We have evaluated an electromagnetic levitation system utilizing the magnetic shielding effect of High-Temperature Superconductor (HTS) bulk. In our levitation system, ferromagnetic rails are used on the track side, while levitation units (HTS bulk and HTS circular coils) are used on the vehicle side. This levitation system achieves stable levitation in both stationary and running states without the need for a control system, by to the magnetic shielding effect of the HTS bulk and magnetic attractive force.

 In our previous study, we designed a racetrack coil model by changing the shape of HTS coils from circular to racetrack form. Furthermore, using the three-dimensional finite element analysis software COMSOL Multiphysics®, we constructed an analytical model to evaluate the influence of the length of the straight section of the racetrack coil on the levitation force. The results showed that by increasing the length of the straight section, the attractive force required to raise the actual vehicle was obtained.

 As one aspect of stability in a magnetic levitation system, it's necessary to apply a restoring force in the horizontal direction to bring the vehicle back to its original position if it deviates laterally from the track. Accordingly, we developed an analytical model that generates lateral restoring forces due to the magnetic shielding effect of the HTS bulk. Using this model, we evaluated the lateral stability in our levitation system. Additionally, we numerically analyzed both lateral restoring forces and vertical levitation forces to evaluate the compatibility of lateral and vertical stability.