Hyperloop Tube Assembly Pathway for Rough-Terrain Construction
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for constructing hyperloop transportation structures face challenges in transporting and assembling large tube segments, especially in difficult terrains, requiring complex machinery and repeated electrical certifications, and are not suitable for rough terrains.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the construction of a substructure composed of piers and girders that supports the assembly of tube segments, allowing vehicles to transport elements along a dedicated pathway without needing ground access, using a combination of piers, girders, and platforms to facilitate easy assembly and installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If tube segments are transported to construction site using existing methods, then assembly can be performed, but transportation becomes extremely difficult in steep or difficult terrains
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the construction system mobile rather than fixed. A movable fabrication machine and movable manufacturing system can be transported along the construction route, adapting to different locations as the hyperloop route progresses. This dynamic approach allows construction in steep or difficult terrains where fixed construction sites would be inaccessible.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from ground-based transportation to aerial/suspended transportation by constructing the hyperloop tube above ground on piers. This dimensional change allows the tube segments to be fabricated and assembled in locations that would be inaccessible by ground vehicles, effectively using the third dimension (height) to overcome terrain limitations.
2Ease of manufacture
If movable fabrication machine is used to construct hyperloop route, then tube segments can be manufactured on land, but energy supply becomes tricky and electrical certifications must be obtained repeatedly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by establishing a permanent base camp with stable energy supply infrastructure before beginning the movable fabrication process. The base camp serves as a permanent energy source that can support the movable fabrication machine as it travels along the construction route, eliminating the need for repeated electrical certifications at each new location.
3Device complexity
If tube segments are simply rested on piers, then structure appears simple, but important installation challenges are not addressed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the hyperloop tube into manageable tube segments that can be fabricated and assembled in sections. The movable fabrication machine can work on one segment at a time, making installation feasible even in difficult terrains. The segmented approach also allows for modular assembly on piers, addressing the installation challenges while maintaining structural simplicity.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for erecting a portion of a transportation structure comprising a first assembly of tube segments, capable of being placed under low air pressure and through which pods may travel substantially free of air friction, the method comprising: (a) erecting a substructure comprising a first plurality of girders forming a first transportation pathway and a plurality of platforms forming a service pathway, the erecting step comprising conveying with vehicle(s) the girders and platforms along the first transportation pathway, positioning them and having the vehicle(s) return along the service pathway, (b) conveying, with vehicle(s), the tube segments along the first transportation pathway, positioning them and having the vehicle(s) return along the service pathway. The invention also relates to the portion of transportation structure thereof.