Project Summary

Supported by Transport for West Midlands (TfWM), the Underground Freight Transport system is an emerging innovative concept using the sub surface to mode shift freight from road-based HGV to electrically powered capsules travelling autonomously on rail tracks in low cost tunnels.

Project Achievements

Activities 1. System modelling to specify exemplar case, design parameters, predict performance and optimise and measure results. 2. Specify, select and design material handling equipment and layout for a range of Material Handling Units. Do this using DEMO 3D digital twin design software tool with its illustrative features. 3. Design Capsule special intermodal features avoiding onboard power sources. Use CAD tools of Sketch up and Alive with illustrative features. 4. Prepare timing and logic diagrams as the basis for subsequent coding of the station controller.

Conclusions

The evidence presented in the final report concludes that TRIG project 1260 was efficiently completed on time and within budget. The project outcomes and learnings have enabled TRL progression not only individually for the two key work areas of logistical ‘Material Handling Aspects’ and for the ‘Capsule unload /load features’ but, significantly and importantly of how these areas work together physically and with control systems to provide an integrated intermodal operation. A transfer cycle of 33 seconds on a UFT transporting 5,200 pallets per day impacts by enabling a reduction of 400 equivalent HGV movements.

Next Steps

Technically, further development and testing beyond the currently achieved TRL4 status. This project progress has enabled and supported a UFT exploitation route based upon a regional approach as recommended by DfT. This currently envisaged as being in the West Midlands with its progressive approach to solving the effect of freight transport efficiency and environmental Issues. A collaboration with the Dudley based ‘Black Country Innovative Manufacturing Organisation (BCIMO)’ for future testing and focus on ‘Very Light Rail Freight’ advancement Is welcomed as a vision for the future.