Abstract: An endless chain of elongated vehicles, each carrying a thermally insulated sealed container for liquefied gas (LNG) traveling at high speed along a guideway between loading and unloading locations. A folding mechanism turns vehicles into dense vertical side-by-side relationship for loading and unloading at low speed, similar to filling bottles by conventional bottling machines. Containers are connected to piping which recovers and returns in transit re-gasified LNG for re-liquefaction. Containers are capable of holding gas under pressure in case of extended conveyor stoppage. High vehicle speed is enhanced with magnetic levitation suspension and linear induction motor propulsion.

Abstract: Suspension cables for an elevated lightweight guideway are arranged so that high-speed traffic along the guideway is not subjected to guideway-induced oscillation. Furthermore, suspension cables are interconnected so that pre-assembled towers and guideway spans can be transported and rapidly installed by helicopter.

Abstract: The relative motion and force between two interconnected elements can be counteracted with active controls when such motion and force is predictable. Magnitudes, wavelengths and locations of rocking motion by vehicles traveling along fixed guideways can be recorded, and such records can be used in subsequent trips to predict rocking motion causing forces. Active controls can be installed and programmed to exert timely counteracting forces to prevent rocking motion forces from passing from wheels via springs to upper vehicle bodies.

Abstract: A bulk material conveying apparatus consisting of an endless chain of elongated containers is disclosed. Each container has a closed end and an open end, with orientation of the containers alternating so that in a horizontal traveling position, open ends are adjacent and in sealing relationship. The ends of successive containers are pivoted together, and guide tracks and followers are provided at and near loading and unloading stations so that as the containers approach the station they are rotated from a horizontal end to end position to a vertical side by side stacked together position. In the station the containers move slowly for loading or unloading, then are rotated back to the horizontal position as they progress for high speed travel to the other station. While traveling between stations the containers are inverted so that their open ends are up at loading stations and down at unloading stations.