Apparatus for mounting wheeled vehicles on overhead transport network

Abstract

Disclosed herein is an apparatus for facilitating installation of a wheeled vehicle on an elevated monorail network. The apparatus includes a containment compartment configured on a roof of the wheeled vehicle. A drive wheel assembly is disposed within the containment chamber for providing drive required to facilitate movement of the wheeled vehicle along the elevated monorail network. At least one pair of guide wheels is disposed in the receiving chamber for interfacing with a pair of guide rails of the elevated monorail network. At least one pair of support wheels is provided to facilitate mounting and dismounting of the wheeled vehicle on an elevated monorail network.

Description

[0001] Cross - Reference to Related Applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 342,655, filed on May 17, 2022, entitled "APPARATUS FOR MOUNTING of A WHEELED VEHICLE ON AN OVERHEAD TRANSPORT NETWORK", under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e), the content of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure generally relates to transportation and, more particularly, to the transportation of wheeled vehicles such as automobiles and cargo loads. The present invention also provides an apparatus for facilitating the mounting of wheeled vehicles on an overhead monorail network. Background Art

[0004] Monorail transportation systems and other elevated rail transportation systems have been proposed as a means for reducing traffic congestion. In a monorail system, vehicles are typically suspended below an elevated track such that the vehicles are raised above the ground surface. By raising the track above the ground surface, the land surface below the track can be used for standard roads to increase the traffic volume that can be served in a given area or to allow the land to be used for other purposes.

[0005] Monorail transportation systems are well - suited for public transportation, where a discrete number of vehicles are used, each vehicle being capable of accommodating a large number of people, much like a subway system. However, due to the public's reluctance to use public transportation and the necessity of stations for loading and unloading passengers, it has been found beneficial to make small passenger vehicles suitable for traveling along a monorail.

[0006] One proposal for making small passenger vehicles suitable for traveling along a monorail uses specially designed vehicles that are only capable of traveling along a monorail system. While this allows a small number of individuals to travel freely along the monorail system, such a system is inconvenient because users still have to travel from their homes to a separate location for boarding the vehicle on the monorail system.

[0007] For this reason, there is a need for an apparatus that facilitates the mounting and dismounting of private automobiles and cargo containers along an overhead monorail network. Summary of the Invention

[0008] The present subject matter contemplates an apparatus for facilitating the mounting of a wheeled vehicle on an elevated monorail network. The apparatus includes a receiving chamber configured on the roof of the wheeled vehicle. A drive wheel assembly is disposed within the receiving chamber for providing the drive required to facilitate the movement of the wheeled vehicle along the elevated monorail network. At least a pair of guide wheels are disposed within the receiving chamber for docking with a pair of guide rails of the elevated monorail network. At least a pair of support wheels are provided to facilitate the mounting and dismounting of the wheeled vehicle on the elevated monorail.

[0009] In a non - limiting alternative embodiment, the drive wheel assembly includes: an axle supported within the receiving chamber; a pair of drive wheels supported on the operative ends of the axle; a transmission system coupled to the axle for transmitting rotational drive to the axle; and a drive motor coupled to the transmission system for providing the rotational drive to the transmission system. In one embodiment, the drive wheels are connected to the motor and operate by frictional engagement on the top of the track.

[0010] In a non - limiting alternative embodiment, the wheeled vehicle may have an internal motor on / within the vehicle. This internal motor can be electric (such as battery - powered or other DC - powered), a magnetic - based motor, or an AC motor with a plug and transformer.

[0011] In a non - limiting alternative embodiment, each guide wheel of the at least a pair of guide wheels includes a reciprocating motion unit for facilitating the selective independent reciprocating motion of each guide wheel along an operative vertical axis.

[0012] In a non - limiting alternative embodiment, the at least a pair of support wheels are coupled to a pair of support rods that are rotatably supported within the receiving chamber generally centrally and along their longitudinal axes.

[0013] In a non - limiting alternative embodiment, the at least a pair of support wheels are coupled to the pair of support rods via one or more support brackets.

[0014] In a non - limiting alternative embodiment, a pair of linear actuators are disposed within the receiving chamber and coupled to the pair of support rods for providing the required rotational drive to the pair of support rods to facilitate the movement of the at least a pair of support wheels between an extended operative state and a retracted operative state.

[0015] In a non-limiting alternative embodiment, the drive wheel assembly further includes: at least one retraction carriage pivotally supported in the receiving chamber and extending into the interior of the wheeled vehicle, wherein a pair of drive wheels and an axle are supported on the retraction carriage; and at least one airbag supported on a support beam in the interior of the vehicle, the airbag being operatively disposed below the retraction carriage to facilitate raising and lowering of at least one retraction carriage to extend the pair of drive wheels out of the receiving chamber and retract the pair of drive wheels into the receiving chamber. In one or more embodiments, the drive wheels have teeth that engage the cogs of the track in at least some sections for traction and to move the vehicle along the track.

[0016] In one or more embodiments, the apparatus includes an electrified track network. In one embodiment, power may be provided along a monorail, wherein the vehicle has an electrical connector for drawing power from the power source. Further, the power is transmitted to an electric motor operatively interconnected to the drive wheels on the vehicle. In another embodiment, at least one cargo is configured to be mounted on the electrified track network. At least one bogie is disposed on the operating top surface of at least one cargo to facilitate the mounting and translation of at least one cargo along the electrified track network. In one or more embodiments, the power supplied to the vehicle from the track correspondingly provides for a reduced size, weight, and cost of the vehicle, particularly in terms of reducing the energy stored in on-board batteries. In one or more embodiments, an automatic stop mechanism (automatic stopper) may automatically cut off the power of the motor when the journey or a predetermined distance is completed or if another problem (such as the wheeled vehicle being stuck) is identified. Additionally, in the case where the vehicle travels by electric power, a warning signal mechanism may notify the user of low battery or a circuit breaker disconnect to alert the user of a power loss.

[0017] The present invention includes a vehicle drive motor arranged to be mounted on a wheel. Thus, a selection in the braking mode of the motor is provided such that by operating the brake pedal either alone or in combination with the accelerator control pedal, braking is controlled under varying speed and load conditions of the electric motor. As described above, the motor can be connected to the battery simultaneously through both a speed control rheostat and a brake rheostat to maintain a desired torque. It is contemplated that a mechanical braking system will generally be included in the motor / wheel structure. For example, a brake disc can be connected to a rotating part of the wheel, such as the end of an axle. The mechanical braking system can be mechanically coupled to the brake pedal such that both the mechanical braking system and the electric braking system are operated by the brake pedal. Further, the wheel motor can be used without a braking brush, in which case braking is provided either by the mechanical brake alone or in combination with an electric braking device connected to the drive brush. In one embodiment, an electric vehicle propulsion system includes at least one drive motor connected via a controller to at least one power source acting as an electric power source and at least one drive wheel on which at least one drive motor is mounted. In one embodiment, at least one drive motor is a brushless motor and includes a rotor and a stationary stator, the rotor such as having a permanent neodymium magnet with high voltage located on a rotating part, the stationary stator being made of at least one three-phase winding, wherein the housing of at least one drive motor is designed as a wheel hub to which a rim is mounted. The present invention can utilize a DC or AC counter-rotating motor and a motor with or without brushes. Thus, the general overall composition of the present invention includes: a vehicle that uses electricity for at least a portion of the input for propulsion power; a motor mounted in the vehicle that converts the electrical input power into output mechanical power to drive the wheels of the vehicle; an electric power source / power sources connected to the motor; and a controller connected to the motor, the controller being programmed for speed control and determining the operating mode of the motor that results in the most efficient power usage. In one embodiment, the wheeled vehicle is ratcheted when going uphill and relies on gravity when going downhill.

[0018] The present subject matter also contemplates an apparatus for cargo transportation. In one or more embodiments, the electrified rail network of the present invention can be used in a port setting for loading and unloading goods and containers. In one embodiment, the electrified rail network of the present invention runs along a dock, quay or railway loading platform and provides a mobile loading vehicle in the form of, for example, a forklift for collecting general cargo for transportation to a warehouse, etc. Thus, a very efficient cargo flow with a maximum capacity relative to the available transportation routes is obtained by means of the cargo handling device according to the present invention, which is part of a total cargo handling system for loading goods onto and unloading goods from a cargo ship, respectively. In one embodiment, the system is controlled by a control system that has a plurality of proximity sensors in one or more of the vehicles and on the electrified rail network for the purpose of recording the presence of a load, and the control system has a computer system for controlling the vehicles, for controlling the lifting system and for transmitting information to the operator about the actual state of the cargo handling process.

[0019] In one or more embodiments, the vehicle can be adapted to travel on a standard road surface when separated from the monorail. If so adapted, the power source for propelling the vehicle during road travel can be independent of the electric motor for propelling the vehicle on the monorail. The power source can be another electric motor, in which case a battery should be included on the vehicle for providing power when traveling separated from the monorail. To increase the vehicle's range, these batteries can be charged when the vehicle is traveling on the monorail. In addition, the coupler and drive wheels can move between a recessed position and an extended position, in the recessed position, the coupler and drive wheels are retracted into the top of the vehicle to be hidden from view during road travel, and in the extended position, the coupler and drive wheels extend above the vehicle to engage with the monorail. In one or more embodiments, the vehicle can be a single vehicle, a plurality of articulated (hinged) vehicles or can be a plurality of unconnected vehicles.

[0020] In a non-limiting alternative embodiment, the electrified rail network includes four spaced-apart I-shaped channels that define the electrified rail network.

[0021] In another non-limiting alternative embodiment, at least one bogie includes four support wheels. In a non-limiting alternative embodiment, the apparatus includes four bogies disposed on the operating top surface of the cargo.

[0022] To further enhance the use of the system, the transportation system can include a computer system. The system can include an on-vehicle computer and a remote computer that can control the navigation and speed of the vehicle during travel along the monorail. In addition, the system can be linked to the Global Positioning System.

[0023] In another embodiment, there is thus provided a monorail transportation system adapted to support a vehicle therefrom, wherein the vehicle includes a drive unit for propelling the vehicle along the monorail. Additionally, the structure for supporting and propelling the vehicle along the monorail can be recessed within the vehicle during normal road travel to eliminate any unsightly appearance. Further, the vehicle can travel under its own power when separated from the monorail, but draws power from the monorail during travel along the monorail.

[0024] The foregoing summary contains simplifications, generalizations, and omissions of detail and is not intended as a comprehensive description of the claimed subject matter but, rather, is intended to provide a brief overview of some of the functions associated therewith. Other systems, methods, functions, features, and advantages of the claimed subject matter will be or become apparent to those skilled in the art upon examination of the following drawings and detailed description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0025] The description of the illustrative embodiments may be read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. It is to be understood that the elements illustrated in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale for the sake of simplicity and clarity. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements are exaggerated relative to other elements. Embodiments in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure are shown and described with reference to the drawings presented herein, in which:

[0026] Figure 1 A schematic front view of an apparatus facilitating the installation of a wheeled vehicle on an elevated monorail network in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0027] Figure 2 A schematic front view of an apparatus having retracted support wheels in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0028] Figure 3A and Figure 3B A different top view of an apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0029] Figure 4 A schematic side view depicting a wheeled vehicle installed on an elevated monorail network in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0030] Figure 5 Another schematic side view of an apparatus having retracted drive wheels in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0031] Figure 6 Another schematic side view of an apparatus having retracted support wheels in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0032] Figure 7 An exemplary map illustrates a schematic view of a turn occurring on a monorail in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] Figure 8 A schematic diagram showing a retraction bracket and an airbag in a drive wheel assembly for a device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] Figure 9 A schematic diagram showing a linear actuator for a support wheel for raising and lowering a device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] Figures 10 to 12 Illustrates different views of a device for rail cargo transportation according to an embodiment of the present subject matter. Detailed Description

[0036] Descriptions of embodiments of the present invention will now be given with reference to the accompanying drawings. It is contemplated that the present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive.

[0037] All publications, patents, and patent applications cited herein (whether above or below) are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent, or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

[0038] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. Although many methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice of the present invention, the preferred materials and methods are described herein.

[0039] As will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art, the methods and compositions of the present invention substantially reduce or eliminate the disadvantages and drawbacks associated with the methods and compositions of the prior art.

[0040] Figure 1 A schematic front view of a device 100 facilitating the installation of a wheeled vehicle 200 on an elevated monorail network 250 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. It should be noted that, as used in the present disclosure, the term "wheeled vehicle" is intended to also include different types of vehicles having at least two or more wheels, such as, for example, cars, minibuses, motorcycles, tricycles, buses, trucks, etc. According to some exemplary applications, a wheeled vehicle (such as a car) may utilize the use of one device 100, while some larger vehicles (such as trucks, buses, etc.) may utilize the use of more than one device 100.

[0041] According to an embodiment of the present subject matter, the elevated monorail network 250 (also referred to hereinafter as OMN 250) can be a rail network configured and distributed in a town or a city. In an exemplary embodiment, the elevated monorail network can be correspondingly disposed above a conventional road network. According to an embodiment of the present subject matter, the OMN 250 includes two spaced-apart I-shaped channels 252 that define a rail structure. Although the monorail network 250 is described as being made of modified I-beams, as will be readily understood by those skilled in the art, other structures can also be used to fabricate the monorail. However, it is believed that the described modified I-beam structure provides a high-strength and low-cost monorail.

[0042] The OMN 250 also includes guide rails 254 extending from the bottom surface of the I-shaped channels 252. The guide rails 254 allow the vehicle 200 supported on the OMN 250 to turn along the OMN 250. The turning operation of the vehicle 200 along the OMN 250 is described in a subsequent part of the present disclosure. In one embodiment, the OMN 250 includes a plurality of connected sections, and at least one section includes a plurality of individual interconnected links.

[0043] Referring Figure 1 , the vehicle 200 is preferably adapted to travel on a normal road surface when separated from the monorail network 250. To this end, it is contemplated that the vehicle 200 has a standard automobile configuration, which includes road wheels and a propulsion system (not shown) operably interconnected to at least one road wheel. Further, the propulsion system is preferably independent of the drive motor 120 and can be a conventional electric, gasoline or diesel engine and transmission or transaxle. However, due to the recent promotion of such vehicles, it is beneficial to use an electric motor for the propulsion system to make the vehicle 200 a truly zero-emission vehicle. With an electric drive unit, the vehicle 200 includes a plurality of batteries for powering the vehicle 200 when separated from the monorail network 250. These batteries can be stored at the bottom and / or rear of the vehicle 200, although any location throughout the vehicle 200 can be used. By using a fully electric vehicle 200 in combination with a monorail transportation system, the range of the vehicle 200 is extended along the monorail network 250. Further, the batteries can be charged during travel along the monorail network 250. Still further, the battery life is extended by reducing the time the vehicle 200 travels independently of the monorail network 250, during which time the battery is used to propel the vehicle 200 to and from the monorail transportation system. The battery can be recharged by a diesel engine / generator, a power line (e.g., OMN 250, third rail, etc.), regenerative braking, renewable energy (e.g., solar cells, wind turbines), etc.

[0044] Referring Figure 1, according to an embodiment of the present subject matter, the device 100 includes a receiving chamber 102. According to an embodiment of the present subject matter, the receiving chamber 102 can be configured on the roof of the vehicle 200 while extending into the interior of the vehicle 200. In another embodiment, the receiving chamber can be operably configured above the roof of the vehicle 200. The receiving chamber 102 is a chamber specifically configured to house different components of the device 100. In one embodiment, the receiving chamber 102 has a rectangular configuration.

[0045] The device 100 further includes at least a pair of support wheels 104, the at least a pair of support wheels being disposed within the receiving chamber 102 and configured to facilitate the installation and removal of the vehicle 200 on the OMN 250. Figure 2 FIG. shows a schematic side view of the device 100 with the retracted support wheels 104 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 3A and Figure 3B FIG. shows different top views of the device 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 4 FIG. shows a schematic side view depicting the wheeled vehicle 200 mounted on the elevated monorail network 250. Figure 5 and Figure 6 FIGS. show a side view and a front view of the device 100 depicted in the schematic top view of FIG. 3, respectively. Referring to Figures 1 to 6 , the support wheels 104 of the device 100 are configured to be operable in an extended configuration (as seen in Figure 1 ) and a retracted configuration (as seen in Figure 2 , Figure 3A , Figure 3B and Figure 6 ). In the extended configuration, the support wheels 104 are raised substantially orthogonally to dock with the surface 252A of the I-shaped channel 252. More specifically, the surface 252A of the I-shaped channel 252 serves as a contact surface for holding the vehicle 200 thereon by means of the support wheels 104.

[0046] In one embodiment, the vehicle 200 is supported by the support wheels 104 from the monorail network 250. The support wheels 104 are preferably movable between a recessed position within the top of the vehicle 200 during road travel and an extended position where the vehicle 200 is movably supported from the monorail network 250 during travel along the monorail network 250. Similarly, the drive wheels 116 are also preferably movable between a recessed position within the top of the vehicle 200 during road travel and an extended position for engaging the lower surface or underside of the monorail network during travel along the monorail network. In one or more embodiments, the top of the vehicle 200 includes a rectangular receiving chamber 102 that has a length of approximately 48 inches and a width of approximately 18 inches and extends rearward from directly behind the windshield of the vehicle 200. The cavity floor is approximately 9 inches below the top of the vehicle 200. The support wheels 104 and the drive wheels 116 are located within the chamber 102 such that they are substantially hidden from view when in the recessed position. Additionally, the chamber 102 may include a removable or openable cover (not shown) to hide and protect the support wheels 104 and the drive wheels 116 when the vehicle 200 is separated from the monorail network 250.

[0047] In one embodiment, the support wheels 104 are coupled to a pair of support rods 106. The pair of support rods 106 are rotatably supported within the receiving chamber 102. In one embodiment, the pair of support rods 106 are supported on a protrusion 108 that extends inward from the wall of the receiving chamber 102 into the receiving chamber 102. In one embodiment, the protrusion 108 is a hollow protrusion. In another embodiment, the protrusion 108 may include a ball bearing disposed within the protrusion 108 to facilitate smooth rotational movement of the support rods 106 within the protrusion 108 to facilitate raising and lowering of the support wheels 104.

[0048] In one embodiment, the support wheels 104 are coupled to the pair of support rods 106 via a support bracket 110. More specifically, one operating end 110A of the support bracket 110 may be coupled to the support rod 106, while the other operating end 110B of the support rod 110 may be coupled to the support wheel 104.

[0049] Refer to Figure 1, the device 100 further includes drive wheel assemblies 112 and 116. The drive wheel assembly 112 includes an axle 114 supported in the receiving chamber 102. A pair of drive wheels 116 are supported on the operating ends of the axle 114. A transmission system 118 is coupled to the axle for transmitting rotational drive to the axle 114. A drive motor 120 is coupled to the transmission system for providing rotational drive to the transmission system 118. More specifically, the drive wheels 116 are configured to dock with the surface 252B of the I-shaped channel 252. The drive wheels 116 are provided with the drive required to translate the vehicle 200 along the OMN 250 via the drive motor 120, wherein according to an embodiment of the present subject matter, the drive motor can be powered by the battery of the vehicle 200. In one embodiment, the drive wheels 116 can be inflatable wheels, but other wheels can be used. In another embodiment, the drive wheels 116 have a rubber-like surface to provide traction.

[0050] In one embodiment, the OMN 250 is configured to supply power to the vehicle 200 to facilitate charging of the vehicle 200 when the vehicle 200 is mounted on the OMN network 250. Thus, the constant use of the drive motor 120 for propelling the vehicle 200 along the OMN 250 does not significantly affect the battery capacity of the vehicle 200. In one embodiment, power is supplied from the OMN 250 to a metering device in the vehicle 200, and when the vehicle is mounted on the OMN 250, the battery can be charged using the power from the metering device. In another embodiment, once the battery of the vehicle 200 is charged, the power can be transferred from the OMN 250 to the metering device and then to the drive motor 120. In one embodiment, power from the track can be supplied via metal contacts in the support wheels or drive wheels, using a busbar system or via inductive charging. In one or more embodiments, a single electrical conductor can be fixed to a monorail, wherein the monorail network 250 itself serves as a second conductor, such as the ground. Additionally, it is contemplated that the power supply can be AC or DC. Providing power along the monorail network 250 obviates the need for the expensive infrastructure of charging stations. Instead, a vehicle traveling on the monorail network 250 can draw power from the monorail network 250 for propelling the vehicle 200, and the power can in turn be used to charge the battery that propels the vehicle 200 during road travel.

[0051] In one or more embodiments, the present invention relates to a novel system for transporting at least one passenger or cargo load, wherein the system has at least one first track, wherein at least one vehicle is located on at least one first track, and the at least one vehicle is capable of traveling and being guided on the at least one first track, characterized in that the vehicle is operatively connected to the at least one first track by a drive, wherein the drive is specifically designed as a non-contact linear motor, and wherein the at least one vehicle has control means for influencing the speed of the at least one vehicle on the at least one first track. In one embodiment, a non-contact linear motor, particularly a linear induction motor (LIM), can be used. An example of a LIM for propelling a train is provided in U.S. Patent No. 3,233,559 (incorporated by reference).

[0052] In one or more embodiments, the electric motor has an automatic second control means that transmits corresponding signals to the linear electric motor based on the distance between two or more vehicles from each other, the speed of the vehicle, and / or the route, in order to accelerate, brake, or stop the traveling speed of an individual vehicle. This is necessary for safety reasons because, particularly in the case of multiple vehicles on a track, depending on the distance between the vehicles, by actuating the electric motor, a sufficient distance can be established again with an adjacent vehicle, at least with one of the vehicles. Since for safety reasons, the determined minimum spacing cannot be exceeded.

[0053] Device 100 further includes at least a pair of guide wheels 122 disposed in the receiving chamber 102 for docking with a pair of guide rails 254 of the OMN 250. According to an embodiment of the present subject matter, the guide rails 254 are elongated tracks extending downward from the surface 252B of the I-shaped channel 252 of the OMN 250. According to an embodiment of the present subject matter, each guide wheel 122 includes a reciprocating unit 124 to facilitate selective independent reciprocating movement of each guide wheel 122 along an operating vertical axis. The selective and independent reciprocating movement of the guide wheels 122 facilitates the turning of the vehicle 200 along the OMN 250. More specifically, if the driver of the vehicle 200 faces an upcoming turn, if the driver wishes to turn left, the driver can extend the guide wheel on the left while keeping the right guide wheel retracted. This operation of only maintaining the contact of the right guide wheel with the guide rail while blocking the contact of the left guide wheel with the corresponding guide rail ultimately guides the vehicle to turn right. Similarly, if the driver wishes to make a left turn, the left guide wheel can be extended.

[0054] Figure 8An exemplary diagram illustrates a schematic view of a steering 300 occurring on an OMN 250 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. At intersection 300A, the steering 300 divides into path 302 and path 304. If the driver of vehicle 200 supported on the OMN wishes to go straight and take path 302, the left steering wheel 122 needs to be maintained in an extended state, while if the driver wishes to take the right path 304, only the right steering wheel will remain extended and in contact with the corresponding guide rail, and the left steering wheel can be retracted. Alternatively, instead of using the steering wheels to effect the switching, an electromagnet can magnetically cause the switching.

[0055] According to an embodiment of the present subject matter, the drive wheel assembly 112 includes at least one retraction bracket 402 and at least one airbag 404 to facilitate the extension of the drive wheel assembly 112 out of the receiving chamber 102 and its retraction into the receiving chamber. Figure 8 A schematic view of a retraction bracket and an airbag in a drive wheel assembly for a device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. Refer Figure 8 According to an embodiment of the present subject matter, at least one retraction bracket 402 is pivotally supported in the receiving chamber 102 and extends into the interior of the wheeled vehicle, wherein a pair of drive wheels 116 and an axle 114 are supported on the retraction bracket 402. In one embodiment, at least one airbag 404 is supported on a support beam 406 in the interior of the vehicle 200. More specifically, the airbag 404 is operatively arranged below the retraction bracket 402 to facilitate the raising and lowering of at least one retraction bracket 402 to extend a pair of drive wheels 116 out of the receiving chamber 102 and retract them into the receiving chamber 102. According to application requirements, the inflation and deflation of the airbag 402 facilitates the raising and lowering of the drive wheel assembly 112 via the airbag 402. Alternatively, a linear motor can be used to raise and lower the drive wheel assembly 112.

[0056] As previously mentioned in the present disclosure, a pair of support wheels 104 need to be raised and lowered laterally out of and into the receiving chamber 102. To facilitate the raising and lowering of the support wheels 104, Figure 9 A schematic view of a linear actuator 500 coupled to the support wheel 104 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. A pair of linear actuators 500 are arranged in the receiving chamber 102 and coupled to a pair of support rods 106 to provide the required rotational drive to the pair of support rods 106 to facilitate the movement of at least a pair of support wheels 104 in an extended operating state and a retracted operating state. In one embodiment, a bearing 502 can be provided at the operating end of the support rod 106 to facilitate the smooth and easy rotational movement of the support rod 106 within the protrusion 108.

[0057] Figures 10 to 12Illustrated are different views of an apparatus for rail freight transportation in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. Another embodiment of the present invention is implemented in the form of a freight transportation system that employs electrified rails for freight transportation. Typically, freight transportation is carried out via trucks, which directly contributes to air pollution by CO2 and particulate matter caused by the diesel engines of the trucks. Another disadvantage regarding conventional freight transportation is that due to the heavy weight of the freight, using electric trucks for transportation may not be the most feasible solution because of the large battery pack requirements and the need to recharge the battery pack every 300 - 400 miles.

[0058] The present subject matter contemplates a rail network using two parallel electric rails (hereinafter interchangeably referred to as the rail network), which are configured above a road, thereby allowing freight to be supported thereon for intercity or interstate transportation. In another application, the rail network can be configured at a port, where the process of unloading freight from a ship and loading it onto the rail network can be automated. An advantage of such a rail network is that it is an elevated rail network and thus does not interfere with the ground operations at the port.

[0059] According to this embodiment, the rail network 950 (as Figure 10 shown) includes four spaced I-shaped channels 252, thereby configuring two electrified rails that define the network 950. The rail network 950 includes four spaced I-shaped channels 252 to accommodate the strength requirements associated with the weight of freight transportation.

[0060] Figure 11 Illustrated is a side view of a freight transportation system 1000 in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. Figure 12 Illustrated is a top view of a freight transportation system 1000 in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. The freight 1002 is mounted on the rail network 950. In an exemplary application, the freight 1002 can be directly lifted from a ship at a port via a cable winch or other similar device and loaded onto the rail network 950 via at least one bogie 1004 provided at the operating tip of the freight 1002. In one embodiment, the at least one bogie can be extendable and retractable, similar to how the support wheels 104 extend and retract. In another embodiment, the freight 1002 can also include guide wheels similar to the guide wheels 122 to facilitate the turning of the freight along a turn.

[0061] In one embodiment, the bogie 1004 may include motor wheels for propulsion. In another embodiment, the bogie 1004 may include support wheels 1006 configured to support on the track network 950. In one embodiment, one bogie 1004 may include four support wheels 1006, and one cargo may include four such bogies 1004. Thus, according to embodiments of the present subject matter, a single cargo 1002 may be supported on sixteen support wheels 1006. In one embodiment, the track network 950 is an electrified track network that can power the chassis 1004 to facilitate cargo transportation.

[0062] Although it is expected that the vehicle 200 will be adapted to travel on a standard road surface under its own power independent of the monorail network 250, as will be readily understood by those skilled in the art, the vehicle 200 can be manufactured without these features. In this aspect of the invention, the vehicle 200 can be supported by support wheels 104 and propelled by drive wheels 116 to travel along the monorail network 250. However, separate vehicles will be required to transport the vehicle 200 to and from the monorail transportation system. However, such a system may be required to transport cargo loads over long distances.

[0063] In another aspect of the invention, the monorail transportation system may include a computer control system to assist in controlling the vehicle 200 during travel along the monorail network 250. In one or more embodiments, the monorail transportation system may include one or more remote computers (not shown) and / or on-vehicle computers installed in the vehicle 200. The on-vehicle computer may include a map of the monorail network of the entire country, together with preset speeds for segments of the monorail network 250, stored electronically therein. In addition, the on-vehicle computer may communicate with a Global Positioning System (GPS) satellite network. The longitude and latitude of the vehicle 200 can be obtained from the GPS, which is then used by the on-vehicle computer to determine the position of the vehicle 200 on the monorail transportation system. This can in turn be graphically displayed to the driver or used to control the speed of the vehicle 200 based on preset information. To control the spacing between vehicles on the monorail network 250, each vehicle may include an infrared sensor (not shown) linked to the on-vehicle computer. As the distance between vehicles drops below a preset value, the on-vehicle computer correspondingly reduces the speed of the vehicle 200. This information (i.e., vehicle position and speed) can be transferred to the remote computer via a cellular phone, radio link, or any other communication system. The remote computer can then transfer this traffic information to the on-vehicle computers of other vehicles on the system for providing traffic information to the driver or for automatic rerouting of the vehicle.

[0064] In one or more embodiments, if a hazard is observed by the sensor system of the wheeled vehicle 200 on an upcoming track section, the control system may be configured to automatically respond to the hazard (e.g., by decelerating, stopping, etc.) and cause each of the other wheeled vehicles to respond in a similar manner. In another example, the sensor system may observe markings of locations, intersections, etc., and then, in response to that information, the control system makes an appropriate response (e.g., turn left, turn right) based on the destination of the wheeled vehicle 200. In some embodiments, the observations of the sensor system of the wheeled vehicle 200 are wirelessly transmitted to other wheeled vehicles using the elevated monorail network 250. In one embodiment, the wheeled vehicle 200 includes an automatic control system configured to automatically move the vehicle via the elevated monorail network 250.

[0065] In one or more embodiments, the elevated monorail network 250 may include a plurality of active or passive sensors spaced along it. These sensors may be adapted for the rail vehicle 200 traveling along the monorail network 250 and transfer the information to a central computer, or the sensors may have markings formed thereon that provide location information to an on-board computer. The on-board computer and the remote computer will communicate via a cellular phone, radio link, or other communication system. Additionally, as described above, the vehicle 200 may include infrared sensors to control the spacing between vehicles on the monorail transportation system.

[0066] In one or more embodiments, the remote computer and the on-board computer may be used to automatically control the vehicle 200. The driver will input the destination location into the on-board computer, and the on-board computer will communicate with the remote computer to obtain traffic information. The on-board computer will then select a route and control the vehicle 200 independently or in conjunction with the remote computer during travel along the elevated monorail network 250. Such a computer control system will be particularly beneficial when used with unmanned cargo vehicles. The on-board computer can be programmed with the destination location, and it, in combination with the remote computer system, will control the vehicle 200 during travel between the starting point and the destination. Other variations of this computer control system will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0067] In one or more embodiments, the monorail network 250 is generally maintained at a height such that vehicles traveling along the monorail network do not contact the ground. In one embodiment, in order to install and remove the vehicle 200 from the monorail network 250, the height at which the monorail network 250 is separated from the ground must be reduced. In one embodiment, at the installation / dismantling station, a standard road surface is raised towards the monorail network 250 or the monorail network 250 is lowered towards the standard road surface such that the distance by which the monorail network 250 is separated from the road surface is increased / decreased. At the exit, the spacing distance is reduced to the point where the road wheels of the vehicle 200 traveling along the monorail network 250 will contact the road surface. This spacing is maintained in a transition area that generally has a length sufficient to allow the vehicle 200 to transition from road travel to monorail travel or from monorail travel to road travel.

[0068] After the road wheels contact the road surface, the vehicle 200 can be transitioned to travel under its own power. In one or more embodiments, the support wheels 104 and the drive wheels 116 can then be recessed back into the top of the vehicle 200. Control of the transition process including recessing the support wheels 104 and the drive wheels 116 can be manual or automatic. For example, proximity switches (not shown) can be used to activate the raising and lowering of these components when entering or leaving the system. However, as will be readily understood by those skilled in the art, other devices can be used. After transitioning to road travel, the vehicle 200 is propelled along the road surface and then the vehicle 200 is driven as a standard road surface vehicle.

[0069] In one or more embodiments, the reverse procedure is used to install the monorail transportation system. The vehicle 200 approaches an installation station where the road surface 150 has been raised towards the monorail network 250. When the vehicle 200 enters the transition area, the support wheels 104 and the drive wheels 116 are raised to engage the lower surface or underside 252B of the monorail network 250. The entrance area of the transition area can be similar to the entrance area of an automatic car wash to assist in positioning the vehicle 200 relative to the monorail network 250. The drive wheels 116 are energized and the vehicle 200 is transitioned to be powered by the drive motor 120. During travel along the monorail network 250, the vehicle 200 is powered by the drive motor 120 which is operably interconnected to the drive wheels 116. The drive wheels 116 engage the lower surface or underside 252B of the monorail network 250 to propel the vehicle 200 along the lower surface or underside 252B. The guide wheels 122 are movably engaged with the upper surface 252A of the monorail network 250 and freely travel along the upper surface 252A. Although the installation station is shown as allowing the vehicle to be installed to and removed from the monorail network 250 at the same location, it will be readily understood that the installation station can be modified to only allow installation onto or removal from the monorail network 250. Such a system would reduce congestion at these locations.

[0070] It is expected that the vehicle 200 will be a relatively lightweight vehicle. Since its intended use is generally a short-distance commuter vehicle, when not attached to the monorail network 250, the vehicle 200 is expected to have a road speed of about 40 miles / hour or more. In one or more embodiments, the vehicle 200 can be made of aluminum or other lightweight materials, and it is not necessary to include many standard safety features found on high-speed cars today. For example, due to the relatively low speed, heavy buffers and collision panels may be unnecessary. In addition, during the travel along the monorail network 250, the vehicle 200 can be controlled by an on-board computer and a central computer system, thereby reducing the possibility of collision on the monorail transportation system. In addition, because the vehicle 200 will only need to travel a relatively short distance when separated from the monorail network 250, a standard lead-acid battery may be sufficient to provide the necessary storage capacity.

[0071] By virtue of the foregoing, there is thus provided a monorail transportation system adapted to support a vehicle thereunder for travel along the monorail, wherein the vehicle is capable of traveling under its own power on a standard road surface. In addition, the vehicle includes means for propelling the vehicle along the monorail and drawing its power from the monorail system, thereby eliminating vehicle emissions during travel.

[0072] Although the present disclosure has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure, and equivalents may replace its elements. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular system, device, or its components to the teachings of the present disclosure without departing from its basic scope. Therefore, it is intended that the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed for the execution of the present disclosure, but that the present disclosure will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims. Moreover, the use of the terms first, second, etc. does not indicate any order or importance, but rather uses the terms first, second, etc. to distinguish one element from another element.

[0073] The terms used herein are only used for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should also be understood that when the terms "comprises" and / or "comprising" are used in this specification, they specify the presence of the features, integers, steps, operations, elements and / or parts, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, parts and / or combinations thereof.

[0074] The description of the present disclosure has been presented for purposes of illustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the form of the present disclosure disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The described embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the present disclosure and its practical application, and to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the present disclosure for various embodiments with various modifications that are suitable for the particular purposes contemplated.

Claims

1. An apparatus for facilitating the mounting of a wheeled vehicle on an elevated monorail network, the apparatus comprising: a receiving chamber configured on the roof of the wheeled vehicle; a drive wheel assembly disposed within the receiving chamber for providing the drive required to facilitate movement of the wheeled vehicle along the elevated monorail network; at least one pair of guide wheels disposed in the receiving chamber for docking with a pair of guide rails of the elevated monorail network; and at least one pair of support wheels for facilitating the mounting and dismounting of the wheeled vehicle on the elevated monorail network.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the drive wheel assembly comprises: a wheel axle supported within the receiving chamber; a pair of drive wheels supported on the operative ends of the wheel axle; a transmission system coupled to the wheel axle for transmitting rotational drive to the wheel axle; and a drive motor coupled to the transmission system for providing the rotational drive to the transmission system.

3. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein each guide wheel of the at least one pair of guide wheels includes a reciprocating movement unit for facilitating selective independent reciprocating movement of each guide wheel along an operative vertical axis.

4. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the at least one pair of support wheels is coupled to a pair of support rods rotatably supported within the receiving chamber generally centrally and along the longitudinal axes of the support rods.

5. The apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the at least one pair of support wheels is coupled to the pair of support rods via one or more support brackets.

6. The apparatus according to claim 4, wherein a pair of linear actuators is disposed within the receiving chamber and coupled to the pair of support rods for providing the required rotational drive to the pair of support rods to facilitate movement of the at least one pair of support wheels between an extended operative state and a retracted operative state.

7. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the drive wheel assembly further comprises: at least one retraction bracket pivotally supported within the receiving chamber and extending into the interior of the wheeled vehicle, wherein the pair of drive wheels and the wheel axle are supported on the retraction bracket; and at least one airbag supported on a support beam within the interior of the vehicle, the airbag being operatively disposed below the retraction bracket to facilitate raising and lowering of the at least one retraction bracket to extend the pair of drive wheels out of the receiving chamber and retract them into the receiving chamber.

8. An apparatus for cargo transportation, the apparatus comprising: an electrified track network; at least one cargo configured to be mounted on the electrified track network; at least one bogie disposed on the operative top surface of the at least one cargo to facilitate the mounting and translation of the at least one cargo along the electrified track network.

9. The apparatus according to claim 8, wherein The electrified track network includes four spaced-apart I-shaped channels that define the electrified track network.

10. The apparatus according to claim 8, wherein, the at least one bogie includes four support wheels.

11. The apparatus according to claim 10, wherein, the apparatus includes four bogies disposed on the operating top surface of the goods.

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