How to Calculate Travel Time for a Maglev Train in a Vacuum?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating travel time for a maglev train operating in a vacuum, where the only limiting factor is passenger g-force tolerance. The formula for travel time is established as t = √(4s/g), where t is time, s is distance, and g is acceleration. An acceleration value of 0.5 m/s² is proposed for a comfortable journey, allowing the train to traverse the USA in approximately 1.5 hours at a maximum speed of 2.7 km/s. The train's design includes features like 180-degree rotating chairs to enhance passenger comfort during deceleration.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts, particularly acceleration and velocity.
  • Familiarity with kinematic equations, specifically those related to motion.
  • Knowledge of g-force and its effects on human passengers.
  • Basic principles of maglev train technology and vacuum environments.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the effects of g-force on human physiology during rapid acceleration and deceleration.
  • Explore advanced kinematic equations for non-linear motion scenarios.
  • Investigate the engineering principles behind maglev train design and operation.
  • Learn about vacuum technology and its applications in transportation systems.
USEFUL FOR

Engineers, physicists, transportation planners, and anyone interested in high-speed rail technology and passenger comfort optimization.

yrh
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Say we have a maglev train traveling i a vacuum. The only thing limiting its speed is the g-force tolerance of the passengers.

The train would therefore accelerate at a certain rate until halfway, and then decelerate until it reached its destination.

What would be the traveling time of such a train as a function of the distance?
 
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t=\sqrt{\frac{4s}{g}}
where t is the time, s is the distance and g is the accelleration.
Calculated using the fact that distance traveled is the area underneath a velocity-time graph.
 
Thank you.

What acceleration value g should I use? I'm looking for an acceleration/deceleration that is hardly noticeable for the passengers, making the journey comfortable.
 
With an acceleration of 0.5m/s^2 you can cross the USA in 1.5h in a straight line, which is pretty good...

The chairs could turn 180 degrees when the train is going to decelerate. The top speed would be 2.7km/s.

The usual problem with trains is that they start and stop at all the intermediate stations...
 
yrh said:
Say we have a maglev train traveling i a vacuum. The only thing limiting its speed is the g-force tolerance of the passengers.

The train would therefore accelerate at a certain rate until halfway, and then decelerate until it reached its destination.

What would be the traveling time of such a train as a function of the distance?

At the distance x the train is accelerated until x/2 so the time is expressed as:
x/2=gt²/2
t=√x/g
 

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