#designing transport infrastructure

[thebreakfastgod]

America's Roads: Dangerous by Design

[ceilidhtransing]

I've been thinking about urbanism and about how some people (I'm particularly thinking folks like “the vocal minority of business owners that go absolutely apeshit any time there's a proposal to remove some space from cars in favour of a bike lane, a tram line, a pedestrianised area, etc”) don't seem to really consider anyone outside a car to be a person.

*a city plans to remove some parking spaces to make room for a protected bike lane*

“But how is anyone supposed to get here?!”

*looks at bustling street filled with pedestrians, cyclists, and people riding a tram*

Like, it genuinely doesn't seem to occur to some people that all of those people moving around outside of cars are people. That's how “anyone is supposed to get here”: by way of all of the non-car options, especially those that are actively made safer and easier by the removal or limiting of space for cars. And I don't know what's going on here - whether it's something like classism (only those wealthy enough to drive everywhere matter as people) or simply that car dependency is perhaps so entrenched and unquestioned for some folk that it genuinely doesn't occur to them that getting to a place without a car is (or at least should be) an entirely valid and possible thing to do. It's probably a bit of both. But my god does it drive me nuts when people respond to a new proposal that will dramatically increase the capacity and footfall of an urban space by shifting from emphasising cars to emphasising walking, cycling and public transport with “but how will anyone get here?!”

[atlurbanist]

It's taking too long to get safe routes for cyclists in Atlanta.

While looking at Google Maps photos of Boulevard (this is a couple of blocks south of North Avenue) I spotted a couple of cyclists grappling with the mixed traffic on this six-lane street.

Why have we not put bike lanes here for safety? This isn't a state road that we don't control. It's a city street that we could change tomorrow.

Why does this mess of a car-sewer still exist in 2024?

On the Atlanta DOT website, the plans for a "complete street" redesign for this part of Boulevard only state "consideration for bike lanes" 🙄 (meanwhile a linked PDF shows a concept with no bike lanes.)

Also, the project start is 2016, and the end is 2028. Ugh. This should not be acceptable by anyone in our city government. Atlanta voters have approved special taxes *twice* in the last 10 years for safer streets.

Aside from the special taxes, Atlanta is a gentrifying city with escalating land values that should be funding improvements with equitable results.

The fact that we still have a major lack of safe routes for cycling in much of the city, especially on major routes like this, is ridiculous.

[atlantathecity]

Atlanta is now producing the kind of protected bike lanes we should have been building long ago, as seen here on Bill Kennedy Way. It's good progress.

But we still need to address those older ones (like the unprotected lane on Edgewood Ave) where cars can get in.

If there's truly no room in the width of the street for a fully protected lane, I wonder if we could consider a bold redesign that slows cars dramatically and creates a safe shared space?

[mysticdragon3md3]

More Lanes are (Still) a Bad Thing by Not Just Bikes

[diamondcoins]

[biglisbonnews]

What Does a Green City Look Like? Equitable, Connected and Nature-Positive. There is no question that for the world to successfully slow and mitigate the effects of climate change, cities will need to transform. Currently, urban areas consume 78% of the world’s energy supply and produce over 60% of global greenhouse gas emissions. By ... https://thecityfix.com/blog/what-does-a-green-city-look-like-equitable-connected-and-nature-positive/

[presswoodterryryan]

Trump's Freedom Cities: A New Era of Sustainable Development

By Mr. Fluffernutter In an era of rapid technological advancement, economic shifts, and increasing urban congestion, former President Donald Trump has introduced a bold and ambitious vision—the creation of Freedom Cities. As part of his Agenda 47 policy framework, Trump proposes developing new cities on federally owned land, aiming to redefine urban living through cutting-edge infrastructure,…

[sustainableyadayadayada]

sidewalks

Sidewalks are important. Besides being (obviously?) part of the transportation system (because the purpose of a transportation system is to move people and goods from point A to point B, NOT to move your private motor vehicle from point A to point B), we can put trees in them, manage water and pollution in them, move water/electricity/gas/communications under them and over them, conduct business…

[atlurbanist]

Nice post from a Washington state transportation professional!

It's great to have something to brag about in Atlanta when it comes to street redesign that de-centers car flow and lifts up cycling or walking!

The nation is watching, and wants us to succeed. 😊

Next, let's aim for a truly well-connected system of these lovely things in Atlanta.

[idea-explorer]

[msamba]

Only In Japan

Only In Japan 🇯🇵 pic.twitter.com/p7vdQSpj8o— World's Amazing Things (@Hana_b30) July 15, 2024

[fatliberation]

anti-fatness is not just body shaming.

anti-fatness is discrimination. anti-fatness is having next to no legal protections for being discriminated against. anti-fatness is being denied housing, jobs, receiving less pay and promotions (legally) because of your size. anti-fatness is being denied access to clothing, seating, transportation, and other human rights because infrastructure has been designed to exclude you. anti-fatness is less likelihood of receiving a fair trial. anti-fatness is dehumanization. anti-fatness is being denied necessary surgeries, but not surgery that amputates the digestive tract with the intent to starve and shrink you (it doesn’t work either). anti-fatness is mutilation. anti-fatness is being subject to torture devices that bolt your mouth shut. anti-fatness is being told by close friends, family, and professionals that you are better off living with an eating disorder or other life-threatening illness. anti-fatness sells you starvation as a guaranteed opt-out of oppression, but doesn’t tell you that bodies will always regain weight to survive. anti-fatness blames and punishes you for failing at an achievement that is quite literally impossible. anti-fatness is a $90 billion dollar industry. anti-fatness is being denied gender-affirming care. anti-fatness is being barred from in vitro fertilization and reproductive healthcare. anti-fatness is being barred from adopting children. anti-fatness is being removed from your loving parents because they couldn’t make you thin. anti-fatness is intentionally starving your own baby so they won’t get fat. anti-fatness is disproportionately high suicide rates. anti-fatness is being killed at the hands of medical neglect and mistreatment. anti-fatness is the world preferring a dead body over a fat one.

[little-p-eng-engineering]

Transforming the Landscape of Bulk Material Management through Structural and Mechanical Design

Across the vast expanse of industrial operations, where bulk material management is paramount, Little P.Eng. Engineering has etched a significant mark. The firm's reputation in structural and mechanical design extends beyond just equipment, touching several critical aspects of material management. This article will delve into how Little P.Eng. Engineering is transforming four pivotal sectors: Material Handling Facilities & Building, Bulk Material Transport, Bulk Material Treatment, and Bulk Material Transfer.

Little P.Eng. Engineering is an American / Canadian company that provides economical bulk material handling engineering services that are designed to meet the specific needs of our customers. We have a long history of partnering with supervisors, engineers, planners, and vendors, across a wide variety of industries to provide bulk material handling engineering solutions and systems that improve safety and productivity. Whether you need help designing, installing or maintaining any aspect of your bulk material system, we have the skills and experience to meet your needs.

Our bulk material handling engineering specialists can re-engineer and upgrade existing systems while providing customer solutions and processes. We work with customers through every part of the engineering process to create a one-stop destination for all their needs.

We also work to provide superior customer service that extends well beyond the initial installation or execution of a solution. Our customers can contact us and receive immediate assistance whenever needed for continued support that keeps businesses up and running without having to worry about delays or downtime.

1. Material Handling Facilities & Building

Material handling facilities are the heartbeats of many industries. From mining to agriculture and manufacturing, they facilitate the smooth and efficient movement of bulk materials.

Understanding Infrastructure Needs: Little P.Eng. Engineering begins its design process with a comprehensive study of the client's requirements. The aim is to understand the volume of material to be handled, the rate of throughput, and the kind of materials involved.

Structural Integrity: Buildings designed for material handling need robust foundations. Little P.Eng. ensures that every facility they design can withstand the tremendous loads and stresses associated with bulk material handling.

Optimized Workflow Design: Beyond just structural integrity, Little P.Eng. focuses on creating a streamlined workflow within these buildings. Through the strategic placement of equipment, chutes, conveyors, and storage areas, they ensure that materials move seamlessly, minimizing disruptions and maximizing efficiency.

Innovation at the Forefront: Little P.Eng. is known for incorporating innovative solutions like automated sorting systems, advanced ventilation systems, and sustainable energy solutions, making these facilities both state-of-the-art and environmentally responsible.

2. Bulk Material Transport

Once materials are sourced and sorted, they need to be transported. Little P.Eng. Engineering has a vast portfolio of solutions tailored to this very requirement.

Vehicle Design: Depending on the type of material, the firm designs transport vehicles, whether trucks, railcars, or even conveyor systems. Their designs emphasize both capacity and safety, ensuring that large volumes can be transported without risks.

Infrastructure Design: Little P.Eng. also specializes in designing transport-related infrastructure. This includes everything from loading and unloading docks to advanced conveyor belt systems and even pneumatic transport solutions.

Addressing Challenges: Transporting bulk material is fraught with challenges like spillage, degradation, and contamination. Little P.Eng.'s designs account for these challenges, providing solutions such as sealed transport containers and dust suppression systems.

3. Bulk Material Treatment

Treatment of bulk materials, whether it's refining, purification, or simply grading, is a complex process. Little P.Eng.'s role in this domain is critical.

Treatment Facility Design: Little P.Eng. engineers facilities where bulk materials undergo various treatment processes. Their designs accommodate equipment like crushers, separators, graders, and more, ensuring they operate at optimal capacities.

Safety and Compliance: Treatment processes can sometimes involve chemicals or generate waste. Little P.Eng. prioritizes safety and regulatory compliance, designing facilities that minimize environmental impact and risks to workers.

Energy Efficiency: Many treatment processes are energy-intensive. Recognizing this, Little P.Eng. incorporates energy-saving solutions, from efficient machinery layouts to the use of alternative energy sources, thus driving down operational costs.

4. Bulk Material Transfer

Transferring bulk materials from one point to another, or even from one mode of transport to another, is a task that requires precision and speed.

Transfer Point Design: Little P.Eng. is adept at creating transfer points that minimize material loss. Whether it's transferring grain from a truck to a silo or coal from a railcar to a ship, their designs ensure smooth transitions.

Material Integrity: When transferring materials, there's a risk of contamination or degradation. Little P.Eng. addresses this by designing enclosed transfer systems or integrating rapid sealing mechanisms.

Automation and Technology: In an age of technology, Little P.Eng. leverages advanced automation systems in their transfer point designs. This not only speeds up the transfer process but also reduces human errors.

Little P.Eng.'s Journey to Excellence

At its core, Little P.Eng. Engineering’s success can be attributed to its comprehensive approach. Instead of viewing these four sectors in isolation, they consider them parts of a holistic system. Their designs, thus, seamlessly integrate across the spectrum, from handling facilities to transfer points.

Client-Centric Approach

Little P.Eng. has always prioritized the unique requirements of its clients. They understand that every industry and even individual businesses within those industries can have varying needs. This client-centric approach has resulted in solutions that aren't just efficient but are also tailored to the specific challenges and objectives of their clientele.

Embracing Future Challenges

As the world continues to evolve, so do the challenges associated with bulk material management. Little P.Eng. Engineering, with its commitment to research, innovation, and adaptability, is well-equipped to tackle these challenges head-on.

With a growing demand for efficiency, safety, and sustainability, industries will find in Little P.Eng. a partner that's not just equipped to meet these demands but one that's committed to exceeding expectations.

In the world of bulk material management, Little P.Eng. Engineering stands tall, not just as a solution provider but as an innovator and trailblazer. Through their expertise in structural and mechanical design across the four critical sectors detailed in this article, they're not just shaping industries but also the very future of bulk material management.

Little P.Eng. Engineering’s Bulk Material Handling Team is a dynamic and diverse group with experience in conveying systems – mechanical and pneumatic; chutes transfers, dust control & collection, etc. Our experience in material handling for the power and manufacturing industries will provide rapid development of realistic concepts, and reliable designs which optimize operating and maintenance cost for your project. Our goal will be to not only deliver successful design to the field but to provide you with the information you need to make informed decisions to meet your objectives.

Industries served through our Bulk Material Handling Engineering Services

Grains​

Mining​

Mills​

Metals​

Manufacturing​

Maintenance​

Fabrication​

Agriculture​

Packaging​

Safety​

Fire & Explosion​

Ship/Barge Loading & Unloading​

Steel and Metals Industry

Energy and Power Generation Industry

Water and Wastewater Industry

Oil & Gas Industry

Chemicals and Plastics Industry

Pulp & Paper Industry

Facility Services

Residential Buildings Sector

Hospitality and Hotel Sector

Commercial Buildings Sectors

Sports and Stadia Buildings Sector

Education Buildings Sector

Government Buildings Sector

Hospitals Engineering Services

Biotech / Pharmaceutical – Engineering Services

Food & Beverage – Engineering Services

We offer the following Engineering Services within our Bulk Material Handling Engineering Services :

Discrete Element Modeling (DEM)

Calculation based modeling

Allows for visualizing results

Particle velocity

Forces (shear and normal) and moments (bending and torsional)

Acceleration and material scatter

More than just flow simulation of bulk materials

wear Patterns

Mixing

Center loading

DEM Benefits

Reduced Dust Levels​

Reduced Noise​

Reduced Chute Plugging​

Better Conveyor Tracking (Center Loading)​

Reduced Belt Cover Wear​

Reduced Chute Wear​

Reduced Equipment Wear

Structural Engineering Services

Foundation Design

Concrete Structure Design

Steel Structure Design

Piping Engineering Services

Bulk material handling engineering specifically focuses on the design, processing, and transportation of bulk materials, which can include items such as ores, coal, minerals, and grains, among others. These materials often present unique challenges due to their bulk nature, including issues related to flowability, abrasiveness, corrosiveness, weight, and other specific characteristics. Here are the various aspects of bulk material handling engineering services:

Storage Solutions:

Design and layout of silos, bins, and stockpiles

Assessment of material flow properties to reduce issues like bridging or rat-holing

Conveyor Systems:

Design and optimization of belt, screw, chain, and pneumatic conveyors

Selection of appropriate conveyor belts, idlers, and drives

Loading and Unloading Systems:

Railcar and truck loading/unloading facilities

Ship and barge loading/unloading equipment

Reclaiming Systems:

Design of stacker-reclaimers, bucket wheel reclaimers, and scraper reclaimers

Size Reduction Equipment:

Crushers, grinders, and milling equipment

Sizers and chutes to manage particle sizes

Screening and Sorting:

Vibrating screens, trommels, and sorters

Density separation using jigs or cyclones

Feeding and Metering Equipment:

Feeders for accurate and controlled material flow

Rotary valves, weigh feeders, and volumetric feeders

Material Transfer:

Chutes, hoppers, and gates

Transfer tower and junction house design

Dust Control and Suppression:

Dust collection and filtration systems

Wet suppression and foam suppression systems

Safety and Environmental Considerations:

Explosion and fire protection in dusty environments

Erosion control and spill prevention

Flow Aids and Devices:

Vibrators and air cannons to aid material flow

Flow liners and internal coatings

Bulk Material Testing:

Evaluating flowability, abrasiveness, and other material properties

Moisture content and material density testing

Rail and Marine Infrastructure:

Rail siding design and layout

Port and harbor infrastructure for bulk material export/import

Automation and Controls:

Automated monitoring of material levels in bins and silos

Control systems for conveyor speed, material flow, and routing

Maintenance and Wear Protection:

Wear liners and abrasion-resistant materials

Maintenance strategies and schedules

Bulk Material Transport:

Pipeline transport for slurry and other bulk fluids

Pneumatic transport systems for powders and granules

Economic Analysis:

Cost estimation for bulk material handling projects

Return on investment (ROI) calculations

Regulatory Compliance and Standards:

Ensuring designs meet relevant industry standards

Adherence to safety and environmental regulations

Continuous Improvement and Upgrades:

Evaluation of existing systems for performance enhancement

Retrofitting and upgrading older infrastructure

Consultation and Advisory Services:

Providing expertise on specific bulk material challenges

Assisting with vendor and equipment selection

Given the unique nature and challenges of handling bulk materials, these services are essential to ensure efficient, safe, and economical processing, transportation, and storage. Properly designed and managed systems reduce product loss, minimize environmental impacts, and ensure safety while optimizing costs.

Tags:

Little P.Eng. Engineering

Structural design

Compliance

Mechanical design

Energy efficiency

Single-boom spreaders

Bulk material transfer

Bulk material transport

Client-centric approach

Environmental impact

Material handling

Treatment facilities

Conveyor systems

Infrastructure design

Pneumatic transport

Refining

Material grading

Transfer points

Dust suppression

Material contamination

Bulk material degradation

Silo design

Loading docks

Workflow optimization

Advanced ventilation systems

Risk assessment

Sustainable engineering

Material integrity

Client testimonials

Automation in material handling

Bulk Material Handling & Processing

Engineering Services

Structural Engineering Consultancy

Located in Calgary, Alberta; Vancouver, BC; Toronto, Ontario; Edmonton, Alberta; Houston Texas; Torrance, California; El Segundo, CA; Manhattan Beach, CA; Concord, CA; We offer our engineering consultancy services across Canada and United States. Meena Rezkallah.

[thefisherqueen]

I don't drive for multiple reasons, and disablily is certainly one of them. I have (probably autism-related) chronic low energy levels and simply don't trust myself to stay awake and alert enough to be a responsible driver. Luckily I live in the Nederlands and living without a car is not a problem, thanks to good enough biking infrastructure, walkability and public transport. I'm so happy about that. Lower emissions, lower costs and frequent outdoor exercise are all other benefits of not owning a car

Cities with less cars are also just so much more pleasant to be in? Let me intruduce you to the Dutch word 'autoluw'. It basically means: streets without cars except those who have good reason to be there: cars of people who actually live there, emergency vehicles, delivery vans, shuttle services.

For anyone who wonders what that may look like, or who has concerns about it, this video adresses those pretty well:

The thing is about cars is that most people wouldn’t need them if infrastructure was built for people instead of cars.

And when people bring up disabled people as a gotcha on this subject I feel like they forget that a) there’s a lot of disabled people who can’t drive and who would get more independence from more walkable cities and accessible transit and b) the disabled people who actually do need to drive and anyone else who actually has a good reason to own a car could get where they’re going a lot safer and with less stress if there were less people on the roads.

[automotiveera]

U.S. Bus Market Will Reach USD 11,237.7 Million By 2030

The U.S. bus market is projected to be USD 11,237.7 million by 2030 growing at a CAGR of 4.7% during the forecast period. This growth can be credited to the fast urbanization and increasing populace, armed with the growing government investments in the advancements of public transport vehicles. Furthermore, the obtainability of federal, state, and local funding and the existence of a huge count of school buses boost industry development.

In recent years, the school buses category had the largest revenue share, approximately 55%, and the category is also projected to remain dominant in the future as well. This development can be credited to the fact that these buses are the largest form of mass transport in the nation.

Almost 480,000 school buses were on the roads in recent years in the U.S., outnumbering transit buses around 7 to 1. Moreover, the rising acceptance of E-buses for school purposes advances the industry in this category in the U.S.

To receive free sample pages of this report@ https://www.psmarketresearch.com/market-analysis/us-bus-market/report-sample

Public transport holds the capability to enhance air quality, traffic safety, accessibility, and active transportation, and also personal well-being advantages. Public transportation utilizes less fuel and releases lower levels of unstable organic composites, carbon dioxide, and carbon monoxide per passenger mile compared to private vehicles. Along with the ecological aids, it has significantly lesser crash rates and lower crash harshness than automotive travel.

The electric propulsion category is estimated to advance at the highest CAGR, of approximately 30%, during the projection period, on the basis of revenue. This is mainly because the usage of electric buses in the nation was approximately 1.6% of the nation’s total bus sales in recent years, and the share of e-buses in public fleets is constantly growing.

Additionally, several public transportation agencies have contracted contractual orders with electric bus builders for obtaining electric buses.

Hence, the fast urbanization and increasing populace, armed with the growing government investments in the advancements of public transport vehicles are the major factors propelling the U.S. bus market.