MINIRAIL TRANSPORT SYSTEM "BITRAN" Russian patent published in 2021 - IPC B61B3/02 B61B13/04 B61B15/00 

FIELD: transport.

SUBSTANCE: invention relates to transport systems wherein a suspended rail vehicle is driven by human muscular power. The mini-rail transport system is comprised of a closed track system with suspended single-seat velomobiles, boarding and debarking stations and turnouts. The system also comprises minirails whereon the velomobiles roll, supporting beams rigidly connected thereto, supporting cables whereto the beams are suspended by guys. The guiding part of the minirail in cross-section is made in form of a strip of small thickness with guiding heads on top and bottom and a rib located perpendicularly on the side - an element for attachment to the supporting beam. The carriage embracing the supporting part of the minirail in a C-shape has support rollers on top and retaining and side rollers on the bottom, abutting both heads from the sides. Two independent driving wheels of the velomobile are located horizontally and pressed to the lower head of the minirail, two independent reciprocating pedals are located not above the seat level and are connected with flexible elements - cables installed on the driving shafts by free wheel clutches. The axis protruding in front and in the rear, hingedly suspended from the carriage of the cabin, has a spring-loaded bumper connected with the brake in front, and a rigid bumper in the rear. Inside the cabin, three control sticks are located on top: the left one for coupling or uncoupling, if required, with another velomobile in front, the right one for coupling or uncoupling with the velomobile behind, and the middle one for transitioning one of the two wedge-shaped clutches located outside between the cabin and the minirail, rigidly connected with the handle, into the horizontal working position, by turning clockwise or anti-clockwise.

EFFECT: large number of people can be transported as a result, with comfort and safety comparable to other modes of transport, with low material consumption of the transport system.

1 cl, 9 dwg