Method for erecting transport structures
By using a structure consisting of piers and platforms in the hyperloop technology, and using vehicles to transport the beams and platforms, the challenges of transporting and installing pipeline sections have been solved, enabling convenient construction in various terrains and simplifying the energy and electrical certification process.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Patents(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- ARCELORMITTAL SA
- Filing Date
- 2022-02-28
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-31
AI Technical Summary
In existing hyperloop technologies, the transportation and installation of the pipeline sections are difficult, especially in rugged terrain or far from existing roads, and the complexities of energy supply and electrical certification make construction challenging.
The structure consists of multiple piers and platforms. The main beams and platforms are transported by vehicles along the service path. The roof-shaped transport path formed by the main beams enables air frictionless circulation of the pipeline section, simplifying the transportation and installation process.
It enables convenient transportation and installation of pipe sections under various terrain conditions, reduces energy demand and electrical certification complexity, and improves construction efficiency.
Smart Images

Figure CN118786065B_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to a method for erecting a transport structure comprising components formed of tubular sections capable of being placed under low air pressure, through which cabins can travel substantially without air friction. Such a transport system is commonly referred to as hyperloop technology. The invention also relates to a corresponding transport structure. Background Technology
[0002] Hyperloop technology is a proposed high-speed transportation system for both passenger and freight transport. This high-speed transport system is essentially a sealed tube system with low air pressure, through which cabins can travel with virtually no air resistance or air friction. The high-speed transport system has three main components: the tube, the cabin, and the station. The tube is a large, sealed, low-pressure system that can be built above, below, or on the ground. The high-speed transport system includes the necessary infrastructure to ensure levitation / suspension, propulsion, braking, etc. The vehicles operate within this controlled environment and are generally referred to as cabins. Cabins employ electrolevitation (electromagnetic or electric levitation) or aerodynamic levitation (using air bearings for gliding) and electromagnetic or aerodynamic propulsion to glide along fixed guide rails. The station is a facility where cabins can be started or stopped, and where passengers can board / disembark and cargo can be loaded / unloaded. A station is located at each end of the sealed tube system.
[0003] From an artist's perspective, the above-ground Hyperloop structure is often represented in the form of pipe sections, the ends of which are simply resting on regularly spaced piers. This design is very appealing, but it doesn't provide a full understanding of the significant challenges during the installation process. One of these challenges is that the pipe sections are massive pieces that cannot be easily transported to the construction site, especially in steep or inaccessible terrain, or where the Hyperloop route is far from existing roads. To avoid transporting the pipe sections, the use of mobile pipe-producing machinery (such as...) is specifically known from US9517901. Figure 9 The diagram shows pipe manufacturing and assembly on land, where the pipe production machine is operable to move on land and be guided along a construction route. Alternatively, mobile in-situ manufacturing systems (such as...) Figure 9The structure shown in Figure B) can be located at a single location to manufacture multiple pipe segments (e.g., fifty pipe segments) and then subsequently moved to a new location. In both cases, the Hyperloop route can only be built if mobile production machinery or mobile manufacturing systems can access the construction site. Furthermore, among other disadvantages, it is worth mentioning that energy supply can be challenging while moving along the construction route, and new electrical certifications may be required each time the machinery / system is moved. Summary of the Invention
[0004] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to overcome the shortcomings of existing methods and structures by providing a method for erecting ground transport structures, a method adapted to rugged terrain, and a method that makes the transport and assembly of different components of the structure easier.
[0005] For this purpose, a first aspect of the present invention includes a method for erecting a portion of a transport structure, the portion comprising:
[0006] - Multiple piers, which are spaced substantially regularly along the longitudinal axis X of the transport structure portion.
[0007] - Multiple platforms, which are connected to piers and form a service path extending from a first end of a portion of the transport structure to a second end.
[0008] - A first plurality of beams formed by the main beams, the first plurality of beams being positioned on the pier and forming the following:
[0009] ○ A first component formed by the tube section, which can be placed under low air pressure and allows the cabin to circulate within the tube section with virtually no air friction.
[0010] ○ A first roof-type transport path, which extends from a first end portion of the transport structure to a second end portion.
[0011] Each main beam includes:
[0012] ○The pipe section in the first component formed by the pipe section,
[0013] ○ A metal structure embedded in a first component formed by pipe sections, the upper surface of which is part of a first roof-type transport path.
[0014] The method includes:
[0015] (i) Starting from the first end of the transport structure section, a vehicle transports the nth beam among the first plurality of beams along a first roof-shaped transport path formed by (n-1) beams previously positioned, positions the nth beam at its usage location, and returns the vehicle along a service path to the first end of the transport structure section.
[0016] (ii) Starting from the first end of the transport structure section, a vehicle is used to transport the y-th platform among the multiple platforms along a first roof-shaped transport path formed by the beams of the first plurality of previously positioned beams, positioning the y-th platform at its usage location.
[0017] And it causes the vehicle to return along the service path to the first end of the transport structure.
[0018] The method according to the invention may also have the following optional features, considered individually or in combination:
[0019] -The method includes the step of erecting the pier before step i).
[0020] - The method includes an additional step prior to step i), in which the main beams of the first plurality of main beams of the first segment of the transport structure, as well as at least one platform, are erected at the storage point.
[0021] - In steps i) and ii), the vehicle is fitted with a beam and platform at the first end of the transport structure section.
[0022] - The main girder is positioned by a girder launcher crane supported by the structure itself.
[0023] The steps for erecting the xth segment do not include positioning the nth beam among the multiple beams.
[0024] - The method also includes the step of asynchronously erecting a second plurality of beams, which are positioned on at least some of the piers and form the following:
[0025] ○ A second component formed by the tube section, which can be placed under low air pressure and allows the cabin to circulate within the tube section with virtually no air friction.
[0026] A second roof-type transport path runs alongside the first roof-type transport path, extending from the first end of the transport structure to the second end.
[0027] The asynchronous erection steps include: starting from the first end, using a vehicle to transport the nth beam among the second plurality of beams along the first roof-type transport path or the second roof-type transport path, positioning the nth beam at its usage location, and causing the vehicle to return to the first end of the transport structure section along the service path 9.
[0028] A second aspect of the invention includes a portion of a transport structure for enabling a cabin to move substantially without air friction within an assembly formed by tubular sections under low air pressure. This portion of the transport infrastructure includes:
[0029] - Multiple piers, which are spaced substantially regularly along the longitudinal axis X of the transport structure portion.
[0030] - Multiple platforms, which are connected to piers and form a service path extending from a first end of a portion of the transport structure to a second end.
[0031] - A first plurality of beams formed by the main beams, the first plurality of beams being positioned on the pier and forming the following:
[0032] ○ A first component formed by the tube section, which can be placed under low air pressure and allows the cabin to circulate within the tube section with virtually no air friction.
[0033] ○ First roof-type transport path, which starts from the transport structure
[0034] The first end portion extends to the second end portion.
[0035] Each main beam includes:
[0036] ○The pipe section in the first component formed by the pipe section,
[0037] ○ A metal structure embedded in a first component formed by pipe sections, the upper surface of which is part of a first roof-type transport path.
[0038] The transport structure according to the invention may also have optional features listed below, either individually or in combination:
[0039] - This part of the transport structure also includes a second plurality of beams, which are positioned on the first plurality of beams and form the following:
[0040] ○ A second component formed by the tube section, which can be placed under low air pressure and allows the cabin to circulate within the tube section with virtually no air friction.
[0041] ○ A second roof-type transport path, which extends from the first end of a portion of the transport structure to the second end.
[0042] Each of the second set of beams includes:
[0043] ○ The pipe section in the second component formed by the pipe section,
[0044] ○ A metal structure embedded in a second component formed by pipe sections, the upper surface of which is part of a second roof-type transport path.
[0045] Each main beam also includes a tube segment in a second assembly formed by tube sections, positioned adjacent to a tube segment in the first assembly. Metal structures are embedded in both tube sections, such that the multiple main beams positioned on the piers further form a second assembly of tube sections. This second assembly can be placed under low air pressure and allows the cabin to circulate within the tube sections with virtually no air friction.
[0046] -The transport structure also includes a second plurality of beams, which are positioned on the first plurality of beams and form the following:
[0047] The third and fourth components, formed by the tube sections, are both capable of operating under low air pressure and allow the cabin to circulate within the tube sections with virtually no air friction.
[0048] ○ A second roof-type transport path, which extends from the first end of a portion of the transport structure to the second end.
[0049] Each of the second set of beams includes:
[0050] ○The pipe section in the third component formed by the pipe section,
[0051] ○The pipe section in the fourth component formed by the pipe section,
[0052] ○ A metal structure embedded in a pipe section in a third component formed by pipe sections and a pipe section in a fourth component formed by pipe sections, the upper surface of which is part of a second roof-type transport path.
[0053] - The metal structure includes a lower deck, an upper deck, and lateral stiffeners connecting the lower deck to the upper deck.
[0054] - Each transverse stiffener extends substantially in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X of the transport structure.
[0055] - Each lateral stiffener extends horizontally to match the profile of the pipe section's cross-section.
[0056] - The upper deck is a basically flat surface suitable for vehicle passage.
[0057] - The metal structure includes transverse stiffeners and longitudinal stiffeners connecting the transverse stiffeners.
[0058] - Each main beam extends from one pier to the adjacent pier.
[0059] - The transport structure does not include a second plurality of beams positioned on at least some of the piers and forming a second roof-type transport path located next to the first roof-type transport path.
[0060] Clearly, this invention is based on the construction of a structure consisting of piers, platforms, and beams, which includes tubular elements of a high-speed transport system and can withstand the transport of heavy components such as beams and platforms. The structure includes a circulation loop, allowing vehicles traveling in a loop along the already positioned portions of the structure, starting from a reserve point, to transport each additional component of the transport structure to its location at the construction point and back to the reserve point, without hindering other vehicles from transporting the next component to the construction point. Therefore, the transport structure can be easily constructed regardless of terrain.
[0061] Other features and advantages of the invention will be described in more detail in the following description. Attached Figure Description
[0062] The invention will be better understood by referring to the following figures and reading the following description, which is provided for illustrative purposes only and is in no way intended to be restrictive:
[0063] - Figure 1 This is a partial view of a transport structure according to a first variation of the present invention.
[0064] - Figure 2 It is based on a detailed view of a modified beam.
[0065] - Figure 3 This is a partial view of a transport structure according to a second variation of the present invention.
[0066] - Figure 4 It is based on a detailed view of a modified beam.
[0067] - Figure 5 yes Figure 5 Detailed view of the internal structure of the main beam.
[0068] - Figure 6 This is a partial view of a transport structure according to a third variation of the present invention.
[0069] - Figure 7 The diagram illustrates the erection of piers for a portion of the transport structure.
[0070] - Figure 8 The illustration shows the erection of the first section of a portion of the transport structure according to a second variation of the present invention.
[0071] - Figure 9 The illustration shows the loading of a beam at the storage point onto a vehicle positioned on the first section of a portion of a transport structure according to a second variation of the invention.
[0072] - Figure 10 The illustration shows the platform being transported to the construction site along a first transport path of a portion of a transport structure according to a second variation of the invention.
[0073] - Figure 11 The illustration shows the transport of the main beam along a first transport path of a portion of the transport structure according to a second variation of the invention to the construction site.
[0074] - Figure 12 The diagram illustrates the positioning of the main beam at the construction point.
[0075] - Figure 13 The illustration shows the transport of the main beam along a first transport path of a portion of the transport structure according to a first variation of the invention to the construction site.
[0076] - Figure 14 The illustration shows the platform being transported to the construction site along a first transport path of a portion of a transport structure according to a first variation of the invention.
[0077] - Figure 15 The diagram illustrates the positioning of the main beam at the construction point.
[0078] - Figure 16 The illustration shows the transport of the main beam along a first transport path of a portion of the transport structure according to a third variation of the invention to the construction site. Detailed Implementation
[0079] It should be noted that the spatial relative terms used in this application, such as "lower," "below," "inner," "inward," "outer," and "outward," refer to the position and orientation of different components of the transport structure when the transport structure has been erected. The terms "upstream" and "downstream" used in this application refer to the direction of assembly starting from the storage point.
[0080] Reference Figures 1 to 6 According to the present invention, part 1 of the transport structure firstly includes: a plurality of piers 3, a plurality of platforms 8 connected to the piers, and a first plurality of beams 4 formed by beams 6 positioned on the piers.
[0081] The transport structure comprises multiple segments, preferably at least three segments. The segments are defined by the length of the main beams. The segments are preferably matched to the distance between two consecutive piers along the longitudinal axis X of the transport structure segment.
[0082] Pier 3 is an upright support member used for the structure or superstructure, such as an arch or bridging member. Pier 3 supports the superstructure and transfers the load of the superstructure to the foundation. The shape of the piers according to the invention is not particularly limited, as long as these piers can support beams and platforms.
[0083] according to Figure 1 The first variant illustrated is a frame pier, which consists of two or more columnar members supporting a pier cap. The pier extends substantially in a plane perpendicular to the route, i.e., perpendicular to the length of the main beam.
[0084] according to Figure 3 The second variation illustrated has a V-shaped pier. A V-shaped pier extends essentially in a plane perpendicular to the route, i.e., perpendicular to the length of the main beam. The pier comprises two outwardly extending, inclined arms. The pier may also include a pier cap in the form of a horizontal beam connecting the two arms. This pier cap provides additional support for the main beam and better distributes the load from the main beam to the pier.
[0085] Other shapes such as Y-shaped, X-shaped, H-shaped, hammer-shaped, cantilevered, trestle-type, solid, and simple column-shaped piers are also possible.
[0086] The piers are spaced substantially regularly along the longitudinal axis X of the transport structure.
[0087] Part 1 of the transport structure according to the invention also includes a plurality of platforms 8 positioned along a longitudinal axis X and forming a service path 9 extending from a first end portion to a second end portion of the transport structure. The service path refers to at least one continuous track designed to accommodate vehicle traffic. Specifically, the service path is not designed to accommodate the transport of heavy components such as beams and platforms. The service path extends from the first longitudinal end portion of the transport structure to the second longitudinal end portion of the transport structure, regardless of the length of the portion. For clarity, the service path is located above the ground. The service path extends substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis X of the transport structure portion.
[0088] The platform is a lightweight structure suitable for vehicle passage. The platform is preferably made of steel. The platform preferably includes a traffic deck, i.e., a surface suitable for vehicle passage, which may be reinforced underneath by longitudinal and / or lateral stiffeners. These stiffeners increase the structural rigidity of the traffic deck. For safety reasons, the traffic deck may also include safety rails along the longitudinal edges of the traffic deck. The traffic deck, stiffeners, and safety rails are preferably made of steel. The traffic deck is preferably a perforated surface, such as perforated steel sheet or metal grating.
[0089] Platform 8 is connected to the pier. Preferably, the longitudinal end of the platform is connected to the pier. In this case, the platform preferably has the same length as the main beam. Therefore, the pier may include a support region 19, which may be, for example, part of the shape of the pier itself or added to an anchor point of the pier. Figure 1 In the illustrated case, the support area 19 takes the form of a protrusion extending from a portion of the pier cap. In this case, the platform of the service path, particularly the longitudinal end of the platform, can simply rest on the protrusion. Figure 3 In the illustrated case, the support area 19 takes the form of a protrusion extending inward from the arm of the V-shaped pier. In this case, the platform of the service path, particularly the longitudinal end of the platform, can simply rest on the protrusion. Preferably, both arms include the support areas. More preferably, the support areas of the two arms of a given pier are substantially flush, i.e., at the same level, so that the platform of the service path can rest more stably on the support areas. Alternatively, the platform of the service path can rest on other parts of the pier, such as on the horizontal beam of the H-shaped pier where applicable, or it can be anchored to a column.
[0090] During the construction phase, vehicles that have already moved components to the construction point can return to the reserve point via service route 9 without hindering other vehicles from transporting the next component to the construction point. This expedites the transport of components to the construction point and thus shortens the erection phase. This advantage will be described in further detail when the erection method is described. During operation, the service route can be advantageously used for maintenance, inspection, and / or as an escape route. The service route can be permanent or temporary.
[0091] according to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The first embodiment of the illustrated transport structure further includes a first plurality of beams 4 formed by beams 6, the first plurality of beams 4 being positioned on piers 3 and forming the following:
[0092] - A first assembly 12 formed by the tube section 14, which can be placed under low air pressure and allows the cabin to circulate within the tube section with substantially no air friction, and
[0093] - First roof-type transport path 7, which extends from the first end of the transport structure to the second end.
[0094] Therefore, each main beam 6 includes:
[0095] ○ Pipe section 14 in the first component formed by the pipe section,
[0096] ○ A metal structure 20 embedded in a first component formed by pipe sections, the upper surface of which is part of a first roof-type transport path.
[0097] The main beam 6 is a supporting beam used in the building. The main beam 6 can be made of steel or concrete, or it can be a composite structure. The main beam 6 can be a box beam, that is, a beam with a closed cross-sectional profile.
[0098] The design of pipe section 14 is not limited, as long as pipe section 14 can be connected to each other directly or indirectly along the longitudinal axis through its longitudinal ends to form the assembly as described above. In particular, the cross-section of the pipe is not limited. The cross-section of the pipe can be a circular cross-section or a polygonal cross-section.
[0099] The pipe section is preferably made of steel. Steel has the advantages of being lightweight, easy to vacuum seal, and recyclable.
[0100] According to a variation of the invention, the pipe sections are made of steel plates welded together.
[0101] According to another variation, the tube section comprises multiple wall sections joined together by their longitudinal edges. Adjacent wall sections are arranged side-to-side along the joint line. Their edges may include flanges for easy assembly. Each wall section may include at least one central panel and two side panels. The side panels extend circumferentially on either side of the central panel of the tube section. The side panels laterally enclose the central panel. The side panels form an angle with the central panel. This type of wall section has the advantage of being easily obtained by simply folding the metal sheet. The side panels reinforce the wall section and increase the bending strength of the section in the longitudinal direction.
[0102] According to another variant, the pipe section is a double-walled pipe section, wherein the space between the outer pipe and the inner pipe is filled with a reinforcing compound.
[0103] According to another variation, the pipe section includes multiple longitudinal beams mounted to multiple circumferential sections to form a skeleton frame, and the skin section is airtightly attached to the skeleton frame.
[0104] According to another variation, the tube section includes a plurality of elongated outer skin panels forming the outer wall of the double-walled tube section. The panels are curved, such that the assembly of the panels forms a smooth cylindrical surface. The panels may have embossed indentations to improve resistance to buckling. The tube section also includes inner plate portions forming the inner wall of the double-walled tube section, the inner plate portions being welded together to achieve an airtight connection and welded to the elongated outer skin panels.
[0105] According to another variation, the tube section includes an elongated curved outer shell portion forming the outer wall of the double-walled tube section, an inner wall in the form of a regular N-sided polygonal tube, and a sandwich shell portion, the inner side of which is flat and the outer side of which has the same curvature as the elongated curved outer shell portion.
[0106] "Low air pressure" refers to air pressure that is lower than the maximum air pressure, preferably lower than or equal to 10 kPa, more preferably between 10 Pa and 10 kPa.
[0107] In practice, the ability of an assembly to operate under low air pressure is determined by the characteristics of the pipe section walls and the connection between the pipe section and the pumping equipment. Specifically, the pipe section walls must be airtight. Different methods of making the pipe walls airtight are well known, and those skilled in the art will know how to select the wall characteristics in each particular case. Furthermore, the connection between two pipe sections must be airtight. Airtightness of the connection can be provided, in particular, by welding, by adding components such as elastomers between bolted or clamped pipe sections, or by means of expansion joints. Those skilled in the art know how to make connections airtight and will adapt connections to each particular case. Additionally, the pumping equipment must be precisely sized to allow low air pressure to be achieved and maintained within the assembly of the pipe section, while taking into account air leakage during operation. Those skilled in the art know how to do this and will adapt the pumping equipment to each particular case.
[0108] In practice, the ability of the component to allow the cabin to circulate within the tube section with virtually no air friction is provided by infrastructure positioned within the tube section, specifically providing levitation / suspension, propulsion, braking, etc. Such infrastructure is already well known, and those skilled in the art will know how to adapt the infrastructure to each particular situation.
[0109] The main beam also includes a metal structure 20 embedded in a first component formed by pipe sections, the upper surface of which is part of a first roof-type transport path.
[0110] exist Figure 2 In a first variation of the illustrated metal structure, the metal structure may include a lower deck 21, an upper deck 22, and a transverse stiffener 23 connecting the lower deck to the upper deck.
[0111] The lower deck 21 is essentially a horizontally extending, flat component. The lower deck 21 is preferably made of plate, such as steel plate. More preferably, the lower deck 21 is reinforced with longitudinal stiffeners 24. The lower deck increases the rigidity of the main beam and limits the deflection of the main beam between its supports.
[0112] The upper deck 22 may be a horizontally extending, flat section. The upper deck 22 is preferably made of sheet metal, such as steel plate. More preferably, the upper deck 22 is reinforced with longitudinal stiffeners. The upper deck increases the rigidity of the main beam and limits the deflection of the main beam between its supports. The upper surface of the upper deck forms part of the first roof-type transport path 7.
[0113] The transverse stiffeners 23 extend substantially in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X of the transport structure. The transverse stiffeners 23 extend horizontally to define the width of the main beam and reinforce the lower and upper decks to which they are connected. The transverse stiffeners 23 extend vertically to define the thickness of the main beam and further reinforce it. Specifically, the transverse stiffeners 23 extend to the level of the top of the pipe section or above the top of the pipe section, allowing direct connection to the upper deck. Specifically, the transverse stiffeners 23 extend to the level of the bottom of the pipe section or below the bottom of the pipe section, allowing direct connection to the lower deck. The transverse stiffeners 23 are preferably spaced along the length of the main beam, i.e., along the longitudinal axis X. More preferably, the transverse stiffeners 23 are regularly spaced. The transverse stiffeners 23 can be made of, for example, a flat panel, a corrugated panel, or a flat panel reinforced with stiffeners.
[0114] according to Figure 2 In a first variation of the illustrated metal structure, a transverse stiffener 23 extends horizontally to match the profile of the tube section's cross-section. The transverse stiffener 23 further reinforces the tube section and the main beam. Preferably, the transverse stiffener comprises two transverse stiffening sections 25, one on each side of the tube section. Specifically, the transverse stiffening section positioned on one side of the tube section faces the transverse stiffening section positioned on the other side of the tube section.
[0115] Alternatively, the lateral stiffener may include a lower horizontal beam positioned below the pipe section, an upper horizontal beam positioned above the pipe section, and at least one vertical beam connected to the lower and upper horizontal beams. Preferably, the lateral stiffener includes two vertical beams positioned on each side of the pipe section, connected to the lower and upper horizontal beams to form a square cross-section embedded in the pipe section.
[0116] According to a second variation of the metal structure (not shown), the metal structure embedded in the pipe section may include transverse stiffeners and longitudinal stiffeners connecting the transverse stiffeners. The transverse stiffeners can be as described above. The longitudinal stiffeners are preferably beams, particularly I-beams. The longitudinal stiffeners may be positioned below the transverse stiffeners as lower longitudinal stiffeners and / or above the transverse stiffeners as upper longitudinal stiffeners. The main beam preferably includes two of a plurality of longitudinal stiffeners, with one longitudinal stiffener on each side of the pipe section.
[0117] In this variant, the upper surface of the upper longitudinal stiffener forms part of the first roof-type transport path. In particular, the upper surface includes a railway forming the tracks, allowing railway vehicles to move along the tracks.
[0118] Preferably, each main girder extends from one pier to an adjacent pier. Specifically, a first end of the main girder rests on a given pier, and a second end of the main girder rests on an adjacent pier along the longitudinal axis X of the transport route or part of the transport structure. Thus, the main girder can be easily installed by simply positioning it on the piers. Alternatively, the main girder may extend on more than two piers.
[0119] A first plurality of beams 4, formed by beams 6, are positioned along the longitudinal axis of a portion of the transport route or transport structure to form a first roof-type transport path 7. Specifically, all the beams 6 of the first plurality of beams 4 are positioned sequentially and continuously along the longitudinal axis X of the portion of the transport structure to form the first roof-type transport path 7. A roof-type transport path refers to at least one continuous track on the beams, designed to support the transport of heavy components, such as beams and platforms, by vehicle. The roof-type transport path extends from a first longitudinal end of the portion of the transport structure to a second longitudinal end of the portion of the transport structure, regardless of the length of that portion.
[0120] According to a variation of the roof-type transport path, the upper surface of the main beam, especially the upper deck, is only a basically flat surface suitable for vehicle passage.
[0121] According to another variation of the roof-type transport path, the upper surface of the main beam, especially the upper surface of the upper deck, includes a railway forming the tracks, allowing railway vehicles to move along the tracks.
[0122] During the construction phase, vehicles circulating along the first roof-type transport path formed by the already positioned main beams can easily transport each additional component of the transport structure to its location thanks to the first plurality of main beams 4. Therefore, it is no longer necessary to enter and exit the ground along the construction route. This advantage will be further detailed in the description of the erection method.
[0123] according to Figures 3 to 5In a second embodiment of the illustrated transport structure, each of the first plurality of main beams 4 includes a pipe section 14 in a first assembly 12 formed of pipe sections and a pipe section 14 in a second assembly 13 formed of pipe sections, the pipe section 14 in the second assembly 13 being positioned adjacent to the pipe section in the first assembly 12. In this case, the metal structure 20 is embedded in the two pipe sections, such that the first plurality of main beams 4 positioned on the pier form both the first assembly 12 and the second assembly 13 formed of pipe sections, both of which can be placed under low air pressure and allow the cabin to circulate substantially without air friction within the pipe sections.
[0124] The characteristics and variations of the pipe sections in the first component described above also apply to the pipe sections in the second component. The pipe sections in the first component and the pipe sections in the second component can be identical to facilitate logistics.
[0125] The features and variations of the metal structure described in the first embodiment of the transport structure are also applicable to the second embodiment of the transport structure.
[0126] In particular, Figure 4 and Figure 5 Each lateral stiffener 23 of the illustrated metal structure includes three lateral stiffening segments 25: one lateral stiffening segment located on the outside of a first tube segment, one lateral stiffening segment located between two tube segments, and one lateral stiffening segment located on the outside of a second tube segment. More specifically, the three lateral stiffening segments are substantially positioned in the same plane.
[0127] According to a third embodiment of the transport structure, the transport structure further includes a first plurality of main beams 4 and a second plurality of main beams 5 formed by main beams 6 as described in the first and second embodiments. The second plurality of main beams 5 are positioned on the first plurality of main beams 4, particularly on the first roof-type transport path 7. This positioning limits the footprint of the transport structure. This positioning also reduces the number of switches and facilitates ground use, particularly ground use biased towards stations. The characteristics and variations of the main beams in the first plurality of main beams also apply to the main beams in the second plurality of main beams. The main beams in the first plurality of main beams and the main beams in the second plurality of main beams can be identical to facilitate logistics.
[0128] exist Figure 6 In the illustrated example, the first plurality of beams are similar to the beams described in the first embodiment, and the second plurality of beams 5 formed by the beams 6 form the following:
[0129] - A second component 13 formed by the tube section, which can be placed under low air pressure and allows the cabin to circulate within the tube section with virtually no air friction.
[0130] - A second roof-type transport path 10, which extends from the first end of a portion of the transport structure to the second end.
[0131] Therefore, each of the second plurality of main beams 5 includes:
[0132] - Pipe section 14 in the second component 13 formed by the pipe section
[0133] - A metal structure 20 embedded in a second component formed by pipe sections, the upper surface of which is part of a second roof-type transport path.
[0134] In another example not shown, the first plurality of beams 4 are similar to the beams described in the second embodiment, and the second plurality of beams 5 formed by the beams 6 form the following:
[0135] - The third and fourth components, formed by the tube sections, are both capable of being placed under low air pressure and allow the cabin to circulate within the tube sections with virtually no air friction.
[0136] - A second roof-type transport path 10, which extends from the first end of a portion of the transport structure to the second end.
[0137] Therefore, each of the second plurality of main beams includes:
[0138] ○ Pipe section 14 in the third component formed by the pipe section,
[0139] ○ Pipe section 14 in the fourth component formed by the pipe section,
[0140] ○ Metal structure 20, which is embedded in a pipe section in a third component formed by pipe sections and a pipe section in a fourth component formed by pipe sections, the upper surface of which is part of a second roof-type transport path.
[0141] According to a first embodiment of a portion of the transport structure, the portion of the transport structure does not include a second plurality of beams positioned on at least some of the piers and forming a second roof-type transport path located next to a first roof-type transport path.
[0142] According to a second embodiment of the transport structure (not shown), part 1 of the transport structure further includes a second plurality of beams formed by beams 6, the second plurality of beams being positioned on at least some of the piers and forming the following:
[0143] - A second assembly formed by tube section 14, which can be placed under low air pressure and allows the cabin to circulate within the tube section with substantially no air friction, and
[0144] - A second roof-type transport path located next to the first roof-type transport path, which extends from the first end of a portion of the transport structure to the second end.
[0145] Each of the second set of beams includes:
[0146] ○ Pipe section 14 in the second component formed by the pipe section,
[0147] ○ A metal structure 20, i.e. a second metal structure, is embedded in a second component formed by pipe sections, the upper surface of which is part of a second roof-type transport path.
[0148] The characteristics and variations of the pipe sections in the first component described above also apply to the pipe sections in the second component. The pipe sections of the first component and the second component can be identical to facilitate logistics. The characteristics and variations of the metal structure described above also apply here. The limitations and variations detailed regarding the first transport path apply to the second transport path. The limitations and variations detailed regarding the first plurality of beams apply to the second plurality of beams. The beams in the first plurality of beams and the beams in the second plurality of beams can be identical to facilitate logistics. The definitions and variations detailed regarding the first roof-type transport path apply to the second roof-type transport path.
[0149] "Next to" refers to two rooftop transport routes that are substantially parallel to each other and extend adjacent to each other. Rooftop transport routes are not limited to those located at the same height and / or strictly parallel. The space between the first and second rooftop transport routes and / or the heights of the first and second rooftop transport routes can be adjusted according to the terrain.
[0150] Reference Figures 7 to 16 The method for erecting part 1 of the transport structure according to the present invention will now be described.
[0151] exist Figure 7 In the first step illustrated, piers 3 of part 1 of the transport structure are erected. These piers can be erected using any suitable method, such as using panel formwork. The pier erection method includes constructing pier foundations according to the requirements of the ground properties. This step can be completed before, or at least partially concurrently with, the step of positioning the main beam 6. In other words, the piers can be erected, for example, several weeks before the main beam positioning begins. This specifically provides time for concrete drying and soil compaction. Alternatively, some piers may still be under construction when the main beam positioning begins on the first erected pier.
[0152] Since the area required for erecting piers is limited and only light vehicles (bulldozers, concrete mixers) are needed, piers are preferably erected by ground access to the construction point of each pier.
[0153] In the second step of erecting the transportation structure, the main beam 6 and platform 8 are erected.
[0154] As described above, the erection of the main beams and platforms begins at storage point 15, where at least a portion of the components of the transport structure are stored. Depending on the ease of transporting the components to the storage point, some components may be manufactured in a manufacturing facility at the storage point. This may be the case for, for example, the pipe sections of the metal structure of the main beams, which are large structural components. Manufacturing some components at the storage point minimizes the erection time at the construction point and allows for better control over the quality of the manufactured components.
[0155] Reserve point 15 is preferably located at a future point of the station, particularly a passenger station and / or freight station. This limits the land area required for the construction phase. It also limits civil engineering works. In particular, the civil engineering works completed for establishing the reserve point and its optional manufacturing facilities can be used for erecting the station. The reserve point is preferably located at ground level.
[0156] like Figure 8 As shown, the first sub-step of erecting the main beam 6 and platform 8 is carried out at the reserve point 15. This sub-step includes erecting the main beam 6, which forms at least a portion of the first segment of the structure, and at least one platform 8 at the reserve point. Specifically, this sub-step includes positioning the main beam of the first plurality of main beams on at least one pier. This positioning is preferably accomplished using a crane 16, which can pick up components from the reserve point and move these components to the pier. The assembly sequence of the main beams and platforms can vary depending on the design of the structure and, in particular, how the platforms are connected to the rest of the structure.
[0157] According to the first variation, the first section of the structure includes a single pier. This is especially true when the reserve point is located on higher ground. Then, the first end of the first main beam can rest on the higher ground, while the second end of the first main beam can rest on the downwardly positioned pier. In this case, the first sub-step involves positioning one of the first plurality of main beams between the higher ground and the pier.
[0158] according to Figure 8The second variation illustrated has a first section of structure comprising two piers. This is especially true when the reserve point is located on generally flat ground. The first end of the first main beam can then rest on the first pier, and the second end of the first main beam can rest on the second pier. In this case, the first sub-step involves positioning one of the first plurality of main beams on the two piers.
[0159] This first sub-step may include erecting other sections or portions of sections of the structure at the reserve point. The number of sections or portions of sections erected at the reserve point is limited by the crane's ability to position the components on the piers from the reserve point.
[0160] Once the main beams and platforms of the first plurality of main beams in the first section of the structure have been erected, the first section includes a first end portion adjacent to the storage point and a second end portion located at the opposite end of the first end portion. The first end portion of the first section corresponds to the first end portion of the portion of the transport structure erected according to the invention. Therefore, the position of the first end portion of the portion of the transport structure erected according to the invention will not change over time during the erection of the portion of the transport structure. As for the second end portion of the first section, it corresponds to the second end portion of the structure under construction, provided that no other section of the structure is erected downstream of the first section. In other words, the position of the second end portion of the structure under construction will change over time each time a new section is erected downstream of an already erected section of the transport structure.
[0161] Due to the components constituting the erected structure, vehicle 17 can circulate on a first roof-type transport path 7 formed by at least one of the first plurality of main beams 4 and a service path 9 formed by at least one platform 8. Specifically, the vehicle moving the component to be positioned along the construction route can circulate on the first transport path, that is, circulate from the first end of the structure under construction to the second end. Once the component reaches its usage position, the vehicle can return to the first end via the service path.
[0162] Therefore, in the second sub-step of erecting the main beam 6 and platform 8, the main beams and platforms of the first plurality of main beams in another section of the structure can be erected as detailed below. For simplicity, this section will be referred to as the "second section" below, assuming that only the main beams and platforms of the first plurality of main beams in the first section have already been erected at the reserve point.
[0163] The second section of the structure includes one of the first plurality of main beams 4, at least one of the plurality of platforms 8, and at least one pier 3 of the structure.
[0164] As explained above regarding the erection of piers, additional piers were erected at least downstream of the first section of the structure.
[0165] Vehicle 17, suitable for transporting heavy components, is positioned on the first section of the structure, specifically on the first roof-type transport path 7, and more specifically on the first beam 6 of the first plurality of beams 4. The vehicle can be lifted by crane 16, or its position can be reached by means of ramps or any other suitable equipment. The type of vehicle is not limited. The vehicle type can be a wheeled vehicle, such as a truck or a train locomotive. Depending on the type of vehicle, the components to be transported can be loaded onto one vehicle or several vehicles simultaneously, or the vehicles can be simply attached to the components, as is possible in the case of a train locomotive used to transport components equipped with railway wheels. In this specification, the terms "assembly" and "pairing" are used equivalently to refer to the loading of a vehicle with a component and the connection of a vehicle with a component. The term "disconnection" is used equivalently to refer to unloading a component from a vehicle and disconnecting the vehicle from the component.
[0166] Some vehicles are equipped with beams and platforms from the first plurality of main beams of the second section of the structure. Specifically, the vehicle is equipped with one of the first plurality of main beams 4, a main beam 6, and at least one platform 8. Components can be transported from a storage point onto the first section of the structure, or can be lifted from the storage point onto the first section of the structure using a crane. In the first case, the components can be transported by the vehicle itself. In the second case, the vehicle can be positioned and then assembled.
[0167] These components are then transported by vehicle from the first end of the structure under construction to the second end adjacent to their intended use location. Specifically:
[0168] - Transport the main beam 6 of the first plurality of main beams 4 along the first roof-shaped transport path 7 formed by the already positioned main beams of the first plurality of main beams.
[0169] - Transport at least one platform 8 along the first roof-type transport path.
[0170] The order in which components are paired with the vehicle and transported to the second end is unrestricted. Furthermore, some components can be transported to the second end while others remain assembled on the vehicle.
[0171] Once the component has been delivered to the second end of the structure under construction, it is positioned at its service location, i.e., its location within the structure. Specifically:
[0172] - One of the first plurality of main beams 4 is positioned downstream of the first roof-type transport path 7. Specifically, the main beam 6 is positioned after the main beam forming the second end of the structure under construction on the first roof-type transport path. More specifically, the main beam 6 is positioned in a straight line along the longitudinal axis X with the main beam 4 forming the second end of the first roof-type transport path 7. Even more specifically, the main beam 6 is positioned such that the first end of the main beam rests on a pier forming the second end of the first section of the structure, and the second end of the main beam rests on at least one additional pier erected downstream of the first section of the structure. The main beam of the first plurality of main beams is preferably positioned using a crane 18, more preferably using a main beam releaser crane supported by the structure itself.
[0173] At least one platform 8 is positioned downstream of the service path 9. Specifically, the at least one platform 8 is positioned after the platform forming the second end of the structure under construction along the service path. More specifically, the at least one platform 8 is positioned in a straight line along the longitudinal axis X with the platform forming the second end of the service path. Even more specifically, the at least one platform 8 is positioned such that the first end of the platform rests on a pier forming the second end of the first section of the structure, and the second end of the platform rests on an additional pier erected downstream of the first section of the structure. The at least one platform is preferably positioned using a crane, more preferably using a girder launcher crane.
[0174] The use of a structurally supported crane 18 is advantageous. This crane 18 further limits the footprint required for erection by eliminating the need for ground preparation for access to and from the construction site and for crane ground preparation. It also makes the erection method more independent of the terrain and topographical roughness.
[0175] Once the component is located, the corresponding detached vehicle can return along the service path to the first end of the structure. Specifically:
[0176] - The vehicle 17, detached from beam 6 of the first plurality of beams 4, moves from the first roof-type transport path 7 to the service path 9. If the service path is not at the height of the first roof-type transport path, the vehicle can be lifted and placed on the service path using a crane. Preferably, a beam releaser crane is used to lift the vehicle.
[0177] - Vehicles 17 detached from at least one platform 8 are moved from the first rooftop transport path 7 to the service path 9. If the service path is not at the same height as the first rooftop transport path, the vehicles can be lifted and placed onto the service path using a crane. Preferably, a beam-operated crane is used to lift the vehicles.
[0178] The order in which components are positioned is not restricted. Furthermore, some components can be positioned while others are still being paired with the vehicle or transported to the second end. Preferably, at least one platform 8 is positioned first, so that vehicles detached from beams 6 of the first plurality of beams 4 can be more easily transferred to the service path.
[0179] Once the main beams and platforms of the first plurality of main beams in the second section of the structure have been erected as described above, the main beams and platforms of the first plurality of main beams in the other sections of the structure can be erected according to a similar process and as described below regarding the erection of the main beams and platforms of the first plurality of main beams in the xth section of the structure.
[0180] The x-th segment of the structure includes: the n-th beam 6 among the first plurality of beams 4, at least the y-th platform 8 among the plurality of platforms, and at least the z-th pier 3 of the structure. By default, x, y, z, and n are different. When each segment of the structure includes a single platform, x equals n and y. In this case, the n-th beam among the first plurality of beams is also the x-th beam, and the y-th platform among the plurality of platforms is also the x-th platform. When the first segment includes two piers and each segment of the structure other than the first segment includes a single pier, z equals n+1.
[0181] At least the z-th pier 3 has been erected downstream of the (x-1)th first section.
[0182] like Figure 9 As illustrated, vehicle 17, having detached from the main beams and platforms of the preceding section of the structure and returned to the first end of the structure, is equipped with a main beam and platform from the first plurality of main beams of the xth section of the structure. Specifically, the vehicle is equipped with the nth main beam from the first plurality of main beams, and the vehicle is equipped with the yth platform from the plurality of platforms. If the xth section includes an additional platform, the additional platform is paired with the vehicle in a similar manner.
[0183] like Figure 10 , Figure 11 , Figure 13 and Figure 14 As illustrated, starting from the first end of the structure, a vehicle transports beam 6 and platform 8, among the first plurality of beams in the xth section of the structure, from the first end of the structure under construction to the second end adjacent to its place of use. Specifically:
[0184] - The nth beam 6 of the first plurality of beams 4 is transported along the first roof-shaped transport path 7 formed by the (n-1) beams of the first plurality of beams that were previously positioned.
[0185] - The yth platform 8 of the multiple platforms is transported along the first roof-shaped transport path 7 formed by the beams of the first multiple beams that were previously positioned.
[0186] If section x includes an additional platform, the additional platform is transported in a similar manner. The order in which components are paired with the vehicle and transported to the second end is not restricted. Furthermore, some components may be transported to the second end while others remain paired with the vehicle.
[0187] like Figure 11 , Figure 12 , Figure 14 and Figure 15 As illustrated, once the component is transported to the second end of the structure under construction, it is positioned in its intended use location. Specifically:
[0188] - The nth beam 6 of the first plurality of beams is positioned downstream of the first roof-type transport path 7. Specifically, the nth beam 6 is positioned after the beam forming the second end of the structure under construction on the first roof-type transport path. More specifically, the nth beam 6 is positioned in a straight line along the longitudinal axis with the (n-1)th beam of the first roof-type transport path. Even more specifically, the nth beam 6 is positioned such that the first end of the nth beam rests on the pier forming the second end (the (z-1)th pier), and the second end of the nth beam rests on the zth pier erected downstream of the structure. The nth beam of the first plurality of beams is preferably positioned by a crane 18, more preferably by a beam releaser crane supported by the structure itself.
[0189] - The y-th platform 8 is located downstream of the service path. Specifically, the y-th platform 8 is located after the (y-1)-th platform of the service path, that is, after the platform forming the second end of the service path. More specifically, the y-th platform 8 is positioned so that it is in line with the platform forming the second end of the service path along the longitudinal axis. Even more specifically, the y-th platform 8 is positioned such that the first end of the y-th platform rests on the pier forming the second end (the (z-1)-th pier), and the second end of the y-th platform rests on the z-th pier erected downstream of the structure. The y-th platform is preferably positioned using a crane 18, and more preferably using a beam-laying crane supported by the structure itself.
[0190] like Figure 11 , Figure 12 , Figure 14 and Figure 15 As illustrated, once the element of the xth segment of the structure is positioned, the corresponding detached vehicle can return along the service path to the first end of the structure. Specifically:
[0191] - The vehicle detached from the nth beam in the first plurality of beams moves from the first roof-type transport path 7 to the service path 9.
[0192] - Vehicles detached from the y-th platform move from the first rooftop transport path 7 to the service path 9.
[0193] If the service path is not at the height of the first roof-type transport path, a crane can be used to lift the vehicle and place it on the service path. Preferably, a beam-operated crane is used to lift the vehicle.
[0194] If the x-th section includes an additional platform, the additional platform is positioned in a similar manner, and the corresponding vehicle returns to the first end section in a similar manner. The positioning order of the components in the x-th section is not limited. Furthermore, some components of the x-th section may be positioned, while other components of the x-th section or subsequent sections are paired with the vehicle or transported to the second end section. Preferably, the y-th platform 8 is positioned first, so that the vehicle transporting the nth beam out of the first plurality of beams can more easily transfer from the first roof-type transport path to the service path.
[0195] Optionally, the erection step does not include: simultaneously transporting and positioning the nth beam from the second plurality of beams and placing it next to the nth beam from the first plurality of beams in its usage position. In other words, the step of erecting the beams and platform of the xth segment does not include positioning the nth beam from the second plurality of beams. However, in other words, the positioning of the (n+1)th beam from the first plurality of beams is completed before positioning the optional nth beam from the second plurality of beams next to the nth beam from the first plurality of beams in its usage position.
[0196] At the end of the erection phase of the structure, the last of the first plurality of main beams is positioned on the last pier of the structure. These piers may be adjacent to or shared with the second part of the transport structure, which is being erected or is being erected as an extension of the relevant part of the transport structure along the longitudinal axis of the transport route. The second part of the transport structure is erected from a second reserve point, possibly located downstream of the relevant part at a future station. The second part of the transport structure is constructed by erecting the structure of the second part after the structure of the relevant part has been erected. In other words, each part is constructed from one reserve point to another, and at some point, the two parts are connected. Therefore, the last of the first plurality of main beams of the relevant part is adjacent to the last of the first plurality of main beams of the second part, thus ensuring continuity in the first component 12 formed by the pipe section 14.
[0197] Once all sections of the transport structure have been at least partially assembled, optional second plurality of beams 5 can be positioned on the first plurality of beams 4, particularly on the first roof-type transport path 7. In this case, the beams 6 of the second plurality of beams can be transported by vehicle along the first roof-type transport path from the first end of the structure to their place of use, as described above with reference to the first plurality of beams. Since the beams of the second plurality of beams are positioned on the beams of the first plurality of beams and obstruct the first roof-type transport path, this assembly is performed in reverse order compared to the assembly of the first plurality of beams. In other words, the beams of the second plurality of beams are first positioned at the second end of the structure under construction, and then positioned one after another along the direction of the first end of the structure, i.e., one beam is upstream of another, as... Figure 16 As shown in the diagram.
[0198] Alternatively, the second plurality of beams are erected forward rather than backward. In this case, beam 6 of the second plurality of beams can be transported by vehicle from the first end of the structure to its place of use along a second roof-shaped transport path formed by the beams of the second plurality of beams already positioned on the first roof-shaped transport path. This assembly is similar to the assembly described above with reference to the first plurality of beams. In particular, at least one first beam of the second plurality of beams is positioned on a beam of the first plurality of beams constituting the first segment of the structure. Then, a vehicle suitable for transporting heavy components is positioned on the second roof-shaped transport path formed by the already positioned beams of the second plurality of beams. The vehicle is equipped with a beam of the second plurality of beams and transports the beam from the first end of the structure to the last beam of the second plurality of beams positioned on the first roof-shaped transport path.
[0199] According to one embodiment of the method for erecting a portion 1 of a transport structure, the method further includes an additional step in which the second plurality of beams are assembled onto the portion 1 of the transport structure in an interleaved manner relative to the assembly of the first plurality of beams 4 formed by beams 6 and the plurality of platforms 8. "Interleaved" or "asynchronous" means that the positioning of the beams in the first plurality of beams of a given segment of the transport structure, comprising two plurality of beams, begins before the beams in the second plurality of beams of the preceding segment have been positioned. Specifically, the positioning of the (n+1)th beam in the first plurality of beams is completed before the nth beam in the second plurality of beams is positioned next to the nth beam in the first plurality of beams in its place of use.
[0200] According to one variation, after the first plurality of beams 4 formed by beams 6 and the plurality of platforms 8 of the transport structure have been erected, additional steps begin.
[0201] Specifically, the method includes the step of asynchronously erecting a second plurality of beams formed by the main beam 6, the second plurality of beams being positioned on at least some of the piers and forming the following:
[0202] ○ A second assembly formed by tube section 14, which can be placed under low air pressure and allows the cabin to circulate within the tube section with virtually no air friction.
[0203] ○ A second roof-type transport path runs alongside the first roof-type transport path, extending from the first end portion of the transport structure to the second end portion.
[0204] The asynchronous erection steps include: starting from the first end, using vehicle 17 to transport the nth beam 6 of the second plurality of beams along the first roof-type transport path 7 or along the second roof-type transport path, positioning the nth beam at its usage location, and causing the vehicle to return to the first end of the transport structure section along the service path 9.
[0205] The method for transporting and positioning the main beams in the second plurality of main beams is similar to that for transporting and positioning the main beams in the first plurality of main beams. The details and variations of the erection method for the first plurality of main beams provided above apply here.
[0206] Specifically, according to a variation where the additional step begins while the erection of the first plurality of beams is still underway, in the first sub-step, at least one beam from the second plurality of beams is positioned next to one of the beams from the first plurality of beams on at least one pier of the first segment of the structure. In the second sub-step, a vehicle positioned on a second roof-type transport path formed by the already positioned at least one beam is fitted with one of the second plurality of beams. The latter is then transported along the second roof-type transport path formed by the beams from the second plurality of beams positioned on the first segment of the structure. Then, beam 6 from the second plurality of beams is further positioned downstream of the second roof-type transport path next to the nth beam from the first plurality of beams. Specifically, beam 6 from the second plurality of beams is positioned after the beams forming the second end of the second roof-type transport path under construction. In other words, beam 6 from the second plurality of beams is positioned next to the nth beam from the first plurality of beams. Finally, vehicle 17, detached from beam 6 from the second plurality of beams, moves from the second roof-type transport path to service path 9 and returns along the service path to the first end of the structure.
[0207] Specifically, according to a variation where the additional steps only begin after the first plurality of beams 4 formed by the main beams 6 and the plurality of platforms 8 in a portion of the transport structure have been erected, in the first sub-step, at least one of the second plurality of beams is positioned next to the beam of the first plurality of beams on at least one pier of the first section of the structure. In the second sub-step, a vehicle positioned on the first roof-type transport path is fitted with one of the second plurality of beams. Then, one of the second plurality of beams is transported along the first roof-type transport path. Then, as described above, the beam 6 of the second plurality of beams is further moved laterally and positioned downstream of the second roof-type transport path. Finally, the vehicle 17, detached from the beam 6 of the second plurality of beams, moves from the first roof-type transport path to the service path 9 and returns along the service path to the first end of the structure.
[0208] Once the first of the second or so main beams has been erected as described above, the other main beams can be erected using a similar process.
Claims
1. A method for erecting a portion (1) of a transport structure, said portion (1) comprising: - Multiple piers (3), which are spaced substantially regularly along the longitudinal axis X of the portion of the transport structure. - Multiple platforms (8) connected to the pier and forming a service path (9) extending from the first end of the portion of the transport structure to the second end. - A first plurality of beams (4) formed by the main beams (6), the first plurality of beams (4) being positioned on the pier and forming: ○ A first component (12) formed by a tube section (14), the first component being capable of being placed under low air pressure and allowing the cabin to circulate substantially without air friction within the tube section, ○ A first roof-type transport path (7) extends from the first end portion of the portion of the transport structure to the second end portion. Each main beam includes: ○ Pipe section (14) in the first component formed by the pipe section. ○ A metal structure (20) embedded in the pipe section of the first component formed by the pipe section, the upper surface of which is part of the first roof-type transport path. The method includes: (i) Starting from the first end of the portion of the transport structure, a vehicle (17) transports the nth beam (6) of the first plurality of beams (4) along the first roof-type transport path (7) formed by the (n-1) beams of the first plurality of beams previously positioned, positions the nth beam at its usage location, and the vehicle returns to the first end of the portion of the transport structure along the service path (9), and (ii) Starting from the first end of the portion of the transport structure, a vehicle (17) is used to transport the yth platform (8) of the plurality of platforms along the first roof-type transport path (7) formed by the beams of the first plurality of beams that were previously positioned, positioning the yth platform at its use location, and causing the vehicle to return to the first end of the portion of the transport structure along the service path (9).
2. The method of claim 1, wherein, The method includes the step of erecting the pier prior to step i).
3. The method of any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein, The method includes an additional step prior to step i), in which beams (6) of the first plurality of beams (4) of the first section of the transport structure and at least one platform (8) are erected at the storage point.
4. The method of claim 1 or 2, wherein, In steps i) and ii), the vehicle (17) is fitted with the beam (6) and the platform (8) at the first end of the portion of the transport structure.
5. The method of claim 1 or 2, wherein, The main beam (6) is positioned by a main beam delivery crane (18) supported by the structure itself.
6. A portion (1) of a transport structure for enabling a cabin to travel substantially without air friction within an assembly formed by tube sections under low air pressure, said portion of the transport infrastructure comprising: - Multiple piers (3), which are spaced substantially regularly along the longitudinal axis X of the portion of the transport structure. - Multiple platforms (8) connected to the pier and forming a service path (9) extending from the first end of the portion of the transport structure to the second end. - A first plurality of beams (4) formed by the main beams (6), the first plurality of beams (4) being positioned on the pier and forming: ○ A first component (12) formed by a tube section (14), the first component being capable of being placed under low air pressure and allowing the cabin to circulate substantially without air friction within the tube section, ○ A first roof-type transport path (7) extends from the first end portion of the portion of the transport structure to the second end portion. Each main beam (6) includes: ○ Pipe section (14) in the first component formed by the pipe section. ○ A metal structure (20) embedded in the pipe section of the first component formed by the pipe section, the upper surface of which is part of the first roof-type transport path.
7. The transport structure according to claim 6 further includes a second plurality of beams (5) formed by the main beam (6), the second plurality of beams (5) being positioned on the first plurality of beams (4) formed by the main beam (6) and forming: ○ A second component (13) formed by the tube section, the second component being capable of being placed under low air pressure and allowing the cabin to circulate substantially without air friction within the tube section, ○ A second roof-type transport path (10), which extends from the first end portion of the portion of the transport structure to the second end portion. Each of the second plurality of main beams includes: ○ Pipe section (14) in the second component (13) formed by the pipe section. ○ A metal structure (20) embedded in the pipe section of the second component formed by the pipe section, the upper surface of the metal structure being part of the second roof-type transport path.
8. Part (1) of the transport structure according to claim 6, wherein, Each beam (6) also includes a tube section (14) in a second assembly (13) formed by tube sections, the tube section (14) being positioned adjacent to the tube section in the first assembly (12), the metal structure (20) being embedded in the two tube sections such that the plurality of beams positioned on the pier also form a second assembly (13) formed by tube sections, the second assembly being able to be placed under low air pressure and being able to allow the cabin to circulate substantially without air friction in the tube sections.
9. The transport structure according to claim 8 further includes a second plurality of beams (5) formed by the main beam (6), the second plurality of beams (5) being positioned on the first plurality of beams (4) formed by the main beam (6) and forming: The third and fourth components, formed by the tube sections, are both capable of being placed under low air pressure and allow the cabin to circulate within the tube sections with virtually no air friction. ○ A second roof-type transport path (10), which extends from the first end portion of the portion of the transport structure to the second end portion. Each of the second plurality of main beams includes: ○ The pipe section (14) in the third component formed by the pipe section. ○ The pipe section (14) in the fourth component formed by the pipe section. ○ Metal structure (20), which is embedded in the pipe section in the third component formed by the pipe section and the pipe section in the fourth component formed by the pipe section, the upper surface of the metal structure being part of the second roof-type transport path.
10. A portion of the transport structure according to any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein, The metal structure (20) includes a lower deck (21), an upper deck (22), and a transverse reinforcement (23) connecting the lower deck to the upper deck.
11. A portion of the transport structure according to claim 10, wherein, Each transverse reinforcement (23) extends substantially in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X of the portion of the transport structure.
12. A portion of the transport structure according to claim 10, wherein, Each transverse reinforcement (23) extends horizontally to match the profile of the cross section of the pipe segment.
13. The portion of a transportation structure of claim 10, wherein, The upper deck is a generally flat surface suitable for vehicle passage.
14. The portion of a transportation structure of claim 10, wherein, The metal structure (20) includes a transverse stiffener (23) and a longitudinal stiffener connecting the transverse stiffener.
15. A portion of the transport structure according to any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein, Each beam (6) extends from one pier to the adjacent pier.