Elevated Modular Roadways for Autonomous Vehicles in Dense Cities
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing road infrastructure is inadequate for efficiently accommodating autonomous vehicles, particularly in dense urban environments, as it requires dedicating existing traffic lanes or sidewalks, which is impractical and undesirable.
Innovation Solution
Elevated roadways supported by pylons that are anchored into the ground, featuring modular, prefabricated road sections and joist structures, allowing for controlled loading and optimized vehicle operation, with vehicles designed for autonomous navigation and ride characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing traffic lanes or sidewalks are dedicated for autonomous vehicles, then autonomous vehicle operation is enabled, but existing infrastructure capacity is reduced and urban space is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from ground-level roadways to elevated three-dimensional road structures, allowing autonomous vehicles to operate on a different spatial plane. This vertical dimensionality change enables dedicated autonomous vehicle lanes without reducing existing ground-level traffic capacity or urban sidewalk space.
Solution Approach 2:
The elevated roadway is divided into modular sections with standardized components including pylons, road sections, and barriers. This segmentation allows for scalable deployment that can be extended horizontally without requiring dedicated ground space, as each modular unit is self-contained and can be assembled in various configurations.
2Productivity
If conventional roadways are used for autonomous vehicles, then infrastructure utilization is maintained, but controlled loading and optimized vehicle operation are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The elevated roadway incorporates specialized local features including integrated lighting systems, sensor arrays, communication infrastructure, and controlled access points along specific segments. These localized enhancements optimize autonomous vehicle operation through improved navigation, communication, and safety without requiring complete redesign of the entire roadway system.
Solution Approach 2:
The standardized modular components serve multiple functions: pylons provide structural support while potentially housing utility infrastructure; road sections accommodate vehicles while integrating lighting and sensors; barriers provide safety while maintaining aesthetic consistency. This multi-functionality increases operational efficiency without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If elevated roadways with modular sections are constructed, then scalability and minimal impact on existing infrastructure are achieved, but manufacturing and assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The elevated roadway is divided into standardized modular sections with consistent dimensions and connection interfaces. Each module includes pre-assembled components (road section, barriers, lighting, sensors) that can be manufactured independently in controlled environments and then assembled on-site, improving both scalability and manufacturing efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple functional elements are merged into integrated modular units: structural components, safety barriers, lighting systems, and sensor arrays are combined into single manufacturable modules. This integration reduces the number of separate manufacturing processes and simplifies on-site assembly while maintaining scalability.
Data Source
AI summary
An elevated roadway for autonomous vehicles may include a pylon extending vertically from a ground anchor and comprising a metal tube defining a central cavity and a concrete column within the central cavity. The elevated roadway further includes a bracket coupled to the pylon and comprising a mounting plate secured to the pylon and a cantilevered road support member extending from the mounting plate. The elevated roadway may further include a cantilevered road section coupled to the pylon via the cantilevered road support member and comprising a joist structure structurally coupled to the cantilevered road support member, a road member above the joist structure and supported by the joist structure, and first and second side barriers along first and second sides of the road member, respectively. The road member may be adapted to receive a four-wheeled roadway vehicle.