State of the Art—Urban Transportation Systems

Passenger transportation systems are divided into three groups depending on the freedom to move in various planes. Structurally guided (one degree of freedom) systems currently in operation, or undergoing passenger carrying tests are reviewed in detail. Part A reviews the developments of two-rail systems including modem trends in vehicle design, control systems and passenger comfort. The basic types of rubber-tired systems are reviewed, details concerning guidance systems analyzed, and the small car system now in the test phase examined. Part B divides monorail railways into three groups: suspended asymmetric, suspended symmetric, and supported. Recent installation of each type are reviewed as well as the question of the switch design problem. Part C is concerned with air cushion vehicles (ground effect machines), particularly the structurally guided types that have recently reached extremely high speeds. The necessity for careful consideration of the safety problem by promoters of new systems is emphasized. The need for economic data, as experience with new systems is gained, in order to make valid recommendations is indicated.