WO2012147096A2

WO2012147096A2 - Network transport system

Info

Publication number: WO2012147096A2
Application number: PCT/IN2012/000245
Authority: WO
Inventors: Srinivas Rao Ravindra
Original assignee: Srinivas Rao Ravindra
Priority date: 2011-04-08
Filing date: 2012-04-04
Publication date: 2012-11-01
Also published as: WO2012147096A3

Abstract

A network transport system is provided. The network transport system comprising of a network path and a plurality of individual transport vehicles capable of track-selection and uninterrupted travel over the said network.

Description

TITLE.: NETWORK TRANSPORT SYSTEM

FIELD OF THE INVENTION:

The present invention relates to a network transport system

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION:

Vehicular traffic on roads has grown at an unmanageable rate over the years making travel chaotic, tiring, time consuming and unsafe. It is in the nature of occurrence that when two roads intersect junctions appear and this is because both the intersecting roads are in the same horizontal plane. It is at these junctions where traffic from different directions converge and cause traffic congestion and also accidents. The reason for this traffic congestion is overcrowding at junctions due to the increasing density of traffic from all directions.

As an inherent part of the traffic management process it becomes necessary to periodically stop flow of traffic in a particular direction at a junction to give way to start the flow of traffic to or from another direction. Once_. traffic in any direction is stopped all vehicles coming from that direction have to stop and more and more vehicles get stopped creating a huge backlog of vehicles waiting to clear the junction. Traffic signals are installed at junctions to regulate flow of traffic but the high density of traffic creates uncontrollable conditions which results in congestion.

To avoid junctions and subsequent congestion, flyover or road over bridge were designed which have partially solved the problem of congestion and accidents but the rise in number of vehicles is exceeding the capacity of roads and flyovers. The only possible way that appears to address traffic congestions is to increase the road capacity or reduce number of vehicles. However due to space constraint and high costs, increasing road capacity remains a distant possibility. Further efforts have been made to overcome this problem, by way of alternate modes of transport like local trains, mono rails, elevated skywalks, personal transporters on rails, etc. However local trains and mono rails are mass public transport means, which are limited by time table and fixed routes and hence a passenger has to adjust his or her travel based on the timings and route of these public transport means. Further the trains and monorails can be extremely overcrowded, resulting in an uncomfortable experience while travelling. Monorails, skywalks, etc also involve a large investment and lack versatility to form a multi-directional transport network.

Furthermore, train tracks are laid on the ground, and hence occupy a lot of land, some of which may also be agricultural land. Elevated level rail transport has overcome this problem, but at a very high cost. Further advance have been by way of personal transporters which operate on elevated level rails. However these transport systems have inherent track changing problems hence have been unidirectional or circular ring route type with no scope for expansion or networking into multi-path and so are mostly used for amusement purpose and do not in any way satisfy the real transport needs of individuals or people. All of them are restricted to local use in very small confined areas. The growth of the elevated rail into a multi-path network has been restricted by the non-availability of track changing mechanisms.

In any monorail, personal transporters, which operate on overhead or suspended rails, there is a need to take cognizance of the fact that the point & crossing will always involve a void or gap in the rails at the turnout (into the branch line) or at any diverging or converging segment.

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This void causes an imbalance in the vehicle and also causes discomfort to the passenger by way of a jerk or jolt. The support wheels may slip out of from the rails in the void in which case there could be a fall and because the vehicle is ih motion could cause a serious injury.

Further, the current monorail or rail networks have fixed access points referred to as stations for passengers to use the mode of transport. These stations are strategically located area wise, based on commercial considerations. While the transport facility is easily available to passengers living close to the station there is an experience of discomfort in accessing the station for passengers living further away from the station, and the practice of having one station per area also results in overcrowding of the station and the transportation means. Further it is observed that to make life easier and save on travel time, especially in large cities a big cluster of houses are densely built around the station, denying people fresh air and leading to unhygienic conditions.

It is well known that in ancient times, cities grew around water spots but in the new era cities grow around transport facilities and these new cities are congested, have unhygienic living conditions and overcrowded transportation systems. In addition there are environmental issues of sewage & garbage disposal. Keeping this in hindsight, future cities have to be sustainable where water & food is available locally and all the sewage & garbage is recycled locally which in simple terms means the future cities have all the characteristics of a village while enjoying all the benefits of urban technology. This will be possible only when there are open agricultural spaces between the high rise buildings and this can be a possibility when the transport system has the advantage of individual mobility and can cover long distance in short time to enable individuals to reach their place of work and return home conveniently, comfortably, safely & fresh.

Also, in some rural areas, transport needs of people are not satisfied because the existing concept of transport involves high cost of investment, low recovery of costs as well as complex land acquisition issues. Hence many areas do not have the basic facility of roads. Even when where there are roads, transport services are unavailable mainly due to the high cost of financial investment in the vehicles, fuel costs, operational costs, taxes and staff salaries.

Attempts have been made by way of sustainable human powered transport means like shweeb, rail bikes, skyride, mid air bicycle lanes, etc. However these have failed to provide a means of connectivity in different directions due to non-availability of track changing capabilities.

In view of the above, there lies a need in the art for a low cost, sustainable, safe transport system capable of providing smooth & continuous mobility.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION:

Accordingly, the present invention in one aspect provides a network transport system for un-interrupted travel, the system comprising of a network path comprising of a plurality of inter-connected tracks, each track in the network comprising: at-least one upper rail running along the network path, at-least one lower rail running parallel to the upper rail and a guiding means, the guiding means running continuously along one of the rails, and a plurality of crossover mechanisms installed on the tracks at a divergence and a convergence point to facilitate track changing on the network transport system; a plurality of vehicles adapted to traverse along the tracks of the network path, the vehicle comprising of a main frame, at-least one lower support wheel mounted on the main frame, the lower support wheel being adaptable to at-least one lower rail, at-least one upper support wheel mounted on the main frame, the upper support wheel being adaptable to at-least one upper rail, a track selection system, the track selection system mounted on the main frame, the track selection system comprising of a first engaging mechanism capable of engaging with the guiding means, and a second engaging mechanism capable of selectively engaging with the crossover mechanism installed on the tracks, a drive means, the drive means mounted on the main frame to propel the vehicle, at-least one deceleration means, the deceleration means mounted on the main frame to retard acceleration of the vehicle, and an accommodation means to accommodate at-least one passenger to operate the vehicle on the network system, and a plurality of access points along the network path, the access points providing access to the network transport system.

Accordingly, the present invention in another aspect provides a track selection system to enable a vehicle to change tracks on a network transport system, the track selection system comprising of a convergence crossover mechanism, the convergence crossover mechanism being installed on the tracks at a convergence point; a divergence crossover mechanism, the divergence crossover mechanism being installed on the tracks at a divergence point; a first engaging mechanism mounted on the vehicle, the first engaging mechanism comprising at-least a pair of rollers, wherein at-least one roller is capable of engaging with a guiding means on the tracks; and a second engaging mechanism mounted on the vehicle, the second engaging mechanism comprising of a left side roller assembly and a right side roller assembly, the roller assembly having an upper roller and a lower roller assembled in a space apart relationship, the roller assembly of the second engaging mechanism capable of selectively engaging with the divergence crossover mechanism and convergence crossover mechanism installed on the tracks to change tracks on the network transport system.

Accordingly, the present invention in another aspect provides a track selection system to enable a vehicle to change tracks on a network transport system, the track selection system comprising of a convergence mechanism, the convergence mechanism being installed on the tracks at a convergence point; a divergence mechanism, the divergence mechanism being installed on the tracks at a divergence point; a first engaging mechanism mounted on the vehicle, the first engaging mechanism comprising a guiding wheel having a hub, the guiding wheel adapted to a guiding means; a rim member adapted to each side of the guiding wheel, the rim member having a plurality of segments, the segments being capable of moving between a retracted position and an extended position; a plurality of supporting rods supporting the segments of the rim member, the supporting tods extending outwards from the hub of the guiding wheel, the supporting rods enabling the segments to move between the retracted position and the extended position; and an operating rod connected to the hub, the operating rod being adapted to move the supporting rods thereby moving the segments between retracted and extended position in and out of engagement with the guiding means a second engaging mechanism mounted on the vehicle, the second engaging mechanism comprising of a left side roller assembly and a right side roller assembly, the roller assembly having an upper roller and a lower roller assembled in a space apart relationship, the roller assembly of the second engaging mechanism capable of selectively engaging with the divergence mechanism and convergence mechanism installed on the tracks to change tracks on the network transport system.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS:

Reference will be made to embodiments of the invention, examples of which may be illustrated in the accompanying figures. These figures are intended to be illustrative, not limiting. Although the invention is generally described in the context of these embodiments, it should be understood that it is not intended to limit the scope of the invention to these particular embodiments.

The features and advantages of the present invention will be more clearly understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawing, in which:

Figure 1 shows a vehicle adapted to tracks of network path embodying the network transport system, where

Figure 1A shows configuration of tracks in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

Figure 1 B shows vehicle of the present invention adapted to configuration of the tracks in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

Figure 2 shows vehicle adapted to tracks of network path embodying the network transport system, where

Figure 2A shows configuration of tracks in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

Figure 2B shows vehicle of the present invention adapted to the configuration of the tracks in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

Figure 3 shows a track selection mechanism of the vehicle as per one embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 4 shows a track selection mechanism of the vehicle as per another embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 5 shows a track selection mechanism of the vehicle as per another embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 6A and 6b shows a first engaging mechanism of the tracks selection mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

Figure 7 shows side view of the first engaging mechanism of the track selection mechanism is accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

Figure 8A shows a divergence point in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

Figure 8B shows a divergence mechanism installed at the divergence point of the network transport system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

Figure 9A shows a convergence point in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

Figure 9B shows a convergence mechanism installed at the convergence point of the network transport system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Figure 10 shows a vehicle adapted to tracks of network path embodying the network transport system, where

Figure 10A shows configuration of tracks in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

Figure 10B shows vehicle of the present invention adapted to configuration of the tracks in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION:

The embodiments herein provide a network transport system, wherein a passenger controlled transport vehicle may be used for continuous, and non-stop travel on a plurality of tracks in the transport network.

The invention described herein is explained using specific exemplary details for better understanding. However, the invention disclosed can be worked on by a person skilled in the art without the use of these specific details.

References in the specification to "one embodiment" or "preferred embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, characteristic, or function described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the invention. The appearances of the phrase "preferred embodiment" in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment.

The words "comprises/comprising", "provides/providing", "having", "including" when used herein with reference to the present invention are used to specify the presence of stated features or components but does not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features or components thereof.

Hereinafter, the preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail:

Various embodiment of the present invention provide a network transport system comprising of a network path and a plurality of individual transport vehicles capable of uninterrupted travel over the said network.

The network transport system as shown in figure 1 comprises of a network path (50), at-least one passenger controlled transport vehicles (100) adapted to traverse along the network path and a plurality of access points (not shown) to provide access to the network transport system. Figure 1a shows the network path (50) in greater detail. The network path (50) comprises of a plurality of interconnected tracks. As shown each track in the network path (50) comprises of a configuration of vertically parallel rails (10a, 10b), a guiding means (20) and a plurality of cross over mechanism (not shown in figure ).

In an embodiment of the invention, the vertically parallel rails has at-least one lower rail (10a) and at-least one upper rail (10b) running along the network path (50). As show in figure 1a, the network path has one lower rail (10a) and two upper rails (10b). In an embodiment the rails (10a, 10b) have a U-channel, L-channel, C-channel, box channel, l-channel, T-channel configuration.

In an embodiment of the invention, the guiding means (20) runs continuously along one of the rails (10a, 10b). In an embodiment, the guiding means as shown in ' figure 1a, runs along the upper rail (10b). In this regard, the vertical guide (20) has a T- - channel configuration.

In an embodiment of the invention, the guiding means (20) is provided along outer-surface of the upper rails as shown in figure 2A.

In an embodiment of the invention, the network path (50) has a divergence point (as shown in figure 8A) and a convergence point (as shown in figure 9A). At the divergence point, the track branches out into a plurality of tracks. In an embodiment the divergence point as shown in figure 8A has a main track (802a), a first track (802b) and a second track (802c), wherein the main track (802a) diverges into the first track (802b) and second track (802c). At the convergence point, a plurality of tracks combirie into a track. In an embodiment, the convergence point as shown in figure 9A has a first track (902a), a second track (902b) and a main track (902c), wherein the first track (902a) and second track (902b) converge into the main track (902c).

In an embodiment of the invention, the divergence point has a divergence mechanism (800) installed at the divergence point as shown in figure 8B. The divergence mechanism comprises of a left-side divergence crossover plate (810), a right-side divergence crossover plate (820), a left-side chamber (812) and a right-side chamber (822) for left-side and right-side divergence crossover plates. The left-side divergence crossover plate (810) extends from its proximal end (810a) to its distal end (810b), and has a groove extending from the proximal end (810a) to the distal end (810b). The left-side divergence crossover plate (810) is housed in the left-side chamber (812) and is fixed via a pivot (814) at the proximal end (810a). The pivot (814) enables the left-side divergence crossover plate (810) to move between the main track and the first track, enabling the main track to connect to the first track. The right-side divergence crossover plate (820) extends from its proximal end (820a) to its distal end (820b), and has a groove extending from the proximal end (820a) to the distal end (820b). The right- side divergence crossover plate is housed in the right-side chamber (822) and is fixed via a pivot (824) at the proximal end (820a). The pivot (824) enables the right-side divergence crossover plate (820) to move between the main track and the second track, enabling the main track to connect to the second track.

In an embodiment of the invention, the convergence point has a convergence mechanism (900) installed at the convergence point as shown in figure 9B. The convergence mechanism comprises of a convergence crossover plate (910), a first chamber (912) and a second chamber (914). The convergence crossover plate (910) extends from its proximal end (910a) to its distal end (910b), and has a groove extending from its proximal end (910a) to its distal end (910b). At the proximal end (910a), the convergence crossover plate (910) is disposed in the first chamber (912) and fixed via a pivot (916), and at the distal end (910b) the convergence crossover plate (910) engages with the second chamber (914). The pivot (916) enables the convergence crossover plate (910) to move between the first track (902a) and the second track (902b) enabling the first track (902a) and the second track (902b) to connect to the main track (902c). In an embodiment of the invention, the passenger controlled transport vehicle (100) is shown in greater detail in figure 1b. The passenger controlled transport vehicles (100) is adapted to traverse along the tracks of the network path (50) as shown in figure 1b. In this regard, the network path (50) and the vehicle (100) are dependent on each other such that the vehicle (100) is able to travel and converge or diverge on the network path (50) of the present invention.

The vehicle (100) comprises a main frame, and functional devices such as at- least one lower support wheel (110a); at-least one upper support wheel (110b); a drive means (120); at-least one deceleration means (not shown); a vehicle mounted track selection system (as shown in figure 3 and figure 5); an accommodation means (130), etc. These functional devices may be interconnected to the main frame and the said vehicle (100) may accordingly be adapted to the network path (50) of the network transport system such that the wheels (110) will ride along the rails (10) and the track selection system (200) will be positioned along the vertical guide (20) and all the devices function and operate in unison simultaneously.

In an embodiment of the invention, the upper support wheel (110b) is mounted on the main frame of the vehicle and adapted to the upper rail (10b) of the network path (50), and the lower support wheel (110a) is mounted on the main frame of the vehicle and adapted to the lower rail (10a) of the network path. The wheels (110) of the vehicle is driven by a suitable drive means (120). The drive means (120) is installed on the main frame of the vehicle. In an embodiment of the invention, the vehicle is a human powered vehicle, wherein the vehicle is propelled and controlled by a human. In this regard, the drive means (120) can be a pedal operated mechanism. In an embodiment of the invention, the vehicle is capable of being motorized by a power transmission means.

In an embodiment of the invention, the momentum of the vehicle can be slowed down or stopped by a deceleration means mounted on the vehicle. The deceleration means. Further, while traversing on the tracks, to change from one track to another, the present invention employs a track selection system.

In an embodiment of the invention, a track selection system (200) is shown in detail in figure 3. The track selection system (200) comprises of a first engaging mechanism (210) and second engaging mechanism (250). The first engaging mechanism (210) capable of engaging with the guiding means (20) of the tracks, and the second engaging mechanism (250) capable of selectively engaging with the divergence mechanism (800) and convergence mechanism (900) installed on the track of the network path (50).

The first engaging mechanism comprises of at-least a pair of rollers (212a, 212b) - a left-side roller (212a) and a right-side roller (212b) which spin around a vertical axis and are positioned on each side of the guiding means (20) of the network path. The pair of rollers (212a, 212b) are operatively connected to operating rods (214) to selectively engage at-least one of the rollers, in and out of engagement with the guiding means (20) along horizontal axis as shown in figure 3. Alternatively, the pair of rollers (212a, 212b) are operatively connected to operating rods (214) to selectively engage at-least one of the rollers, in and out of engagement with the guiding means (20) along vertical axis as shown in figure 4. As shown in figure 3, the two operating rods (214) may be connected to each other through a lever mechanism (216), and an arm which may be pivoted at the ^* centre such that at any given time only one of the rollers may operate along the guiding means.

In an embodiment of the invention, the network transport system wherein the outer surface of the rails is used as the guiding means, the rollers (212a, 212b) engage with the outer-surface of one of the rails as shown in figure 2B.

The second engaging mechanism (250) as shown in figure 3 comprises of a left side roller assembly (252) and a right side roller assembly (254). The left side roller assembly comprises of a pair of roller, an upper roller (252a) and a lower roller (252b) in a spaced apart relationship. The right side roller assembly (254) is similar to the left side roller assembly (252), and comprises a pair of roller, an upper roller (254a) and a lower roller (254b) in a spaced apart relationship. The left side roller assembly (252) and the right side roller assembly (254) engage with the groove of the crossover plates.

In an embodiment of the invention, the second engaging mechanism (250) engages and activates the crossover mechanism, wherein the upper roller and the lower roller exert an opposing pressure on the crossover mechanism to selectively engage and disengage with the crossover mechanisms to allow the vehicle to converge or diverge in the desired direction.

In an embodiment of the invention, the track selection system (200) further comprises of support wheels (230) to support the track selection system.

In an embodiment of the invention, a track selection system (500) is shown in detail in figure 5. The track selection system (500) includes a first engaging mechanism (510) and a second engaging mechanism (550). In an embodiment the second engaging mechanism (550) is similar to the second engaging mechanism illustrated in figure 3. In an embodiment of the invention, the first engaging mechanism (510) is adapted to guiding means of the network path.

Reference will now be made to figure 5 through figure 7 where the first engaging mechanism (510) is illustrated. The first engaging mechanism is shown in detail in figure 6. The first engaging mechanism includes a guiding wheel (512) with a hub (5 4) at the centre , a rim member (516) adapted to each side of the guiding wheel - a left-side rim member (516a) and a right-side rim member (516b), and an operating rod (518) for each rim member (516). The rim member has a plurality of segments (520), and a plurality of supporting rods (522). The supporting rods extend from the hub (514) and support the segments (520). The segments (520) are capable of moving between a retracted position and an extended position as shown in 6b, where the left-side rim member (516a) is shown in the extend position and the right-side rim member (516b) is shown in retracted position. In an embodiment, the rim members are operatively connected to the operating rods (518). In this regard the operating rod is connected to the hub (514), and the operating rod (518) when moved moves the supporting rods (522), and thereby the segments (520) between the retracted position and extended position.

In an embodiment, the rim member (516) in the extended position engage with the guiding means, and in the retracted position dis-engages with the guiding means. In this regard, in the retracted position, the segments are in a folded position.

In an embodiment, the first engaging mechanism illustrated in figure 5 works in unison with the second engaging mechanism. In this regard at a convergence or a divergence when the vehicle has to turn left or right, the rim member on the opposite side is retracted i.e. to facilitate a vehicle towards a track on the left, the right side rim is retracted, and the expanded left rim will guide the vehicle to the left side by engaging the guiding means along the left side to go along the desired direction. Also at this instant, the crossover mechanisms at the convergence point and divergence point will be activated by the second engaging mechanism.

In an embodiment of the invention, the track selection system (500) further comprises of support wheels (530) to support the track selection system.

In an embodiment of the invention, Figure 10 shows a vehicle adapted to a network path, the vehicle comprising of track selection system (500) shown in figure 5.

Reference will now be made through figure 1,2,3,8 and 9 to illustrate working of the track selection system and the crossover mechanism by way of an example: Vehicle at divergence point: The vehicle as it approaches the divergence point and selects to travel on the first track or second track (for e.g. second track), the left side roller of the first engaging mechanism will be lowered, and the right-side roller of the first engaging mechanism will continue to move along the guiding means. Also, at this instant when the left side roller of the first engaging mechanism is lowered, the left side roller assembly of second engaging mechanism will engage with the left-side plate of the crossover mechanism at the divergence point, wherein the upper and lower roller will engage with the groove of the first crossover plate and travel towards the second track. Vehicle at convergence point: The vehicle as it approaches the convergence point from the first track or second track (for e.g. first track), the right-side roller of the first engaging mechanism will be lowered, and the left-side roller of the first engaging mechanism will continue to move along the guiding means. Also, at this instant when the right-side roller of the first engaging mechanism is lowered, the right side roller assembly of the second engaging mechanism will engage with the. convergence crossover plate of the convergence crossover mechanism at the convergence point, wherein the upper and lower roller will engage with the groove of the convergence crossover plate and travel towards the main track.

Reference will now be made through figure 5 to 10 to illustrate working of the track selection system and the crossover mechanism by way of an example: Vehicle at divergence point: The vehicle as it approaches the divergence point and selects to travel on the first track or second track (for e.g. second track), the left-side rim member on the guiding wheel of the first engaging mechanism will be retracted, and the right-side rim member of the first engaging mechanism will remain extended and continue to move along the guiding means. Also, at this instant when the left-side rim member of the first engaging mechanism is retracted, the left-side roller assembly of second engaging mechanism will engage with the left-side plate of the crossover mechanism at the divergence point, wherein the upper and lower roller will engage with the groove of the right-side crossover plate and travel towards the second track.

Vehicle at convergence point: The vehicle as it approaches the convergence point from the first track or second track (for e.g. first track), the right-side rim member on the guiding wheel of the first engaging mechanism will be retracted, and the left-side rim- member of the first engaging mechanism will remain extended, and continue to move along the guiding means. Also, at this instant when the right-side rim member of the first engaging mechanism is retracted, the right-side roller assembly of the second engaging mechanism will engage with the convergence crossover plate of the convergence crossover mechanism at the convergence point, wherein the upper and lower roller will engage with the groove of the convergence crossover plate and travel towards the main ' track.

The track selection system of the vehicle thus enables the vehicle to select a preferred path of travel or track in a multi-path network. In this aspect the multiple path network of the present invention, allows the vehicle to continue on the preferred track of travel or the vehicle may diverge or converge on to another track using the track selection system of the present invention. The vehicle may hence continue on the existing track of travel or select the divergence or convergence. Advantageously the track selection mechanism of the present invention prevents vehicles from derailment, by allowing the vehicle to travel continuously along a track, if when at the divergence or convergence point, the divergence or convergence is not selected.

One skilled in the art will appreciate, that the track selection mechanism of the vehicle and the crossover mechanisms of the tracks are dependent on each other and work in an integrated way to facilitate track changing on the network transport system. Advantageously the combination of the two mechanisms of track selection and crossover enables the provision of frequent access points and smooth, fast & comfortable transition from one path to another to make the system of practical use and to make it a multi-path networked system which will provide a continuous, and non-stop transport system.

Further while track changing, there may be a possibility of a collision. To avoid this the present invention employs a vehicle proximity detector. The vehicle proximity detector may be assembled on both sides of the main frame of the vehicle. The detector may be a mechanism having a chain or belt mounted on an actuator (rack and pinion) which activates a speed reducing gear. At each end of the actuator is a serrated wheel or sprocket over which the chain moves causing serrated wheel or sprocket to rotate in the direction of the chain thereby rotating the speed reducing gear. The mechanism is preferably assembled on telescopic means which when compressed will activate a- speed reducing gear to adjust the speed of the vehicles to prevent collision. The system may be activated when a vehicle on the network comes in close contact or pushes against another vehicle usually while changing tracks. The system thus prevents a high intensity collision, and ensures that the vehicles continue to travel smoothly on the network.

The vehicle proximity detector prevents collision and creates safe space between vehicles travelling on the network. The proximity detector on the vehicles may be in active communication with each other via mechanical actuators, wherein vehicles within

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close proximity of one-another will automatically adjust their speed so as to prevent collision.

Further to this, while track changing especially at the converging point of two tracks, vehicles on both tracks need to be aware of presence of the vehicles on both the tracks. To alarm the vehicles of another vehicle on a converging line, the network transport system has an auditory proximity indicator. The indicator comprises of a mechanical hammer mounted on a serrated wheel on the vehicle and a bar mounted under the rail near a converging line such that the bar spins the serrated wheel to move the hammer. This mechanical hammer when moved strikes against a plurality of metal rods which are suspended on the network near a converging point to produce a resonating sound which indicates or notifies other vehicles of a presence of another vehicle on the network. The proximity indicator thus provides safe entry of vehicles at a converging point and facilitates safe, continuous and non-stop travel.

In an embodiment of the invention, the accommodation means of the vehicle may not be restricted to a particular seating position. The seating position may be fully streamlined position or fully crouched position or recumbent position or touring position or upright position. In this regard, shape of the vehicle may not be limited to a particular shape, but may preferably be aerodynamic, and the accommodation means may be relative to the shape of the vehicle.

In an embodiment of the invention, the vehicle of the present invention may further comprise of an additional accommodation means, which may allow the vehicle to carry or transport goods or an additional passenger.

In an embodiment of the invention, the network transport system may be above ground level, at the ground level, and below the ground level. The network transport system has a plurality of access points to enable access to the network transport system. The access points can be provided above the ground level, at the ground level and below the ground level. In an embodiment of the invention, the access points in the system may be configured as per requirement by descending or ascending the tracks to the ground level. Advantageously the access points of the system, do not require platforms or stops which may occupy a large area. Hence, access points may be provided at short intervals providing easy and convenient access to the network system. However the use of mobile ramps may not be restricted in the system if required. In an embodiment of the invention, the network path of the network transport system is a multi-level transport system each level providing connectivity in a defined direction, enabling uninterrupted connectivity to different directions on different levels.

In an embodiment of the invention, the network transport system is adaptable to existing blocks or buildings to provide interconnectivity within the network.

In an embodiment of the invention, the network transport system is an all weather transport system wherein the network path or the vehicle may be enclosed by suitable weather protection means.

One skilled in the art will appreciate that though the present invention provides a sustainable network transport system, the invention is not limited to use of control systems, information technologies and the like.

In an embodiment of the present invention, the vehicle may be an ultra lightweight vehicle where the total weight may be less than that of the passenger.

In an exemplary embodiment, the present invention provides individual mobility on a multi-path network using human powered vehicles. The network path allows passenger-defined point to point travel by providing a track selection mechanism which comprises of a track selection system installed on the vehicle and a convergence and divergence crossover mechanism installed on the multi-path network. The network system also provides vehicle proximity detectors and auditory proximity indicators to facilitate safe and un-interrupted travel over the network. One skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention is not limited to the use of individual mobility and a plurality of vehicles may be linked up to form a means for mass transport.

In an additional embodiment a cog wheel may be attached to the drive mechanism of the vehicle so as to make it possible for the vehicle to go up an inclined plane. This will be needed when the network system may be adapted to mountainous areas where inclines may be encountered. The present invention is a versatile transport system which can be adapted to rural areas, mountainous areas, inter-city & intra-city travel, high-speed travel, longdistance travel, pleasure rides, amusement parks, educational and business campuses, material/goods/freight transport, industrial conveyors, goods transportation, perishable goods transportation, small scale transportation of village produce, industrial complex and airport perimeter security/surveillance, national border patrolling, provide solution to current urban transport problems, support for de-urbanisation, support to de-congest urban areas, support for sustainable housing in future cities.

One skilled in the art will appreciate that rearrangement of devices or components or parts of the present invention in a manner wherein variation of number of devices or components or parts is well within the scope of the present invention.

While the present invention has been described with respect to certain embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modification may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the following claims.

Advantageously, the present invention provides:

• a low cost network public transport system for individual mobility;

• a sustainable transport system to prevent environmental air, noise & dust pollution;

• a continuous & uninterrupted network transport system;

• a human powered and human controlled transport vehicle to be used on the multi-path network transport system;

• a network transport system with smooth track selection and track changing capabilities;

• a network transport system with safety features to prevent collisions or accidents; a passenger defined transport network (passenger has freedom to start and terminate journey and is not dependent on schedules, timetables, etc);

a passenger friendly network transport system;

a network system which makes a vehicle available as and when needed at a place & time convenient to a passenger;

a network transport system available to all irrespective of their location;

an all weather network transport system;

a network transport system with low impact on agricultural and public lands as it is at an elevated level;

a network transport system with lightweight vehicles;

a network transport system with minimal scope for human error;

a network transport system which is uni-modal and can be networked widely;

a network transport system which is a multi-level transport system, enabling the system to provide an independent level for each direction for uninterrupted two way connectivity, enabling uninterrupted connectivity to different directions on different levels;

a network transport system with low construction, operational and maintenance costs; a versatile network transport system with adaptability & workability in all kinds of geographical landscapes & environment;

a versatile network transport system which has the potential to be modified to perform multifarious functions to find utility in an assortment of applications;

a versatile network transport system with the capability to provide the basis for future sustainable housing.

Claims

Claims :

1. A network transport system for un-interrupted travel, the system comprising of:

(a) a network path comprising of

a plurality of inter-connected tracks, each track in the network comprising: at-least one upper rail running along the network path,

at-least one lower rail running parallel to the upper rail and

a guiding means, the guiding means running continuously along one of the rails, and a plurality of crossover mechanisms installed on the tracks at a divergence and a convergence point to facilitate track changing on the network transport system;

(b) a plurality of vehicles adapted to traverse along the tracks of the network path, the vehicle comprising of:

a main frame,

at-least one lower support wheel mounted on the main frame, the lower support wheel being adaptable to at-least one lower rail,

at-least one upper support wheel mounted on the main frame, the upper support wheel being adaptable to at-least one upper rail,

a track selection system, the track selection system mounted on the main frame, the track selection system comprising of

a first engaging mechanism capable of engaging with the guiding means, and a second engaging mechanism capable of selectively engaging with the crossover mechanism installed on the tracks,

a drive means, the drive means mounted on the main frame to propel the vehicle, at-least one deceleration means, the deceleration means mounted on the main frame to retard acceleration of the vehicle,

and an accommodation means to accommodate at-least one passenger to operate the vehicle on the network system, and

(c) a plurality of access points along the network path, the access points providing access to the network transport system.

2. The network transport system as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the rails have a rail profile from a group consisting of U-channel, L-channel, C-channel, box channel, T-channel, I- channel configuration.

3. The network transport system as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the first engaging mechanism comprises of at-least a pair of rollers, wherein at-least one of the rollers glide along the guiding means.

4. The network transport system as claimed in claim 3, wherein each roller is operatively connected to operating rods to selectively engage at-least one of the rollers, in and out of engagement with the guiding means along a horizontal axis.

5. The network transport system as claimed in claim 3, wherein each roller is operatively connected to operating rods to selectively engage at-least one of the rollers, in and out of engagement with the guiding means along a vertical axis.

6. The network transport system as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the first engaging

mechanism comprising:

a guiding wheel having a hub, the guiding wheel adapted to the guiding means;

a rim member adapted to each side of the guiding wheel, the rim member having a plurality of segments/the segments being capable of moving between a retracted position and an extended position;

a plurality of supporting rods supporting the segments of the rim member, the supporting rods extending outwards from the hub of the guiding wheel, the supporting rods enabling the segments to move between the retracted position and the extended position; and an operating rod connected to the hub, the operating rod being adapted to move the supporting rods thereby moving the segments between retracted and extended position in and out of engagement with the guiding means.

7. The network transport system as claimed in claim 1 or 6, wherein in the extended position the rim member engages with the guiding means and in the retracted position the rim member dis-engages with the guiding means.

8. The network transport system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second engaging mechanism comprises of a left side roller assembly and a right side roller assembly to activate the crossover mechanism.

9. The network transport system as claimed in claim 8, wherein the roller assembly comprises of a pair of rollers, a upper roller and a lower roller assembled in a spaced apart relationship so as to engage and disengage with the crossover mechanism.

10. The network transport system as claimed in claim 1 , wherein at the divergence point a divergence mechanism is installed to allow the vehicle to diverge on to another track.

11. The network transport system as claimed in claim 1 , wherein at the convergence point a convergence mechanism is installed to allow the vehicle to converge on to an onward track.

2. The network transport system as claimed in claim 0, wherein the divergence

mechanism comprises of:

a left-side divergence crossover rail plate; the left-side divergence crossover plate extends from its proximal end to its distal end, the left-side divergence crossover plate pivotally disposed in a left-side chamber to move between tracks at a divergence point so as to allow the vehicle to diverge;

a right-side divergence crossover plate the right-side divergence crossover plate extend from its proximal end to its distal end, the right-side divergence crossover plate pivotally disposed in a right-side chamber to move between tracks at a divergence point so as to allow the vehicle to diverge.

13. The network transport system as claimed in claim 11 , wherein the convergence mechanism comprises of:

a convergence crossover rail plate, the convergence crossover rail plate extends from its proximal end to its distal end;

a first chamber, the first chamber installed on the tracks near the proximal end of the convergence crossover rail plate, the convergence crossover rail plate coupled pivotally at its proximal end to the first chamber; and

a second chamber, the second chamber installed on the tracks near the distal end of the convergence crossover rail plate, the convergence crossover rail plate at its distal end engages with the second chamber.

14. The network transport system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the vehicle further comprises of a vehicle proximity detector, the vehicle proximity detector is installed on the left and right side of the vehicle.

15. The network transport system as claimed in claim 14, wherein the vehicle proximity detector is a mechanism having a chain or belt mounted on an actuator and a speed reducing gear, wherein the movement of the chain drives the speed reducing gear to adjust speed of the vehicle.

16. The network transport system as claimed in claim 14, wherein the mechanism of vehicle proximity detector is preferably assembled on a telescopic means, and is activated when a vehicle on the network comes in close contact with another vehicle on the network.

17. The network transport system as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the system further comprises of an auditory proximity indicator to alarm vehicles about presence of other vehicles on the network.

18. The network transport system as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the system further comprises of an additional accommodation means to accommodate an additional passenger and/or transport goods.

19. The network transport system as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the network transport system is implemented above the ground level and/or at ground level and/or below the ground level.

20. The network transport system as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the network^*path is a multilevel network path, each level providing connectivity in a defined direction, enabling uninterrupted connectivity to different direction on different levels.

21. The network transport system as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the network path is a multi- loop network path.

22. The network transport system as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the access points are provided above the ground level and/or at ground level and/or below the ground level

23. The network transport system as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the network path or the vehicle is enclosed by a weather protection means.

24. The network transport system as claimed in claim 1 can be adapted to existing blocks or buildings to provide interconnectivity within the network.

25. The network transport system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the vehicle is a human powered vehicle.

26. A track selection system to enable a vehicle to change tracks on a network transport system, the track selection system comprising of

a convergence mechanism, the convergence mechanism being installed on the tracks at a convergence point;

a divergence mechanism, the divergence mechanism being installed on the tracks at a divergence point; a first engaging mechanism mounted on the vehicle, the first engaging mechanism comprising at-least a pair of rollers, wherein at-least one roller is capable of engaging with a guiding means on the tracks; and

a second engaging mechanism mounted on the vehicle, the second engaging mechanism comprising of a left side roller assembly and a right side roller assembly, the roller assembly having an upper roller and a lower roller assembled in a space apart relationship, the roller assembly of the second engaging mechanism capable of selectively engaging with the divergence mechanism and convergence mechanism installed on the tracks to change tracks on the network transport system.

27. A track selection system to enable a vehicle to change tracks on a network transport system, the track selection system comprising of

a divergence mechanism, the divergence mechanism being installed on the tracks at a divergence point;

a first engaging mechanism mounted on the vehicle, the first engaging mechanism comprising:

a guiding wheel having a hub, the guiding wheel adapted to a guiding means;

a rim member adapted to each side of the guiding wheel, the rim member having a plurality of segments, the segments being capable of moving between a retracted position and an extended position;

a plurality of supporting rods supporting the segments of the rim member, the supporting tods extending outwards from the hub of the guiding wheel, the supporting rods enabling the segments to move between the retracted position and the extended position; and an operating rod connected to the hub, the operating rod being adapted to move the supporting rods thereby moving the segments between retracted and extended position in and out of engagement with the guiding means a second engaging mechanism mounted on the vehicle, the second engaging mechanism comprising of a left side roller assembly and a right side roller assembly, the roller assembly having an upper roller and a lower roller assembled in a space apart relationship, the roller assembly of the second engaging mechanism capable of selectively engaging with the divergence mechanism and convergence mechanism installed on the tracks to change tracks on the network transport system.

28. The track selection system as claimed in claim 26 or 27, wherein the convergence mechanism comprises of

a second chamber, the second chamber installed on the tracks near the distal end of the convergence crossover rail plate, the convergence crossover plate at its distal end engages with the second chamber.

29. The track selection system as claimed in claim 26 or 27, wherein the divergence mechanism comprises a left-side divergence crossover rail plate; the left-side divergence crossover plate extends from its proximal end to its distal end, the left-side divergence crossover plate pivotally disposed in a left-side chamber to move between tracks at a divergence point so as to allow the vehicle to diverge; a second divergence crossover pate the right-side divergence crossover plate extend from its proximal end to its distal end, the right-side divergence crossover plate pivotally disposed in a right-side chamber to move between tracks at a divergence point so as to allow the vehicle to diverge.