Re: Very NG-More questions of its success.

This Rail-Pod web site seems to stay clear of using the words like Segway, but I would bet they are using the same technology but are patenting their own system. The use of abandoned rail lines seem ill conceived unless just for test service. No one want to go where those abandoned lines go.

If this pod works as planned, why not use scrap oil-drilling pipe and build specific single tracks where you do want to go? Let’s say you have a very beautiful place like the Toltec Gorge and no one can get down there to view that area, but if you built this one pipe twisting up the valley very little above the ground, people could ride the pod and view the area without spoiling it. No trails to erode or pavement on a hiking trail, just the running rail pipe welded to small pipe legs stuck in the ground.

It would be very easy to cut a flange space in the outside of a rail at any crossing except dirt crossings. Getting over a frog may be done by the four wheels, dual suspension system permitting some wheels to ride up on the frog head while other wheels keep hold of the rail. Or a small flange space could be cut over the top of the frog that would not affect normal wheel movement. But it may damage the life of the frog casting. This system would work better with stub style switches and frogs.

I wonder if these people ever experienced the rail conditions on a frosty morning or the slime on the rails after some leaves have been ground into the surface. They are trying to ride on the smoothest surface next to the ice on the lake. Lots of luck in keeping your distance and getting it stopped. Will it be equipped with rail sanders? Some design people should find the local NARCOA Track Car group and take a feel for what it is like to ride the surface of the rail with a 500-800 pound track car. They might see why we run with 500’ spacing, and more if on a grade.