A Multi-Criteria Approach for Hyperloop Route Implementation in Canada and Beyond

ABSTRACT

Hyperloop systems are rapidly developing, as the world transitions to sustainable methods of transportation to meet climate targets and benefit the generations to come. Some of the key features that must be considered in hyperloop systems design are accessibility, affordability, and socioeconomic benefits. The design of a hyperloop route must consider all these factors, to enhance ridership and retain success.

One of the methods to create a hyperloop route would be through analyzing the influence of consumer behaviours on ridership of similar transportation systems. Geographical influences also govern the ability to connect city pairs, since obstructions such as mountain ranges or preexisting infrastructure can impact the development of a suitable, realized hyperloop route. Removing limiting factors that impose risks to construction of the route must be done to ensure that a given route is feasible, and can be constructed, enhancing accessibility of hyperloop systems across the world.

Since hyperloop route design would be dependent on the specific factors of the two city pairs needing to be connected, a general framework was created, that can be applied to any city pairings. The framework criteria can be tailored based on the unique socioeconomic, financial and political landscapes, as well as the geographic features of the city pairs.

This framework considers all relevant geospatial data and various stakeholders to solve the multi-criteria decision problem. Through analyzing surrounding infrastructure, and applying Dijkstra’s algorithm, an optimal route that minimizes cost and maximizes efficiency is identified. Governing physical phenomena such as curvature limitations was also implemented in the framework, to enhance user safety and remain in accordance with transportation standards.

The designed framework is unique and completely customizable. Weights can be altered depending on the importance of each factor, unique depending on the specific city pairing of interest and consumer use.

Validation methods were analyzed for pre-existing transportation validation methods and compared to the designed algorithm for creating a hyperloop route. A case study was done using the TransPod route of Calgary to Edmonton, Alberta, to understand factors that were implemented in route design, at a leading hyperloop development company. This route will be constructed in the coming years.

Scalability of this route implementation framework was also explored. Ensuring that people have access to this at the touch of their fingertips will help to enhance the success of hyperloop systems, breaking down barriers associated with the technology.

Future suggestions for improvements were considered, since iteration to design is essential for in continued success. Continuous improvement suggestions based on user-interaction with the theoretical app were created to establish quantitative methods to improve ridership, hereby enhancing financial viability from both the consumer and developer’s perspectives.

Conclusively, the route framework that was developed enhances both development of the hyperloop technology, but also benefits stakeholders by considering their needs, directly enhanced through varied socioeconomic factors, implemented into the algorithm design.