Through these pages, we will delve into the evolution, capabilities, and future prospects of these extraordinary machines. From the early days of simple diving bells to the sophisticated autonomous vehicles of today, we chart the remarkable progress that has been made in underwater exploration technology.

This book is not just about the vehicles themselves, but also about the endless possibilities they open up for us in understanding and preserving our oceanic world. It’s an invitation to appreciate the ingenuity and perseverance that drive human exploration and to marvel at the secrets of the deep, revealed through the lens of technology.

Join us as we dive deep into the ocean’s mysteries, uncovering the technological wonders that have made this journey possible.

Diving into Innovation: The Evolution of Underwater Vehicle Design

The quest to explore the enigmatic depths of our oceans has long captivated human imagination. This fascination has driven the evolution of underwater vehicle design, a journey marked by remarkable innovations and technological breakthroughs. In “Diving into Innovation,” we delve into the history and evolution of these fascinating machines, tracing their journey from rudimentary diving bells to the sophisticated submersibles of today.

The Humble Beginnings

The story of underwater vehicles begins with simple diving bells, used as early as the 4th century BC. These primitive devices, often just a hollow inverted container, allowed a diver to breathe underwater for a short period. The concept underwent several refinements over centuries, but it wasn’t until the 18th century that the first significant leap in underwater exploration technology occurred with the advent of the submarine.

The Age of Submarines

The concept of a fully submersible ship came to life with the creation of early submarines. The 17th and 18th centuries saw designs like Cornelius Drebbel’s oar-powered submarine and the Turtle, a one-man wooden submersible used during the American Revolutionary War. However, it was the development of the first mechanically powered submarine, the Nautilus, by Robert Fulton in the early 19th century, that truly revolutionized the field.

The Modern Submersibles

The 20th century marked a golden era in the design of underwater vehicles. The World Wars accelerated the development of military submarines, leading to advancements in propulsion, navigation, and safety systems. Post-war, the focus shifted towards exploration and scientific research. This era birthed vehicles like the Alvin, a deep-sea submersible that explored the Titanic wreck, and the Trieste, which descended to the deepest part of the ocean, the Mariana Trench.

Technological Breakthroughs

The technological advancement of underwater vehicles has been monumental. Modern submersibles are equipped with highly advanced navigation systems, robust materials capable of withstanding extreme underwater pressures, and sophisticated tools for research and data collection. Innovations like autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) and remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) have opened new possibilities in oceanography, underwater archaeology, and environmental monitoring.

The Future of Underwater Exploration

Looking forward, the future of underwater vehicle design promises even more exciting possibilities. Concepts like biomimicry, where vehicles are designed to emulate the efficient movements of marine animals, and the integration of AI and machine learning for autonomous exploration, are on the horizon. These advancements not only hold the potential for deeper and more prolonged exploration but also for a better understanding of our planet’s final frontier.

Exploring the Depths: Cutting-Edge Capabilities of Modern Submarines

The realm of modern submarines is one of awe-inspiring technological marvels. These advanced underwater vessels have transcended their initial military roles, becoming pivotal in scientific exploration, resource discovery, and even in luxury tourism. In “Exploring the Depths,” we delve into the cutting-edge capabilities that define modern submarines, revealing how they navigate the mysterious world beneath the waves.

Advanced Propulsion and Maneuverability

One of the most significant advancements in modern submarine design is in their propulsion systems. Nuclear-powered submarines have revolutionized underwater travel, capable of remaining submerged for months without surfacing for air or fuel. This ability has not only been crucial for military stealth operations but has also opened doors for extended scientific missions in the deepest parts of the oceans.

Electric-diesel submarines also play a vital role, especially in non-military applications. Their quieter operation makes them ideal for wildlife observation and underwater research, where minimizing environmental disturbance is crucial.

Enhanced Safety and Endurance

Modern submarines are designed with enhanced safety features and greater endurance capabilities. They are equipped with sophisticated life-support systems, ensuring breathable air, potable water, and manageable atmospheric conditions for extended periods underwater. Hulls made from high-strength steel or titanium allow them to withstand extreme pressure at great depths, significantly expanding their operational range.

Cutting-Edge Navigation and Communication Systems

Navigation and communication under the sea’s surface present unique challenges. Modern submarines utilize sonar technology for navigation and detection of obstacles or other vessels. Satellite communication systems, when surfaced, and very low frequency (VLF) communication while submerged, enable these vessels to stay in touch with the outside world.

Scientific Tools and Research Facilities

Research submarines are equipped with a range of scientific tools. These include robotic arms for sample collection, advanced cameras and sensors for environmental monitoring, and sonar mapping systems for studying underwater geology. Some are even equipped with mini-submarines or remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) for closer exploration of underwater features.

Recreational and Tourist Use

The latest frontier for submarines is in luxury tourism. Custom-built leisure submarines offer unique experiences, such as underwater dining or exploration of shipwrecks and coral reefs. While these submarines are smaller and operate at shallower depths, they nonetheless incorporate many of the advanced features of their research and military counterparts.

The Future Submerged: Emerging Technologies in Underwater Exploration

The frontier of underwater exploration is continually being redefined by groundbreaking technologies. In “The Future Submerged,” we dive into the emerging innovations that are set to transform our approach to exploring the ocean’s depths. These advancements not only promise to unveil the mysteries of the undersea world but also pave the way for new possibilities in environmental stewardship, resource management, and deep-sea research.

Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs)

A significant leap in underwater exploration is the development of Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs). These unmanned vehicles, equipped with advanced sensors and AI-driven navigation systems, can independently traverse the ocean’s depths. They are revolutionizing data collection, enabling extensive mapping of the ocean floor, monitoring of marine ecosystems, and detection of underwater resources without the need for constant human oversight.

Advanced Materials and Design

The exploration of extreme underwater environments demands materials and designs that can withstand immense pressures and corrosive conditions. The use of titanium and composite materials is increasing, offering strength and durability while reducing weight. Additionally, biomimicry in design, inspired by marine life such as the streamlined shapes of fish and the pressure resistance of certain deep-sea creatures, is leading to more efficient and capable underwater vehicles.

Deep-Sea Communication Technologies

Communication remains a challenge in deep-sea exploration due to water’s impact on radio waves. Emerging technologies like underwater acoustic networks are providing new solutions. These networks use sound waves for communication, enabling better coordination between underwater vehicles, sensors, and surface base stations, thus improving data transmission from the ocean depths.

Enhanced Sensory and Imaging Technology

The future of underwater exploration also lies in enhanced sensory and imaging technologies. Developments in sonar technology, 3D underwater lidar (light detection and ranging), and high-definition cameras are allowing for more detailed and accurate imaging of underwater landscapes and marine life. This technology is crucial for scientific research, archaeological explorations, and environmental monitoring.

Robotic and AI Integration

Robotic systems and artificial intelligence are playing increasingly vital roles in underwater exploration. AI algorithms are being developed to process and analyze the vast amounts of data collected by underwater sensors, aiding in the identification of geological formations, biological entities, and environmental changes. Furthermore, robotic arms and manipulators are becoming more sophisticated, allowing for delicate operations and sampling in the deep sea.

Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Exploration

As we advance in underwater exploration, there is a growing emphasis on eco-friendly and sustainable practices. Technologies are being developed to minimize the ecological footprint of underwater exploration, including quieter propulsion systems to reduce noise pollution and strategies to avoid disturbing sensitive marine habitats.

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In this comprehensive guide, we dive into the essential aspects of planning and executing a successful family trip. From choosing the right destination to accommodate all ages to packing tips that cater to the needs of both children and adults, this article covers it all. We understand that family dynamics vary and what works for one family may not work for another, so we offer a range of strategies and insights to suit diverse needs and preferences.

We’ll explore how to keep children engaged and entertained during long journeys, how to balance sightseeing with relaxation, and how to manage unexpected situations that often arise when traveling with little ones. Additionally, we’ll discuss budgeting for family travel, ensuring that your adventures don’t break the bank.

Safety is a paramount concern when traveling with family, and this article will provide valuable tips on keeping everyone safe and healthy, from vaccinations to food safety in foreign countries. We’ll also delve into the educational aspects of travel, showing how to turn every trip into a learning experience for children of all ages.

Choosing the Right Destination: A Family-Friendly Guide

Traveling as a family can create lifelong memories, but the success of your trip often hinges on one crucial decision: choosing the right destination. In “Choosing the Right Destination: A Family-Friendly Guide,” we explore key factors that make a location ideal for families, ensuring that your holiday is enjoyable for every member, regardless of age.

Understanding Family Needs

The first step in selecting the perfect destination is understanding the unique needs and interests of your family. Consider the age range of your children, as this will greatly influence the type of activities and the level of adventure suitable for your trip. Infants and toddlers require destinations with amenities like stroller access and diaper-changing facilities, while older children and teenagers may seek more active and engaging experiences.

Balancing Interests

A family-friendly destination should offer a balance, catering to both adult and child interests. Look for locations that provide a mix of historical, cultural, and recreational activities. Museums with interactive exhibits, outdoor adventures, and places with educational value can be enjoyable for both children and adults. Destinations with theme parks, beaches, or nature trails often have broad appeal.

Safety and Convenience

Safety should be a top priority when traveling with family. Research the safety records of potential destinations, including health concerns, crime rates, and general travel advisories. Additionally, consider the convenience of travel – direct flights, reasonable travel distances, and the availability of family-friendly accommodations and transportation should be taken into account.

Budget Considerations

Family trips can be expensive, so it’s important to choose a destination that fits your budget. Consider all costs, including travel, accommodation, food, and activities. Some destinations offer family packages or discounts for children, which can be cost-effective options.

Climate and Weather

The time of year you plan to travel can significantly impact your destination choice. Research the climate and typical weather conditions for your intended travel dates. Destinations with extreme weather conditions might be unsuitable for young children or the elderly.

Cultural Experience

Choose destinations that offer a rich cultural experience. Travel is a wonderful way to broaden your children’s horizons and expose them to different lifestyles, languages, and customs. This can be an invaluable learning experience for the whole family.

Check Reviews and Recommendations

Finally, utilize resources like travel blogs, family travel forums, and reviews from other families. First-hand experiences can provide insights into how child-friendly and enjoyable a destination is.

Packing Smart: Essentials for Family Travel

Packing for a family vacation can often feel like a daunting task, especially when trying to cater to everyone’s needs while keeping luggage manageable. “Packing Smart: Essentials for Family Travel” is your guide to efficient, stress-free preparation for your family’s next adventure.

Effective packing starts with a comprehensive list tailored to the destination, length of stay, and activities planned. It’s essential to strike a balance between being prepared and overpacking, as carrying too much can be just as inconvenient as forgetting something important.

For clothing, versatility is key. Opt for items that can be mixed and matched, and consider layers for changing weather conditions. Always pack an extra set of clothes for younger children and remember that laundry facilities might be available at your destination, reducing the need for excessive clothing.

When it comes to toiletries, miniaturize where possible. Travel-sized items save space and weight, and many hotels provide basic toiletries. However, don’t forget specific items like children’s sunscreen, insect repellent, and any necessary medications.

Traveling with kids often means bringing along some of their favorite toys or comfort items. While it’s important to keep them entertained, especially during transit, choose compact and versatile toys like coloring books, a small set of blocks, or a tablet loaded with games and movies.

Technology can be both a blessing and a curse when traveling. Remember chargers and power banks, but also consider the value of unplugging and enjoying the destination.

For families with infants or toddlers, essentials include diapers, wipes, a portable changing mat, and food supplies like bottles, formula, and snacks. Collapsible strollers and baby carriers can also be lifesavers when navigating airports or busy streets.

Don’t forget important documents – passports, tickets, travel insurance details, and any necessary visas. Keeping digital copies of these documents can also be useful.

Lastly, be adaptable with your packing. As children grow and interests change, so will their needs when traveling. What worked for one trip might not be ideal for the next.

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1. Bamboo Trains, Cambodia

Also known as the Norry, these bamboo platforms powered by small engines run on old train tracks. This offers an eco-friendly and fast ride through the Cambodian countryside.

2. Reed Boats, Peru

Lake Titicaca is home to the Uros people who craft buoyant boats from totora reeds. Stepping into these ancient vessels is like time-traveling to a world before modern boatbuilding.

3. Coconut Taxis, Cuba

Rev up your tropical transportation vibes with these bright yellow, coconut-shaped tricycles. Perfect for short rides and sure to elicit laughter along Havana streets.

4. Ostrich Riding, South Africa

While they’re better known for their feathers and eggs, ostriches in Oudtshoorn can be mounted for a truly unusual, albeit bumpy, ride. Hold on tight!

5. Ice Angel, USA

Wisconsin’s Madeline Island has an icy secret. In the colder months, these wind sleds, known as Ice Angels, glide over frozen Lake Superior, connecting island residents to the mainland.

6. Toboggan Ride, Madeira

One of the most thrilling commutes? Enjoy a toboggan ride down Funchal’s steep streets! Locals push and steer these wicker sleds, offering adrenaline-filled rides to brave tourists.

7. Funicular Railways, Various Locations

Often found scaling steep hills in cities like Lisbon, Pittsburgh, and Hong Kong, funiculars use gravity and counterbalancing cars to transport people up and down challenging terrains.

8. Camel Caravans, Sahara Desert

Long before SUVs dominated desert landscapes, camels were the kings of the sands. Embark on an authentic camel trek across the mesmerizing Sahara dunes for a throwback to ancient nomadic lifestyles.

9. Human-Pulled Rickshaws, Kolkata

A symbol of old-world charm, these rickshaws provide employment for many. Though the tradition is slowly disappearing, it remains a deeply rooted part of Kolkata’s cultural heritage.

10. Tuk-Tuk, Southeast Asia

A cross between a car and a motorbike, the Tuk-Tuk is a beloved form of transport across Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos. Its zippy nature makes navigating busy streets a breeze.

11. Traghetto, Venice

While gondolas are the famed Venetian watercraft, the Traghetto offers a less glamorous but equally essential service. These larger, more Spartan gondolas ferry locals and tourists across the Grand Canal to specific points.

12. Chicken Buses, Central America

Originally school buses from the United States, these are now brightly painted and serve as public buses in various Central American countries. They got their quirky name from riding alongside local farmers’ chickens!

13. Cyclo, Vietnam

These pedal-powered tricycles provide leisurely tours around cities like Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi. Passengers sit in the front, enjoying an unobstructed view, while the driver pedals from behind.

14. Yak Caravans, Himalayas

In the Himalayas, yaks are indispensable. Carrying goods and sometimes people, these sturdy animals have been the lifeline for mountain communities for centuries.

15. Solar-Powered Tuk-Tuks, India

Embracing sustainable travel, innovators in India have revamped the traditional Tuk-Tuk with solar panels. These eco-friendly rides pave the way for a greener urban transport future.

Endless Avenues of Adventure

Global transportation offers a myriad of flavors – from rustic yak caravans to futuristic solar-powered vehicles. Each mode of transport paints a vibrant picture of the locale’s history, culture, and innovation.

Exploring unfamiliar terrains with unfamiliar vehicles enriches our travel stories. It ties us closer to a place’s soul, allowing us a brief yet intimate connection with its rhythm.

Dare you to embrace the unknown. For, as they say, magic happens outside the comfort zone. And in travel, that magic might be riding a chicken bus or crossing the Grand Canal in a Tragetto.

Keywords Continued: Tragetto, Venice, Chicken Buses, Central America, Cyclo, Ho Chi Minh, Hanoi, Yak Caravans, Himalayas, Solar-Powered Tuk-Tuks, India, sustainable travel, global transportation.

In this expansive and ever-evolving world, how will you move? Every journey, no matter how brief, leaves an indelible mark. Choose the path less traveled, and let the adventures unfold.

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From Gondolas to Camel-back: Transportation’s Unique Appeal

In Venice, the romantic allure of the gondola is undeniable. This timeless mode of transport not only adds charm to the city’s canals but also elevates the value of properties along its serene waterways. Similarly, in Dubai’s desert landscapes, camel rides offer an authentic experience, boosting desert resorts and vacation homes.

These unique transport modes are not just about mobility but encapsulate a city’s essence, its history, and its cultural richness. As travelers and residents seek more immersive experiences, these transport modes become integral to a location’s real estate worth.

The Future: Hoverboards, Drones, and More

Fast forward to our tech-savvy era, and innovations are bursting. Hoverboards, once a sci-fi fantasy, now skim urban streets. In some cities, personal drones are reshaping the very essence of “commuting,” offering bird’s-eye views and unmatched speed.

These technological marvels are not only conversation starters but increasingly influence property decisions. Apartments with drone-friendly balconies or neighborhoods with hoverboard tracks are becoming unique selling points, offering convenience and modernity.

How HomesEh Ties In

Speaking of real estate and its dynamic relationship with transportation, platforms like HomesEh recognize the potential. They’re not just listing properties but also highlighting unique transport modes nearby. This holistic approach gives potential buyers and renters a complete picture, ensuring that their next home is not just a house but a genuine experience.

Community and Connectivity: The Ripple Effect

Transport has always been an instrumental factor in shaping communities. Consider the London Underground or the New York City Subway; they’ve moved people but also transformed entire neighborhoods. While these are established modes of transport, the newer, quirkier ones can potentially have a similar ripple effect.

Imagine a coastal town where the primary mode of transport is paddleboarding from one home to another, using interconnected waterways. The sense of community this fosters, the environmental benefits of such a transport system, and the sheer joy of gliding over water daily can make real estate in such areas incredibly attractive.

Incorporating Nature: The Greener Modes

Beyond tech innovations, there’s a push towards greener, more sustainable modes of transport. Cycle paths in cities like Amsterdam or Copenhagen don’t just promote healthy living, they also boost real estate prices in areas that provide these amenities.

Similarly, towns and cities with green pathways, where one can walk or cycle amidst nature, see increased property valuations. This reflects a growing desire among homeowners to integrate nature into their daily commutes, turning the mundane into something magical.

Challenges Ahead: Integrating the Unconventional

While unconventional modes of transport appeal, integrating them poses challenges. Urban planning, safety concerns, and logistical considerations all come into play.

Real estate developers, in tandem with city planners, need to ensure these transport modes are safe, sustainable, and scalable. For instance, while hoverboard tracks sound futuristic, they need to be implemented in a manner that ensures safety of both riders and pedestrians.

Customization & Personalization: Meeting Individual Needs

One of the most intriguing aspects of these unconventional transport modes is the customization and personalization they offer. Unlike mass transit systems that operate on fixed routes and schedules, many quirky transport options can be tailored to individual preferences.

For instance, personal drones can be equipped with specific features catering to the owner’s needs. This could be extra storage space for goods or enhanced battery life for extended travel. Similarly, homes situated on unique terrains, like hillside properties, might adopt funiculars or cable cars customized to the resident’s design and aesthetic choices.

Economic Impacts: Boosting Local Economies

Every new mode of transport influences real estate and brings economic opportunities. Businesses quickly capitalize on these trends, leading to jobs and entrepreneurial ventures. Just as car culture gave birth to motels and drive-in cinemas, these new modes of transport have the potential to spur unique businesses.

Consider a coastal town where paddleboarding is a primary transport mode: paddleboard repair shops, rental stations, or even themed paddleboard cafes could emerge, further enhancing the town’s real estate appeal.

A Global Perspective: Different Strokes for Different Folks

It’s essential to recognize that unconventional transport isn’t just Western. Across the globe, from Asia’s cycle rickshaws to Africa’s matatus (shared minivans), local modes of transport have always added a distinct flavor to regions, impacting property values and preferences.

In bustling markets like India or Vietnam, properties located near cycle-rickshaw or auto-rickshaw hubs often fetch higher prices due to their convenience. These unique transport modes, deeply embedded in the local culture, play a pivotal role in determining real estate’s desirableness.

The Road Ahead: Embracing the Quirky

Real estate’s relationship with transport is a dance of mutual influence. As our world evolves, and as we push imagination boundaries, this relationship will grow even more nuanced.

For those intrigued by the nexus of transport and real estate, the future holds endless possibilities. And as we embrace more quirks, innovations, and traditions, our living spaces and communities will reflect a richer tapestry of human creativity and adaptability.

On the grand journey of life, where we choose to reside often reflects how we choose to move. So, as you ponder your next real estate move, consider not just the destination, but the vibrant modes of transport that might take you there.

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The history of the Haifa subway is no less interesting than the history of the Israeli people. There were hard times, happy times and oblivion.

Connect the Lower City with neighborhoods located on Mount Carmel, the Haifa authorities conceived at the turn of the 20s of XX century, when the Jews did not have their own state. The plans could be implemented only after Israel’s independence. The emergence of a new mode of transport was not a whim, but an urgent need. The bus service between the districts of the city lying on the mountain and the Lower City could not cope with the influx of passengers.

After a short discussion at City Hall, they came to the conclusion that underground transportation would be the best solution. The construction of the subway was entrusted to the French firm Dunkercoise. It began in 1956. A little over three years later the subway in Haifa began its work. It consists of one line and six stations.

The subway was named “Carmelite” after the mountain in the depths of which it was dug. The opening ceremony of “Karmelit” visited the Prime Minister of Israel David Ben-Gurion.

But almost immediately after the opening of the subway, it was one after the other began to be plagued by various misfortunes. The train crashed into the walls, the cars lost their brakes, and even the deluge began. To promptly solve problems, it was decided to build an underground repair shop and an underground depot at the terminal station “Kikar Paris” (“Paris Square”).

Nearly 30 years after it opened, authorities declared that the technical condition of the Carmelite made travel in it dangerous. On December 19, 1986, the subway in Haifa was closed for a full six years. Reconstruction began in 1990 by specialists from the Swiss firm Von Roll.

A Second Chance Carmelite
The second life of the Carmelite began in 1992. The Prime Minister of Israel Yitzhak Rabin again visited the opening. With the development of technology, the number of employees of the subway was decreasing. If in the 90’s it was served by 25 people, by 2002 the staff was reduced by a third. During the brief Second Lebanon War in 2006, the Carmelite played the role of a bomb shelter for Haifa residents. At that time entrance to the station was free and around the clock.

During the first decade of the twenty-first century, the Haifa subway was patched up. Since 2012 the opening hours on weekdays were extended until midnight. Then it was decided that the line will operate on Saturdays (after sunset) and holidays. But despite all the innovations, the demand for the subway greatly decreased.

To be profitable, the Haifa subway needs to carry many more passengers, but since this is not happening, it is unprofitable. Because of this, there is periodic talk about the possibility of closing Karmelit.

Supporters of preserving the subway point out that it takes only 10 minutes to get from the Lower Town to Carmel. By bus it takes at least half an hour. And that’s if there’s no traffic jams. They are also getting environmentalists on their side, noting the greater environmental friendliness of the underground system.

In 2017, the subway in Haifa stopped working again because of a fire and subsequent reconstruction. The renovated Carmelite opened in the fall of 2018. The interior of the subway may have been revamped after the renovation. If you see different interiors than in my photos, please post in the comments.

To ride the Carmelite you need to buy a ticket, which is sold in special machines. By default, the machine is set up in Hebrew, but you can translate it into English. Then you will be offered to choose the number of rides and the category of the ticket. Now you have to pay and wait for the ticket to be printed. If you don’t understand something, ask a security guard or a man on duty to help you.

After punching the ticket in the turnstile (arrow shows how to insert a ticket into the slot) you will be on the platform. The interior of the stations is unusual, and the narrow corridors, decorated with yellow tiles, are a little intimidating.

Besides me, there was another person waiting for the train on the platform (a woman joined us later), so it looked deserted and somewhat abandoned. And only the information board, showing the time, interval to the next train and other information, told me that I had not transported in time and space. The platform at the same time (like the train) is not flat, but has different levels, which is easily explained – the train takes passengers up and down the mountain.

The interval in the movement of trains is about 10 minutes. For those who don’t want to spend them underground waiting for the train, there are information columns set up in the streets that show the location of both trains. Yes, yes, there are only two trains on the line).

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Formation history
The first pages of the history of the maglev were filled with a series of patents obtained in the early twentieth century in various countries. Back in 1902, a patent for the design of a train equipped with a linear motor was noted by German inventor Alfred Seiden. Four years later, Franklin Scott Smith developed another early prototype of the electromagnetic suspension train. A little later, between 1937 and 1941, several more patents relating to trains equipped with linear electric motors were obtained by German engineer Hermann Kemper.

In 1979, the world’s first prototype of a magnetic cushion train licensed to provide passenger transportation services, Transrapid 05, was born. A test track 908 m long was built in Hamburg and presented during the IVA 79 exhibition. Interest in the project turned out to be so great that the Transrapid 05 managed to operate successfully for another three months after the end of the exhibition and transported a total of about 50,000 passengers. Maximum speed of this train was 75 km/h.

And the first commercial maglev appeared in 1984 in Birmingham, England. Magnetic suspension railway line connected the terminal of the Birmingham International Airport and the railway station located nearby. It operated successfully from 1984 to 1995. The line was only 600 m long, and the height to which the train with a linear induction motor rose above the roadbed was 15 millimeters. In 2003 it was replaced by the AirRail Link passenger service system based on Cable Liner technology.

In the 1980s, high-speed magnetic cushion train projects were developed and implemented not only in England and Germany, but also in Japan, Korea, China and the USA.

How it works
We know about the basic properties of magnets from the 6th grade physics lessons. If you bring the north pole of a permanent magnet to the north pole of another magnet they will repel. If one of the magnets is reversed by connecting the different poles, they will be attracted. This is the simple principle behind maglev trains, which glide through the air over the rail at a slight distance.

Magnetic suspension technology is based on three basic subsystems: levitation, stabilization and acceleration. At the same time, there are currently two main magnetic suspension technologies and one experimental, proven only on paper.

Trains built on the basis of the electromagnetic suspension technology (EMS) for levitation use an electromagnetic field, the force of which varies over time. The practical implementation of this system is very similar to the operation of conventional rail transport. Here a T-rail made of conductor (mostly metal) is used, but the train uses a system of electromagnets – supporting and guiding instead of wheel pairs. The supporting and guiding magnets in this case are arranged in parallel to the ferromagnetic stators placed on the edges of the T-rail.

Trains based on EMS technology are driven and braked by a synchronous linear low-acceleration motor, represented by supporting magnets and a web over which the magnetoplan is hovering. Basically, the motor system built into the web is a conventional stator (the fixed part of the linear motor) deployed along the bottom of the web, and the supporting electromagnets, in turn, act as the anchor for the motor. Thus, instead of producing torque, the alternating current in the coils generates a magnetic field of excited waves that moves the train in a non-contact manner. Changing the strength and frequency of alternating current makes it possible to regulate the traction and speed of the train. At the same time to slow down, it is only necessary to change the direction of the magnetic field.

In case of application of the electrodynamic suspension technology (EDS), levitation is carried out through the interaction of the magnetic field in the track and the field created by the superconducting magnets on board the train. Japanese JR-Maglev trains are based on the EDS technology.

The main advantage of the EDS system is high stability – a slight reduction in the distance between the track and the magnets results in a repulsive force, which returns the magnets to their original position, while increasing the distance reduces the repulsive force and increases the attractive force, which again leads to the stabilization of the system. In this case, no electronics are needed to control and adjust the distance between the train and the track.

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The reasons for the low speed and frequent breakdowns of trains become clear if you look closely at the local rails. Everyone understands that for trains not to break down and to develop a decent speed requires that the rails were flat. The Cambodian railway is a wonderful curve, going over the horizon. Here is a simple explanation for the poor condition and accidents on the local railroad.

After the heavy trains were replaced with light bamboo trains the speed has increased to 40 km per hour. Of course, this is not the speed we are used to, but compared to what it was and taking into account that the rails are not smoother and the engine power is rather low – you realize that the Cambodians have achieved great success with little effort.

The small three-meter platform made of bamboo seats more than 20 people. High speed isn’t necessary for passenger safety, either. It is clear that the higher the speed, the more likely the “bamboo” will fly into the bushes along with the passengers. The ride on the bamboo train is very useful for those whose fifth point needs a massage, as this “soft car” thoroughly shakes on the bumps.

But, all these disadvantages absolutely do not affect the popularity of this form of transport. People, both local and visitors, with great pleasure use it. One reason for its popularity is that it is practically a free form of public transport. And besides, making such “bamboo” trip you can quietly enjoy the beauty of the surrounding nature or meditate, deepening into a quiet contemplation of the inner self. Agree that riding a bicycle or motorcycle will not allow you to do this.

Since there is only one railroad bed, and trains move in both directions, sooner or later they will inevitably meet. This point is solved here surprisingly simple: when one platform notices the other, the passengers of one of them go to a safe distance, taking their “bamboo” train with them. Fortunately, the weight of the platform parts allows even a few women to carry it. When the oncoming bamboo passes, the platform easily and simply returns to its place and continues to follow the interrupted route. The frequency of such manipulation depends on the congestion of the direction and the number of damaged sections on the railroad bed. Unfortunately, damaged sections are quite common despite the fact that the local population tries to the best of their ability to keep it in working order.

The popularity of “bamboo trains” has increased so much that they have become an unofficial subject of the transport system of Cambodia. After all, thanks to them, the Cambodians were able to maintain communication between the remote settlements and provided between them the turnover of goods. In addition to this “typists”, thanks to the great popularity of “bamboo trains” among tourists, have the opportunity to earn extra money to the family budget. After all, for only two dollars a tourist can ride on the amazing local highways, until he is completely satiated.

Recently, the state has slowly started to repair the railroad tracks, build new ones and familiar to you and me trains have become more. Nowadays, bamboo cars, which until recently prevailed on almost all provincial railroad tracks, can be found only in the vicinity of Battambang. Bad or good, only the people of Cambodia know.

If you want to personally enjoy a trip on the “bamboo” – then hurry to visit the country. Well, if you do not have the desire or ability (or both), then we suggest you watch the video. Do not regret it.

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We can safely say that we are looking at a technical historical monument, modernized and still playing an important role in the transport system of this city. In about 35 minutes the wagons travel about 13 km, making two dozen stops. Now this road carries about 65 thousand passengers a day. Each year – about 24 million. Some tourists come to the city with one purpose – to ride in these cars.

Why was most of the road built over the river, choosing such an unusual option? Because the city stretches along the valley of the Wupper River – not very wide and densely built up: there was not enough space for conventional tramways anymore. The population of the agglomeration was about 400,000 at the time. It would have been too difficult to lay a subway here because of the rocky rocks and high groundwater level.

At the time the road was built, by the way, the city didn’t even exist yet! It was listed on maps and registers under that name in 1929, uniting several bordering settlements on the Vooper. Therefore, in the first decades, they were mentioned in the name of the road – “Schwebebahn Barmen-Elberfeld- Vohwinkel”. Today the urban areas of Barmen, Elberfeld and Vohwinkel.

How Tuffy the elephant fell out of the train and became part of the history of the city.
For a long time the streetcar was seen as one of the safest vehicles in the world – no oncoming traffic, no crossroads, no pedestrians, unless a bird flies over. However, the Wuppertal streetcar’s history is full of curiosities, in which the protagonist is an elephant named Tuffy.

Tuffy the elephant Tuffy – graffiti in WuppertalPhotograph: Creative Commons/Atamari
In the summer of 1950, the manager of a local circus decided to hold an unusual marketing campaign. For this he sent Tuffy the elephant for a ride in the famous suspended carriage. Of course, journalists were invited to take part in the performance. Everything went smoothly, the elephant behaved in the streetcar no worse than a well-behaved dog, but exactly until the first flashes of the cameras. They so scared the circus animal that the elephant jumped out of the car right on the move. According to another version, the elephant simply got bored in the cramped carriage. Shards of broken glass injured one of the journalists.

She was not too high and Tuffy landed safely, or rather, splashed down in a shallow Whoopper. Anyway, it was a minor scare and a lot of press coverage. Tuffy got a few abrasions and the status of a cult animal. Images of this elephant can be seen in Wuppertal in many places.

accidents and incidents
Before the elephant accident there had been accidents on the Wuppertal Monorail, but not so many human casualties. But on April 12, 1999 the Wuppertal Monorail was the site of a serious accident. At that time repairmen forgot to remove the metal claws that had been placed on the rail at night. In the morning, the first streetcar collided with them, derailed and fell into the river. Five people died and more than four dozen were injured. After the case was investigated and repaired, the monorail was put back in service.

The 2010s were also marred by a series of technical accidents and abnormal situations. Traffic was stopped for some time. Passengers were forced to use buses that ran along the route of the suspended road, complaining about the inconvenience and looking forward to the return of their beloved monorail.

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