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.


    Access

    Download


    Export, share and cite



    Title :

    Full-Scale CargoTube Demonstrator Based on Hyperloop Technologies


    Additional title:

    Lect.Notes Mobility



    Conference:

    Transport Research Arena Conference ; 2024 ; Dublin, Ireland April 15, 2024 - April 18, 2024



    Publication date :

    2025-07-19


    Size :

    6 pages





    Type of media :

    Article/Chapter (Book)


    Type of material :

    Electronic Resource


    Language :

    English





    CargoTube – ein klimaneutraler Logistikansatz

    Schüning, Thomas / Eschment, Lukas / Duin, Heiko et al. | TIBKAT | 2023


    Hyperloop

    Enzweiler, Kai | DataCite | 2021


    Hyperloop with Strake

    YUN SEOK HEE | European Patent Office | 2024

    Free access

    Hyperloop Rarefied Anaylsis

    Derek S. Liechty | NTRS


    HYPERLOOP TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM

    MURUGANANDAM THIRUCHENGODE M / CHAKRAVARTHY SATYANARAYANAN R / HIWALE VAIBHAV SUDHAKAR et al. | European Patent Office | 2024

    Free access