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This diagrams the classical problem for branches in two-way transit lines.
Leaving A on the trunk line, trains can go either way at the diverge switch, which is usually set by Central Control. One setting leads to B, the other leads to C.
Returning from B or C, lines must merge at switch Y, which may be self-setting. Here, time-sharing (with occasional stops) is inevitable. That's just the way it is.
Now let's look at X, where two paths cross. Traditional railroads install an inert metal "frog" here, with crossing grooves to receive the flanges of steel wheels. Monorails also cross here, but their geometry demands a small pivoting piece, which may also be self-setting. In either technology, trains from B could conflict with those headed to C. So there is hazard, and sometimes one train must stop right there and wait while the other passes through.
Not so for Rail Rapid Transit.* At X the two paths are grade-separated, i.e. separated vertically, so collisions are impossible and no one ever has to wait. But the cost is awesome, especially because it's all underground and X is approached at a moderate grade, like 4%.
Our monobeam boasts the same grade separation but at a bargain price. For compact-ness, we approach X on a 10% grade, and both switches fit onto the same factory-built module. Plus, the staggering cost of underground construction is completely eliminated.
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Leaving A on the trunk line, trains can go either way at the diverge switch, which is usually set by Central Control. One setting leads to B, the other leads to C.
Returning from B or C, lines must merge at switch Y, which may be self-setting. Here, time-sharing (with occasional stops) is inevitable. That's just the way it is.
Now let's look at X, where two paths cross. Traditional railroads install an inert metal "frog" here, with crossing grooves to receive the flanges of steel wheels. Monorails also cross here, but their geometry demands a small pivoting piece, which may also be self-setting. In either technology, trains from B could conflict with those headed to C. So there is hazard, and sometimes one train must stop right there and wait while the other passes through.
Not so for Rail Rapid Transit.* At X the two paths are grade-separated, i.e. separated vertically, so collisions are impossible and no one ever has to wait. But the cost is awesome, especially because it's all underground and X is approached at a moderate grade, like 4%.
Our monobeam boasts the same grade separation but at a bargain price. For compact-ness, we approach X on a 10% grade, and both switches fit onto the same factory-built module. Plus, the staggering cost of underground construction is completely eliminated.
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* Rail Rapid Transit is the standard term among technical guys. The popular terms are Metro, Subway, BART, etc. All maximize safety with no interruption between stations (except at Y).
