PRT Track and Guide Way
2getthere’s CyberCab system uses a dedicated guide way, which can be constructed elevated, underground, embedded in buildings and (a-typical for PRT systems) at grade. The dedicated guide way ensures the congestion of normal city streets is avoided and supports system safety.
The CyberCab system uses a simple, completely flat guide way – comparable to normal roads. Optionally the track only consists of two asphalt rails (instead of paving the entire track width). Demonstrations, ranging from 1 day to 2 weeks in duration, have been provided for several communities throughout Europe on roads temporarily closed to regular traffic. Preparation of the infrastructure for operations of the automated people mover system was always achieved in less than 2 days (including testing).
To enable automated operations, passive reference points (magnets) are embedded in the road surface every 4 meters. There is no requirement for any physical guidance (rail) or other guiding infrastructure elements (kerbs and/or walls), making the system less vulnerable (more reliable) and ensuring reduced capital and maintenance costs.
Where spatial planning allows the track can be constructed at grade, realizing significant cost advantages and avoiding visual intrusion. Although the CyberCab PRT system is equipped with obstacle detection systems to prevent collisions, people should be discouraged from entering the track as this will disturb operations.
The guide way should be designed such that the total costs of an application (guide way, control system and vehicles) are minimized. Thus each track section is designed individually, taking into account:
- Level of implementation;
- Single or double lane (option: left or right side);
- Speed requirements and the associated radius and incline consequences;
- Evacuation (route) requirements;
- Area of operation (public vs. non-public environment).
2getthere’s PRT system allows for customization of (each section of) the guide way to achieve a natural fit with the environment. Typically a PRT system will be build up of multiple (intersecting) single lane loops. Depending on the area of operation, a section of a loop could be constructed elevated or at grade. 2getthere extensively researches where operations at grade are possible to reduce total project costs (as stations at grade are also more affordable).
Even though systems are engineered to maximize safety and reliability performance, the eventuality of evacuation should be taken into account. Depending on the local regulations, an evacuation route can be a requirement or a preference; increasing the track width (and when elevated visual intrusion). Evacuation (onto the guide way) through the front or rear of the vehicle is not a realistic option, as this does not allow safe and timely evacuation of elderly and handicapped passengers. The evacuation measures and procedures are part of the safety case to be drafted for each application.
CyberCab II
| Track width (minimum): | 1700mm | ||||
| Track load (maximum wheel pressure on rear wheels): | 1000kg. | ||||
| Magnets: | Ø15 mm x 30 mm, installed each 4 meter | ||||
| Steel parts | No steel within 100 mm around magnets |