Regenerative Braking Systems for High-Speed Aerospace and Rail Applications

Abstract

The use of regenerative braking systems (RBS) in high-speed aircraft and rail applications signifies a transformative advancement in energy recovery, dissipation, and reuse. This research investigates sophisticated electrodynamic, electromechanical, and hybrid kinetic energy recovery systems designed for high-speed rail (HSR), space launch recovery systems, and ballistic reentry vehicles. Conventional braking methods in these areas result in significant energy loss via heat dissipation, hence restricting system efficiency. In contrast, regenerative braking systems using ultra-capacitors, superconducting magnetic energy storage (SMES), and flywheel energy storage systems (FESS) provide an ideal method for effective energy recovery.The combination of solid-state power electronics with high-efficiency traction inverters in high-speed rail enables dynamic energy feedback into the grid, hence improving energy elasticity and power stability. In space launch recovery, innovative electrodynamic tethers and plasma-based electromagnetic brakes enable orbital energy dissipation with regulated fall dynamics, minimizing dependence on retropropulsion. Ballistic reentry vehicles use aerodynamically integrated magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) braking systems, facilitating controlled deceleration and reducing thermal flux via plasma sheath modulation.This study examines the synergistic interaction between regenerative braking and energy redistribution systems, in which AI-enhanced adaptive control loops increase energy capture efficiency by anticipatory modulation of braking force. The integration of piezoelectric nanogenerators in vehicle components enhances energy recovery under intense mechanical stresses, facilitating multimodal energy harvesting.The suggested innovations rethink the basic paradigms of decelerative energy management in high-velocity transit systems, boosting sustainability, lowering dependence on consumable brake parts, and encouraging longitudinal energy autonomy. Future research should concentrate on merging quantum-dot-based supercapacitors with solid-state lithium-air batteries to enhance high-density regenerative storage systems, accelerating the next generation of energy-efficient aeronautical and rail braking technologies.