하이퍼루프 디자인 선행분석 연구:아진공 튜브 내에서 자기부상 위치 변화와 공기역학을 반영한 형상을 중심으로

Abstract

Background: As issues with existing transportation systems have accumulated, the need for new modes has increased. In response, the Korea Railroad Research Institute began research on the HyperTube (HTX, Hyperloop Tube eXpress) in 2011. In 2013, Elon Musk introduced the Hyperloop concept through the 'Hyperloop Alpha' report, providing practical development methods. This led various countries, including South Korea, to engage in technology development. In South Korea, core technology development for Hyperloop has been a focus. However, economic feasibility issues caused delays in testbed and performance verification projects. Conversely, abroad, Musk has advanced demonstration projects faster by establishing testbeds and hosting competitions. While various magnetic levitation methods are being explored, related research remains limited in South Korea. Methods: Firstly, the concept of Hyperloop, along with its technical and historical background, and related materials were collected and examined. Secondly, the latest trends in Hyperloop technology were investigated, and structural changes from technological advancements were analyzed. Thirdly, factors affecting air resistance between the vacuum tunnel and the pod were analyzed. Based on these results, physical modeling of the pod shape was conducted using Rhino 8 software, and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations were employed to analyze air resistance for different pod shapes within the vacuum tube. Methods for reducing air resistance were evaluated, and suitable pod shapes and design directions were proposed Results: The research analysis results indicated that when the pod was positioned at the center of the tube, airflow became more uniform, reducing variations in velocity and pressure drop. A sharper nose shape of the pod alleviated air compression, while a longer tail shape stabilized the flow and controlled turbulence and vortices. Shorter pods had reduced resistance areas, allowing air to pass through quickly and minimizing pressure loss. Additionally, when the nose and tail had identical shapes, the distribution of velocity and pressure was more uniform, enhancing flow stability. Therefore, it was confirmed that the shape and position of the Hyperloop pod significantly impact air resistance in a vacuum environment. Conclusion: In future hyperloop pod design research, it is essential to evaluate and address factors beyond air resistance. Optimal design must account for elements such as the structural strength and stability of the pod to withstand high-speed stresses, as well as passenger comfort. This study aims to support hyperloop pod design research by providing foundational data necessary for developing an optimal design.