Abstract: A reaction rail assembly, for forming a secondary of linear induction motor, includes an elongate conductive member of uniform cross-section, and core formed from a plurality of elongate bars. The bars extend parallel to the conductive member, and adjacent bars are insulated from one another, so as to reduce eddy current losses. The bars have corresponding width and height, and can be square. The core is located adjacent the conductive member, so as, in use, to complete a magnet circuit between a primary and secondary of a linear induction motor.

Abstract: A railroad vehicle is provided for movement on rails. The vehicle has a car body and two trucks. Each of the trucks has an outboard and an inboard axle mounted to the truck for pivotal movement about respective vertical axes such that the axles may be moved to a radial position when the vehicle is travelling on curved track. Each of the trucks has a pivotal connection, offset from center toward the outboard axle, between the truck and the car body. Each of the trucks contains a steering mechanism whereby the axles are moved to the radial position when the vehicle is travelling on curved track, with the alignment being obtained in response to the angle through which the truck swivels relative to the car body in traversing the curved track. The steerable trucks are stable provided that certain mathematical relationships set out are satisfied.

Abstract: A truck comprising a pair of longitudinal side frames with axle assemblies located at opposite ends thereof. Diagonal braces extend between the side frames to provide the truck with a lateral stiffness and a yaw stiffness. The diagonal braces include struts extending between the side frames and connected thereto by elastomeric members. The elastomeric members provide controlled flexibility in shear for the truck and are chosen so that the yaw stiffness and lateral stiffness lie on the characteristic curve of maximum critical velocity. In this way maximum stability of the truck is obtained.

Abstract: A regenerative braking system for a linear induction motor includes a control device to increase the frequency slip in a braking mode and reduce the regenerative capacity of the motor. The control device is regulated by sensing means which monitor the voltage of the external power conductor and increase the slip if the voltage exceeds a predetermined value. This reduces the power regenerated by the motor and prevents excessive voltages in the conductor. A latch prevents cycling between the full and reduced regenerative braking to prevent oscillation of the braking force and is reset upon selection of a motoring condition for the motor.