Transportation for the 21st Century!!

Viable Revolutionary Transportation designed for an Advanced Dual-Mode System in 2005!

A new Automated Skyway System with “Mag-Lev Sky-Bikes” zooming past at high speeds above 100 MPH+ will catch on like wildfire! Surprisingly, many people may not realize that this is an advanced Mass Transit System in disguise! By giving Transit Commuters a technology that surpasses innovations beyond the scope of an automobile, drivers will want to convert to transportation that better suits their needs!

Excerpts from a 1999 paper by DLF Group International Inc.,

edited and updated by New Venture Associates II

Transportation Developers, Transit Authorities, City Planners, and Engineers don’t understand that Americans do not want to be inconvenienced. Designing a Transit System for what “they think in their mind” people want is a fatal mistake. If you design an advanced concept where Commuters lease and/or buy inexpensive vehicles that offer better mobility options, you will get them to change!

In this report, we examined numerous so called “High Technology” automobiles costing anywhere from $100,000.00 dollars to $2,000,000.00 dollars, only finding out that you would be better off using the money to feed a nation of hungry people.

For about $15,000.00 dollars, you can have an Auto-bicycle with technology that the most advanced automobile will never possess. By reading this report, you will gain understanding as to why automobiles are archaic, and why transportation must change! See the $15,000.00 dollar Auto-bicycle and $1,000,000.00 automobile comparison chart on page [   ] !

For more information visit www.justabike.net! Due to the overwhelming growth of updated information, this report or the web site may be "outdated" at any time. To learn more about other Companies world-wide that are working on transportation technologies, visit http://faculty.washington.edu/jbs/itrans!

The reality of this concept was inspired mostly by;

Tomorrow's Transportation: Changing Cities, Economies and Lives!

authored by William L. Garrison and Jerry D. Ward

Author's Note: While short versions of this paper were written almost five years ago, the need to create millions of new jobs in the U.S. is once again a major national issue and the urban transportation problems addressed are much worse now than they were a then. The evolutionary approach that is suggested is a sensible and realistic approach to dealing with both of those problems and their many associated circumstances. The evolutionary approach suggested is deemed to be very compatible with the interests and needs of the Computer Industry which is another important attribute given its importance to the U.S. economy. It also offers some reality for reducing the nation's dependency on automobiles as a single source of mobility, and simultaneously increasing a Commuter's overall health. It is not a wise move for the US Federal Government to jump on the bandwagon of every concept that promises to solve the Highway Congestion dilemma. However, when you investigate all the evidence, giving Commuters options that surpass automobiles is a definite winner. It is more so a fact to be successful if the concept is less expensive than trying to maintain the current highway system, and the vehicles to be used are highly advanced compared to today’s automobiles!

Creating a viable New Transportation Market globally!

Our society needs an entirely new mode of transportation and a new Transportation Industry to build it. This new mode should be dependent on higher technologies (Software and Hardware) and should address visible requirements left unsatisfied by both traditional Mass Transit and the automobile: pollution, traffic congestion, efficiency and inconvenience. To be viable it must also be affordable and present significant advantages to the end user. As capacity doubles by 2010, space-saving features in the City become extremely critical to the fact that automobiles will be eventually banned from City limits. A compounded Highway Congestion problem far worse than today (2003) is not conceivable by most Commuters, but growing frustration shows that it is a factor that is not tolerated by many automobile drivers!

Improvements made with current technologies will never lead to satisfactory solutions. If we solve traffic congestion problems associated with the automobile, our pollution problems will increase three-fold. If we increase the convenience of mass transit (by extending the hours of operation for example) efficiency drops and becomes unacceptable. To avoid the pitfalls of existing technology, our new form of transportation must not be subject to these same tradeoffs. The new transportation concept must offer conveniences far beyond the capabilities of current technology, and be truly Sustainable, meaning it meets all the criteria for the environment, future generations, and the end user!

It is neither likely nor reasonable to expect such a system to replace existing modes of transportation on any immediate basis. The financial and systemic upheaval implied would simply not be acceptable. The target should therefore be a system which initially augments and over time replaces existing forms of transportation. This implies that system characteristics must heavily overlap with current forms of transport we seek to augment and ultimately replace. By utilizing the Auto-bicycle Station concept, Mass Transit has the opportunity to recover its investment while being rolled over to automated Tele-Operational Systems, along with their former Bus and Train Operators.

To be useful to our society, the development of a new mode must be subject to additional constraints. It must create new jobs in a timely manner, not to be deferred to the end of a long and uncertain technology development phase. It should:

1. Create some jobs for the near term, in the form of Energy Source Providers, System Operators, Technology Developers, Two-Tier Integrators, Multi-Stage Interchange Techies, etc., etc..

2. Project and provide a vision for jobs in the mid term, such as Structural Manufacturing, Auto-bicycle Engineering, Designers, Jobbers, Distributors, Mechanic Facilities, Installers, etc., etc..

3. Provide an upgrade/growth path for the long term advanced Mag-Lev System, whereas Auto-bicycles that were designed in 2004, can operate on any Auto-bicycle Mag-Lev System in the USA. The Dual-Mode Mini Mag-Lev System (DMMMLS) should work in conjunction with the National Mag-Lev Train System, strategically outlined across the USA, and designed to reduce the demand for growing airline traffic.

The benefits expected from implementing a Dual-Mode Mini Mag-Lev System:

·           Because the new Dual-Mode Mini Mag-Lev System (DMMMLS) offers better safety control than an ordinary highway system, tragic disasters like vehicle accidents and high-speed collisions with other objects is not possible. The ability for Auto-bicycles to be locked down on the Skyway System gives these vehicles more advantages than ordinary automobiles, including the ones than offer such features as anti-locking brake systems, all wheel drives, quadra-traction, etc., etc.!

·           The DMMMLS allows Auto-bicycles to have such features as Instantaneous Braking, Accelerated lane Changing, High-Speed Banking on curves, Fast Access Exiting off of the Skyway System, and more features that will come as technologies develop! The Magna-Traction Technologies that are built into every Auto-bicycle are added features without additional costs! None of these advanced features can be duplicated or implemented in a regular automobile, especially without an extremely high price tag or higher risk of creating accidents that could result in serious injuries or death!

·           Most of the DMMMLS should be on an Elevated Skyway, which will reduce the likelihood that Pedestrians, Animals or other road conditions could result in a collision. The Auto-bicycle has advanced technologies that will allow the vehicle’s Computer to read the Skyway System from its entry point all the way to any exit point. This reading technology communicates thousands of times per second, constantly tracking the Skyway for obstructions, defects, or damage resulting from vandalism!

·           High-Speed Access Lanes for Emergency Vehicles that would be programmed only for these type of Auto-bicycles will give Emergency Personnel fast access without having to worry about foolish drivers making bad mistakes. These High-Speed Access Lanes will give emergency crews faster access to areas far across a large congested City or even the State when the infrastructure is built!

·           The DMMMLS is not hindered by such foul weather conditions as Snow, Ice, High Winds, Rain, Hydroplaning, or even an Oil Slick! Because the Auto-bicycles are locked down on the Skyway System, the driver of the vehicle does not have to worry about such dilemmas! The dangers of a Tire Blowout and vehicle Rollovers are ancient history!

·           The Auto-bicycle and Skyway System offer excellent benefits to the Elderly and Disabled Commuters. Depending on their level of capability, either a Semi-Automatic or Automatic versions of an Auto-bicycle can be outfitted for better service compared to traditional services that these Commuters have to depend on. Although the Skyway System is the only infrastructure that displays full automation technology, getting around and using an Auto-bicycle on the ground is much safer than trying to use electric wheelchairs.

·           The initial capital investment required to build the Skyway System is much less than laying down a highway system, and provides 12 times the traffic throughput! Because the Auto-bicycles are lighter than ordinary automobiles, there is less wear and tear on the Highway System, Skyway System, and the Tires! The long term upkeep investments are far less than current maintenance of Highways, replacement of Buses, Train Rails, or Bogey Systems. This reduces the constant expensive subsidization of Mass Transit and Highway Infrastructure Systems that are demanding and draining resources of the Local, State and Federal Government!

·           An “Unlimited Mileage” Flat-Rate Service Plan gives Commuters the ability to travel constantly throughout their region with one flat fee! Using the Skyway System within a designated region similar to Transit Passes having a monthly fee, the Commuter can ride several Skyway Systems and be billed monthly! 

·           The Auto-bicycle is essentially a regular bicycle, with Software Technology as a source to manipulate the drivetrain for power. The Auto-bicycle does not require a License, Insurance, Registration, or Inspection. However, using the Dual-Mode Mini Mag-Lev System (DMMMLS) will require that Auto-bicycles meet operation requirements upon entering the Skyway. Because the Auto-bicyclist is still not using a motor on the Automated Skyway System, they can still be unlicensed Commuters of a concept that operates at high speeds! The Skyway is operated by Tele-Operators for automation, and Energy Source Providers on the ground.

·           Auto-bicycles are relatively inexpensive transportation (about $7,000.00 dollars for standard and $15,000.00 dollars for completely automated versions), and can be inter-changed among body designs to give the Commuter the "flavor" that appeals to their individual needs. The Commuter can have as many designs at their location as they desire, such as a Sedan, Van, SUV, Sports Car, Pick-Up, Tractor, Race Car, etc., etc.,! Complete body kits are approximately $500.00 dollars to $2,000.00 dollars, depending on design and detail. Auto-bicycles can be leased for as little as $70.00 dollars a month, which includes unlimited mileage!

·           A successful development plan should make full use of technology, knowledge and eventually manufacturing technology from the aerospace and automotive sector, transferring it as appropriate. The Mag-Lev phase does just that, thereby rebuilding the nation to a point where it once again becomes the focal point for Countries around the World!

·           The DMMMLS is completely automated on the Skyway level, thereby allowing Commuters to regain lost time while commuting long distances from point to point.

·           The local DMMMLS can work in conjunction with the Mag-Lev Train System. This will be based on the Federal Governments ability to realize that a North to South and East to West Mag-Lev Train System should be designed to alleviate growing airline travel. With Mag-Lev Trains going 300 MPH, there is no real need for as many flights within the USA. The huge amount of time it takes to get ready for commutes under 1500 can further be fulfilled by a Mag-Lev Train. By having a local DMMMLS run by Auto-bicycles that can quickly get to congested locations faster than an automobile will be an asset most appreciated by Commuters who live in urban areas.

·           Create a whole new paradigm in Door-to-Door Public Transportation Service and create the first truly successful Universal Public Transportation System in Cities across the USA. The ability to move more than 30,000 Auto-bicycles an hour on a single lane with an installation cost of less than $1 Million Dollars a mile (and a six foot width), is equivalent to a twelve lane highway that only carries one-third the capacity of passengers or cargo in one direction only!

·           Significantly reduce transportation congestion while also cleaning up the air in major Cities and adding additional space because of space-saving capacities. The Dual-Mode Mini Mag-Lev System is self sufficient, not reliant on or contributing to the over burdened electrical system. The Auto-bicycle concept is energy self sustaining, and can continue to operate whether the system was subjected to a power failure or an Auto-bicycle lost its own power! The Auto-bicycles also have a 4 way back-up system built into each vehicle. The Auto-bicycles generate alternator electricity, light energy, magnetic pick-up energy and are human powered as a final back-up. These functions can ultimately power the Skyway System upon an overall power failure!

·           The new Auto-bicycle Dual-Mode Mini Mag-Lev System is affordable to everyone, relatively costing as much as a monthly bus or train pass! The new "Dual-Mode Mini-MagLev System" is a Mass Transit system that the majority of people will demand. This system has the potential to benefit all Commuters, former automobile drivers as well as Mass Transit Operators. The Auto-bicycle concept is beginning as a station concept for Commuters, while the general public has an opportunity to see Auto-bicycles in action. While the Auto-bicycles are on the regular roadways, the existing PRT Systems will be converted to Mini Mag-Lev Skyway Systems, which will further peak the interest of automobile drivers who want a better vehicle technology!

·           The Auto-bicycle concept offers a superior level of security over Mass Transit Systems. A potential terrorist must first gain access to an Auto-bicycle, which is exclusively assigned to an individual Commuter. the terrorist must then get by the Three-Way Dispatch System to get the Auto-bicycle moving, and then get past the Automated Skyway System and onto the Skyway. If they are successful in defeating all these measures, they will still only potentially destroy the lives of a few innocent Commuters, a feat not worth all the aggravation and potential apprehension. The main point is that Mass Transit has NO security protection or features!

·           The concept gives Commuters the ability to maintain their HEALTH, by using the human energy combined with Software Applications. This use of human energy combined with a good nutrition program is a subtle way for Americans to "take back" their health, which was lost due to the use of automobiles. Because the human power required to move the Auto-bicycle is minimal, it gives everyone (even the elderly), mobility and the excitement that their energy is creating power and movement at up to 40 MPH on the ground!

·           The Dual-Mode Mini Mag-Lev System (DMMMLS) is not reliant on the old fashioned energy grid system for power. Because the Auto-bicycles draw very little energy, renewable "green" technologies have an opportunity to play a better role in sustaining power! To off-set the need to subsidize this concept, a Public/Private partnership is possible, with the Federal Government quickly jumping on the bandwagon once they realize that the benefits to reduce overwhelming health liabilities becomes a reality! Just like the traditional highway system, the vehicles are maintained by the Commuter, and the roadway infrastructure is maintained by the Public or Private entity. The financial gains collected from Toll Systems (the new form of Mass Transit in disguise) will be the way to recoup costs. The demand for Commuters to "Sky-Bike" to work at speeds of 100 MPH+ will generate enough adrenaline and warrant its expansion! Some Auto-bicyclists will ride long distances just to get the "rush" feeling of riding at High Speed-legally!

·           Universal Auto-bicycle features offer less hassle when it comes time to replacing parts. Just like regular bicycles, most parts are transferable from one Auto-bicycle to another. The enormous unnecessary complexity automobile manufacturers created have made them useless in implementing automobiles as dual-mode vehicles. Nobody is willing to pay additional money for features they cannot readily use, and their useless complexity does not help the situation. What is the litmus test to this point? Try taking a simple lug nut off any vehicle and get a match from the store or see if it will fit another automobile! If you do this with a bicycle, you will have better success!

·           The Auto-bicycle concept is Environmentally Sustainable, meaning that the usage and consumption of building Auto-bicycles will not deplete the environment before it has a chance to renew itself. The Auto-bicycle concept also meets the demands of future generations! One large SUV can make 14 Auto-bicycles, that can carry 14 drivers going in 14 different directions. Those 14 Auto-bicycles can carry 3 additional passengers each, and park in the space of 2 automobiles, (you must also consider the space it requires to maneuver an automobile)! That means 12 less parking spaces in the City!

·           Auto-bicycles can be brought indoors, thereby further enhancing personal security and reducing vehicles abandon on the roadway and left during a snow storm or other disaster. These problems cost the city millions of dollars during snow removal or other situations.

·           The Auto-bicycle DMMMLS costs far less than a conventional highway, and yields far more Commuters that can pass through a single lane. The Auto-bicycles are not damaging to a Community, thereby promoting a sustainable feature to the overall well being of neighborhoods and developments.

·           Auto-bicycles are crash-worthy, and possess outstanding safety features that you will not find on most automobiles that are too costly to upgrade! Such features include standard roll bars and air bags that deflect in the opposite direction, not in your face! Other add-ons can be adapted at the Commuter’s leisure or their ability to be able to afford such options.

Characteristics and performance of an Improved Highway System!

The defining characteristics of an advanced transportation system can be built up from the most advantageous features of the automobile and mass transit combined with solutions or improvements to known deficiencies. A rank ordered list of these characteristics is offered below. The more of these elements the new system embodies and the more it satisfies items towards the top of the list, the more likely it is to become a successful augmentation or replacement for either public or private transport. The Auto-bicycle concept offers features beyond traditional automobiles or Mass Transit, and is in line with the reality that a new transportation system must come to fruition.

·        The automobile is a de-facto public/private partnership. Public money is used to buy and maintain the roads, while private money is used to buy and maintain a majority of the vehicles in use. This offers enormous leverage on public money. Mass Transit does not attract similar financial resources. The new DMMMLS is designed to be a public/private financial partnership. The Auto-bicycle capitalizes on these features, and offers much more to the point that not developing this specific concept would only further devastate the economy. Once major capital investments are made, reverting back or implementing a concept that will overlap or offset financial burdens to minimize loss is almost impossible.

·        The creation of Mass Transit does not occur in small increments. It is frequently created in increments of multiple millions of dollars and more likely billions. Automobile roads can be bought so to speak 'by the yard. The new DMMMLS should be capable of modular, incremental acquisition and it must be scaleable. It should offer an increasing degree of efficiency and remain economical where traffic density reaches a certain level. By purchasing or joint venturing with a failing PRT project, the DMMMLS can be demonstrated to the general Public as well as Government Officials in a very short period of time.

·        The automobile system supports mixed use in that cargo and passengers are transported alternately on its pathways with minimal coordination or advance global planning. Mass Transit most often does not conveniently do so (except for heavy rail). The new DMMMLS must preserve the mixed use characteristic of the internal combustion vehicle. The DMMMLS does offer mixed use capacity, and the ability to move small batch freight. As more automobile drivers convert to Auto-bicycle usage, the highways can remain predominantly for Tractor-Trailers and rural areas where Auto-bicycle infrastructures are not readily available.

·        The automobile with its current internal combustion engine causes serious air pollution, community disruption and tremendous health problems. The new DMMMLS uses zero emissions vehicles.

·        Automobile usage is scheduled by the user 24 hours per day, 7 days a week. Mass Transportation is scheduled by the Public Authority and cannot reasonably be made user scheduled. The new DMMMLS is completely user scheduled, operating on a 24 hour and 7 day basis. A Tele-Operator can control an Automated Skyway System having thousands of Auto-bicycles an hour passing through its check point.

·        Service flexibility is maximal with the automobile and minimal for conventional Rail based Mass Transit. Once the basic costs are covered, the incremental cost of travel by automobile is relatively small. This allows the user to make instantaneous choices and tradeoffs between a variety of cost and service levels. The same features are offered in Auto-bicycles, giving the Commuter an option to whether they want to use the Toll Pay Automated Skyway System or take to the ground.

·        The concept of being in a hurry, or priority service, does not apply to Mass Transit at any price. It is a legitimate (and sometimes extralegal) option with the automobile. The new DMMMLS implements a cost and function-based priority scheme. The Commuter has options to whether they want to travel by Skyway or ground.

·        The automobile offers wide area intra-urban, suburban and interurban service. Mass Transit typically does not offer interurban service, only (incomplete) connectivity. The new DMMMLS offers metropolitan-region scale service as well as points of interest to the Commuter.

·        The automobile stops only at the end points of interest for the user. By contrast, Mass Transit stops for the entire population of a train (often several hundred people). To cover like distances in the same amount of time, Mass Transit speeds must be considerably higher. Even then for certain distances it may simply not be possible to achieve comparable transit times between the car and Mass Transit. The new DMMMLS minimizes transit time for connecting points. In the early stages of developing the infrastructure, Auto-bicycles will be located at Transit Stations for non-driving Commuters while the DMMMLS is being developed. This is where the Door-to-Door Public Transportation Service (D-2-D PTS) comes into focus, which will be phased out as more DMMMLS's are developed.

·        A road system for the automobile including rights-of-way to every out-house already exists. Light and Heavy Rail currently do not offer that kind of coverage, and possible extensions create significant land use issues. The new DMMMLS uses existing rights-of-way and avoids the creation of multiple, incompatible, parallel right of ways. Improvements required for use are minimal.

·        Use of the automobile avoids vehicle changes required by Mass Transit for the purpose of delivering the passenger to a given destination. This insulates the users against weather discomforts, provides a convenient small cargo capability and secures the rider's possessions against accidental loss (umbrellas and small packages are typically at risk on Mass Transit). In the beginning, D-2-D PTS is offered as a better commuting option. DMMMLS's allow the Commuter to stay in their Auto-bicycle the whole time, never having to leave or exchange systems. Eventually, as DMMMLS's catch on to the general Public, standing around waiting for a Bus or Train for local commuting will be history!

·        The automobile leaves the user in relatively closer proximity to the ultimate destination when compared to Mass Transit. It is point-to-point or more nearly so than anything else. Until DMMMLS's are in place and operational, the next best feature is D-2-D PTS!

·        Passengers like the relative security and privacy of the automobile as compared to Mass Transportation. For a new system to be desirable, security beyond automobiles must be an asset to focus our current attention on. Because Auto-bicycles can be brought indoors, this offers a level of security that you cannot get with automobiles. In an Auto-bicycle, it is less likely that someone can attach bombs or other devices underneath without someone noticing them.

·        Climate selection such as Air Conditioning or Heat is an individual choice for the Auto-bicycle rider, it is not available for Mass Transit. Not having to wait outside in foul weather is a major benefit that Commuters who could not drive automobiles will appreciate!

·        The automobile has to be driven and requires personal concentration from point-to-point. Mass Transit does not require user action or attention except at its end points. Personal concentration is a user inconvenience which should be done away with, or at least minimized. The DMMMLS does offer the best of both world's, by allowing the Commuter to do other things while on the Automated Skyway System such as read the newspaper, sleep, eat a meal, watch movies, etc., etc.,!

·        The automobile requires personal attention and a secure location for parking when not in use. This is an inconvenience and in any new system should be minimized. Parking should be automatic and should resemble Mass Transit in its convenience of ridding the user of the problem. Auto-bicycles are a space-saving technology, much to the point that up to 10 Auto-bicycles (standing on end) can park in the space of one automobile! In a garage that can usually park 100 automobiles will have space for over 1000 Auto-bicycles!

·        One gets to meet fellow travelers on Mass Transit, not so with the automobile. This is an advantage or disadvantage depending on point-of-view and personal preferences.

·        Low population density in suburban areas and the lure of the car have kept public Transit Systems from being efficient. DMMMLS (the new Mass Transit in disguise), offers conveniences beyond the automobile or regular Mass Transit, at a fraction of the cost for the Commuter, the State, or the Federal Government. The spread of Auto-bicycles to rural areas is possible, but the features of DMMMLS may not be readily available. This is not a negative thing, especially if the intended Commuter is not Licensed, and can still reach their intended destinations regardless!

·        Low traffic makes Mass Transit inefficient or expensive after hours. The new DMMMLS is available and efficient around the clock.

·        On a traditional highway system, traffic can be interrupted by a stalled automobile. On the DMMMLS, if an Auto-bicycle ever shut down, the driver can manually power the vehicle and/or an Auto-bicycle coming up from behind would be signaled to slow down to the point of the disabled Auto-bicycle’s speed, and push the disabled Auto-bicycle to the nearest off ramp!

The Choices for obtaining mobility in America;

Characteristics of existing or proposed technologies are shown in the table below.

* Mass Transit = Heavy and Light Rail Transit and Bus Systems
** Auto-bicycles are technology beyond the scope of ITS-AHS - Intelligent Transportation System - Automated Highway System (smart cars, smart highways) , in relation to their technological ability to be sustainable.

Close examination of the table shows that none of the existing modes of transportation hold the potential of being significantly improved through the use of technology except Auto-bicycles. Prior transportation concepts exhibit limitations inherent in design choices selected and optimized in the previous century as required by the automation and technology level available at that time. This includes automobiles, buses and trains.

Auto-bicycle Technologies most nearly match all the requirements of the Automated Highway System (AHS) concept which is based on electrical (or other zero emissions) technology. Unfortunately, the development of this technology has recently been largely defunded by the U.S. Congress. The cost of converting automobiles to automated technology was outrageous, to the point that they cost $200,000.00 for the additional features of automation. This is clearly out of the range of most Americans, and at that price would never reach the market.

Auto-bicycles are an alternative that also matches many of the current Commuter requirements. While it is a better match, it seems to be technologically ripe enough and can perhaps be extended to become a precursor of a full AHS. Like AHS, Auto-bicycles will also require a more sophisticated technology base than automobiles, one that better matches available resources. This has already been done, using Software and Hardware as the prime controllers for operation.

Auto-bicycles also offer advantages towards implementing a zero emissions vehicle as it offers a more supportive environment with easy adaptation to roadway supplied renewable and self-sustaining power. An advanced Auto-bicycle Skyway System, DMMMLS and/or an extended hybrid version of it, are worthy of serious consideration by the Federal Government as a technology of choice for the near, medium and long term future.

The question naturally arises as to why it has never been built. There are several answers to this question. One part of the answer lies in technology. Software is the single major technology requirement for Auto-bicycles. Significant affordable Software and Automation Technology has only become economical in the past 5 years. Technologists have in fact experimented with Auto-bicycles in the past but such experiments were stopped by limited technology and poor design. However, more recently, DLF Group International Inc. affiliates developed Auto-bicycle technologies that passed an extensive test program, with roots stemming over a 20 year period.

In the past, technologists limited themselves to a vision that connected Metro and Light Rail Service with Auto-bicycles. A glance at the table will show that such a vision deals with only about half the criteria and crucially misses out on public/private financing. Engineering analysis of the test systems showed that it was technically possible to build the system and it would indeed function as designed, by having the general Public purchase Auto-bicycles, and duplicating the automobile/highway infrastructure scenario. The DMMMLS would be economical because of the large number of vehicles that would be purchased and maintained by private Commuters. If one looks at the automobile it becomes immediately clear that differently financed, a large number of vehicles are in fact purchased and maintained at budgets which are beyond the comprehension of public transit designers. However, in order to reach for this financing, the limited goals to simple replacement of the Skyway elements of the transportation system reduces the overall economic infrastructure burden. With Mass Transit, the State and Government has to additionally replace or at least subsidize portions of the transportation system which are used by buses and trains.

Another part of the answer lies in land use. No one is ready to envision adding to existing right-of-ways a complete duplicate to the roadway system, it would cost too much and it would take too long. To the extent that Auto-bicycles are envisioned as a grid laid out and can follow old railroad rights-of-way, its land use requirements become minimal and it is likely to be built on a very large scale. As urban Communities have an opportunity to see all the advantages that Auto-bicycles offer in protecting their environments and giving Americans additional freedom beyond automobiles, the demand for these vehicles will increase. Auto-bicycles can already use the rights-of-way on the highway, or where bike paths and trails are located. This advantage gives Auto-bicycles superior access that automobiles cannot obtain.

Again the possibilities are limited by narrow vision. The DMMMLS assumes a drive-on, drive-off hybrid system, and the land use issues becomes easier. Some of the Auto-bicycle paths are normal roads and thereby bypass the question of additional right-of-ways. The standard technological response is to point out the additional technical difficulties created by such a system with the introduction of poorly maintained or otherwise unfit vehicles. The reply to that argument has to be that such a system has been created and it works; just look out the window at the nearest street. Although using the DMMMLS will require "in-transit inspection" (this occurs as a Commuter is entering the Skyway System and takes about 30 seconds), it is not mandatory while on the ground.

Bringing MAGNETIC LEVITATION to households across the USA!

This USA map shows all the major Cities across the United States. While it is a major capital investment to upgrade all the interstate highways across the USA, it is even more costly to continue using out-moded technologies! Transportation contributed to $590 Billion in US Environmental Catastrophes, $1.2 Trillion in widespread Health Epidemics, $300+ Billion in Economic Disruptions, $485 Billion in Political dilemmas, and $70 Billion in Highway Congestion! If you calculate all the financial loss due to the current transportation infrastructure, you should have tabulated enough capital to consider another alternative that will alleviate the problems. As the transportation infrastructure doubles in the next five years, the problems will be compounded! It is time the USA started seeking a better solution before another Country capitalizes on advancements that were

 made  in  the  USA!

The Auto-bicycle vs. Automobile Comparison Chart

YES, there is more!  

                 continued

         Auto-bicycle                                                  Automobile

When you really assess the value of what you’re getting for $15,000.00 dollars, the $1,000,000.00 automobile is better off sitting on the showroom floor!

The “Killer Application!”

An additional inside revolution beyond the Auto-bicycle concept!

Just when you think you read everything that one person thinks would come down the path of reality, and wwhhaamm!!!!!, you haven’t seen anything yet!

The Auto-bicycle provides an enormous amount of opportunity for large Cities to take back their ground, and prepare for the ever growing population. In the next few years, a space-saving vehicle is going to be about the only thing that can move in an environment that is highly congested with people. The ban of automobiles has already taken affect in some places in Europe, where people have a different attitude towards mobility.

However, to this date in December 2003, there is no completely universal transportation designed to bring people in a City or out of a City in large volumes. During an extreme disaster or a power outage, the first thing that breaks down the transportation infrastructure is the failure of Mass Transit. This translates to millions of people out on the streets, which further hinders ground transportation such as automobiles and trucks.

Aside from that point, Hi-Rise City Dwellers have no means of escape. The minute a fire or other disaster is detected in a Hi-Rise Building, the first thing to shut down is the elevators! Now, considering the shape that most Americans are in due to a lack of activity, getting down 40 stories of steps is an astronomical task!

Franchise Opportunities!

"Now" is the right time to capitalize on a concept and technology far beyond the Internet!

Auto-bicycles and Automated Skyway Systems are a lucrative opportunity and the only real transportation solution for the 21st Century! Read on and find out just how many opportunities this new concept will generate! This list is only a general display of viable businesses that are currently being established as franchises. As the development of the Skyway Infrastructure matures, mergers among some of these businesses will become hybrids to further innovations! By 2007, over a half million new Businesses and Jobs can be created using the advancements of this transportation concept. These innovations will put the Country that adapts this technology on the forefront to revitalizing their economy.

·        Consumer Leasing Services-handle the general volume of vehicle activity, and obtain a monthly percentage of each client registered under their ESP Facility.

·        Business Enterprise Accounts-similar to consumer accounts, the ESP Facility handles a larger volume on a commercial basis.

·        International Account Services-are generated from Governments interested and looking to solve their Country's inadequate transportation facilities.

·        Software Application & Network Services-control downloading of protocols from the Internet that allow Auto-bicycles to "Power Up!"

·        Auto-bicycle Station Facilities-posted near Mass Transit locations offer Commuters the early stages of "Door-to-Door Public Transportation Service.

·        Auto-bicycle Conversion Centers-are facilities designed to help Commuters maximize the interchange ability options and upgrade Auto-bicycles as new options come to the mass market.

·        Insurance Services-although not required by law, is a good option to have in case an accident occurs while traveling on the regular roadway.

·        State/Government Accounts-are a must for Municipalities looking to cut expensive budgets and reduce fleet operation expenses.

·        Advertising/Corporate Display Accounts-for Corporations looking to get an edge on the competition through innovative Auto-bicycles. The vehicles can be designed in any scheme imaginable, from a "Battleship", “Space Ship”, "Sneaker", “Airplane” and more!

·        Auto-bicycle F/X & Graphic Display Facilities-progressive hype-style graphics targeted to give Commuters individual "flavor" with prices that won't break your budget! Being able to drive your dream machine without spending a fortune is a must for the racing enthusiast as well as vehicle fanatics.

·        Automation Shipping Services-a big must for small batch movements, this innovation will further increase on-demand shipping in local Communities! By enhancing the automation of shipping, the cost of freight becomes minimal, especially with the reduced need of rising transportation costs. These capital expenditures hinder Local and State Governments, Small Businesses and individuals.

·        Three-way Dispatch Call Centers-work in conjunction with Energy Source Provider’s to make using this advanced technology easy for the novice, and exciting for the advanced user!

·        Health Monitoring Control Services-are mandatory, but can be waived at the Commuter's own risk. The adrenaline that people will feel from the "Power" generated from their own energy warrants monitoring! Just like an engine with gauges, the human Body must be monitored.

·        Tele-Operation Skyway System Toll Facilities-provide payment for the use of Automated Skyway Systems. A 100 MPH ride with fares equivalent to Mass Transit Systems will have people flocking to use the system just for the pleasure of riding at high speeds, legally!

·        Renewable "Green Power" Sustainability Facilities-provide power to run the Skyway System. This energy is separated from the traditional grid system. This facility also works cooperatively with the digitally enhanced power demands of Auto-bicycles that use remote features for energy sustainability.

·        OnLine Diagnostics  Centers- provides analysis to Auto-bicycles on a routine basis, and can update preliminary online skyway inspections while in transit, over-the-road repairs, and emergency services online!

·        Internet Virtual Factories- control the fabrication of Real-Time assembly  of Auto-bicycles internationally. By using small batch freight and just-in-time warehousing, the fabrication of Auto-bicycles can be assembled anywhere, from Country to Country, to adjust for political upheaval, rising inflation, war or riots, etc., etc.!

·        The EnTransNet University- develops advanced cutting edge technologies to sustain the economy as other transportation concepts phase out. The ability to exploit “Advanced Physics” which made Auto-bicycles feasible, is paramount to a whole new realm of innovations that have not been explored!

·        OnLine Dealershops- enhance the sales of PC Auto-bicycle Systems and PC Home Services to provide Energy-On-Demand, that will let Commuters store enough power in their Auto-bicycle to use in remote locations. The Energy System Server stored on the Auto-bicycle, used in conjunction with an Internet connection, activates the commands to Store, Send, Retrieve, Analyze, Collaborate and Link features.

A Proposed Transition Path –

A Hybrid Dual-Mode Mini Mag-Lev System

Near-Term Technology Implementation

Auto-bicycles have a viable market as a niche system catering to Commuters and small Community Transportation Systems. The Auto-bicycles are Software/Human Powered and are consequently zero emissions. Several such Skyway Systems are being developed at this time, but none of the other systems propose any of the features that Auto-bicycles have! Examples include Skyweb Express, ULTra and MicroRail. The ULTra system has reached the demonstration stage, prototypes have been built by Skyweb Express and MicroRail. A viable unlimited business opportunity can be immediately created to build such systems. The enterprise would support a small engineering department as is characteristic of the typical commercial manufacturing enterprise. A manufacturing plant of this nature could be set-up and in production in a matter of a year or two. Auto-bicycles have the potential above other skyway concepts, because they allow Commuters to bring the vehicles home, and they can be driven on regular roadways without a license! This advantage gives the Owner's of Auto-bicycle Franchises unique position over any competition. The ability to obtain a large quantity of applicants while the DMMMLS is being built further reinforces the Company's ability to raise additional capital!

Mid-Term Technology Implementation

As a next step one would divert some part of the cash flow of the near-term enterprise and add Government funding to create R&D for augmentation of the product line. This augmentation would seek to take the design out of niche markets into a full suburban transportation system. Design for the mid-term system could proceed in parallel with near-term design and production. Mid-term product should become available in two to five years. As Communities across the Nation and World-Wide see the viability of a real working Dual-Mode Auto-bicycle and the fact that it is environmentally sustainable, the demand and growth for its technology will overwhelm its Owners, Partners and Developers.

The mid-term product should be compatible with the earlier niche system and should additionally allow vehicles to be driven on-and-off the Skyway. In this concept the Skyway System becomes analogous to a freeway or expressway. Individual vehicles may be owned and maintained either by a public Transit Authority or by individuals (Energy Source Providers). Public vehicles may be leased for the duration of a year or for more extended periods of time. The Skyway density and weight rating are variable but sparse. Skyways that service residential areas only, are limited to light weight passenger vehicles. Skyway density varies with the type of housing in the area. Multiple lane traffic is available for heavy traffic areas and several types of Auto-bicycles coexist in the system.

There are several examples of Companies around the world that are developing such systems, currently referred to as dual-mode systems. An overview of the current status of several of these dualmode systems is available on-line. One company, called MegaRail, is pursuing an evolutionary approach that is very similar to that defined in this paper (see the MegaRail 2003 product booklet for details), but are still running into the cost, space, sustainability and weight issues.

Rental vehicles

The public vehicle single trip rental is analogous to current metro, rail or bus usage. The vehicle becomes available to the user at a Auto-bicycle Station and is occupied to the destination, which must be another Auto-bicycle Station. Once the vehicle is vacated, it becomes available to any other user as assigned by the system.

In the extended duration rental, the public vehicle is analogous to a rental car. It can be acquired at any Auto-bicycle Station and must eventually be returned to a Auto-bicycle Station. In the intervening interval it may however depart the Skyway System and be driven along roads like a rental car. It may also re-enter the Skyway System and travel within it to any station from where it can exit the system and complete its trip along a normal road. The user must drive the Auto-bicycle during road travel. The vehicle is completely automatic for the Skyway portions of the trip.

When regulated and equipped with a driver these Auto-bicycles may also act as suburban Mini-Cabs.

The individually owned Auto-bicycle is analogous to a normal current day car except it is Software/Human Powered and carries significant automation-onboard. It can travel the Skyway System, or normal roads to the extent of the individual rider's capability. The Auto-bicycle can be recharged by downloading the Software commands from the Internet to continue traveling the regular roadway or Skyway System. Downloading Software commands is just like refueling, in a digital sense. The Auto-bicycle must "download" commands approximately every three days or so, depending on how long the vehicle is driven. A one minute download will give just over 24 hours of operation! After the download is complete, which can take place anywhere, the Commuter is free to drive!

Long-Term technology Implementation

The long term product adds incremental automation to the mid-term Auto-bicycle. It becomes available in five to seven years and is a precursor of a full AHS. The principal distinction to AHS is the degree of automation and the all-digital limitations of the advanced Auto-bicycle system.

The advanced system comprises the mid-term DMMMLS augmented with Tele-Operation. A remote operator/driver can supervise the vehicle during its Skyway excursions. Tele-Operator control would be on-demand at any time an Auto-bicycle enters the Skyway System, and may address the drunk-driver and remote parking problems. Tele-Operation is accomplished through existing Three-way (Commuter, Tele-Operator and Energy Source Provider) radio links and video technology. Military technology in existence, when commercialized, should allow a single Tele-Operator, with the aid of vehicle automation, to safely control somewhere between sixty and eighty thousand vehicles per hour during their Skyway excursions.

The advanced Skyway System cannot accommodate vehicles that have not been augmented for Skyway operation. Auto-bicycles offer a seamless transition for the Commuter to a partially automated, no-emission system, capable of handling six to eight times current day traffic, while using no additional real estate and providing improved traffic flow.

A Thousand Points of Light

A number of authors have noted the difficulty, time and expense involved with creating a new infrastructure for the support of any alternate transportation system. Ultimately, the practicality of creating the Auto-bicycle infrastructure will dominate the implementation of any new mode of transport.

The Auto-bicycle concept seeks to allow the incremental creation of such a minimalist infrastructure on a market driven basis using a combination of public and private financing. It also seeks to surpass the range limitations imposed by current battery technology and electric vehicles, while extracting maximum leverage towards implementing an early form of AHS in the form of Dual-Mode Mini Mag-Lev Systems.

An essential role of the hybrid MID-TERM technology is the creation of a public/private financial partnership. Until vehicles can be driven to and from the homes of individual travelers, no concept of ownership and therefore no public/private partnership can be established. In time, improvements in Software Energy Storage Systems may eliminate the technological need for a hybrid architecture. Nevertheless a hybrid architecture will remain essential for social/financial reasons until a different paradigm can be found to continue private/public partnership support for the system.

Second, the infrastructure must be susceptible to incremental development. Any system dependent for its functionality on the prior development of a nationwide network of tracks and charging stations is destined for the ash heap. Auto-bicycles use Software Applications and Computer Hardware, technology that is already widespread and readily available!

The proposal envisions growth and development by "the yard". Over time a thousand cities with congested downtown sections could adopt the NEAR-TERM Skyway System. As vehicles are produced or upgraded to MID-TERM capability, drivers--and AHS vehicle computers--will learn to traverse gaps between adjacent systems to reach their intended destinations. In these gaps the vehicle would initially be negotiated on Software power under manual control. Eventually manual control would be replaced by the LONG-TERM system architecture.

As traffic and usage increase, the most frequently transited systems will be linked to allow travel over arbitrary distances. As AHS, Software and downloading technologies improve, distance between sections of track may become less relevant. At some point businesses should start seeing cost benefits from automated, point-to-point shipments.

Elimination of late night walks through rain, weather and poorly secured parking lots could be as valuable as commercial point-to-point automation. Automatic parking will increase the distance between the parking lot and the point of usage from the current maximum of about a quarter mile (even that is inconvenient) to about a mile and a half. In an automated system, a two to three minute wait, in secure, well lit, air conditioned comfort would likely be acceptable. At a vehicle speed of no more than thirty miles per hour this exceeds a one and one half mile parking radius. Manhattan users could theoretically park their Auto-bicycles across the bridge in Brooklyn.

National adoption of such a system would likely depend on the parallel development of Software technology and AHS. In the same way early telephone technology outgrew manual pegboards, an advanced Skyway would outgrow its warts of Tele-Operation and specialized Skyways. The purpose of this development concept is to increase usage and create a critical mass committed to the success of a zero emissions automated system, before the supporting technology is fully evolved. Equally crucial, it must not impede growth once the technology does become available.

Conclusions

Most studies conclude that limitations in battery technology and AHS capability limit the immediate development of an electrical transportation system to niche applications. This is not a necessary conclusion when it comes to Auto-bicycle Technologies, that use applications and components up to date with the current times. One must realize that automobile technology should have been much more superior than it currently is. Hybrid systems using battery, electric motor and gasoline combinations could have surfaced back in 1970. Electric vehicles are over a hundred years old and hydrogen or fuel cells should not even be considered!

Technology is not the dominant issue in the development of an individual vehicle transportation system. State-of-the-Art Skyway Systems could be used to implement a practical electrical vehicular system as described, and this path is unique. Development of an industrial capability and associated employment will be driven by market considerations that are at best associated with the current state of technology. At issue may be an integrated solution to the transportation problem rather than the specific technology dependence or competitiveness issues insisted on by major car manufacturers and transportation technologists.

Acknowledgment

DLF Group International Inc. is grateful to the staff of the US Department of Transportation, Washington, D.C. for access and opportunities related to the research for this article, and insight into its implementation in the Delaware Valley. Working to bring this concept to the most highly congested area in the USA will be a demonstration of its capability, or a location that has an existing PRT System that is inactive!

References

Washington University ( http://faculty.washington.edu/jbs/itrans ) is a clearinghouse of information to help grasp the reality that “Billions” upon “Billions” were spent to try and solve the new transportation solution!

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Last modified: June 30th 2005