RUF Dual-Mode Concept

Both personal and public vehicles, of various sizes, would be present on the rail at all times. Some would travel in trains of up to 10 or more vehicles, others would be operated as single or smaller groups of vehicles. People moving capacities in the intermediate range (10-15,000 per hour per direction) are believed to be possible on the automated part of the system. Higher capacities, where needed, could also be achieved by using a larger proportion of MAXI-RUF vehicles or longer trains of small vehicles.

RUF Vehicle Cross-section Grfx
RUF vehicles employ two sets of wheels, allowing dual-mode operation.

Access to the automated part of the system would be provided by simple on/off-ramps and at larger and more complex station facilities. Access to automated parking facilities for both personal and public vehicles would be provided at all stations. Larger public vehicles would be provided with separate parking and maintenance facilities. Larger private vehicles used to move goods would make use of both general purpose and specialized rail and parking facilities. During switching, all vehicles would be slowed to 30 kph, would leave the rail and would operate its four conventional wheels through the switching area. Some would continue along the mainline rail, others would exit to a station or to the conventional street system.

RUF Track Grfx
An I-beam provides a simple yet stable basis for the A-frame guideway design.

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