Propelling a model maglev train

[vidarth]

Hey,

I have managed to make model maglev train that uses permanent magnets and metals for levitation. It levitates all right but i need ideas to propel it forward. I have attached a picture showing how the model works. Please reply if you have any ideas.

Thanks.

[Danger]

If it's only the lift component that has to be magnetic, you could just put a propellor on the back to push it around. Real maglevs use pulsed magnetic polarity changes for propulsion, but I don't know whether or not you have the ability to achieve that.

[vidarth]

I can build electromagnets and manually change the polarity to propel the train but the problem is that I am not able to build strong enough electromagnets to actually cause any motion I have tried it out. As for the propeller idea I don't know how to make a propeller (other than one which is a fan attached to a motor with dc supply). So I'll google propeller models and see if it is feasable for me.

Thanks for the reply danger. Any other suggestions are welcome.

[Danger]

One of the real commercial systems uses powered wheels that contact the underside of the track. Maybe you could sneak one of those in underneath, attached to the plate holders.
The other thing, though, is how you have your permanent magnets oriented. Every second one (linearly) should be a north. You then place pulsing (alternating pole) electromagnets where you have your steel plates. You'd need something fast, like optical switching, to make it work.