mu-zero HYPERLOOP

1. Introduction

Founded in 2020, mu-zero Hyperloop e.V. is a student-led research and engineering team at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT). Our mission is to design, develop, and test cutting-edge Hyperloop technology, contributing to the advancement of sustainable, high-speed transportation.

Comprising X students from various disciplines—including mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, computer science, and physics—our team has consistently pushed the limits of magnetic levitation, propulsion, and control systems. We have competed in international Hyperloop competitions, achieving multiple accolades such as:

‘Best Electrical System’ and ‘Best Guidance System’ at past European Hyperloop Weeks (EHW)

2nd place worldwide at the 2023 European Hyperloop Week in Switzerland

Our work focuses on building high-performance Hyperloop prototypes that advance transportation technology while providing students with real-world engineering experience.

2. Current Project: Next-Generation Hyperloop Prototype

For the 2025 European Hyperloop Week (EHW) in Groningen, Netherlands, we are developing our most advanced Hyperloop pod to date. The new prototype will feature:

Enhanced magnetic levitation and propulsion systems for improved efficiency

Optimized aerodynamics and lightweight structural materials

Advanced sensor integration and real-time control electronics

A critical component of our Hyperloop pod is high-performance PCB-based electronics, essential for controlling and monitoring the pod in extreme conditions.

3. Electronics and PCB Development in mu-zero Hyperloop

The Electronics and Software division is responsible for the design and implementation of high-precision PCBs for core systems, including power distribution, navigation, and safety controls.

A. Power Distribution System

High-voltage power management for levitation and propulsion

Battery Management System (BMS) ensuring safety and real-time monitoring

Redundant safety circuits for overvoltage and fault protection

B. Control and Sensor Board

Microcontroller-based computing unit for sensor data acquisition and navigation

Integration of accelerometers, gyroscopes, and pressure sensors for real-time tracking

High-speed data transmission for live monitoring and diagnostics

These custom PCBs are essential to the reliability and efficiency of our Hyperloop pod.

4. Why We Need PCBWay’s Support

As a student-run organization, we face financial and logistical challenges in sourcing high-quality PCB components and manufacturing within our limited budget. A partnership with PCBWay would allow us to:

Accelerate our PCB prototyping process, enabling faster iteration and optimization

Develop more reliable, industry-standard electronics for our Hyperloop pod

Enhance the technical expertise of our team members, providing hands-on experience in PCB design and implementation

With PCBWay’s support, we can push the boundaries of Hyperloop technology, ensuring our prototype meets the highest standards of performance and safety.

5. Beyond This Project: Long-Term Innovation

While our immediate focus is the 2025 European Hyperloop Week, we are also investing in the long-term development of Hyperloop technology, including:

Next-generation magnetic levitation and propulsion systems

AI-driven autonomous control for Hyperloop pods

Infrastructure research for large-scale Hyperloop implementation

A collaboration with PCBWay would not only impact our current prototype but also contribute to future Hyperloop advancements, helping to shape the future of sustainable high-speed transportation.

6. Conclusion

mu-zero Hyperloop e.V. is committed to revolutionizing transportation technology and inspiring the next generation of engineers. With the support of PCBWay, we can develop more advanced, efficient, and reliable electronic systems, bringing our Hyperloop vision closer to reality.

We look forward to the opportunity to collaborate with PCBWay and believe this partnership will drive meaningful innovation in PCB technology and Hyperloop development.