXite, a team dedicated to advancing Hyperloop technology, focuses on developing a small-scale monorail version of the pod. Since its establishment nine years ago, the team has worked to align its research with full-scale Hyperloop applications, emphasizing friction reduction through electromagnetic technologies and optimizing mechanical and electrical systems for efficiency.
HyperXite has gradually transitioned from wheel-based propulsion to electromagnetic propulsion. HyperXite 8 initiated research on linear induction motors (LIM), and HyperXite 9 began a two-year prototype development cycle to integrate LIM into the pod. This development led to the introduction of a thermal cooling system to prevent overheating. Now, in the second year of this cycle, HyperXite 10 is developing Pod 10, the first operational HyperXite pod to utilize electromagnetic propulsion with a LIM designed at UC Irvine. The team aims to compete in the Hyperloop Global event in Canada, necessitating compliance with competition regulations while achieving internal performance objectives.
Goals and objectives
The primary goal of HyperXite 10 is to successfully integrate electromagnetic propulsion into Pod 10 while refining key supporting systems. To enhance efficiency and safety, the team is implementing an integrated liquid cooling system to prevent LIM overheating, a fail-safe friction braking system, a new aerodynamic fairing, and a redesigned power system featuring a 12kW variable frequency inverter. Additionally, HyperXite 10 has introduced an R&D initiative focused on developing a magnetic levitation system for future iterations of the pod. The Levitation R&D team is working on a prototype levitation demonstrator to showcase at Hyperloop Global.
To meet these objectives, each subteam plays a crucial role in optimizing the pod’s functionality. The Propulsion Systems Subteam is designing the LIM coil arrangement for maximum thrust efficiency, while the Thermal Cooling Team is developing a liquid radiator loop capable of dissipating a maximum 2kW of heat. The Braking System Subteam is engineering a failsafe braking system to stop the pod even in cases of pneumatic failure or power loss. Other subteams are focused on aerodynamics, structural integrity, power management, and sensor integration to ensure reliable operation. Additionally, the Controls System Subteam is responsible for sensor networks and a graphical user interface (GUI) to monitor and control the pod remotely.
Beyond technical advancements, HyperXite 10 also prioritizes student learning as part of the Henry Samueli School of Engineering at UC Irvine. The project provides hands-on experience in areas beyond standard undergraduate coursework, such as pneumatics and PCB design, while fostering a culture of exploration and innovation. The team encourages members to pursue designs that align with their interests, allowing for skill development and potential breakthroughs in pod efficiency.
Documentation
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PMBwQWaSQprfy0ZBMVT3YgyLBUxYqOR3cktPV82RZ3I/edit?usp=sharing
Website
Team Contact
Rye Scholin (rscholin@uci.edu)
Team Advisor
Professor Rangel (rhrangel@uci.edu)
