Chapter 3 - THE RESEARCH AGENDA

THE BASE CASE STARTING POINT

The simplest and least costly structure is this  standard bridge girder for a continuous bridge shown with 50' sections below.  This system is based on precast post and beams that can be installed for less than $2 million p/mile.  Angle iron will go on top as the tracks.  An analogy to vehicle size is using existing automobiles and limousines to provide a simple base case system. Using the tiny weight size of the autos means the girders can be very small vs trying to carry a train. We plan to engineer a prototype GUIDEWAY of dual concrete beams that are trussed together and are much less intrusive.

THE ENGINEERING FOCUS The technology you will see in this chapter is schematically illustrated to present concepts of the critical components needed to be configured into a workable solution.  This configuration will be the results of using only existing components that the Design Team can look up in catalogs, call a vendor and get competitive rates.

The Research Agenda

• Captured Wheel- The GUIDEWAY should capture the wheel so that it can’t ever leave the track

• Protected Track- The severe weather requires some kind of track protection to maintain adhesion

• Minimal Structure - The smaller the structure, the lower the cost and less visual intrusion.

• Above The Traffic- Transit above the traffic can go at its own speed instead of the congestion below.

• High Speed Switching- Cars going off line need to switch at 50-60 mph so as to not impede traffic.

• Steel vs. Concrete - What are the trade-offs involved in each type, the costs and performances.

• Select the Propulsion- Electrified third rail is the cheapest, but linear induction works best for the grades and weather of the mountain passes.

• Automated Docking - How does the car enter and maneuver in the dock area without hitting anything.

• Automated Loading- Cars need to fill and empty quickly without being slowed by a baggage system

• Automated Travel Controls- What are the trade offs in the variety of system controls available.