Transport system for the overland transport of people, goods and / or vehicles

Abstract

Transport system (100) for the overland transport of persons, goods and / or vehicles, comprising at least one transport module (21) for the overland transport of a person, a good (11) and / or a vehicle (12) from a first position (X1) to a second position (X2), a main unit (22), wherein the main unit (22) is designed to convey the transport module (21) from the first position (X1) to the second position (X2) and wherein the main unit (22) has a substantially constant speed, at least one energy converter (31), wherein the at least one energy converter is designed in the manner of a generator, and a control and / or regulating unit, characterized in that the at least one energy converter (31) provides at least 20% of the amount of energy required by the transport system (100) for the transport system (100) and / or that the transport system (100) comprises at least one chip.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a transport system for the overland transport of persons, goods and / or vehicles according to the preamble of the independent claim.

[0002] Currently, the majority of overland transport of people, goods, and / or vehicles is carried out by conventional road transport. One disadvantage of the current system is the significant disruption to traffic flow caused by the high vehicle density on roads and highways. Furthermore, the combustion of fossil fuels leads to increased emissions of carbon monoxide and soot particles from diesel vehicles, as well as other air pollution. Furthermore, the expansion of infrastructure in the form of additional lanes and highways results in the loss of valuable land for agricultural or natural use. Given the projected significant increase in traffic volumes, particularly freight transport, these challenges are expected to become even more severe in the future.

[0003] It is therefore not surprising that the state of the art provides a wide range of options for the improved transport of people, goods and / or vehicles.

[0004] The transport systems known from the prior art for alternative overland transport to the conventional use of roads include, for example, a tunnel transport system such as that disclosed in DE 103 30 850 A1. This document relates to the transport of vehicles through tunnels using a novel transport system. The transport system consists of a conveyor belt on which the vehicles are stationary and transported through the tunnel at high speed by the movement of the conveyor belt. The disadvantage of this design, however, is that the high financial outlay for expanding tunnel systems is offset by a relatively small time benefit. Furthermore, the exclusive possibility of use within tunnel systems severely limits the range of applications.

[0005] Furthermore, US Pat. No. 3,987,734 discloses a modular transport system containing modules for transporting passengers and / or freight. The invention is based on the principle of a gondola that moves in the air along a rail. In addition to the high costs of expansion, it is still only possible to move the modules along a circular track, which severely limits the range. Furthermore, it remains necessary to decelerate and re-accelerate individual modules for loading and unloading, making continuous transport of goods and passengers impossible.

[0006] There is therefore a great need for a transport system that enables the continuous transport of people, goods, and / or vehicles in a cost-effective, fast, efficient, environmentally friendly, and environmentally friendly manner. Another focus is on producing the transport system cost-effectively and designing it as compact and space-saving as possible. The invention therefore sets itself the task of providing a transport system to overcome the aforementioned difficulties and, above all, to ensure the cost-effective, efficient, and environmentally friendly transport of people, goods, and / or vehicles while requiring the smallest possible space.

[0007] This problem is solved in a surprisingly simple but effective manner by a transport system for the overland transport of persons, goods and / or vehicles according to the teaching of the independent claim.

[0008] According to the invention, a transport system for the overland transport of people, goods and / or vehicles is proposed, comprising at least one transport module for the overland transport of a person, goods and / or a vehicle from a first position to a second position, a main unit, at least one energy converter and a control and / or regulating unit. The main unit is designed to convey the transport module from the first position to the second position and has a substantially constant speed. According to the invention, the transport system is characterized in that the at least one energy converter, which is designed in the manner of a generator, provides at least 20% of the amount of energy required by the transport system and / or that the transport system comprises at least one chip.

[0009] The basic idea of ​​the present invention is that the existing infrastructure can be utilized for the transport system, so that the vehicle density on roads and highways can be reduced cost-effectively and without destroying valuable areas for agricultural or natural use. This is due to the fact that the transport modules transported on the main unit have a substantially constant speed, whereby the transport module can, with the aid of the control and / or regulating unit, achieve a coordinated high transport density to relieve the congestion on the roads and highways.

[0010] Furthermore, the resulting wind, along with other energy sources, is used to generate electrical energy and is provided in the form of electrical energy for the operation of the transport system.

[0011] According to the invention, the transport system comprises at least one transport module for the overland transport of a person, goods and / or a vehicle from a first position to a second position, a main unit for conveying the transport module, at least one energy converter, at least one chip and a control and / or regulating unit. A person skilled in the art understands the term “transport system” to mean a complex network and / or an infrastructure which serves to convey or transport people, goods, vehicles and / or information from one location, i.e. from a first position, to another location, i.e. to a second position. Within the scope of the invention, it is conceivable for the transport system to be constructed in a modular manner and / or for several transport modules to be able to be coupled to one another.

[0012] The term "overland transport" refers to the transportation of a person, a good, and / or a vehicle from a first location to a second location over land, typically between different cities and / or regions. It is understandable that the term also refers to the transportation of multiple people, goods, and / or vehicles.

[0013] The term "good" or "commodities" generally defines all material and immaterial things that serve to fulfill human needs. Goods include both tangible and consumer goods, such as physical products, food, clothing, and / or machinery. Furthermore, the term "goods" also includes capital goods, i.e., goods used to produce other goods, such as machinery and / or equipment, and scarce goods, such as oil or water, which are only available in limited quantities.

[0014] The term "vehicle" or "vehicles" refers to vehicles of any kind, such as, but by no means exclusively, a motor vehicle, a bicycle, a trike, a motorcycle, a truck, a motor vehicle with a trailer, a truck with a trailer, a boat, a quad bike, a camper van, a caravan, and the like. Other vehicles are also known to those skilled in the art. A vehicle is characterized by the fact that it can drive independently, for example, by means of an engine and / or a maneuvering drive. A vehicle can be loaded with at least one person and / or goods.

[0015] The term "transport module" generally refers to a unit and / or system designed for the transport of people, materials, goods and / or vehicles from a first position to a second position. It is conceivable that the people, materials, goods and / or vehicles are positively and / or force-lockedly connected to the transport module for the transport of people, materials, goods and / or vehicles. In a logistics context, a transport module can be understood, for example, as a standard packaging unit comprising pallets or containers and used for the efficient transport of goods. However, it is also conceivable that the transport module is designed to be self-propelled and / or has a shunting device.The transport system preferably comprises at least one transport module, more preferably 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, 100 or more identical or different transport modules.

[0016] The term “main unit” describes a unit that is suitable for conveying the transport module from the first position to the second position and has an essentially constant speed. It is understandable that the first position describes the beginning of the main unit and that the second position describes the end of the main unit. The manner in which the transport module is connected to the main unit in order to be conveyed or transported by it is of secondary importance. The connection between the main unit and the transport module is preferably via a positive and / or non-positive connection. It is also conceivable that the speed of the main unit can be controlled and / or regulated by means of the control and / or regulating unit.Preferably, the speed of the main unit is at least 60 km / h (kilometers per hour), more preferably at least 65 km / h, 70 km / h, 75 km / h, 80 km / h, 85 km / h, 90 km / h, 95 km / h, 100 km / h, 105 km / h, 110 km / h, 115 km / h, 120 km / h, 125 km / h, 130 km / h, 135 km / h, 140 km / h, or higher. The term "essentially constant speed" is known to a person skilled in the art and refers to a speed that is not subject to any, in particular no significant, fluctuation in speed. Within the scope of the invention, this term is understood to mean a speed that deviates on average by a maximum of 10%, preferably a maximum of 9%, 8%, 7%, 6%, 5%, 4%, 3%, 2%, 1%, or 0.5% from the preferred, in particular the controlled and / or regulated, speed. Within the scope of the invention, it is conceivable that the main unit has a modular design and / or that several modules can be coupled together to form a main unit.All possible designs are conceivable, such as the design in the form of a conveyor belt and / or a rail line.

[0017] The term "energy converter" generally refers to devices and / or systems that convert energy from one form to another. This includes designs such as generators, which convert mechanical energy into electrical energy, and motors, which convert electrical energy into mechanical energy. Furthermore, the term "energy converter" also includes batteries, which store chemical energy and convert it into electrical energy when needed, energy storage devices, photovoltaic systems, which convert sunlight (radiant energy) into electrical energy, and heat pumps or air conditioning systems, which use electrical energy to move thermal energy from one location to another.The transport system preferably comprises at least one energy converter, more preferably 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, 100 or more identical or different energy converters.

[0018] Within the scope of the invention, it is provided that the energy converter is designed in the manner of a generator. The term "generator" generally refers to a device, apparatus, and / or machine that converts energy into another form of energy. In electrical engineering, a generator is understood to be a machine that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy. This is usually achieved through electromagnetic induction, with a magnetic field and moving conductors (e.g., wire coils) interacting. This is known to a person skilled in the art.

[0019] Within the scope of the invention, it is further provided that the energy converter provides at least 20%, preferably at least 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99% or, at least temporarily, 100% of the amount of energy required by the transport system. It is conceivable that the required amount of energy is provided to the transport system, a battery included in the transport system and / or an energy storage device included in the transport system. A person skilled in the art will know how the amount of energy required for the transport system can be determined.For example, it is conceivable to determine the amount of energy required for the transport system by means of an evaluation, analysis and / or evaluation unit and / or to compare the amount of energy required for the transport system with a value and / or reference value, whereby the amount of energy required for the transport system is determined from the comparison.

[0020] It is understandable to a person skilled in the art that a determination, ascertaining, and / or recording cannot generally be 100 percent accurate. The terms therefore refer to a statistically significant probability regarding the accuracy of the determination, ascertaining, and / or recording of the values. Whether this is statistically significant can be determined by a person skilled in the art, without inventive activity, using methods known in the art. Examples include statistical evaluation tools such as determining the confidence interval, the p-value, the Student's t-test, the Mann-Whitney determination, etc. The corresponding intervals are at least 90%, 95%, 97%, 98%, or 99% accurate. The p-values ​​are preferably 0.1, 0.05, 0.01, 0.005, or 0.0001.Preferably, the determination, the ascertainment and / or the detection within the scope of the present invention is at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90% or at least 95% or at least 99% correct.

[0021] The term “comparison” refers, as used here, to the comparison of corresponding parameters and / or values. For example, it is conceivable that an absolute value is comparable to an absolute value, while a relative value is comparable to a relative value. It is understandable that the result of the comparison, i.e. the determination of the amount of energy required for the transport system, is directly or indirectly dependent on the value. Within the scope of the invention, the comparison can be carried out manually and / or with computer support. For a computer-supported comparison, all means known to a person skilled in the art are conceivable, such as a computer and / or a computer program. A computer program can additionally evaluate the result of the comparison, for example, automatically provide an assessment of the recorded values.

[0022] The term "evaluation unit" refers to a unit suitable for comparing the values ​​with a reference value and / or another value that precedes or follows in time. Suitable evaluation units are known to a person skilled in the art, such as a computer and / or a computer program. A computer program can also evaluate the result of the comparison.

[0023] The term "reference value" refers to a value stored for the transport system, a fixed, determined, predefined, theoretical, mathematically and / or manually determined, empirically and / or manually assigned, historically determined and / or legally prescribed value or a framework to be observed. The reference value, i.e., the framework to be observed, can be, in particular, but by no means exclusively, a laboratory value, a database entry, a historical value, an ideal value, an empirical value, and / or a mixture.

[0024] The term "evaluation unit" refers to a unit suitable for evaluating or determining the amount of energy required for the transport system. For example, the evaluation unit is a computer and / or a computer program.

[0025] The term "control unit" describes a module or component that serves to control and / or regulate processes or systems. Furthermore, the term "control unit" refers to a device and / or system that processes inputs from sensors and sends corresponding control and / or regulation commands to actuators. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the term "control unit" describes a component that controls the movements and actions of a robot. Further possible configurations are known to those skilled in the art.

[0026] The term "control unit" describes a system and / or component that serves to monitor and / or control processes and / or states. Furthermore, a control unit can be designed as a combination of chips, sensors, actuators, and / or algorithms.

[0027] The term "chip" is understood by those skilled in the art to be a small, usually flat piece of semiconductor material that contains integrated electronic circuits and / or components. Chips, which are also known to those skilled in the art as "semiconductor chips" or "microchips", are capable of performing many functions, such as processing data, storing information and / or controlling electrical signals. Furthermore, chips come in various degrees of complexity and vary from simple integrated circuits with just a few transistors to complex system-on-chip designs that contain millions of transistors and combine multiple functions in a single component. Chips have a wide variety of applications, including computers, smartphones, household appliances, automobiles and many other electronic systems.The transport system preferably comprises at least one chip, more preferably 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, 100 or more identical or different chips.

[0028] Using the transport system according to the invention, it is thus possible to transport people, goods, and / or vehicles over long distances cost-effectively, quickly, efficiently, and in an environmentally friendly manner. The high level of automation of the transport process also minimizes personnel requirements, thus enabling further cost savings. Furthermore, the use of renewable energy is particularly environmentally friendly and environmentally friendly.

[0029] Advantageous further developments of the invention, which can be realized individually or in combination with one another, are presented in the subclaims.

[0030] In a further development of the present invention, it is conceivable for the transport system to comprise a locking device between the first position and the second position, wherein the locking device is designed for inserting and / or removing the at least one transport module. Preferably, the transport system comprises 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, 100 or more identical or different locking devices.

[0031] The term “locking device” is understood by those skilled in the art to mean a system and / or device that serves to bring people, goods and / or vehicles into and / or out of a specific area of ​​the main unit, i.e. between the first position and the second position, or to lock them in and / or out in a targeted, controlled and / or coordinated manner. The locking device thus serves to exchange transport modules. The locking device can comprise mechanical, electronic and / or software-based components that ensure that the people, goods and / or vehicles to be brought in and / or out are properly recorded, weighed, identified and / or sorted. Suitable means and measures in this regard are known to a person skilled in the art, such as a transmitter and receiver described elsewhere, a sensor, a reading device such as a camera and / or a scanner, scales and the like.

[0032] It has further proven particularly advantageous according to the invention that the transport system has a locking device, since this allows the essentially constant speed of the main unit to be maintained at all times. If the main unit itself is not decelerated, it is also unnecessary to accelerate the main unit again to the preferred, in particular the controlled and / or regulated, speed, thereby reducing the amount of energy required for the transport system to a minimum. Furthermore, this results in a significant reduction in energy consumption.

[0033] In a further development, it is conceivable for the locking device to have at least one tension element that is detachably connected, in particular positively and / or non-positively, to the at least one transport module. The locking device preferably comprises 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, 100 or more identical or different tension elements.

[0034] The term "traction element" refers to a part, a machine, and / or a component that serves to connect, secure, guide, and / or move individual elements, modules, and / or load units within the transport system. Preferably, the traction element serves to insert and / or remove one or more transport modules from the main unit, which involves accelerating or decelerating the same. The traction element can be designed as a conventional locomotive or as a motor that moves a conveyor belt. Other possible designs are known to those skilled in the art.

[0035] The terms "detachably connected" and "detachable connection" are known to those skilled in the art and each describe the property that connections can be made separable by suitable processes, measures and / or means without individual components being permanently damaged and / or destroyed. This therefore refers to the ability of a connection to be broken down into its original components by chemical, physical and / or mechanical dissolution processes. The detachable connection is preferably a positive and / or non-positive connection. In addition to detachable magnetic connections, other detachable connections are known to those skilled in the art, which can be designed, for example, as plug-in, twist-in, click-in and / or screw connections.

[0036] The detachable connection of the tension element to the transport module according to the invention results in the advantage that the components can not only be connected and disconnected quickly and easily, but also that the replacement of tension elements, for example due to a defect, can be carried out quickly, easily and cost-effectively.

[0037] In a further development of the invention, it is conceivable that the locking device accelerates the at least one transport module to the substantially constant speed of the main unit and / or decelerates it to the substantially constant speed of the main unit.

[0038] It has proven particularly advantageous according to the invention that the transport module can be accelerated by the locking device to the essentially constant speed of the main unit described elsewhere and / or decelerated to this speed of the main unit, since the essentially constant speed of the main unit can thus be maintained at all times. Furthermore, if the main unit itself is not decelerated, it is not necessary to accelerate the main unit again to the transport speed, which, as described elsewhere, results in a significant reduction in energy consumption.

[0039] In a further development of the invention, it is conceivable that the at least one transport module is designed as a vehicle or as a wagon.

[0040] It is conceivable that the vehicle, as described elsewhere, can be moved into and / or out of the main unit independently or by means of the locking device. In this regard, it is conceivable that the vehicle has one or more drivers that can be detachably connected, in particular by positive and / or non-positive engagement, to the main unit and / or the locking device.

[0041] Furthermore, it is conceivable that a wagon, which the person skilled in the art understands as a rail-bound means of transport, can be inserted into and / or removed from the main unit. In this regard, it is conceivable that the wagon has one or more carriers that can be detachably connected, in particular positively and / or non-positively, to the main unit and / or the locking device. The wagon can also be designed to move independently. According to the invention, the wagon serves to transport at least one person (passenger wagon), to directly or indirectly load goods, a vehicle described elsewhere, a trailer, such as a motor vehicle trailer, a truck trailer, a caravan, or a mobile home, which can also be loaded with at least one person, goods, or another vehicle. The person skilled in the art understands "indirect loading" here to mean the loading of a container and / or the connection using an adapter.

[0042] In a further development, it is conceivable that the at least one transport module has at least one coding, preferably 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or more identical or different codings.

[0043] The term "encoding" is familiar to those skilled in the art and refers to the process of converting information into a specific format suitable for storage, transmission, and / or processing. Those skilled in the art often define the term "encoding" as the method by which data is converted into a symbol system that can be interpreted by machines and / or humans. QR codes (Quick Response), barcodes, Morse code, ASCII (American Standard Code for Information Interchange), Base64, UFT-8, and others are familiar to those skilled in the art.

[0044] Those skilled in the art will also understand that the term "QR code" refers to a two-dimensional barcode that can store information such as URLs, text, and / or other data. It is designed so that the information can be quickly read, evaluated, translated, and / or processed by appropriate reading devices, such as a camera and / or scanner.

[0045] Furthermore, those skilled in the art are aware that barcodes are one-dimensional codes consisting of parallel lines of varying widths. They are often used in retail and are used to identify products, allowing additional information to be stored.

[0046] The term “Morse code” refers to an early form of coding that includes letters and numbers in combinations of short and long signals (dots and dashes).

[0047] The term “ASCII encoding” (American Standard Code for Information Interchange) refers to a character set that encodes characters using numeric values.

[0048] Furthermore, the term "Base64 encoding" is familiar to those skilled in the art as a method for encoding binary data into an ASCII format, which is frequently used in data transmission. Within this encoding, data is converted into a character string consisting of letters, numbers, and / or some special characters.

[0049] The term “UTF-8 encoding” refers to a Unicode encoding scheme that uses a variable number of bytes to represent characters.

[0050] It was recognized that coding proves to be particularly advantageous because it makes it possible to automate the loading and / or unloading of the transport module. Furthermore, coding makes it possible to track the transport module during transport using readers installed along the transport system, thus determining its current location.

[0051] In a further development, it is also conceivable that the main unit is designed as a conveyor belt and / or as a rail track.

[0052] The term “conveyor belt” is understood by those skilled in the art to mean a mechanical conveying device used to transport people, goods and / or vehicles from one location to another. Conveyor belts can be made from a variety of materials and therefore have versatile design and / or construction options. Materials suitable for producing flexible belts stretched over one or more rollers or in the form of metallic elements that are detachably or permanently connected to one another are conceivable. It has been recognized that a conveyor belt has the advantage that it can be connected to the transport module quickly, easily and detachably, in particular in a form-fitting and / or force-fitting manner, for example via a carrier as described elsewhere or by the transport module itself being arranged on the conveyor belt, for example in an upright or horizontal position.

[0053] The term “rail route” is known to those skilled in the art as the course and / or route taken by a railway and / or tram line.

[0054] According to the invention, it was found to be particularly advantageous that the main unit is designed as a conveyor belt and / or rail track, since such designs are particularly suitable for the continuous transport of persons, goods and / or vehicles.

[0055] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the at least one chip is a silicon chip or a gallium nitride chip.

[0056] Such silicon-based or gallium nitride-based chips, along with their advantageous properties, are known to a person skilled in the art. Within the scope of the invention, it was further recognized that the use of gallium nitride (GaN) chips offers several advantages over traditional silicon chips. Compared to silicon, GaN chips have lower switching losses and lower conduction losses, resulting in higher energy efficiency, which is particularly advantageous in applications such as power converters and chargers. Furthermore, GaN has a higher switching speed, which means it can be operated at higher frequencies, enables the miniaturization of circuits, and increases power density. Furthermore, GaN chips are capable of handling significantly higher voltages and currents than silicon, making them ideal for applications in high-performance electronics.GaN also has higher temperature resistance and thus improved thermal properties compared to silicon. Due to GaN's better thermal conductivity and the associated improved heat dissipation, the use of GaN-based chips not only reduces the need for cooling devices but also increases reliability in demanding environments. This results in a significant increase or extension of the component's service life.

[0057] In a further development of the invention, it is also conceivable for the at least one energy converter to be arranged laterally, below, and / or above the transport module and / or the main unit. Within the scope of the invention, it was recognized as particularly advantageous to design the energy converter described elsewhere such that it is arranged laterally, below, and / or above the transport module and / or the main unit, as this opens up a multitude of possible applications. Furthermore, this provides the possibility of arranging more than just one energy converter, but rather a combination of several energy converters, on a transport module.

[0058] In one embodiment, it is conceivable that the at least one energy converter generates electrical energy from wind power, solar energy, damping energy, kinetic energy, vibration energy, braking energy, a mixture, and / or a combination thereof. Within the scope of the invention, it was recognized as particularly advantageous to use renewable energies and to recover the energy forms that automatically arise during the movement of the operational transport system, the main unit, and / or the transport module and supply them to the system.

[0059] The term “electrical energy” is understood by those skilled in the art to be the form of energy generated by electrical charges in an electric field, and to occur in various forms, such as direct or alternating current. Electrical energy is understood here as the product of electrical voltage and electrical current. Furthermore, those skilled in the art know that electrical energy can be converted into other forms of energy, such as mechanical energy and / or thermal energy. Furthermore, those skilled in the art know that electrical energy can be generated by converting other forms of energy, such as fossil fuels, nuclear energy, or renewable energies such as wind, water, and / or solar, from mechanical energy and / or thermal energy, as described elsewhere.

[0060] The term "renewable energy" refers to energy sources that regenerate naturally and / or cannot be depleted as long as the corresponding natural processes take place. Specifically, the term "renewable energy" includes solar energy, wind energy, hydropower, biomass, and geothermal energy.

[0061] The term "wind power" refers to the energy that is generated from the movement of air masses, i.e. the wind. Wind power is a form of renewable energy that occurs by converting the kinetic energy of the wind into electrical energy. This is usually done using wind turbines, which consist of rotor blades, a generator and other components. Wind power is considered an environmentally friendly energy source because it produces no harmful emissions and, unlike fossil fuels, is inexhaustible. The efficiency and yield of wind turbines depend on various factors, such as wind speed, site selection and / or the technology of the turbines. It has been recognized within the scope of the invention that the operation of the transport system and the inventive arrangement of the energy converter can determine the resulting orThe wind that occurs is generally uniform, so that it can be used, along with other energy sources, to generate electrical energy. Suitable methods, measures, and means in this regard are known to those skilled in the art.

[0062] The term "solar energy" refers to technologies and methods developed to harness solar energy. These technologies are primarily used to generate heat and / or electricity. Solar energy includes solar thermal energy, in which solar collectors capture sunlight and convert it into heat, photovoltaics, in which sunlight is directly converted into electrical energy, as well as solar thermal power plants or combinations thereof. Within the scope of the invention, it has been recognized that, thanks to the inventive arrangement of the energy converter, solar energy, along with other energy sources, can be particularly well utilized to generate electrical energy. Suitable methods, measures, and means in this regard are known to those skilled in the art.

[0063] The term "damping energy" refers to the energy that is typically lost in a system to dampen vibrations and / or movements. This can occur in various technical and / or physical contexts, such as mechanics, acoustics, and / or electrical engineering. In mechanics, damping often describes the process by which the amplitude of oscillations or vibrations decreases due to friction or other dissipative forces. Damping energy is thus the energy that is lost in the form of heat or other forms of energy as the vibrations decay. Within the scope of the invention, it has been recognized that the inventive arrangement of the energy converter allows damping energy, among other energy sources, to be particularly well utilized to generate electrical energy, in particular by recovering the energy that is usually lost.For example, it is conceivable to recover this energy using shock and / or vibration dampers and, as is known to those skilled in the art, to use it to generate electrical energy. When recovering energy from damping and / or vibration, the use of shock and / or vibration dampers is preferred, as such systems are suitable for absorbing mechanical movement and converting the kinetic energy into electrical energy, which can then be fed to a battery, an energy storage device, and / or the transport system. This is also conceivable using fluid-filled cushions arranged beneath the main unit. Suitable methods, measures, and means in this regard are known to those skilled in the art.

[0064] The term "kinetic energy" generally refers to classical kinetic energy. This form of energy describes the energy possessed by an object due to its translational motion. Those skilled in the art will be aware that the terms "kinetic energy" and "translational energy" are used synonymously. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will be aware that kinetic energy, among other energy sources, can be used particularly well to generate electrical energy, as described elsewhere and as is known to those skilled in the art.

[0065] The term "vibrational energy" is understood by those skilled in the art as the energy stored in a system that performs vibrations and / or oscillations. In classical physics, vibrational energy is often related to mechanical systems, such as springs or pendulums, where the energy is converted between kinetic energy (the energy of motion) and potential energy (the energy stored due to position). For example, a taut spring has its maximum potential energy when it is maximally stretched or maximally compressed. Maximum kinetic energy can be observed when the spring swings past its equilibrium position. Those skilled in the art therefore understand the term "vibrational energy" as a combination of potential and kinetic energy and is therefore particularly well suited to generating electrical energy, alongside other energy sources.As described elsewhere, suitable methods, measures and means in this regard are known to the person skilled in the art.

[0066] The term "braking energy" refers to the energy dissipated during the braking process of a vehicle, transport module, and / or other moving object. When a vehicle, transport module, and / or other moving object brakes, decelerates, and / or is decelerated, its kinetic energy, which it possesses due to the movement, is converted into other forms of energy, such as heat, friction in the brakes, and / or electrical energy. Furthermore, it is advantageous to return the braking energy to the transport system based on the principle of regenerative braking. Regenerative braking refers to a process used, for example, in electric and / or hybrid vehicles, as well as in various industrial applications, to recover kinetic energy that would normally be lost during braking and convert it into electrical energy.In regenerative braking, the electric motor, which normally drives a vehicle, main unit, transport module, and / or a transport system in general, is operated as a generator during the braking process. When the brakes are applied, the movement of the vehicle, main unit, transport module, and / or transport system is used to rotate the motor in the opposite direction. During this process, the kinetic energy is converted into electrical energy, which is then transferred to a battery and / or energy storage device and stored and / or made available to the transport system. Therefore, braking energy, among other energy sources, is particularly well suited to generating electrical energy, and suitable methods, measures, and means in this regard are known to those skilled in the art.

[0067] In a further development, it is conceivable that the at least one energy converter for generating electrical energy from wind power is designed as a windcatcher. The term “windcatcher” is understood by those skilled in the art to mean a device and / or a structure that serves to harness and / or direct wind. In the context of wind energy technology, windcatchers are also known to those skilled in the art as part of a wind turbine that efficiently captures wind currents and converts them into mechanical energy. All possible designs are conceivable, such as lane-like, spiral-like, tunnel-like and / or tubular structures, which are suitable for capturing and harnessing air currents due to their nature. One possible design is the arrangement of two parallel walls, which can be understood as a lane, as well as the additional spatial demarcation at the top in the form of a roof.Furthermore, designs in the form of wind turbines, which are characterized by the defined arrangement of rotor blades, are also conceivable. Furthermore, a design in the form of a spiral, in particular an elongated spiral, is conceivable laterally, below and / or above the transport system. The wind catcher designed as an elongated spiral is preferably housed, for example in a previously described alley, an alley with a roof, a tunnel, a pipe and / or pipe system. The use of wind catchers has been recognized as particularly advantageous according to the invention, since they enable the efficient use of wind energy and are thus capable, in combination with a generator, of converting renewable energies into electrically usable energy in a cost-effective, low-maintenance and efficient manner.

[0068] In a further development, it is conceivable that the at least one energy converter for generating electrical energy from solar energy is designed as a photovoltaic system, in particular as an organic or inorganic solar cell. The term “photovoltaics” refers to the conversion of light energy, in particular sunlight, into electrical energy through the photoelectric effect. This typically occurs using solar cells that are used in photovoltaic systems. When light hits the solar cell, electrons in a semiconductor material are excited and generate an electrical current that can be used by the transport system and / or fed into a battery and / or an energy storage device. In addition, inorganic and organic solar cells are known to those skilled in the art.

[0069] Experts understand "inorganic solar cells" to be the most commonly used solar cells. They are typically made of silicon, a semiconductor material. There are various types of inorganic solar cells, including monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and / or amorphous silicon cells. These cells are characterized by their stability, efficiency, and longevity. They are generally more efficient than organic solar cells and are capable of generating large amounts of energy.

[0070] The term "organic solar cell" refers to the use of organic materials as solar cells. They are lighter, more flexible, and potentially cheaper to manufacture. However, organic solar cells are generally less efficient and have a shorter lifespan than inorganic solar cells. However, they offer several advantages, such as the potential for use in a wide variety of applications, including portable electronics and integrated photovoltaics in buildings. They can also be designed in different colors and shapes, making them more attractive for specific applications.

[0071] It has been recognized that the use of photovoltaics offers a multitude of advantages, both ecological and economic. By harnessing sunlight, an inexhaustible and therefore renewable energy source, the emission of greenhouse gases and other pollutants is drastically minimized compared to other methods, such as the combustion of fossil fuels. Furthermore, the operating costs of photovoltaic systems after installation are generally low, as they require minimal maintenance and there are no fuel costs. In addition, photovoltaics can be deployed on a wide variety of scales, from small, decentralized systems, for example, alongside the transport system, to large solar parks, for example as a rooftop above the transport system.

[0072] In a further development of the invention, it is also conceivable for the transport system to be at least partially arranged on a lane and / or integrated into a lane. The term "lane" is understood by those skilled in the art to mean a specific roadway or a defined area on which vehicles, trains, and / or other means of transport move. Rather, the term also encompasses lane markings that indicate the course of a road to road users. It has been recognized as particularly advantageous to utilize and / or expand any existing infrastructure, as this results in immense cost savings while avoiding the creation of additional space.

[0073] In yet another embodiment, it is conceivable that at least two transport systems, preferably 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, 100 or more identical or different transport systems, can be coupled. The term "coupleable" generally means that two or more systems, components and / or processes can be connected and / or linked to one another. Furthermore, the term encompasses the possibility of using different systems, systems and / or components together or of connecting them in such a way that they work together harmoniously. This includes both physical connections and digital interfaces that enable the exchange of data, control and / or regulation commands.

[0074] It is assumed that the definitions and descriptions of the above terms apply to all aspects described below in this description, unless otherwise stated.

[0075] Further details, features, and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description of the preferred embodiment in conjunction with the subclaims. The respective features can be implemented individually or in combination with one another. The invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiment. The exemplary embodiment serves merely to illustrate the invention and is shown schematically in the figure. The same reference numerals in the figure designate identical or functionally identical elements, or elements that correspond to one another in terms of their function.

[0076] In detail: Fig. 1 a schematic representation of an exemplary embodiment of the transport system.

[0077] In Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of an exemplary embodiment of the transport system 100, which is suitable for transporting people, goods 11, in particular the illustrated packages and parcels, and / or vehicles 12. The transport system 100 comprises a main unit 22, which extends from a first position X1 to a second position X2. Furthermore, it is shown in Fig. 1 that the transport system 100 has two locking devices 101, which are suitable for inserting and removing a transport module 21. In the figure, it is shown that the lower locking device 101 shown on the right is suitable for inserting the transport module 21, while the upper locking device 101 shown on the left is suitable for removing the transport module 21. Furthermore, it is the Fig. 1 that it is possible to transport people, goods 11 and / or vehicles 12 using the transport module 21. In the Fig. 1, the transport module 21 is not further illustrated. The direct loading of goods 11 and / or vehicles 12 onto the main unit 22, i.e., without a transport module, is also conceivable (not illustrated).

[0078] The Fig. The transport modules 21 shown in Figure 1 have a coding 41, which is designed, for example, as an NFC chip, QR code or barcode, and with the aid of which it is possible to read out information such as the content, location and / or destination of the transport module 21 from transmitters and receivers 42.

[0079] Furthermore, it is in Fig. 1 clearly shows that an energy converter 31 is arranged to the side of the main unit 22. The energy converter 31 is designed as a generator and is capable of converting the wind power 32 used by wind collectors 33 into electrical energy and feeding it back to the transport system 100. QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] DE 103 30 850 A1

[0004] US 3,987,734

[0005]

Claims

[1] Transport system (100) for the overland transport of persons, goods and / or vehicles with at least one transport module (21) for the overland transport of a person, a good (11) and / or a vehicle (12) from a first position (X1) to a second position (X2), a main unit (22), wherein the main unit (22) is designed to convey the transport module (21) from the first position (X1) to the second position (X2) and wherein the main unit (22) has a substantially constant speed, at least one energy converter (31), wherein the at least one energy converter is designed in the manner of a generator, and a control and / or regulating unit, characterized by that the at least one energy converter (31) provides at least 20% of the amount of energy required by the transport system (100) for the transport system (100) and / or that the transport system (100) comprises at least one chip. [2] Transport system (100) according to claim 1, characterized by that the transport system (100) comprises a locking device (101), wherein the locking device (101) is designed for inserting and / or removing the at least one transport module (21). [3] Transport system (100) according to claim 2, characterized by that the locking device (101) has at least one pulling element which is detachably connected to the at least one transport module (21). [4] Transport system (100) according to claim 2 or 3, characterized by that the locking device (101) accelerates the at least one transport module (21) to the substantially constant speed of the main unit (22) and / or decelerates it to the substantially constant speed of the main unit (22). [5] Transport system (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the at least one transport module (21) is designed as a vehicle (12) or as a wagon. [6] Transport system (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the at least one transport module (21) has a coding (41). [7] Transport system (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the main unit (22) is designed as a conveyor belt and / or as a rail track. [8] Transport system (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the at least one chip is a silicon chip or a gallium nitride chip. [9] Transport system (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the at least one energy converter (31) is arranged laterally, below and / or above the transport module (21) and / or the main unit (21). [10] Transport system (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the at least one energy converter (31) generates electrical energy from wind power (32), solar energy, damping energy, kinetic energy, vibration energy, braking energy, a mixture and / or a combination thereof. [11] Transport system (100) according to claim 10, characterized by that the at least one energy converter (31) for generating electrical energy from wind power (32) is designed as a wind catcher (33). [12] Transport system (100) according to claims 10 and 11, characterized by that the at least one energy converter (31) for generating electrical energy from solar energy is designed as a photovoltaic, in particular as an organic or inorganic solar cell. [13] Transport system (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the transport system (100) can be arranged at least partially on a track and / or integrated into a track. [14] Transport system (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that at least two transport systems (100) can be coupled.

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