URBAN INFRASTRUCTURE
Hitachi studies the daily problems that people face, assesses the ability of existing technology to solve those problems, and analyses the challenges ahead. Using the data collected, Hitachi creates new technologies that not only make life better, but also make the world a better place to live in.
Following the successful implementation of its monorail systems around the world,
Hitachi was tasked with designing a monorail system for the world's largest man-made resort island, the Dubai Palm Jumeirah.
The monorail team had two key considerations to work with:
1. On the hottest day in Dubai, temperature can go as high as 48°C.
This sweltering heat could warp and distort carriage and guideway structures and threaten passenger safety;
2. As the key mode of transport within Palm Jumeirah, the monorail system must be efficient and energy-conserving.
Peak performance in high temperatures
In order for the Palm Monorail to maintain structural integrity at high temperatures,
its carriages were constructed with an extruded aluminum alloy under a hollow double-skin structure.
The result is a carriage with effective noise insulation and high resilience to heat distortion and deformation.
As a precaution for fire emergencies, stainless steel plates were fitted on the undercarriage to enhance the fire retardancy of the train's flooring.
Intelligent and fully-automated
A system comprising advanced operation controls is in place to ensure the smooth and safe running of the Palm Monorail.
They manage running schedules and general operations, monitor substation equipment and breakdown status,
keep performance and passenger information in check, as well as ensure safety and security for commuters.
On the ground, Security Access Module cards located in the authentication server and all stations verify and authenticate transactions,
preventing fraudulent use of terminal devices.
