Citation

IATSS Res. 2007; 31(2): 114-119.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2007, International Association of Traffic and Safety Sciences, Publisher Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This paper describes the state of traffic safety in Japan with reference to a new Dual Mode Vehicle (DMV) that is designed to replace local rail lines to accommodate passenger volume estimates. The system aims to increase local convenience for passengers with a simple system that can be inexpensive for both start-up costs as well as to maintain. The proposed DMV system is a microbus that has been modified to travel upon rails bi-directionally, while maintaining rubber wheels so as to be able to drive upon regular roads as well. The system requires a modal interchange system to allow the vehicle to transfer from roadways to rails. The paper also describes an operations management system with an incorporated Global Positioning System (GPS) to handle vehicle logistics. A prototype for the system is presented and described. Some new technologies that have been implemented in the system such as forward and reverse orientation coupling are also described.