14,169 research outputs found

    Automated Transit Networks (ATN): A Review of the State of the Industry and Prospects for the Future, MTI Report 12-31

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    The concept of Automated Transit Networks (ATN) - in which fully automated vehicles on exclusive, grade-separated guideways provide on-demand, primarily non-stop, origin-to-destination service over an area network – has been around since the 1950s. However, only a few systems are in current operation around the world. ATN does not appear “on the radar” of urban planners, transit professionals, or policy makers when it comes to designing solutions for current transit problems in urban areas. This study explains ATN technology, setting it in the larger context of Automated Guideway Transit (AGT); looks at the current status of ATN suppliers, the status of the ATN industry, and the prospects of a U.S.-based ATN industry; summarizes and organizes proceedings from the seven Podcar City conferences that have been held since 2006; documents the U.S./Sweden Memorandum of Understanding on Sustainable Transport; discusses how ATN could expand the coverage of existing transit systems; explains the opportunities and challenges in planning and funding ATN systems and approaches for procuring ATN systems; and concludes with a summary of the existing challenges and opportunities for ATN technology. The study is intended to be an informative tool for planners, urban designers, and those involved in public policy, especially for urban transit, to provide a reference for history and background on ATN, and to use for policy development and research

    Using an analytical process to contextualise architectural prototypes for metro stations

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    In order to meet the pressures of a growing population and employment base, a developing city in the Middle East is planning a new public transport system to allow its sustainable growth. Introducing a new mode of public transport to a city that has a complex urban structure and a dependency on car use necessitates specific design responses to inform the station design process. This paper focuses on a study at the micro scale level that addresses the impact of evidence-based design on contextualised architectural station prototypes. Furthermore, it addresses the processes of working with an architectural design office in creating dynamic design iterations. The research here is presented from a perspective of the process of iterative analytical study to real time projects, reflecting on the balance between academia and practice. In order to construct a set of design principles to station locations, three layers of potential movement patterns are analysed using agents based modelling: movement from station exits; movement towards station entrances and background movement generated through the spatial accessibility values of the surrounding context. In that respect, each prototype station has been contextualised to its unique site. Design proposals developed by architectural teams are informed through fine grain analysis of urban features such as pavement widths and signage locations. The analyses also inform the landscape design process through the positioning of street furniture in relation to potential movement patterns as well as the effect of shading and public realm quality through option testing. To integrate stations within their contexts they must have simple entrances and clear orientation from the points of exit. Overall, the dynamic nature of agent based modelling allows for rapid design feedback to occur permitting an iterative process of design development and optimisation

    the case study of TWIST project

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    AQUIFER Nano-Electrofuel Energy Economy and Powered Aircraft Operations

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    The Aqueous, QUick-charging battery Integration For Electric flight Research project is explained and the major subsystems are described, including nano-electric fluid, rim-driven motors, and integration concepts. The nano-electric fluid concept is a new type of aqueous flow battery that could reduce or retire the fire and explosion hazards of conventional batteries and fuel cells. The nano-electric fluid itself could enable energy storage and increased available energy per fuel weight ratios. The rim-driven motor is being developed to improve propulsion system safety and stability and to reduce noise. The rim-driven motor concept could enable motors that are more efficient both electrically and aerodynamically. The Energy Economy of the project concept is presented as a potential renewable or green energy sustainment for utilizing in-place infrastructure. The nano-electric fluid energy charge-use-recharge cycle is presented using renewable energy input from solar, wind, and hydroelectricity. Powered aircraft operations are presented, and the logistics of the new nano-electric fluid technology are explored. Powered aircraft operations topics include weight and balance, fueling, recharging, safety, and derivative considerations
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