You will be surprised to learn how different the Hyperloop is from many other methods of transportation. The pylon pillars, for instance, are uniquely designed to be earthquake resistant because they can modify their vertical and horizontal positions. Another interesting aspect of these pillars is that they require as little as the space equivalent to a phone poll. This is a great benefit because few people will be affected during the construction period, and costs may be minimized. On another note, if we examine Figure 1.0, we will notice that the top of the external tunnel is covered by a flat piece. Those are actually solar panels that have the capability of collecting and storing energy! Furthermore, we may also notice two long grey stripes that surround the shuttle and external tube. These stripes are magnets that function to keep the vehicle levitating. (Hyperloop Alpha, 2013)
Figure 1.0
One of the most interesting facts about the Hyperloop is that it does not require tracks, which is absolutely a wonder! Magnets are attached to the outer tunnel, and they function to keep it levitating. Aside from the ability to levitate, air is withdrawn from the front shuttle and creates a friction-free environment. These two functions are further powered by two sources of renewable energy—solar energy collected from external panels and electricity from the engine. (Hyperloop Alpha, 2013) In accordance with Newton’s laws of physics, the Hyperloop should be able to achieve speeds of 1200 km/h as a result of the absence of friction.
Figure 1.1 |