While I think futuristic visions of transport systems are unlikely to solve our current challenges, it's always good to dream. Here's a concept I haven't seen before, courtesy of Dimitar Kyosev:
In this innovation the track is actually carried by the train. The Tubular Rail concept developed from the observation of the relationship between the balance point of a beam at rest on two points. The inventor noted when sliding a pencil off the edge of a desk, given a uniform weight distribution, the pencil - or any beam - could be pushed to almost 50% of its length before tilting would occur. Reversing the orientation of the wheel and the rail is truly unique. By placing the wheel (or roller) permanently on a fixed structure and the rail on the now strengthened car, the car itself bridges the space between the rollers. Tubular Rail Technology uses the principle of the cantilever beam - a projection anchored at one end. Since the car is moving within- and is held by - the support rings (stanchions), the effect is to create a cantilever beam. The beam is fixed in its vertical orientation but mobile in its horizontal orientation. Therefore this rolling cylinder is constantly shifting from a cantilever beam on the ends to a post and beam (in its middle) and then back again. That allows drastic reduction of construction costs.
Another advantage is the it seems likely it would be easier to add into an established city since it can be built over existing roads, parks or possibly even over buildings. Theoretically the environmental impact could be smaller than typical rail too. I have not figure out cornering yet!?
Posted by: Kevin | 05 June 2010 at 08:26 PM