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Case Study of an Integrated Design and Technical Concept for a Scalable Hyperloop System

  • Domenik Radeck
  • , Florian Janke
  • , Federico Gatta
  • , João Nicolau
  • , Gabriele Semino
  • , Tim Hofmann
  • , Nils König
  • , Oliver Kleikemper
  • , Felix He Mao Hsu
  • , Sebastian Rink
  • , Felix Achenbach
  • , Agnes Jocher
  • Technical University of Munich

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

2 Scopus citations

Abstract

This paper presents the design process and resulting technical concept for an integrated hyperloop system, aimed at realizing efficient high-speed ground transportation. This study integrates various functions into a coherent and technically feasible solution, with key design decisions that optimize performance and cost-efficiency. An iterative design process with domain-specific experts, regular reviews, and a dataset with a single source of truth were employed to ensure continuous and collective progress. The proposed hyperloop system features a maximum speed of 600 (Formula presented.) and a capacity of 21 passengers per pod (vehicle). It employs air docks for efficient boarding, electromagnetic suspension (EMS) combined with electrodynamic suspension (EDS) for high-speedlane switching, and short stator motor technology for propulsion. Cooling is managed through water evaporation at an operating pressure of 10 (Formula presented.) (Formula presented.), while a 300 (Formula presented.) (Formula presented.) inductive power supply (IPS) provides onboard power. The design includes a safety system that avoids emergency exits along the track and utilizes separated safety-critical and high-bandwidth communication. With prefabricated concrete parts used for the tube, construction costs can be reduced and scalability improved. A dimensioned cross-sectional drawing, as well as a preliminary pod mass budget and station layout, are provided, highlighting critical technical systems and their interactions. Calculations of energy consumption per passenger kilometer, accounting for all functions, demonstrate a distinct advantage over existing modes of transportation, achieving greater efficiency even at high speeds and with smaller vehicle sizes. This work demonstrates the potential of a well-integrated hyperloop system to significantly enhance transportation efficiency and sustainability, positioning it as a promising extension to existing modes of travel. The findings offer a solid framework for future hyperloop development, encouraging further research, standardization efforts, and public dissemination for continued advancements.

Original languageEnglish
Article number113
JournalApplied System Innovation
Volume7
Issue number6
DOIs
StatePublished - Dec 2024

UN SDGs

This output contributes to the following UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

  1. SDG 7 - Affordable and Clean Energy
    SDG 7 Affordable and Clean Energy

Keywords

  • design decisions
  • high-speed transportation
  • hyperloop
  • maglev
  • magnetic levitation
  • magnetic propulsion
  • system overview
  • technical concept

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