Transit System

Abstract

A mass transit system 1 comprising a track comprising a tunnel 100 defined by a series of longitudinal pre-formed sections 121, 122, aligned end-to-end to form a continuous bore. The pre-formed sectio

Description

Field of Invention The present invention relates to a mass transit system, particularly an urban mass transit system. Background A mass transit system as used herein is a transport system which is separated from other forms of traffic (such as automobiles), follows one or more pre-determined routes, and generally has a high capacity (for example in terms of passengers per hour) and speed of travel (for example significantly greater than pedestrian travel). Rapid transport systems are commonly found in urban areas where there is a high concentration of population. Urban rapid transport systems include light railway systems, tramways, and underground "metro" systems (which may also be referred to as subways). Underground metro systems are particularly effective as they are generally fully grade separated from road and pedestrian traffic so can operate at high speeds with separate rights of way. Most metro systems use electric powered rail cars which are powered by a continuous conductor pickup which may, for example be an electrified rail or dedicated overhead line. There is increasing demand for mass transport systems as a sustainable solution to meet the demands of increasing populations whilst also reducing pollution and congestion in urban areas. The introduction of new mass transport systems (including the extension of routes of existing systems) is challenging and expensive. Often new systems must compromise between highly significant infrastructure costs and disruption (for example in the construction of new metro systems) or reducing space for other services (for example in the case of surface systems such as trams or light railway). These problems are particularly acute when addressing transport needs in established urban areas. Accordingly, there is a desire for an improved or alternative mass transit system which can be easily implemented into an urban environment and provide a sustainable transport solution which is sustainable and cost-effective to both construction and operate. Embodiments of the invention seek to provide at least some of these advantages. Summary of Invention According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a mass transit system (for example an urban mass transit system) comprising a track having a tunnel defined by a series of longitudinal pre-formed sections aligned end-to-end to form a continuous bore. The pre-formed sections define an integral guideway. The tunnel is located immediately subsurface. An upper portion of at least one pre-formed section provides a load bearing support for surface traffic. The system further comprises a plurality of individual autonomous transport units. Each autonomous transport unit comprises a carriage, a controller, at least one drive motor, an electrical storage unit for supplying power to the drive motor, and a set of wheels, driven by the at least one drive motor, for engaging the guideway of the tunnel. In the context of embodiments of the invention, it may be appreciated that the tunnel being located immediately subsurface means that the tunnel follows the contours of the grade surface. This may for example, contrast directly with conventional rail or underground metro systems where the contours of the tunnel are accurately prescribed and generally independent of the grade surface (for example to include only gentle curves and gradients). The individual autonomous transport units may each have a passenger capacity of less than 25 passengers. For example, the passenger capacity of each unit may be 5 to 20 passengers, for example 12 to 18 passengers. In particular, the system may be configured to provide relatively low-capacity transport units which can be spaced apart along the track at reduced intervals. Thus, a high frequency, small capacity system can provide a relatively high overall system passenger capacity. As embodiments use low-capacity individual autonomous transport units the size of each unit may be minimised. For example, each individual autonomous transport units may have a length of less than 10m, and may for example be around 5 to 6m to optimise turning radii of the units. The individual autonomous transport units may also have a minimised cross-sectional profile. For example, the transport unit may be sized cross-sectionally to accommodate a single standing passenger. The usage of advance manufacturing materials and methods may further reduce the cross-sectional size of the individual autonomous transport units (for example reducing the spatial constraints as a result of the carriage structure). By minimising the cross-sectional profile of the transport units, the dimensions of the tunnel defining the track may be minimised resulting in reduced infrastructure requirements. For example, in some embodiments the tunnel may have a maximum internal diameter of less than 3m. The mass transport system of some embodiments may have a track which follows a path which conforms to existing roads and / or pathways. This is particularly applicable to urban environments where space is limited. The ability to follow existing, typically on grade, infrastructure enables embodiments of the invention to be implemented with minimal disruption and cost. In particular, the applicant has identified that existing mass transport system cannot readily follow existing road or pathways as their implementation necessitates extensive infrastructure such as tunnelling . Currently available systems generally require significant investment with tunnel dimensions dictated by the dimensions of available railway stock and, for example, the typical provision of multiple separate trackways (often running in parallel) for different routes or directions. Further, in embodiments the path of the track in accordance with embodiments may include allow a minimum curve radius of between 5 and 20m, in particular of less than 10m (for example 5m). It will be appreciated that the minimum curve radius may be measured along the centre line of the track. It may be appreciated that the provision of a mass transport system which can accommodate tight radius curves is advantageous in enabling the following of routes of roads and pathways which may originally have been configured for cars or even pedestrians. In particular, embodiments of the invention are able to follow such tight curves due to the use of high-frequency / low-capacity individual autonomous transport units which have significantly reduced dimensions in comparison to existing systems such as rail cars and metro systems. The provision of a low minimum curve radius may be particularly advantageous in allowing embodiments to be constructed to follow existing pathways and public space in built up environments such that implementation and infrastructure costs can be greatly reduced. In embodiments the mass transport system of embodiments may have a path of the track defining a continuous loop. A loop path is particularly useful, for example, in a high-frequency / low-capacity system for an urban environment. For example, the provision of a loop track may simplify the configuration by enabling a practical lay out in which the transport units can operate in a one-way system around the track. The path of the track could for example extend in an irregular or regular shaped loop having a total length of 1 to 10km, for example between 2 to 5km. Stops may be provided at regular intervals along the track for example at spacings of approximately 150-300m for example 200m. In embodiments the tunnel is a passive track. In other words, the track may not require electrification or active signalling. In palace of active track based signalling / control the track may, for example, be provided with passive marks or indicators to be read / interpreted by the control systems of the transport units. It will be appreciated that the provision of a passive track may simplify the required infrastructure requirements. The use of a passive track in embodiments is for example enabled by the provision of fully autonomous (or self-driving) transport units which include both a motive source (the drive motor(s)) and energy store (electrical storage unit) on board. The wheels of the individual autonomous transport units may comprise rubber wheels. Rubber wheels (in contrast to metal wheels used on may rail based systems) provide increased traction between the wheels and the track and, advantageously this may for example allow embodiments of the invention to accommodate tighter radius corners and / or more significant gradients. This may for example, increase the flexibility of the system for example when being implemented in a crowded urban environment. In embodiments the carriage of the individual autonomous transport units comprises laterally opposed side walls and an egress door defined in one of the side walls. In some embodiments only one of the side walls includes at least one egress doors, such an embodiment may provide an arrangement which minimises the overall cross section of the carriage whilst sacrificing some flexibility in configuration of the boarding points to the transport unit. In some embodiments, the carriage may comprise a plurality of egress doors on one side wall and the interior of the carriage comprises a plurality of seats along the opposing side wall. The seats may extend transversely with respect to the carriage to face the doors. In some embodiments the seats may extend perpendicular to the axis of the carriage, this may for example maximise ease of access into and out of the seats. In other embodiments the seats may extend obliquely from the side wall to provide a configuration in which seats allow for ease of loading and a compact layout. The mass transport system may include a plurality of access stations defined adjacent the tunnel at longitudinally spaced locations. Whilst embodiments utilise immediately sub-grade tunnels, for example to allow the mass transport system to be integrated into busy urban environments, in some embodiments the track comprises one or more sections which are on grade and / or one or more sections which are above grade (for example elevated sections). It will be appreciated that such arrangements ensure the maximum flexibility for integrating a track into an environment. In embodiments, the preformed sections of the tunnel comprise pre-cast reinforced concrete sections, for example tubes. The use of pre-cast concrete sections is particularly effective when combined with a passive track which does not require any electrical or signal connection. Further the autonomous transport units of embodiments may particularly enable the use of pre-cast segments by the autonomous control providing steering functionality which reduces the alignment tolerance for between track segments. The use of pre-cast sections may for example enable the tunnel of systems to be formed rapidly and efficiently in a simple cut-and-cover process minimising the need for extensive groundworks. In some embodiments an upper portion of each preformed modular section comprises an integral utilities trench. The integral utilities trench may allow utility pipes and / or cables to run along and / or across the tunnel. Providing integrated utilities with the preformed section is advantageous, particularly in urban areas, for maximising usage of sub-grade space and ensuring that a mass transport system can be provided without compromising other necessary services. In embodiments each preformed modular section may comprises a substantially tubular lower section defining the track and an open sided upper section defining the integral utilities trench. An open sided section is beneficial in allowing utilities to cross the track in multiple directions. Whilst the invention has been described above, it extends to any inventive combination of the features set out above or in the following description or drawings. Description of the Drawings Embodiments of the invention may be performed in various ways, and embodiments thereof will now be described by way of example only, reference being made to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 shows a schematic cross section of a tunnel and transport unit in accordance with an embodiment; Figure 2 shows a schematic three-dimensional partial section of a tunnel in accordance with an embodiment; Figure 3A and 3B show a series of pre-fabricated modules for forming a tunnel in accordance with an embodiment; Figures 4A and 4B show schematic plans of two configuration for seating and doors in transportation units in accordance with embodiments; and Figure 4 shows a schematic cross section of a tunnel and transport unit in accordance with another embodiment. Detail Description of Embodiments Figures 1 and 2 illustrate a cross section and three-dimensional partial cut-away of a mass transit system 1 which is configured to operate in tunnels 100 which are immediately subsurface (or sub grade). The mass transit system comprises a track which includes a tunnel 100. The tunnel 100 is formed from a series of pre-formed sections 121, 122 which are aligned end-to-end to form a continuous bore 130. The tunnel sections 121,122 may each include an upper plate 110 which is at or adjacent to the surface (and may support pedestrian or road traffic). In embodiments a section the upper surface may include integral flanges 112. The flanges 112 may, for example, spread loads on the top plate 110 and / or assist in alignment and positioning of the tunnel sections and / or provide a smooth transition over the tunnel for any overlying road / pathway. Optionally, a central portion 115 of the cover may include a grid or mesh covering to provide simple ventilation of the tunnel bore 130. A plurality of individual autonomous transport units 200 are provided and travel through the bore 130 of the tunnel 100. Each transport unit 200 is of a compact size typically accommodating up to 12 to 18 passengers. The approximate cross-sectional dimensions of the tunnel 100 and transport unit 200 can be noted from the scale of the seat 280. The small size of the transport units combined with autonomous operation is intended to enable units to be operated a greatly reduced intervals (for example a frequency of 2 mins or less) in comparison to traditional metro type systems (having for example a minimal frequency of 3 to 6 mins or more). The small size also ensures that the transport unit has a low turning radius, for example 5m. This enables embodiments to follow existing road or path layouts which can greatly simplify implementation of a mass transit system into an existing urban environment. The tunnel sections 121 and 122 as shown in figure 2 provide an example of how pre-cast tunnel sections can be arranged end-to-end to form the tunnel 100. Each segment may, for example be formed from cast, reinforced concrete which can be easily, and cost effectively, produced. Due to the autonomous nature of the transport units 200 which include both a motive source, in the form of at least one motor 230 for powering the wheels 240, and a power source, such as batteries 250, the track defined by the tunnel may be passive. This means the tunnel sections 121 and 122 do not need to include any power or signalling which requires connection or installation. Thus, the sections 121, 122 can be simply positioned and aligned to define a track for the autonomous units 200 to follow. Figure 3A further illustrates how a series of pre-formed straight track sections 121, 122, 123 and 124 can be provided to define a section of tunnel 100. Additionally, figure 3B shows how a curved section of track could be formed by bringing together curved modules 121', 122', 123' and 124'. It will be appreciated that curved and straight modules could be used in any combination as required to form a specific pathway, for example to match a road layout. Figure 4A and 4B illustrate two alternative carriage configurations for use in transport units 200 embodiments. In both cases the carriage 210 comprises opposing side walls and the seats 280 are arranged along one side wall with the egress doors 290 arranged on the opposite wall. This configuration provides a simple and highly compact arrangement to allow the dimensions, and particularly the width, of the carriage to be minimised. In the illustrated embodiment it may be noted that each seat 280 is matched with a corresponding door 290 to allow quick and easy passenger access. In both the embodiment of figure 4A and 4B the seats 280 project into the carriage transversely from the side wall, such that the seat 280 faces the door 290. This arrangement ensures easier and faster loading (for example in comparison to seats facing the axial direction of the carriage 210. In the embodiment of figure 4A the seats are perpendicular to the side walls of the carriage. This enables the maximum number of seats along the length of the carriage 200. In contrast the embodiment of figure 4B has seats 280' which extend at an acute angle to the wall of the carriage 210'. Such an arrangement allows each passenger to have increased space (due the diagonal alignment across the carriage) but reduces the total number of seats 280' along the length of the carriage 210'. An alternate embodiment is shown in Figure 5, in which corresponding features are indicated with reference numerals with a 1 prefix. This embodiment illustrates the option of providing the preformed modular sections 1100 with an integral utilities trench 1400 provided between the lower section defining the tunnel 1130 (for the transport unit 1200) and the top plate 1110. The integral utilities trench 1400 enables utilities 500 (for example pipes, cables, and the like) to pass along or across the modular section 1100. The integral utilities trench 1400 incudes opposed openings 1410 in the side portion, which allow pipes 500 to enter and / or cross the trench and opposed opening 1420 in the ends of the integral section to allow utilities 500 to extend along the length of the tunnel. Although the invention has been described above with reference to preferred embodiments, it will be appreciated that various changes or modification may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A mass transit system comprising:a track comprising a tunnel defined by a series of longitudinal preformed sections aligned end-to-end to form a continuous bore, wherein the pre-formed sections define an integral guideway, wherein the tunnel is located immediately subsurface, and an upper portion of one or more preformed sections provides a load bearing support for surface traffic;a plurality of individual autonomous transport units, each unit comprising:a carriage,a controller,at least one drive motor,an electrical storage unit for supplying power to the drive motor, and a set of wheels, driven by the at least one drive motor, for engaging the guideway of the tunnel,wherein the tunnel is a passive track comprising passive marks or indicators configured in use to be read / interpreted by the controller of each autonomous transport unit.

2. The mass transport system of claim 1, wherein the individual autonomous transport units each have a passenger capacity of 5 to 20 passengers.

3. The mass transport system of claim 2, wherein the individual autonomous transport units each have a passenger capacity of 12 to 18 passengers.

4. The mass transport system of any preceding claim wherein the individual autonomous transport units have a length of less than 10m.

5. The mass transport system of any preceding claim, wherein the tunnel has a maximum internal diameter of no more than 3m.

6. The mass transport system of any preceding claim, wherein the path of the track conforms to existing road and / or pathways.

7. The mass transport system of any preceding claim, wherein track has a minimum curve radius of less than 10m.

8. The mass transport system of any preceding claim, wherein the path of the track defines a continuous loop.

9. The mass transport system of any preceding claim, wherein the wheels of the individual autonomous transport units comprise rubber wheels.

10. The mass transport system of any preceding claim wherein the carriage of the individual autonomous transport units comprise laterally opposed side walls and an egress door defined in one of the side walls.

11. The mass transport system of claim 10, wherein the carriage comprises a plurality of egress doors on one side wall and the interior of the carriage comprises a plurality of seats along the opposing side wall, the seats extending transversely with respect to the carriage to face the doors.

12. The mass transport system of any preceding claim, further comprising a plurality of access stations defined adjacent the tunnel at longitudinally spaced locations.

13. The mass transport system of any preceding claim, wherein the track comprises one or more sections which are on grade.

14. The mass transit system of any preceding claim, wherein the preformed sections comprise pre-cast reinforced concrete tubes.

15. The mass transit system of claim 14, wherein an upper portion of each preformed modular section comprises an integral utilities trench to allow utility pipes and / or cables to run along and / or across the tunnel.

16. The mass transit system of claim 15, wherein each preformed modular section comprises a tubular lower section defining the track and an open sided upper section defining the integral utilities trench.

Images