By Sandra Tarabay
Visual Research Report
I chose Sustainability Development Goal (SDG) 11 to research and contribute to as a student designer. As the setting was based on a 24 hour QUT campus, I focused on female students commuting at night. Through my research, I determined the sustainability problem and consequently created 4 Critical Conclusion Proposals further explained in the posters below.
Sustainable Design Proposal
My visual research report laid the ground work for my sustainable design proposal.
Using the method of backcasting I was able to envision what a sustainable and safe future could look like for commuting students. From there I worked backwards to what seemed attainable throughout the decades leading up to 2050, when the design proposal is expected to be completed by.
Backcasting Timeline
SALUS Pod Breakdown
Inspiration and Research
In 30 years there could be flying cars but realistically we have to assume we won't be that advanced.
skyTran is a high-speed, low-cost, elevated Personal Rapid Transit (PRT) solution to transport passengers in a fast, safe, green, and economical manner (Garfield, 2016).
A deeper look into skyTran's rail system:
This is the technology that has been developed today in 2023. By 2050, I presume technology would have advanced therefore could have evolved to hovering and connecting heavy items magnetically.
The pods are built of composite materials to be lightweight and thus easily supportable. The guideways will eventually be outfitted with solar panels, making skyTran a nearly energy net neutral system of public transit. Magnetic levitation, enabled by the presence of a magnet in each pod and an induction coil within the skyway, minimizes the effects of friction for a quiet and smooth ride, and while the cars can run at speeds up to 150mph (241km/hr), their actual speed will be considerably less than that in urban environments and as travelers become accustomed to the system (Filippetti, 2019).
To see a better version of the timeline and breakdown above please proceed via the QR code below.
Reference List
Filippetti, Jenny. July 29, 2013. skytran: tel aviv builds the levitating public transit of the future. Retrieved from designboom: https://www.designboom.com/technology/skytran-tel-aviv-builds-the-levitating-public-transit-of-the-future/#:~:text=the%20pods%20are%20built%20of,lightweight%20and%20thus%20easily%20supportable.
Garfield, Leanna. May 5, 2016. These futuristic flying pods could make driving history. Retrieved from BUSINESS INSIDER: https://www.businessinsider.com/skytran-flying-pods-will-launch-in-nigeria-2015
skyTran. 2022. skyTran. Retrieved from skyTran: https://skytran.com/
