CargoTube is a technological solution for transporting goods in a low-pressure tube with significantly reduced frictional resistance and minimal energy input. CargoTube is based on hyperloop technology and focuses not only on the development of the system technology, consisting of tube, guiding system and transport vehicle, but also on intermodality with other modes of transport. Freight handling plays an essential role in the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of the CargoTube system [1].
To investigate this innovative transport system, a full-scale demonstration facility with a steel tube 26 m long and 1.7 m in diameter and adapted vacuum technology is being built. The demonstrator will be used to compare different drive concepts such as linear motors or an integrated drive system within a low-pressure tube. Airlock technologies are to be developed and evaluated to enable a high throughput of the cargo. Possible technology solutions are the discharge of the pods in a segmented unloading chamber or the docking to the vehicle inside the tube via lateral pressure locks. In a further research step, concepts are developed that enable highly automated loading processes in logistics hubs.
The determined test data of all subsystems will be compared with simulation and modelling results to refine existing models and increase the accuracy of the simulations. This paves the way for extrapolation to a larger network with existing local supply chains as well as regional or national networks leading to an outlook for a European Hyperloop research infrastructure that enables research, development and certification processes.
Full-Scale CargoTube Demonstrator Based on Hyperloop Technologies
Lect.Notes Mobility
Transport Research Arena Conference ; 2024 ; Dublin, Ireland April 15, 2024 - April 18, 2024
Transport Transitions: Advancing Sustainable and Inclusive Mobility ; Kapitel : 41 ; 292-297
19.07.2025
6 pages
Aufsatz/Kapitel (Buch)
Elektronische Ressource
Englisch
CargoTube – ein klimaneutraler Logistikansatz
TIBKAT | 2023
|DataCite | 2021
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