The recent Euronews article titled "The European Tube: Inside the project to launch a continent-wide rail system by 2040" introduces the ambitious Starline network, aiming to connect 39 European destinations with high-speed trains traveling at 300-400 km/h. This vision includes extending lines to the UK, Turkey, and Ukraine, promising significantly reduced travel times across the … Continue reading The European Tube: Visionary Innovation or Unrealistic Dream?
Traffic lights are a common sight on roads and intersections, and they play a crucial role in regulating the flow of traffic and preventing accidents. But have you ever wondered how these traffic lights work? In this blog post, we'll explore the basic mechanics of traffic lights and how they function to keep us safe … Continue reading Why traffic lights should not be seen as boring
Recently, the IAEA published their Report on Energy Technology 2023. They are analyzing both scenarios, the "Net Zero Emission by 2050" scenario as well as the "Announced Pledges Scenario". It is one of the few very comprehensive reports about the topic that I have read in recent years looking at a variety of aspects. The … Continue reading Rethinking energy usage for transportation
Indian railways is engaging in trials for hydrogen locomotives for some mountainous railway lines. According to this article, the objective is to get the trail running by December 2023, making it a first for this type of railway line and the respective altitude. The two candidates for the trial are the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway and … Continue reading Branchlines in India seeking hydrogen traction
As reported in railway gazette, Rumo is running a more advanced infrastructure diagnosis system toprevent broken rails. Why is it relevant Broken rails are an issue all across the world. For instance, Network Rail in the UK faces some 100broken rails per year. A broken rail can easily lead to a derailment which is, especially … Continue reading Rumo, the Brazilian logistics giant has introduced an AI driven new broken rail detection system
Just yesterday, some early results of a US Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) project have been published. The idea of project was to create a low-cost, expendable engine by separating the development from the production/procurement costs. So what does this mean in particular? Rethink innovation The development of a new engine, especially when it comes … Continue reading Creating open source jet-engines
Last week, DB informed that they are taking 3D printing into the syllabus of its vocational training and have started to print 3D spare parts for its ICE series of trains. The objective is to make around 10,000 different spare parts available via 3D printing by 2021. Why it matters: Looking at classic obsolescence topics … Continue reading DB starts printing 3D metal spare parts
This summer, GKN Aerospace announced that they are researching the case of an optimized carbon reinforced wing for a next Airbus single aisle, narrow body aircraft under the "wing of tomorrow" program. Why it matters: The next topic in aviation after a new engine option for the 777 and the A350 is definitely a new … Continue reading Composite wings for the next narrow body aircraft?
This Monday, Skoda announced that they are integrating Lokel into a new Skoda Digital subsidiary. This newly formed group with around 70 employees will be responsible for their TCMS, diagnostic systems and multimedia systems. Why it matters: Skoda transitions with this strategic move from a "classic" small OEM in the rolling stock industry being a … Continue reading Skoda going more digital
When I recently read that NJ Transit is signing the contract to purchase new double-deck EMUs, I was positively surprised. Not only did they manage to purchase an electric multiple unit (EMU) which is much more suitable for commuter and regional transport, but they also went for a double-deck configuration permitting more capacity at the … Continue reading Why the US never manages to purchase modern rolling stock
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