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| DESIGN DETAILS |
DESIGN NAME:
Sunglider
PRIMARY FUNCTION:
Public Transport System
INSPIRATION:
The project envisions a true zero-fare urban transport accessible to all residents. Through innovative vehicle design, 3D printing manufacturing, advanced propulsion tech, autonomous AI-driven driving, and photoelectric fuel, we aim for profitable metro operation without ticket sales. This holistic approach revolutionizes urban mobility, fostering accessibility, sustainability, and economic viability for communities.
UNIQUE PROPERTIES / PROJECT DESCRIPTION:
Sunglider is an autonomous, PV fuelled public transport system for urban areas. It consists of autonomous people & cargo movers and small autonomous busses on the ground. The track is glulam constructed and carries a PV roof generating 117% of the energy required for the entire system. The Metro is controlled by AI, creating a wait-free cycle of 3 minutes. All vehicles are 3 D printed in micro-factories. Investment and operation costs are drastically are drastically reduced, making the ride free
OPERATION / FLOW / INTERACTION:
The Sunglider operates through AI software, ensuring vehicles run on a wait-free cycle of 3 minutes. The AI efficiently manages vehicle availability, seamlessly transitioning between passenger and cargo transport as needed.
PROJECT DURATION AND LOCATION:
2022-2024, Osnabrueck, Germany and worldwide
FITS BEST INTO CATEGORY:
Vehicle, Mobility and Transportation Design
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PRODUCTION / REALIZATION TECHNOLOGY:
The Sunglider system, based on Local Motors' bus Olli, incorporates an overhead chassis derived from roller coaster tech for noise reduction. Integrated Super-Caps charge energy at stops, with over 80% of vehicles 3D printed. Digitally parametric designed and manufactured in micro-factories by humans and cobots, they also serve maintenance. The track, with a 4.5m ground clearance and a total height of 9m, includes a semitransparent photovoltaic roof. Spaced 25-30m apart, pylons support barrier-free island stations. Named »Xylo-Solar«, the track is constructed from sustainable recycled glulam, transforming urban spaces underneath.
SPECIFICATIONS / TECHNICAL PROPERTIES:
The project is a prototype of a linear suspended rail system suitable for use in mainly medium-sized cities - regardless of climate.
TAGS:
sustainable mobility, public transportataon, suspension metro, suspended monorail,
RESEARCH ABSTRACT:
Sunglider: AI-Controlled Urban Transport
The Sunglider, managed by AI software, operates on a seamless 3-minute cycle, adjusting availability for passenger or cargo needs. Offering a free tariff for metro citizens, it's financially sustainable through diverse revenue streams, eliminating the need for municipal subsidies.
CHALLENGE:
The challenge was to create a public transportation system that not only would be economically viable in operation and construction but also seamlessly integrate with the urban fabric of densely populated areas.
ADDED DATE:
2022-09-28 21:16:44
TEAM MEMBERS (1) :
Lead Designer: Peter Kuczia, Structure Form Designer: Ewelina Gawell, Team: Mariusz Wrona, Agnieszka Wardzinska, Amr Waly, Maria Yanczuk, Jakub Kozlik, Wiktoria Gorzelewska, Aleksa Stepniewska, Piotr Banasiak, Bartek Witkowski, Oliver Kubut, Dieter Otten, Uli Hartwig, Peter Böcker, Alek Pluta, Lev Rosileht
IMAGE CREDITS:
Peter Kuczia, 2023.
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| Visit the following page to learn more: https://kuczia.com/ |
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| COMMENTS |
| Giulia Esposito |
Comment #99833 on June 22, 2024, 1:33 am |
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Exploring the realm of vehicle, mobility, and transportation design, I am truly fascinated by the innovative approach taken in the "Sunglider" project. It represents a leap forward in making urban transport both accessible and sustainable, aligning perfectly with the urgent need for environmentally friendly solutions in our cities. The dedication to creating a zero-fare system through the ingenious use of AI-driven autonomous vehicles, 3D printing technology, and photoelectric fuel, not only addresses economic viability but also champions inclusivity and accessibility for all urban residents. The unique integration of a PV-fueled infrastructure that generates more energy than it consumes, coupled with the strategic use of glulam for the construction of tracks, reflects a deep commitment to sustainability and the thoughtful consideration of urban aesthetics. Overcoming design challenges to seamlessly integrate this system into densely populated areas without the need for municipal subsidies is a testament to the team's creativity and determination. This project serves as a beacon of innovation in public transportation, promising a future where urban mobility is free, efficient, and environmentally responsible. The visionary leadership and collaborative effort of the team, led by Peter Kuczia, have truly set a new standard in the field.
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| Chloe Turner |
Comment #100747 on June 22, 2024, 4:35 am |
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The visionary approach behind the "Sunglider" project not only showcases a remarkable leap forward in the realm of urban transportation but also sets a new benchmark for sustainable and accessible public transport systems globally. The fusion of innovative vehicle design, cutting-edge 3D printing manufacturing, advanced propulsion technology, autonomous AI-driven driving, and photoelectric fuel integration is a testament to the ingenious creativity and forward-thinking that drives the future of mobility. This project, with its holistic approach to revolutionizing urban mobility, successfully addresses critical elements of accessibility, sustainability, and economic viability, making it a deserving recipient of the A' Design Award in the Vehicle, Mobility and Transportation Design category. The commitment to a true zero-fare urban transport system accessible to all residents is not only admirable but essential in our journey towards more inclusive and environmentally friendly cities. This work is an inspiring example of how design and technology can come together to solve complex societal challenges, making a significant contribution to the field of vehicle, mobility, and transportation design.
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| Paul Phillips |
Comment #101079 on June 22, 2024, 5:42 am |
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I am truly inspired by the innovative approach taken in the design of Sunglider, an autonomous, PV-fuelled public transport system that has been rightfully recognized with the A' Design Award in the Vehicle, Mobility and Transportation Design category. The commitment to sustainability is evident through the use of glulam for the track construction and the integration of a PV roof that generates more energy than the system requires, showcasing a forward-thinking approach to energy use in urban mobility. The combination of autonomous people and cargo movers, along with small busses and the implementation of AI for a seamless, wait-free experience, speaks volumes about the future of urban transportation. The fact that all vehicles are 3D printed within micro-factories not only champions innovation in manufacturing but also significantly cuts down on investment and operational costs, making this service free for users. This project is a beacon of how thoughtful design can address urban mobility challenges, reduce environmental impact, and enhance the quality of life in cities. The dedication to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in transportation design is truly commendable.
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| Elisabeth Clark |
Comment #101531 on June 22, 2024, 7:12 am |
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Discovering Peter Kuczia's Sunglider, an avant-garde public transport system awarded the A' Design Award in the category of Vehicle, Mobility, and Transportation Design, fills me with immense admiration and respect for the innovative strides being taken in urban mobility. The Sunglider is not just a testament to cutting-edge design but also a beacon of sustainability and accessibility. Its autonomous, photovoltaic-fueled architecture, underpinned by glulam construction and an AI-driven operation, is a revolutionary step towards reducing our environmental footprint while enhancing the efficiency of urban transportation. The fact that this system generates 117% of the energy it requires and operates on a wait-free three-minute cycle is nothing short of remarkable. Furthermore, the utilization of 3D printing for vehicle production in micro-factories not only showcases a leap in manufacturing technologies but also significantly lowers both investment and operational costs, making this visionary project a blueprint for the future of urban transit. Peter Kuczia’s holistic approach, from the energy self-sufficient design to the economic model allowing for a zero-fare service, exemplifies the potential for design to solve complex societal challenges. This work is not only a significant achievement in the realm of transportation design but also a compelling narrative of innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity. It is truly inspirational to see such pioneering work being recognized, and it ignites optimism for the future of our cities.
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| Adam Harris |
Comment #102034 on June 22, 2024, 8:53 am |
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The Sunglider project stands as a beacon of innovation and sustainability in the realm of public transportation, meriting every bit of recognition it has received, including the prestigious A' Design Award. It is truly inspiring to see how this project combines autonomous technology, 3D printing, and solar power to not only envision but also implement a future where urban mobility is free, efficient, and accessible to all. The meticulous attention to detail, from the glulam constructed tracks with a PV roof generating more energy than the system requires, to the AI-controlled operation ensuring a seamless and wait-free experience, reflects a deep understanding of both the challenges and opportunities in designing for public transport. Moreover, the commitment to sustainability and economic viability, with the project aiming for profitable operation without ticket sales, sets a new standard for how we think about designing urban transport systems. This work is a masterful example of how innovative design can revolutionize urban mobility, making it more accessible and sustainable while fostering community connectivity.
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| Paul Williams |
Comment #102326 on June 22, 2024, 9:51 am |
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Sunglider, with its innovative approach towards public transportation, undoubtedly stands as a beacon of excellence in the realm of Vehicle, Mobility, and Transportation Design. The vision of an autonomous, PV fuelled system that not only respects but enhances urban environments is truly commendable. It is heartening to see such forward-thinking in addressing the pressing needs of urban mobility, sustainability, and accessibility. The blend of advanced technologies like AI-driven control for a seamless, wait-free experience, and the use of 3D printing for vehicle manufacturing, not to mention the sustainability element with the PV roof generating more energy than the system requires, all these aspects highlight a groundbreaking approach to public transport. The dedication to making this ride free for metro citizens by ensuring economic viability without municipal subsidies showcases a deep understanding of the social impact of design. This work is a testament to what design can achieve when it combines innovation, sustainability, and community focus. Winning the A' Design Award in the Vehicle, Mobility, and Transportation Design category is a well-deserved recognition for such an outstanding contribution to the future of urban transportation.
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| Mark Allen |
Comment #102743 on June 22, 2024, 11:15 am |
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The Sunglider project's recognition with the A' Design Award in the Vehicle, Mobility, and Transportation Design category is a testament to its innovative approach towards creating sustainable, efficient, and accessible urban transport systems. By integrating advanced technologies such as autonomous AI control, 3D printing, and photovoltaic fueling, coupled with a keen focus on economic viability and urban integration, this endeavor not only sets new benchmarks in public transportation but also serves as an inspirational model for future mobility solutions. Its commitment to reducing operational costs while enhancing user accessibility and sustainability is truly remarkable. Congratulations on achieving this prestigious accolade; it is a well-deserved recognition of visionary design and a forward-thinking approach to urban mobility challenges.
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| Elena Petrenko |
Comment #103011 on June 22, 2024, 12:08 pm |
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The "Sunglider" project stands out as a groundbreaking achievement in sustainable urban transport, blending innovative design with advanced technology to redefine public mobility for future cities.
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